Vels University, Pallavaram, organised a special convocation recently in which personalities who have rendered greater service to humanity and have exceeded in fields such journalism, science, arts, fine arts, sports and social services were honoured.
On the occasion, A. Sivathanu Pillai, Distinguished Scientist and Chief Controller (Research and Development), Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, and Sourav Chandidas Ganguly, former Captain of Indian Cricket Team, were conferred with Honoris Causa.
Dr. Pillai joined DRDO in 1986. He introduced innovative management systems and played a key role in the development of Agni, Prithvi, Nag and Akash missiles. He is regarded as the Father of BRAHMOS. He has published many papers in international and national journals and has authored many books.
Sourav Ganguly led the Indian team to victory in South Africa. By 2004, he had achieved significant success as captain and was deemed as India’s most successful cricket captain. Ganguly opened a new leaf in the Indian Cricket history by insisting on the importance of a foreign coach for the Indian team.
Ganguly’s aggressive style and importance on fitness ushered in the development of a better team for India. Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, T.S. Krishnamurthy, delivered the felicitation address and conferred the degrees.
Ishari K.Ganesh, Founder Chancellor, Vels University, presided over the event.