Tessy Thomas
Lady Tessy Thomas, also known as “Missile Woman of India,” is a prominent Indian scientist and engineer known for her significant contributions to India’s missile development program. She played a crucial role in the development of ballistic missiles and missile technologies as part of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Tessy Thomas was born on April 2, 1963, in Alappuzha, Kerala, India. She pursued her education in engineering and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Government Engineering College, Thrissur, Kerala. Later, she completed her Master’s degree in Guided Missile from the Institute of Armament Technology, Pune (now known as Defence Institute of Advanced Technology).
Tessy Thomas joined DRDO in 1988 and became a part of the team working on the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). She played a key role in the development of the Agni series of ballistic missiles, which are essential components of India’s strategic nuclear deterrent. She was involved in the mission design, trajectory simulation, and system integration of the Agni missiles.
Her dedication, technical expertise, and leadership skills led to her becoming the Project Director for Agni-IV, one of India’s successful intermediate-range ballistic missiles. She became the first woman scientist in India to lead a missile project.
In recognition of her significant contributions to India’s missile development, Tessy Thomas was conferred with several prestigious awards and honors. Some of the notable accolades include the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in Public Administration, Academics, and Management in 2012, and the DRDO Award for Performance Excellence in 2011 and 2012.
Tessy Thomas’ achievements have been an inspiration to many aspiring scientists and women in India. She has shattered gender barriers in a male-dominated field and has become a role model for women pursuing careers in science and technology. Her dedication and contributions have played a crucial role in strengthening India’s defense capabilities and indigenous missile technology.
see also
Integrated Guided Missile Development Program
Defence Research and Development Organization
Prithvi missile