Kerala Sasthra Puraskaram – 2024
Dr. Tessy Thomas
Former Director General (Aeronautical Systems), DRDO
Dr. Tessy Thomas, former Director General (Aeronautical Systems), DRDO, is selected for the Kerala Sasthra Puraskaram for the year 2024 for her commendable lifetime contributions and achievements in the area of Science & Technology. Hon’ble Chief Minister, Govt. of Kerala will present the prestigious Kerala Sasthra Puraskaram 2024 on 1st February 2026, during the inaugural session of 38th Kerala Science Congress at St. Albert’s College (Autonomous), Ernakulam. The award comprises of prize money of Rs.2 lakh, citation and memento designed by Shri Kanayi Kunjiraman.
Dr. Tessy Thomas
Dr. Tessy Thomas known as the ‘Missile Woman’ of India, is a Distinguished Scientist & Former Director General (Aeronautical Systems), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Dr Tessy is an outstanding Scientist of national repute, a great leader and a role model for aspiring scientists. Dr. Tessy was associated with the ‘Agni Programme’ at DRDO right from its developmental flights. She has designed the guidance scheme for long range missile systems which is used in all Agni missiles. As the Project Director for the Agni IV and Agni V (mission), she is the first woman to lead missile teams in India. An energy management guidance scheme was designed and developed for the first time in the country for a solid propelled long-range system for which she was conferred with Agni Self Reliance award in 2001. Her expertise on the solid propellent systems and mission design were critical in the development of the ballistic reentry missile systems.
Born in Alappuzha, Kerala, Dr Tessy received her bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Government Engineering College, Trichur. Her journey from an Engineering student in Kerala to becoming the Director General (Aeronautical Systems) at DRIX) is truly amazing Her achievements not only exemplify her technical prowess and dedication but also serve as an inspiration for women, students and researchers in S&T across India and the world. Her dedicated contribution to S&T and the defence sector spanning more than three decades, continues to bolster India’s defence technology and strategic capabilities.