EDUCARE
Looking at the sky and after seeing stars at night many of us wonder about space. We know the importance of space and it also brings opportunities for many young people who want to build their careers related to space. Space science and technology is very advanced in India and we are proud to have vibrant space programmes . We are proud of Rakesh Sharma and Kalpana Chawla and many others who are involved in different activities . The successful Chandrayaan-3 lunar landing on the Moon's Southern hemisphere, achieved with a modest budget of $75 million, has set the stage for a new era in space exploration.
We should know that by resolution 54/68 of 6 December 1999, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed World Space Week (WSW), to celebrate the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the human condition. Like many other events, WSW, which is observed from 4 to 10 October , is the largest annual space event in the world. It helps build up the workforce for the future by inspiring students; demonstrates visible public support for the space programme; educates the public about space activities; and fosters international cooperation in space outreach and education.
On 4 October 1957, the launch into outer space of the first human-made Earth satellite, Sputnik 1, opened the way for space exploration. A decade later, on 10 October 1967, the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies entered into force.
We may be thinking about what academic qualifications should be associated with space careers. Well, this is a sector which needs aspirants from science backgrounds like Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, etc . The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and other space organisations provide opportunities for the deserving candidates. Career in the space sector is a thrilling and challenging expedition that requires dedication and good academic background.
One must have science during senior secondary and later on they may study engineering or subjects like physics, mathematics, etc. One may join the Indian Space Research Organisation through ISRO’s Centralised Recruitment Board (ICRB) Exam which is a competitive exam held annually by ISRO. One may also join as Junior Research Fellow at ISRO.
Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology is one of the leading institutes founded in 2007 in Thiruvananthapuram. IIST provides a range of programmes, including undergraduate, post-graduate, Ph.D. and dual-degree offerings across seven departments: Aerospace Engineering, Avionics, Chemistry, Earth & Space Sciences, Humanities, Mathematics and Physics. Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS) situated in Dehradun, is a premier institute dedicated to capacity building in Remote Sensing and Geo-informatics.
Indian Institute of Astrophysics which is based in Bengaluru is a premier National Research Institute focusing on astronomy, astrophysics and related subjects. Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astro-physics is an autonomous institution under the University Grants Commission, promotes active groups in astronomy and astrophysics in Indian universities. ISRO actively promotes collaboration with academic institutions for research initiatives.
There is no doubt that India's space industry is growing and is expected to be a major contributor to the global space economy. This brings more opportunities for qualified individuals to lead the nation through space programmes and other activities. The Indian Space Policy – 2023 has thus been formulated as an overarching, composite and dynamic framework to implement the reform vision approved by the Cabinet. One must be passionate and skilled to excel in this sector.
(Ranjan K Baruah is a career mentor and skill trainer and currently Adviser of Skill Employment and Entrepreneurship Department of Bodoland Territorial Council, Kokrajhar and can be reached at 8473943734 or bkranjan@gmail.com)