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Our Industry Advisory Board

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    Shri. A S Kiran Kumar

    Former Chairman, Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO). Former Secretary, Department of Space Government of India
Shri A. S. Kiran Kumar is a stalwart in India’s space exploration journey, having served as Chairman of ISRO and Secretary of the Department of Space. With a career spanning decades, he has played a pivotal role in steering India’s space programme towards global recognition. Under his leadership, ISRO achieved groundbreaking milestones, including the success of the Mars Orbiter Mission and advancements in Earth observation, satellite navigation, and communication technologies. br />

An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Shri Kiran Kumar has been instrumental in the development of over 50 electro-optical imaging sensors that have powered India’s satellite missions since 1979. His vision has strengthened India’s self-reliance in space technology, enabling critical applications in meteorology, disaster management, and remote sensing.

A recipient of the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honours, he has been globally recognised for his contributions to space research, including the prestigious International von Kármán Wings Award and the Chevalier de l'Ordre national de la Légion d'Honneur from France.

Shri Kiran Kumar’s insights will be invaluable in shaping our curriculum and research in space sciences, engineering, and technology-driven innovation. His mentorship will empower students to explore new frontiers in aerospace, sustainability, and satellite applications, reinforcing Atria’s commitment to cutting-edge education and industry relevance.
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    Dr. Renu Swarup

    Former Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science &  Technology, Govt of India
Dr Renu Swarup is a pioneering force in India’s biotechnology landscape, with over three decades of leadership in science policy, research innovation, and entrepreneurship. As the former Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Chairperson of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), she has played a transformative role in fostering India’s biotech ecosystem.

A PhD in Genetics and Plant Breeding, Dr Swarup has been a key architect of India’s National Biotechnology Strategy, shaping policy frameworks that have driven innovation, startup growth, and industry-academia collaboration. She has championed initiatives that propelled India's COVID-19 vaccine, diagnostics, and genome sequencing efforts, positioning India as a global biotech leader. Her contributions have earned her multiple accolades, including the BioSpectrum Person of the Year Award, the National Entrepreneurship Award, and the Agriculture Research Leadership Award. 

At Atria University, Dr Swarup’s expertise will be instrumental in guiding our biotechnology and life sciences programmes. Her vision will help bridge research and industry, fostering an environment where students and entrepreneurs can drive biotech innovations with real-world impact.
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    Dr. Renu Swarup

    Former Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science &  Technology, Govt of India
Dr Renu Swarup is a pioneering force in India’s biotechnology landscape, with over three decades of leadership in science policy, research innovation, and entrepreneurship. As the former Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Chairperson of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), she has played a transformative role in fostering India’s biotech ecosystem.

A PhD in Genetics and Plant Breeding, Dr Swarup has been a key architect of India’s National Biotechnology Strategy, shaping policy frameworks that have driven innovation, startup growth, and industry-academia collaboration. She has championed initiatives that propelled India's COVID-19 vaccine, diagnostics, and genome sequencing efforts, positioning India as a global biotech leader. Her contributions have earned her multiple accolades, including the BioSpectrum Person of the Year Award, the National Entrepreneurship Award, and the Agriculture Research Leadership Award. 

At Atria University, Dr Swarup’s expertise will be instrumental in guiding our biotechnology and life sciences programmes. Her vision will help bridge research and industry, fostering an environment where students and entrepreneurs can drive biotech innovations with real-world impact.
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    Dr. Keshab Panda

    Former CEO L&T Technology Services Limited (LTTS). Board Member, Senior Advisor PE & Startup and Principal Mentor Tech Services for Global Companies
Dr Keshab Panda is a distinguished leader in technology, engineering, and business strategy, having served as CEO & MD of L&T Technology Services (LTTS). With over three decades of experience in research, product engineering, and industrial innovation, he has played a crucial role in positioning LTTS as a global leader in engineering and R&D services.

A graduate of IIT Bombay with an advanced management degree from Wharton Business School, Dr Panda has been a visionary in driving digital transformation across industries, from AI and automation to smart manufacturing and sustainability. His leadership has facilitated technological breakthroughs that have redefined business models across multiple sectors.

Currently serving as a mentor and advisor to global technology firms and private equity enterprises, he continues to shape the future of engineering services and tech entrepreneurship. His expertise in product strategy, business intelligence, and startup mentorship makes him a valuable addition to Atria University’s Industry Advisory Board.

Dr Panda’s presence at Atria University will enrich our engineering, AI, and digital transformation programmes, providing students with exposure to real-world applications and industry-driven innovation. His insights will help bridge academia and enterprise, equipping graduates with the skills and strategic thinking required to excel in the evolving technological landscape.
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    Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy

    Former  Chairman Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Scientific Adviser to Raksha Mantri 
Dr G. Satheesh Reddy is a distinguished aerospace scientist and a key architect of India's missile and strategic defence systems. As the former Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Scientific Adviser to the Raksha Mantri, he has played a pivotal role in shaping India's defence technology landscape. Under his leadership, India achieved milestones such as the successful test of the Prithvi Defence Vehicle Mark 2 Anti-Satellite (ASAT) missile (Mission Shakti) and advancements in long-range ballistic missile technology, anti-radiation missiles, and smart weapons.

Dr Reddy has spearheaded indigenous design and development in avionics, guidance, and navigation systems, significantly enhancing India's self-reliance in defence technology. He has been instrumental in the formulation of national defence policies, particularly in missile self-sufficiency. His contributions extend to the Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme, the Agni-5 missile, and next-generation guided weaponry.

