NEW DELHI: Eminent physicist Rajagopala Chidambaram, who was a key determine in India’s nuclear checks in 1974 and 1998, handed away on Saturday, the division of atomic vitality (DAE) confirmed. He was 88 years outdated and died at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, based on a DAE official.
In a press release, the DAE mentioned, “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, an eminent physicist and one of India’s most distinguished scientists, this morning (4 January 2025) at 3:20 am. Dr “Chidambaram’s unmatched contributions to India’s scientific and strategic capabilities and his visionary management in science and expertise will eternally be remembered.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences, saying, “Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr Rajagopala Chidambaram. He was one of many key architects of India’s nuclear program and made floor-breaking contributions in strengthening India’s scientific and strategic capabilities. He will probably be remembered with gratitude by the entire nation and his efforts will encourage generations to return.”
Born in 1936, Chidambaram studied at Presidency College in Chennai and the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.
During his career, Chidambaram held key positions, including principal scientific advisor to the Government of India (2001–2018), director of Bhabha Atomic Research Center (1990–1993), chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, and secretary to the Government of India. , DAE (1993–2000). He also served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 1994 to 1995.
Chidambaram played a significant role in India’s nuclear program. He contributed to the first nuclear test in 1974 and led the Department of Atomic Energy team during the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998.
The DAE’s statement noted, “He performed an integral function within the nation’s first nuclear take a look at in 1974, and led the Department of Atomic Energy staff in the course of the Pokhran-II nuclear checks in 1998. His contributions established India as a nuclear energy on the worldwide stage .”
Chidambaram was awarded the Padma Shri in 1975 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999. He received honorary doctorates from various universities and was a fellow of many Indian and international science academies.
Ajit Kumar Mohanty, secretary of the DAE, described Chidambaram’s death as an “irreparable loss.” He said, “Dr Chidambaram was a doyen of science and expertise whose contributions furthered India’s nuclear prowess and strategic self-reliance. His loss is an irreparable one for the scientific neighborhood and the nation.”
The DAE said Chidambaram will be remembered as a leader and mentor to many scientists and engineers. It added, “The nation mourns the lack of a real visionary. Our heartfelt condolences exit to his household and family members throughout this time of grief.”
