NEW DELHI, Jan 4: Renowned physicist Rajagopala Chidambaram, who was instrumental in India’s nuclear tests of 1975 and 1998, passed away on Saturday, as confirmed by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). He was 88 years old.
Chidambaram, deeply involved in the nation’s nuclear weapons program, breathed his last at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, according to a DAE official.
“With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, a leading physicist and one of India’s foremost scientists, this morning at 3:20 AM on January 4, 2025. His exceptional contributions to India’s scientific and strategic prowess, alongside his visionary leadership in science and technology, will always be honored,” a DAE statement read.
Born in 1936, Chidambaram was an alumnus of both Presidency College in Chennai and the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.
Throughout his illustrious career, he held several prominent positions, including Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India (2001–2018), Director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (1990-1993), Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, and Secretary of the DAE (1993-2000).
He also chaired the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) (1994–1995).
Chidambaram was crucial in developing India’s nuclear capabilities.
“He played a vital role in India’s first nuclear test in 1974 and led the DAE team for the Pokhran-II tests in 1998. His work was integral in establishing India as a nuclear power internationally,” the statement noted.
As a distinguished physicist, Dr. Chidambaram’s research focused on high-pressure physics, crystallography, and materials science, significantly enhancing the scientific community’s comprehension of these disciplines. His pioneering efforts in these areas laid the groundwork for contemporary materials science research in India.
He advocated for advancements in energy, healthcare, and strategic self-reliance, overseeing numerous projects that propelled India’s scientific and technological progress. He played a key role in India’s indigenous supercomputer development and initiated the National Knowledge Network to link research and educational institutions nationwide.
A strong proponent of leveraging science and technology for national advancement, Chidambaram founded initiatives such as Rural Technology Action Groups and the Society for Electronic Transactions and Security, advocating for a “coherent synergy” in India’s scientific endeavors.
His recognitions included the Padma Shri in 1975 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999, along with honorary doctorates from multiple universities, and he was a fellow of many prestigious Indian and international scientific academies.
Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the DAE, described Chidambaram’s death as a monumental loss.
“Dr. Chidambaram was a pillar of science and technology whose contributions enhanced India’s nuclear capabilities and strategic autonomy. His absence will be deeply felt within the scientific community and across the nation,” he stated.
The DAE remarked that Chidambaram will be remembered as a “trailblazer, an inspirational leader, and a devoted mentor to countless scientists and engineers.”
“The nation grieves the loss of a true visionary. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” the statement concluded. (PTI)
Leave a Reply