Strategic Autonomy Realized: G. Satheesh Reddy Honored with Changemaker-2026 Award
Former DRDO chief G. Satheesh Reddy received the 'Changemaker-2026' award for his leadership in advancing India's indigenous military technology. The ceremony highlighted Reddy's transition from defense engineering to inspiring the nation's youth under the Kalam Institute of Youth Excellence.
Achievements in Defense Self-Reliance
India successfully severed its reliance on foreign powers for vital military hardware, according to G. Satheesh Reddy, former chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and current member of the National Security Advisory Board. Speaking at a ceremony on July 26, 2026, Reddy asserted that the nation now controls its own technological destiny in the defense sector. The event centered on the presentation of the EMESCO-Dr B.V. Pattabhiram’s ‘Changemaker-2026’ award to Reddy by actor-politician Chiranjeevi.
Reddy shifted the focus from his personal career to the lineage of Indian innovation. He dedicated his recognition to the collective efforts of thousands of researchers, citing figures from Suri Bhagavantam to the late A.P.J. Abdul Kalam as the architects of the country's scientific strength.
The Legacy of Dr. B.V. Pattabhiram
Chiranjeevi used the occasion to honor the memory of Dr. B.V. Pattabhiram, reflecting on his multifaceted career as a magician, student counselor, and family advisor. D. Vijayakumar, CEO of EMESCO Books, detailed how Pattabhiram devoted his life to youth welfare through specialized guidance and psychological support. The ceremony included the release of a Telugu booklet, Okadu Satheesh Reddy, which profiles the former DRDO chief’s professional journey.
Mobilizing the Next Generation
Beyond technical contributions, Reddy remains active in public life through the Kalam’s Institute of Youth Excellence. Vijayakumar noted that Reddy continues to influence the younger generation through a series of symposiums, lectures, and media interviews across India. The event saw participation from a diverse group of public figures, including:
- Satya Rao, Andhra Pradesh Minister for Medical and Health Services
- K.V.P. Ramachandra Rao, former Member of Parliament
- K. Ramachandra Murthy, senior editor
- Jaya Pattabhiram and Prashant Pattabhiram
Source: The Hindu — News
