Renowned Indian nuclear scientist Dr. R Chidambaram passed away this morning in Mumbai at the age of 88. A pivotal figure in India’s nuclear program, he played a significant role in the country’s atomic tests at Pokhran in 1974 and 1998.
Dr. Chidambaram served as the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission of India and later as the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. For his exceptional contributions to establishing India as a nuclear weapons state, he was honored with the Padma Vibhushan.
A distinguished nuclear physicist, he was admired for his sharp intellect, refined demeanor, and unwavering commitment to protecting national security. Notably, he led the nuclear efforts in the 1998 Pokhran tests, also known as Operation Shakti, and was one of the few scientists involved in both the Smiling Buddha test in 1974 and Operation Shakti.
R Chidambaram Died
Eminent physicist Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, a key figure in India’s nuclear tests of 1974 and 1998, passed away on Saturday at the age of 88, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) announced. He died at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, according to a DAE official.
In a heartfelt statement, the DAE expressed, “With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, one of India’s most distinguished scientists, at 3:20 am on January 4, 2025. His unmatched contributions to advancing India’s scientific and strategic capabilities and his visionary leadership in science and technology will be remembered forever.”
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About Dr. R Chidambaram
Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, born in 1936, was a distinguished alumnus of Presidency College in Chennai and the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru.
Over 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 to the Department of Atomic Energy (1993–2000). He also served as Chairman of the Board of Governors for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 1994 to 1995.
Dr Chidambaram was instrumental in advancing India’s nuclear capabilities, playing a crucial role in the country’s first nuclear test in 1974 and leading the Department of Atomic Energy team during the 1998 Pokhran-II tests. His efforts established India as a significant nuclear power on the global stage.
A world-class physicist, his groundbreaking research in high-pressure physics, crystallography, and materials science paved the way for advancements in modern materials science in India. He championed the integration of science and technology for national development, spearheading initiatives in energy, healthcare, and strategic self-reliance. Notably, he was a driving force behind India’s indigenous supercomputer development and the National Knowledge Network, connecting research and educational institutions across the country.
Dr. Chidambaram also established impactful programs such as Rural Technology Action Groups and the Society for Electronic Transactions and Security, promoting a unified approach to scientific endeavors. His visionary leadership inspired countless scientists and engineers, leaving an indelible mark on India’s scientific community.
Honored with numerous accolades, he received the Padma Shri in 1975 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999, alongside honorary doctorates from esteemed universities and fellowships from prominent Indian and international science academies.
Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy, described his passing as an “irreparable loss,” stating, “Dr. Chidambaram’s contributions to India’s nuclear prowess and strategic self-reliance are unmatched. His demise is a profound loss for the scientific community and the nation.”
The Department of Atomic Energy remembered him as a visionary, trailblazer, and mentor, extending condolences to his family and loved ones. “The nation mourns the loss of a true visionary,” the statement concluded.
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R Chidambaram Died FAQs
Q.1. Who was Dr. R Chidambaram?
Ans. Dr. R Chidambaram was a renowned Indian nuclear physicist instrumental in India’s nuclear tests in 1974 and 1998, and a visionary leader in science and technology.
Q.2. What were Dr. Chidambaram’s major contributions?
Ans. He played a key role in India’s nuclear program, advanced high-pressure physics, led Pokhran-II tests, and spearheaded initiatives like supercomputer development and the National Knowledge Network.
Q.3. What awards did Dr. R Chidambaram receive?
Ans. Dr. R Chidambaram was honored with the Padma Shri in 1975, the Padma Vibhushan in 1999, and several honorary doctorates for his scientific contributions.
Q.4. When and where did Dr. Chidambaram pass away?
Ans. Dr. Chidambaram passed away on January 4, 2025, at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai at the age of 88.
Q.5. Why is Dr. Chidambaram considered a visionary?
Ans. His groundbreaking work in nuclear science, strategic initiatives for national self-reliance, and advocacy for the integration of science in development established him as a trailblazer in Indian science.
