Renowned nuclear scientist Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, who played an instrumental role in shaping India’s nuclear history, passed away on Saturday at the age of 88. He breathed his last at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, succumbing to age-related complications.
Chidambaram, who was also a former principal scientific adviser to the Government of India, is widely remembered for his pivotal contributions to India’s nuclear development. He was a key figure behind the nation’s first nuclear test, Pokhran I (Operation Smiling Buddha) in 1974, and later, the Pokhran II (Operation Shakti) tests in 1998. These landmark events marked India’s entry into the global nuclear league and solidified the country’s strategic capabilities.
Born in 1936 in Chennai, Chidambaram was a brilliant academic, having completed his education at Presidency College in Chennai and earned a PhD from the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru. His career at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) began in 1962, where he eventually rose to the position of director in 1990. His leadership and expertise were key in advancing India’s nuclear energy capabilities. In 1993, he was appointed chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, a role he held until 2000, during which he oversaw the successful execution of India’s second series of nuclear tests in 1998.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Chidambaram was honored with the Padma Shri in 1975 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999. His tenure at the Atomic Energy Commission and his role in the 1998 nuclear tests played a central part in establishing India’s nuclear deterrence and strategic security. His work also helped pave the way for the Indo-US civil nuclear agreement, which ended India’s international isolation on nuclear matters.
Following his time at the Atomic Energy Commission, Dr. Chidambaram continued to serve the scientific community as the principal scientific adviser to the Government of India from 2002 to 2018. His work during this period included the promotion of numerous scientific and technological advancements, including the establishment of the Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG), the Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS), and the National Knowledge Network (NKN), which connected research institutions across the country.
Chidambaram’s death has drawn tributes from various leaders and organizations, praising his enduring legacy in strengthening India’s nuclear and technological capabilities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, calling Chidambaram one of the key architects of India’s nuclear programme. “He will be remembered with gratitude by the whole nation, and his efforts will inspire generations to come,” said Modi.
The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India hailed Chidambaram as a “true scientific pioneer” whose contributions remain a cornerstone of India’s scientific progress. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy, described him as “a doyen of science and technology” whose efforts advanced India’s nuclear prowess and strategic self-reliance.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal also paid tribute, acknowledging that Chidambaram’s work in advancing the country’s scientific capabilities would always be remembered and serve as an inspiration to others.
Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram’s legacy is a testament to his dedication to advancing India’s scientific, technological, and strategic capabilities, and his death marks the loss of a giant in the field of nuclear science. His pioneering efforts in the nuclear sector will continue to inspire future generations of scientists and policymakers.
Sources By Agencies