An expert in navigation technologies, he has led breakthrough developments in inertial navigation systems and satellite-based navigation for strategic applications. A Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (UK) and the Royal Institute of Navigation (UK), he has received numerous prestigious awards, including the AIAA Missile Systems Award, the Homi J. Bhabha Gold Medal, and the National Design Award.

With Dr Reddy’s leadership in defence and aerospace research, students will benefit from unparalleled exposure to cutting-edge advancements in these domains, inspiring innovation and excellence in technology.
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    Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy

    Former  Chairman Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Scientific Adviser to Raksha Mantri 
Dr G. Satheesh Reddy is a distinguished aerospace scientist and a key architect of India's missile and strategic defence systems. As the former Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Scientific Adviser to the Raksha Mantri, he has played a pivotal role in shaping India's defence technology landscape. Under his leadership, India achieved milestones such as the successful test of the Prithvi Defence Vehicle Mark 2 Anti-Satellite (ASAT) missile (Mission Shakti) and advancements in long-range ballistic missile technology, anti-radiation missiles, and smart weapons.

Dr Reddy has spearheaded indigenous design and development in avionics, guidance, and navigation systems, significantly enhancing India's self-reliance in defence technology. He has been instrumental in the formulation of national defence policies, particularly in missile self-sufficiency. His contributions extend to the Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme, the Agni-5 missile, and next-generation guided weaponry.

An expert in navigation technologies, he has led breakthrough developments in inertial navigation systems and satellite-based navigation for strategic applications. A Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (UK) and the Royal Institute of Navigation (UK), he has received numerous prestigious awards, including the AIAA Missile Systems Award, the Homi J. Bhabha Gold Medal, and the National Design Award.

With Dr Reddy’s leadership in defence and aerospace research, students will benefit from unparalleled exposure to cutting-edge advancements in these domains, inspiring innovation and excellence in technology.
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    Dr. Shekhar C. Mande

    Former Chairman, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) & Former Secretary of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR)
Dr Shekhar C. Mande is a renowned structural and computational biologist whose work has significantly contributed to understanding protein structures, particularly in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. As the former Director General of CSIR and Secretary of DSIR, he led India’s largest network of scientific research institutions, driving advancements in biotechnology, healthcare, and industrial research.

His extensive research spans X-ray crystallography, computational biology, and genome-wide protein interaction studies, with a focus on infectious diseases. His contributions to tuberculosis research have been particularly impactful, with his lab pioneering structural characterisations of key bacterial proteins and redox systems.

A recipient of the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, Dr Mande has been elected Fellow of the Indian National Science Academy, the National Academy of Sciences, and the Indian Academy of Sciences. He has held leadership roles in multiple scientific advisory boards, including the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (Italy) and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), shaping global scientific policy and research collaboration.

Dr Mande’s expertise in scientific research and biotechnology will strengthen our focus on innovation and interdisciplinary learning, empowering students to drive impactful discoveries.
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    Shri. Chandrashekar H.G.

    Founder & Managing Director, SASMOS HET Technologies Ltd.
Shri H.G. Chandrashekar is a visionary entrepreneur and leader in the aerospace, defence, and space sectors. As the Founder and Managing Director of SASMOS HET Technologies Ltd., he has transformed the company into a premier provider of high-precision interconnection solutions, electromechanical assemblies, and fibre optic technologies for mission-critical applications. SASMOS is a trusted partner for global aerospace and defence organisations, supplying cutting-edge wiring interconnection systems, electronic integration solutions, and advanced engineering services.

With over 36 years of industry experience, including leadership roles at L&T, Timex, and Tyco Electronics, Shri Chandrashekar has been instrumental in driving innovation and operational excellence in aerospace manufacturing. His strategic leadership has positioned SASMOS as a benchmark for indigenous technological excellence, supporting projects for ISRO, DRDO, HAL, Boeing, and Airbus.

Recognised internationally, he was honoured by the International Biographical Centre at Cambridge as one of the ‘Leading Scientists in the World’ in 2010. His expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping our curriculum, bridging academia with industry, and mentoring students towards impactful careers in technology and innovation.
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    Shri. Chandrashekar H.G.

    Founder & Managing Director, SASMOS HET Technologies Ltd.
Shri H.G. Chandrashekar is a visionary entrepreneur and leader in the aerospace, defence, and space sectors. As the Founder and Managing Director of SASMOS HET Technologies Ltd., he has transformed the company into a premier provider of high-precision interconnection solutions, electromechanical assemblies, and fibre optic technologies for mission-critical applications. SASMOS is a trusted partner for global aerospace and defence organisations, supplying cutting-edge wiring interconnection systems, electronic integration solutions, and advanced engineering services.

With over 36 years of industry experience, including leadership roles at L&T, Timex, and Tyco Electronics, Shri Chandrashekar has been instrumental in driving innovation and operational excellence in aerospace manufacturing. His strategic leadership has positioned SASMOS as a benchmark for indigenous technological excellence, supporting projects for ISRO, DRDO, HAL, Boeing, and Airbus.

Recognised internationally, he was honoured by the International Biographical Centre at Cambridge as one of the ‘Leading Scientists in the World’ in 2010. His expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping our curriculum, bridging academia with industry, and mentoring students towards impactful careers in technology and innovation.