The Unsung Hero: Unveiling the Architect of ISRO's Success

The story of an unknown “HERO” whose company had provided equipment for the success of ISRO’s missions.

India has emerged as one of the most dynamic players in the field of space exploration. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has captured the world’s imagination with its ambitious missions, low-cost innovations, and groundbreaking scientific achievements. From Chandrayaan to Mangalyaan, from satellite launches to upcoming manned missions, ISRO has taken Indian science and technology to new heights.

But what often escapes the public narrative are the hidden hands behind these stellar accomplishments—companies and individuals whose contributions, though lesser-known, are nothing short of heroic. Among these quiet contributors stands one remarkable company and its visionary founder: Walchandnagar Industries Ltd. (WIL) and Mr. Walchand Harichand Doshi, the man who laid the foundation for one of India’s most crucial industrial powerhouses.

Beyond the Limelight: Walchandnagar Industries and ISRO

Established in 1908, Walchandnagar Industries Ltd., headquartered in Maharashtra, has been instrumental in supplying high-tech equipment to ISRO since 1973. From critical components in rocket systems to high-precision engineering products, WIL has stood tall as a silent yet consistent supporter of India’s space journey.

One of the company’s most notable contributions came during the launch of Chandrayaan-1 on October 22, 2008, where WIL played a key role by providing fuel-related equipment for the launch vehicle. In subsequent years, for missions like Chandrayaan-2, Mangalyaan, and the upcoming Gaganyaan (India’s first manned space mission), WIL has remained a backbone in terms of supplying essential components.

While ISRO scientists gain the well-deserved attention for mission success, companies like WIL contribute significantly behind the scenes. This collaborative ecosystem has helped India push boundaries in space exploration.

The Visionary: Mr. Walchand Harichand Doshi

Born on 23rd November 1882 in a Gujarati Jain family in Solapur, Maharashtra, Walchand Harichand Doshi was not just a businessman—he was a nation builder. Revered as "The Father of Modern Indian Transport," his contribution to India’s industrial and infrastructural development is vast and multifaceted.

He began his career in the family’s cotton and banking business but soon realised the potential of industrial infrastructure. He went on to execute engineering marvels like constructing railway tunnels and building pipelines to channel water from the Tansa River to Mumbai. Such projects laid the foundation for his future ambitions.

Establishing India on the Global Maritime Map

After the First World War, Walchand ventured into the shipping industry, a domain then dominated by the British. In 1919, along with his associates Mr. Narottam Morarjee and Mr. Kilachand Devchand, he purchased the SS Loyalty from Scindia Steam Navigation Company. On 5th April 1919, this ship set sail on its maiden international voyage from Mumbai to London.

This event marked a pivotal moment in Indian maritime history, and even today, April 5 is celebrated as National Maritime Day in India. It also opened doors for greater Indian control over coastal and international shipping routes, breaking the British monopoly.

Industrial Innovations and Legacy

Walchand's dreams didn't stop at shipping. In 1940, he envisioned and initiated the establishment of Scindia Shipyard (now Hindustan Shipyard Limited) in Visakhapatnam. Post-independence, it launched India's first ship, 'Jal Usha', in 1948.

He also set up Hindustan Aircraft Limited (now Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) in Bangalore, marking India’s serious entry into aircraft manufacturing. As if that wasn't enough, in 1944, he founded Premier Automobiles in Mumbai, India’s first indigenous car manufacturing company, best known for producing the iconic Premier Padmini.

These industries not only contributed to India's technological and industrial prowess but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations with government organisations like ISRO.

Employment and Economic Growth

The small village where WIL was established eventually came to be named after him, honouring his legacy. Out of a population of 15,000, nearly 1,400 were directly employed by his company. Today, the company’s turnover has grown into hundreds of crores, providing livelihoods and technological advancement simultaneously.

His vision was rooted not just in business success but in national progress. In an era where India was still shackled by colonial rule, Walchand Harichand Doshi dared to dream of an industrially self-reliant India.

A Patriot at Heart

Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Walchand was deeply involved in the Indian freedom struggle. He supported Annie Besant and MR Jayakar in establishing the Free Press of India in 1927, advocating for independent journalism. He was also an early patron of the Indian National Congress and financially supported the party's endeavours.

His love for the nation was not just in words but also in his actions. He petitioned for the release of Mahatma Gandhi in 1931 and used his resources and influence to help the freedom movement.

A Lasting Influence

Walchand served as president of his company from 1929 to 1950, stepping down due to health reasons. Three years after his retirement, the company held 21% of India’s coastal shipping traffic. Sadly, he passed away on 8th April 1953 in Siddhpur, Gujarat, leaving behind an unmatched legacy.

Today, ISRO stands as a beacon of national pride, launching rockets and breaking global records. But in each of those rocket engines, launch pads, and complex mechanisms lies the dedication of visionaries like Walchand Harichand Doshi. His company, Walchandnagar Industries, continues to serve the nation, just as he had envisioned over a century ago.

A Legacy That Inspires

While his name might not be part of our school textbooks or everyday conversations, Mr. Walchand's contributions to India’s space program, maritime development, automotive industry, and aerospace cannot be ignored. His story serves as a powerful reminder that true heroes do not always wear lab coats or sit in control rooms. Some lay the foundations, brick by brick, machine by machine, vision by vision.

As we celebrate India’s milestones in space and technology, let us also pay tribute to the unsung heroes like Walchand Harichand Doshi, whose life, work, and patriotism continue to inspire generations.

Jai Hind!

                   

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Source of information- The Better India 

    by team About "LIFE" Buzz