Mumbai, 04^th January 2025

Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram 1936 – 2025

 

Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, an eminent physicist and one of India’s most distinguished scientists, passed away, this morning (4 January 2025) at 3:20 AM. Dr. Chidambaram’s unparalleled contributions to India’s scientific and strategic capabilities and his visionary leadership in science and technology will forever be remembered. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this time of grief. The nation mourns the loss of a true visionary. Department of Atomic Energy has shared this in an official statement today.

Dr. Chidambaram held numerous prestigious roles throughout his illustrious career, 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 & Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Atomic Energy (1993-2000). He was the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency and (1994–1995). He also served as a member of the IAEA’s Commission of Eminent Persons, contributing to the organisation’s vision for 2020 and beyond.

Dr. Chidambaram played a pivotal role in shaping India's nuclear capabilities. He played an integral role in the nation’s first nuclear test in 1974, and led the Department of Atomic Energy team during the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998. His contributions established India as a nuclear power on the global stage.

As a world-class physicist, Dr. Chidambaram’s research in high-pressure physics, crystallography, and materials science significantly advanced the scientific community's understanding of these fields. His pioneering work in these areas laid the foundation for modern materials science research in India.

Born in 1936, Dr. Chidambaram was an alumnus of Presidency College, Chennai, and the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru.

Dr. Chidambaram was a visionary leader who believed in the power of science and technology to drive national development. He championed initiatives in areas such as energy, healthcare, and strategic self-reliance, and he steered numerous projects that significantly advanced India’s science and technology landscape. He was instrumental in initiating India’s indigenous development of supercomputers and conceptualising the National Knowledge Network, which connected research and educational institutions across the country.

An ardent advocate of applying science and technology to national development, Dr. Chidambaram established programmes such as the Rural Technology Action Groups, Society for Electronic Transactions and Security, and emphasised 'Coherent Synergy' in India’s scientific efforts.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Dr. Chidambaram was honoured with prestigious accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1975 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999. He received honorary doctorates from several universities and was a fellow of eminent Indian and international science academies.

Reflecting on his passing, Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy, Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, stated, "Dr. Chidambaram was a doyen of science and technology whose contributions furthered India's nuclear prowess and strategic self-reliance. His loss is an irreparable one for the scientific community and the nation."

Dr. Chidambaram will be remembered as a trailblazer, an inspirational leader, and a dedicated mentor to countless scientists and engineers. His life’s work has propelled India to the forefront of global science and technology, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations.

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