From village school to ISRO : Navsari student becomes scientist 

Navsari, Gujarat — In a powerful testament to the adage that relentless hard work can conquer any obstacle, Preeti Vats, a brilliant student from Navsari Agricultural University (NAU), has achieved a dream that many only dare to imagine. Defying financial constraints and hailing from a humble farming family, Preeti has secured a coveted position as a Scientist at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), bringing immense pride to her family and her university. She is set to join ISRO’s Ahmedabad facility, where her expertise will focus on the critical intersection of forestry, climate change, and remote sensing.

Preeti’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. “I have been a student of the College of Forestry at Navsari Agricultural University and am currently pursuing my PhD here,” Preeti shared, her voice brimming with quiet determination. “I had been preparing for competitive exams, and while working on my PhD, I received the appointment as a scientist at ISRO. This success came after clearing both the rigorous written and oral examinations.” She added that her core subject, forestry, aligns perfectly with ISRO’s mission to study climate change and remote sensing – a crucial area for the nation’s environmental future.

Her academic path began modestly in a village school in Haryana, where she completed her education up to Standard 12. Her thirst for knowledge then led her to the College of Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, for her undergraduate studies. Her exceptional performance was recognized in 2021 when she was awarded the prestigious Vice Chancellor Gold Medal. Post-graduation, Preeti secured the All India Second Rank in the ICAR PG Entrance Examination, which earned her a scholarship to pursue her M.Sc. in Kerala. Despite facing financial challenges, the scholarship proved instrumental, allowing her to successfully complete her Master’s studies.

Undeterred, Preeti returned to Navsari Agricultural University to embark on her PhD. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Satish Kumar Sinha, she immersed herself in research on Forest Product and Utilization. It was during this demanding period that the opportunity with ISRO arose. She successfully navigated the written exam and interview conducted by the National Remote Sensing Center in Hyderabad, culminating in her appointment as a Scientist ‘C’.

This remarkable achievement is a moment of profound pride for Preeti, her family, and Navsari Agricultural University. “We are extremely happy and proud that our student has been selected as a scientist at ISRO,” expressed Dr. M.B. Tandel, Dean of the College of Forestry. He further emphasized the growing relevance of forestry science. “Today, forestry science graduates are needed in every field. There’s a lot of discussion about carbon credits, and many industries now use wood as a raw material. In the current situation, students studying forestry have numerous opportunities in diverse fields after graduation and post-graduation.”