Veteran nuclear scientist R. Chidambaram dies at 88

New Delhi: Renowned physicist Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, who played a pivotal role in India's nuclear tests of 1974 and 1998, passed away on Saturday at the age of 88, as confirmed by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). He died at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai.

The DAE stated on January 4, 2025, announcing his death at 3:20 AM. The statement described Chidambaram as “an eminent physicist and one of India's most distinguished scientists” whose contributions to the country's scientific and strategic capabilities were unparalleled. “Dr. Chidambaram's visionary leadership in science and technology will forever be remembered,” the statement added.

Born in 1936, Chidambaram was an alumnus of Presidency College in Chennai and the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. He held several prestigious positions throughout his illustrious career, including Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India from 2001 to 2018. He also served as the director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) from 1990 to 1993, chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, and secretary to the government of India, DAE, from 1993 to 2000. Additionally, Chidambaram chaired the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 1994 to 1995.

Chidambaram's role in shaping India's nuclear capabilities was central to his legacy. He was instrumental in the nation's first nuclear test in 1974 and led the Department of Atomic Energy's team during the landmark Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998. These contributions were pivotal in establishing India as a nuclear power on the global stage.

In addition to his work in nuclear science, Chidambaram was a world-class physicist known for his research in high-pressure physics, crystallography, and materials science. His pioneering work in these fields significantly advanced scientific understanding, particularly in the area of materials science research in India. He championed numerous initiatives in energy, healthcare, and strategic self-reliance, driving projects that elevated India's scientific and technological landscape.

Chidambaram was also a key figure in India's indigenous development of supercomputers and played a central role in conceptualising the National Knowledge Network, which connected research and educational institutions across the country. He advocated for the application of science and technology to national development, establishing programs such as Rural Technology Action Groups and the Society for Electronic Transactions and Security. His vision emphasized a "coherent synergy" within India's scientific efforts.

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

Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the DAE, expressed profound sorrow at Chidambaram's passing, calling it an "irreparable loss." Mohanty said, “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.”

The DAE remarked that Chidambaram would be remembered as a "trailblazer, an inspirational leader, and a dedicated mentor to countless scientists and engineers." The statement added, “The nation mourns the loss of a true visionary. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this time of grief.”

With PTI inputs