~I am delighted to witness the naming of our Satellite Launch Centre after Professor Satish Dhawan. By doing so, we honour a great scientist and a distinguished pioneer in India’s space programme. Men such as Prof. Satish Dhawan have played a stellar role in developing the infrastructure and skilled manpower, which have made India’s achievements in space a matter of considerable pride for every Indian.

Professor Dhawan was a rare combination of excellence in scientific achievement and a visionary administrative ability. He put ISRO on the path of harnessing our space programme to our developmental objectives. We have faced many impediments to our space research from technology denial regimes. Projects for telemedicine and distance learning through our satellites have illustrated that the contribution of space research to development is of far greater importance than its military applications.

The determination and innovative skills of our space scientists and technologists deserve the nation’s appreciation. It is thanks to their dedicated efforts that we are proud to be one of six major space-faring nations in the world today.

The Satish Dhawan Space Centre should continue to play a critical role for our satellite launches. The further development of the GSLV and newer applications of the PSLV will continue to excite the imagination of all Indians. As we offer our satellite launch services for satellites from around the world, the Centre that bears Professor Dhawan’s name will attain greater prominence on the international map.

It is my privilege to dedicate the Satish Dhawan Launch Centre to the continued service of our nation.

Thank you