New Delhi: A manager of the space sector engineer Pawan Kumar Goenka, who is the chairman of the space regulator and promoter Indian National Space Promotion and Clearance Center (Inspect) and also leads a trade promotion panel, has been selected for the Padma Shri Award.
In addition to his important contribution to space sector As a space regulator, Goenka, who previously worked as CEO of Mahindra Group, is also the chairman of the Steering Committee to advance local value and employment (scale), an initiative under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Goenka, who obtained his B-Tech from IIT-Kanpur, PhD from Cornell University, USA, and graduated from Harvard Business School’s advanced management program, also serves as Chairman of the Board of Governors of IIT Madras.
Talking to Toi, Goenka said, “I am deeply honored to receive the Padma Shri. This recognition is a testament not only to my personal journey, but also to the loving and supportive family, extraordinary teams, and visionary institutions that have supported me along the way. I hope it inspires many more to innovate, collaborate and help shape India’s future in technology, especially in mobility and space.”
Praising him, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in X in of India and its work in developing state-of-the-art automotive capabilities. I have been privileged to have several insightful discussions with him on the Scale Committee of DPIIT to advance India’s Aatmanirbharta. He is confident that with his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to excellence, he will continue to enhance India’s position in the global space landscape and drive further advancements.”
IIT Kanpur also sent a congratulatory message on of the sector. He is internationally recognized for his pioneering work in engine tribology. His methods for engine bearing and engine friction analysis still remain in use as a common reference in automotive engineering. He is an expert in vehicle emissions control and alternative fuels.”
Goenka had previously worked at General Motors R&D Centre, Detroit, for 14 years and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd for 28 years. At Mahindra, he led the development of the Scorpio SUV and built a strong R&D infrastructure and strong product portfolio. He retired from M&M as MD & CEO on April 1, 2021.