Kundapura (Karnataka): Dr Vanniyaperumal Narayanan, soon to assume the role of Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), draws profound inspiration from the people-centric initiatives of former President of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.

In an interview with Onmanorama, Narayanan, who will assume office on Januray 14, shared how Missile Man’s humility, even amidst the spotlight, left an indelible mark on his leadership philosophy.

“I remember when Dr Kalam visited the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) with Prof UR Rao. My colleagues and I were eager to meet him. To our surprise, Dr Kalam was not with Prof Rao but was instead interacting with the shopfloor employees at VSSC. Watching him freely engage with the workforce, enquiring about their well-being, and sharing his own experiences during the SLV mission was inspiring,”  Narayanan recalled.

Good practices illuminate ISRO
As Narayanan prepares to lead ISRO, he reflects on the lessons imparted by past leaders, from Prof Satish Dhawan to the outgoing Chairman Dr S Somanath, whose leadership styles were both unique and transformative.

“At ISRO, we deeply value the knowledge and practices of our seniors, often revisiting their contributions to guide us. This respect for our institutional heritage sets ISRO apart as a great organization,” he noted.

Narayanan’s upbringing in Melakttuvilai, a small village in Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district, played a significant role in shaping his values.

“Growing up in a village, where everyone knows everyone, had a profound impact on me. My parents, despite their struggles, instilled in us (three younger brothers and two younger sisters) a deep respect for education and the realities of life. Their teachings kept us grounded and focused,” he said.

Focus on team happiness
When asked about the challenges of leading ISRO,  Narayanan emphasised the importance of employee well-being. “My top priority will be ensuring the happiness of all ISRO employees. ISRO is my family, and I am committed to this organization for ever,” he stated.

Narayanan credits his late father C Vanniyaperumal, a farmer, as his greatest role model, and his late mother S Thangammal, a homemaker, for teaching him kindness and faith. “My mother always reminded us to be good to everyone and to stay prayerful. I have never strayed from this path,” he said.

He believes that leadership requires acknowledging team efforts and standing by them during tough times. “A good leader must also be a good listener,” he added.

(The writer is a Bengaluru-based military journalist)