India, which is using navigation satellites of other countries now, will soon have its own navigation satellite system, said K. Radhakrishnan, chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation and the Space Commission here on Sunday.
Addressing the second convocation of The National Degree College, he said that the first of the seven satellites of the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System would be launched in 2013. He said that ISRO would launch Astrosat, an Indian multi wavelength astronomy satellite, in 2014. He added that Chandrayaan I had helped discover water molecules on the Moon and ISRO would work in this area in the coming years too.
About the achievements of the space mission that had come a long way since 1962, he said that India was one among the six nations to build and launch its own satellites. India was one among the four nations to succeed in precise re-entry and recovery of satellites.
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“We have eight modern communication satellites, which is touching all of our lives. Nearly 70 nations make use of the data from our remote sensing satellites,” he said. Dr. Radhakrishnan urged the students to be “passionate, develop the ability to learn, humility, integrity,” besides having focus, commitment and determination to excel in their chosen field. “In the challenging times today, our country needs your talent, ideas, energy and enthusiasm. I have the confidence that you will build both successful and fulfilling careers,” he said.
He called upon the students to strive to bring benefits of their learning for the betterment of society.
Three students received gold medals for topping their streams. The Dr. H. Narasimhaiah Gold Medal was awarded to Gayathri R. (BA), the Dr. A.H. Rama Rao Gold Medal went to Kalaivani D. (B.Sc), while the Dr. P Sadananda Maiyya Gold Medal was given away to Swathi R. (BCA).
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Earlier, the graduating students took an oath that was administered by principal M. Leelavathi. Dr. Rama Rao, president of The National Education Society of Karnataka, spoke.