A Bust of Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the Father of Indian Space Programme was unveiled in front of Antariksh Bhavan the Headquarters of Indian Space Research Organisation and Department of Space, at a brief function organised this morning (August 12, 2004) on the occasion of the 85th birth day of Dr Vikram Sarabhai. The Bust was unveiled by Prof U R Rao former Chairman of ISRO and who had carried out research in High Energy astronomy under Dr Sarabhai. Mr G Madhavan Nair, Chairman, ISRO and several dignitaries were present during the unveiling function.

Dr Vikram Sarabhai had said

"There are some who question the relevance of space activities in a developing nation. To us, there is no ambiguity of purpose.... We are convinced that if we are to play a meaningful role nationally, and in the community of nations, we must be second to none in the application of advanced technologies to the real problems of man and society".

Even today, the Indian space programme is driven by the vision of Dr Vikram Sarabhai. The unveiling of the Bust of Dr Sarabhai at Antariksh Bhavan, from where the Indian space programme is directed, is a tribute to this great visionary. The bust was carved in bronze by famous sculptor Mr Kanayi Kunhiraman.