Nigar Shaji: The Woman Behind India’s First Solar Mission who is a project director .

Md.shamim hossain ۔

Kolkata

Nigar Shaji is an Indian space scientist who is the Project Director of Aditya L1, India’s first solar mission. She is a graduate in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Tirunelveli Government Engineering College and holds a Master’s degree in Electronics and Communications from Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi. She joined the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in 1987 and has worked on multiple satellite programs, including the INSAT, IRS, and PSLV missions.

Early Life and Education

Nigar Shaji was born in Sengottai town of Tenkasi district in Tamil Nadu. She comes from a humble background. Her father, Sheikh Meeran, was a college graduate and her mother, Saitoon Bevi, was a homemaker. Nigar was a bright student and topped her class in 10th and 12th grade. She was also a district topper in science.
After graduating from high school, Nigar decided to pursue a career in engineering. She was accepted into the Tirunelveli Government Engineering College, where she studied Electronics and Communication Engineering. She graduated in 1985 with honors.
Career at ISRO
After graduating from college, Nigar joined the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in 1987. She was initially assigned to the U R Rao Satellite Center in Bengaluru. She worked on multiple satellite programs, including the INSAT, IRS, and PSLV missions. In 2015, she was appointed as the Associate Project Director of Resource sat-2A.

In 2020, Nigar was appointed as the Project Director of Aditya L1, India’s first solar mission. The mission aims to study the Sun’s atmosphere and its effects on the Earth’s climate. Aditya L1 was launched successfully on September 2, 2023.

Awards and Recognition
Nigar Shaji has received several awards and recognition for her work in space science. In 2016, she was awarded the ISRO Distinguished Scientist Award. She was also awarded the Dr. Vikram Sarabhai Memorial Award in 2018.

Inspiration to Others

Nigar Shaji is an inspiration to many young women who aspire to pursue a career in science and technology. She is a role model for women in STEM fields and her work has helped pave the way for future generations of female scientists.

Conclusion

Nigar Shaji is a brilliant and dedicated scientist who has made significant contributions to India’s space program. She is a role model for women in STEM fields and her work has helped to inspire the next generation of scientists.
Additional Information
Nigar Shaji is married and has two children.
She is a member of the Indian National Academy of Engineering.
She is also a recipient of the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian award.Nation proud of you.