New Delhi
Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, India’s famous physicist and significant contributor to the field of nuclear energy, passed away on Saturday. He was 88 years old. According to the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Dr. Chidambaram breathed his last at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai. The DAE said in a statement, “We inform with extreme sadness that Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram passed away at 3:20 am today (January 4, 2025). His contribution will always be remembered. “He has made a unique contribution to India’s scientific and strategic capabilities.”
Career and contribution of Dr. Chidambaram
Dr. Chidambaram was born in 1936 and was a student of Presidency College, Chennai and Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. He also served as the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India (2001–2018). In addition, he was the Director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (1990–1993) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission (1993–2000). Chidambaram played a key role in India’s first nuclear test in 1974 and led the Department of Atomic Energy team during the Pokhran-II nuclear test in 1998. Due to these contributions India was established as a nuclear power.
Contribution to scientific approach and research
Chidambaram did important research in high pressure physics, crystallography and materials science. His work reshaped the scientific community’s understanding of these areas. He laid the foundation of modern materials science research in India and gave a new direction to the progress of science and technology in the country.
Contribution in other areas
Chidambaram initiated the indigenous development of supercomputers in India and conceptualized the National Knowledge Network, linking educational and research institutions across the country. Additionally, he launched initiatives such as rural technology and electronic transaction security, which further boosted India’s growth.
Awards and Honors
Chidambaram was honored with prestigious awards like Padma Shri in 1975 and Padma Vibhushan in 1999. He received honorary doctorates from several universities and was a member of several Indian and international science academies.
DAE Secretary described the demise as an irreparable loss.
DAE Secretary Ajit Kumar Mohanty described Chidambaram’s demise as an irreparable loss. He said, “Dr. Chidambaram’s contribution in strengthening Indian nuclear power and strategic self-reliance was unprecedented. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Indian scientific community and the country.” The DAE remembered Chidambaram as a “pioneer, inspirational leader and dedicated mentor”. In this hour of grief, everyone expressed condolences to his family and loved ones.
