Tessy Thomas Honoured with Paulos Mar Gregorios Award 2025

Renowned aerospace engineer Tessy Thomas has been awarded the prestigious Paulos Mar Gregorios Award 2025 for her exceptional contributions to women empowerment and advancements in space and missile technology. The award ceremony took place on March 5, 2025, at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex in Delhi, India, where Thomas was recognized for her significant role as the former Project Director for the Agni-IV ballistic missile at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

A Legacy of Excellence

The Paulos Mar Gregorios Award was established by the Sophia Society of the Malankara (Indian) Orthodox Church to honour the memory of Dr. Paulos Mar Gregorios, the first Metropolitan of the Delhi Diocese and a noted philosopher. This award is presented every alternate year to individuals who excel in fields that resonate with the values of empowerment and social betterment.

Thomas, often referred to as the ‘Missile Woman of India’, made history as the first woman to lead an Indian missile project. Her contributions to the development of the Agni-IV and Agni-V missiles have earned her the nickname ‘Agniputri’, meaning one born of fire. The award was presented by Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, the head of the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church, highlighting Thomas’s impactful career and dedication to her field.

Inspiring Future Generations

In her acceptance speech, Thomas dedicated the award to those who have influenced her journey, including family, mentors, and colleagues. She reflected on her childhood fascination with science, saying, “Far from the laboratories and space centres, my imagination wandered beyond coconut trees as a young girl. I was fascinated and curious about the jets that left trails, like clouds in the sky.” Thomas expressed pride in her contributions to India’s space capabilities, stating, “Today, I feel proud to know that the Indian flag is flying there.”

She emphasized her commitment to advancing science and technology in India and expressed motivation to continue developing indigenous systems that enhance the nation’s strategic capabilities. Her journey has been notably shaped under the mentorship of the late APJ Abdul Kalam, former President of India and Director General of DRDO, with whom she engaged in numerous late-night brainstorming sessions during over 50 missile launches.

Wajahat Habibullah, former Chief Information Commissioner of India, served as the chief guest at the event, underscoring the significance of Thomas’s achievements in the context of India’s growing stature as a global power.

“This award could not have gone to a more deserving person,” said Baselios Marthoma Mathews III. “She embodies the fact that India cannot become an advanced nation unless the women of the country rise up to their full potential.”

Baselios Marthoma Mathews III highlighted the legacy of Dr. Paulos Mar Gregorios, noting his commitment to social equality and the empowerment of marginalized communities. He called upon the audience to recognize the importance of women’s contributions to society.

Youhanon Mar Demetrios, Metropolitan of the Delhi Diocese of the Orthodox Syrian Church, echoed these sentiments, stating that Thomas’s achievements demonstrate that women can overcome obstacles and break through barriers in pursuit of excellence.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Shymdas Balakrishna Menon, Vice-Chancellor of BMU, who served as the keynote speaker, further reinforcing the importance of support and recognition for women in science and technology.

Tessy Thomas’s recognition through the Paulos Mar Gregorios Award is not just a personal milestone but also a significant statement about the role of women in scientific advancement and national development. As she continues her work, her journey serves as an inspiration to future generations aspiring to make their mark in the fields of science and technology.