India’s private space sector reached a major milestone with the successful launch of Vikram-1, the country’s first privately developed orbital rocket by Skyroot Aerospace. Behind this achievement was Prithvi Sanghani, an engineer whose inspiring journey from a farmer’s family in Gujarat to helping build a critical part of the rocket has captured national attention. (Image: Instagram/@skyrootaerospace)

Prithvi Sanghani was raised in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, in a farmer’s family. Her story is being celebrated as an example of how determination and education can help overcome humble beginnings. (Image: LinkedIn/@Prithvi Sanghani)

Prithvi was part of the Skyroot Aerospace team that developed Vikram-1, India’s first privately built orbital rocket. The mission marked a significant step for India’s growing private space industry. As the Control System Lead, Prithvi worked on Vikram-1’s autopilot and guidance system, one of the rocket’s most critical technologies that helps it stay on course during flight. (Image: LinkedIn/@Prithvi Sanghani)

Before joining Skyroot Aerospace, Prithvi worked at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), where she gained valuable experience in defence and aerospace technologies. (Image: LinkedIn/@Prithvi Sanghani)

Prithvi Sanghani completed her engineering degree in Rajkot before pursuing a Master’s degree in Missile Technology in Pune, a specialised field that laid the groundwork for her career in aerospace and defence. She later enhanced her technical expertise as a learner at IIT Madras and is currently pursuing higher studies abroad. (File photo)

Vikram-1’s successful orbital mission demonstrated the capabilities of Indian private companies in space technology and opened new opportunities for commercial satellite launches. Prithvi’s journey from rural Gujarat to one of India’s biggest private space missions has made her a role model for students, especially young women interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). (Image: Instagram/@skyrootaerospace)