Dr. Tessy Thomas, fondly known as the "Missile Woman of India", is synonymous with innovation and excellence in the defence sector. As a leading scientist at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), she has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s missile technology. She has significantly influenced the development of India's missile technology as a top scientist at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). In addition to strengthening the nation's defence capabilities, her creative contributions to the Agni-IV and Agni-V projects earned her the nickname "Agniputri", which reflects her affiliation with India's cutting-edge missile initiatives.

EARLY LIFE:

Dr. Tessy Thomas was born in Alappuzha, Kerala, in 1964. She was one of those intelligent kids who enjoyed maths and science from the beginning of their school careers. She enrolled in the Government College for Women in Thiruvananthapuram to earn a degree in physics with the support of her family. She earned a master's in aerospace engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore to develop her speciality. She continued her education by obtaining a PhD in Guidance and Control Systems, which opened the door to a successful career in missile technology.

CAREER IN DRDO:

Dr. Thomas started her career at DRDO in 1988 when male dominance in these fields was prevalent. She rose through the ranks fairly quickly and made a significant contribution to the creation of an essential unit of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), which was responsible for the development of all of India's ballistic missiles, including long-distance ballistic missiles, for guidance and control.

As their program director, Dr. Thomas oversaw the Agni-IV and Agni-V missile systems. She guided groups to accomplish significant missile system milestones, and under her direction, these systems improved in capabilities and precision, strengthening India's strategic position. Her inventive approach and ability to lead intricate projects have placed her at the forefront of the nation's defence developments.

ACHIEVEMENTS:

Dr. Tessy Thomas's accomplishments are numerous and revolutionary. She is India's first female missile project manager. She distinguished herself and became a role model for women in science and technology. She has received numerous honours, including the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in Public Administration, Academics, and Management and the DRDO Performance Excellence Award. For exceptional work in science and engineering, she was granted India's third-highest civilian honour, the Padma Bhushan, in 2018.