Padma Shri 2026 Honours ISRO Propulsion Pioneer Dr Muthunayagam

Veteran space scientist Dr A. E. Muthunayagam has been awarded the Padma Shri in 2026 for his seminal contributions to Science and Engineering. Widely regarded as the architect of India’s liquid rocket propulsion programme, his work laid the technological foundations for the country’s most reliable launch vehicles and strengthened India’s position as a major spacefaring nation.

Early Life and Academic Foundations

A. E. Muthunayagam was born on January 11, 1939, in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Madras in 1960, followed by a Master’s degree from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. He later completed a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University in the United States, gaining exposure to advanced aerospace research linked to NASA. His academic pursuits also extended to law, with an LLB from the University of Kerala.

Role in India’s Early Space Programme

Dr Muthunayagam joined India’s nascent space programme in 1966 as part of the first generation of scientists recruited by Vikram Sarabhai. At the Space Science and Technology Centre, later renamed the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, he headed key engineering divisions and led projects such as the Rohini rocket programmes. These early initiatives were critical in developing indigenous launch capabilities.

Building India’s Liquid Propulsion Capability

Dr Muthunayagam’s most enduring contribution was in liquid propulsion. As Project Manager of the Vikas engine programme, developed with French collaboration, he oversaw technology that became central to India’s launch vehicles. In 1985, he became the founding Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, establishing major testing and assembly facilities that enabled operational success of the PSLV and GSLV missions.

Important Facts for Exams

• Padma Shri is India’s fourth-highest civilian honour.
• LPSC is responsible for liquid and cryogenic propulsion systems.
• Vikas engine powers multiple stages of PSLV and GSLV.
• VSSC is ISRO’s lead centre for launch vehicle development.

Contributions Beyond ISRO

After his tenure at LPSC, Dr Muthunayagam served as Secretary of the Department of Ocean Development, chaired national scientific bodies, and led international committees under the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission. He also headed the Board of Governors of IIT Madras and remains a Fellow of leading Indian and international engineering academies, reflecting a career that shaped both India’s space programme and its broader scientific ecosystem.