Dr. Tessy Thomas, also known as the “Missile Woman of India,” is a scientist and project director at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India’s premier military research and development organization. She is known for her contributions to India’s missile program and is one of the few women scientists in India’s missile community.
Early Life and Education:
Dr. Thomas was born in Kerala in 1963 and grew up in a family that encouraged education and career aspirations. She graduated from the Government Engineering College, Thrissur, with a degree in Electrical Engineering and later pursued her Masters and Ph.D. in Guided Missile from the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune.
Project Director for Agni-IV Missile Program:
In 1988, Dr. Thomas joined the DRDO and began her career in missile development. She worked on several projects, including the Agni missile program, which is one of India’s most advanced missile systems. She played a key role in developing the guidance and control systems for the missile and was responsible for its success.
Awards and Accolades:
Dr. Thomas has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to India’s missile program. She was awarded the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in Public Administration, Academics and Management in 2012 and the DRDO’s Scientist of the Year award in 2008. She was also named one of Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Women in the world in 2012.
Inspiration for Women:
Despite facing challenges and discrimination as a woman in a male-dominated field, Dr. Thomas has shown exceptional determination and dedication in her work. She has broken barriers and shattered stereotypes, inspiring countless others, particularly women, to pursue careers in science and technology.
Conclusion:
Dr. Tessy Thomas is a role model and an inspiration for all those who aspire to achieve greatness through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. Her contributions to India’s missile program have been invaluable, and she has shown that women can excel in fields traditionally dominated by men.