New Delhi: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman S Somanath was diagnosed with stomach cancer on the day the country’s first space mission to the sun was launched six months ago.
Somanath revealed in an interview with Tarmak Media House that the cancer was detected at the same time as the launch of Aditya-L1 mission on September 2, 2023.
“There were some health issues during the Chandrayaan-3 mission launch. However, it was not clear to me at the time, I did not have a clear understanding about it,” the 60-year-old said.
He underwent a routine scan on September 2, which revealed an unexpected growth in his stomach.
Further scans confirmed the presence of a hereditary disease.
Somnath underwent a surgery, followed by chemotherapy.
“I was uncertain about a complete cure at the time, I was undergoing the process,” Somanath admitted.
A pragmatic approach and faith in proper treatment helped him beat cancer.
After four days in the hospital, Somanath resumed his duties at ISRO and worked without pain.
“I will be undergoing regular checkups and scans. But now I am completely cured, and have resumed my duties,” Somnath said.
