– Reshma Ravishanker

To take aerospace and space science beyond textbooks and into government school classrooms, a Senior Lead Engineer at Collins Aerospace and former Senior Research Fellow/Scientist at DRDO, has been reaching out to students through a self-funded, independent aerospace and defence awareness campaign.

Pradeep Laxman Savalkar creates handmade 2D models of aircraft and satellites, complete with intricate detailing, to help students understand the technologies behind aviation, defence and space exploration.

What began as a self-funded individual effort has now reached over 123 government schools across seven states, connecting underprivileged students with a field they may otherwise be a distant dream to explore.

With professional experience at Collins Aerospace and a previous research association with DRDO, Savalkar brings valuable industry and research exposure to his educational outreach activities. His journey reflects a combination of engineering excellence, scientific interest, social responsibility and commitment to inspiring young minds.

He is also associated with the distinction of being India’s first independent Aerospace and Defence Awareness Ambassador/Promoter for Students in the Karnataka Education Sector through his awareness initiative.

His vision extends beyond school exhibitions. He aims to establish stronger connections between educational institutions, aerospace organizations, scientific communities and students, creating opportunities for young people to understand India’s achievements and future possibilities in aerospace, defence and space exploration.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Savalkar actively contributes to various educational and scientific initiatives. He serves as Coordinator of the Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI) – Student Wing and is associated with Mission ShakthiSAT – Girls to the Moon as an Aerospace Education Partner.

Quote: “I began preparing for this in 2018 and by 2021 I was able to reach out to schools and start the campaign. In India, everyone knows Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, but many other scientists and their contributions remain unknown due to a lack of public outreach. Children, especially in rural areas, need more role models and exposure to science. My father, a government school headmaster, often spoke about this gap and encouraged me to take aerospace and defence knowledge to these students. I knew seeking funds would involve delays and permissions, so I decided to fund and organise the initiative myself rather than let those hurdles stop me.”

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