The man behind the Pokhran nuclear test and physicist Rajagopala Chidambaram passed away on Saturday, January 4, 2025, as confirmed by the Department of Atomic Energy.
He is well known for his important role in nuclear tests conducted in 1974 and 1998. He took his last breath at the Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai Maharashtra at the age of 88.
As quoted by the Times of India, the statement by DAE mentioned that “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, an eminent physicist and one of India’s most distinguished scientists, 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.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his heartfelt condolences by posting on his X handle. PM Modi mentioned that “Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr Rajagopala Chidambaram. He was one of the key architects of India’s nuclear programme and made ground-breaking contributions in strengthening India’s scientific and strategic capabilities. He will be remembered with gratitude by the whole nation and his efforts will inspire generations to come.”
Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram. He was one of the key architects of India’s nuclear programme and made ground-breaking contributions in strengthening India’s scientific and strategic capabilities. He will be remembered with gratitude by the whole…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 4, 2025
Who Was Rajagopala Chidambaram?
Chidambaram was born in 1936. Chidambaram completed his studies at Presidency College in Chennai and the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.
Rajagopala Chidambaram was known for his major contribution to the field of nuclear energy. He is known for his major contribution to the two nuclear tests conducted in years 1974 and 1998. India had its first nuclear test in 1974 and its second one in 1998 in Pokhran.
He served in several important roles throughout his career. Chidambaram was the principal scientific adviser to the Indian Government during 2001-18. He was also the director of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre during 1990-93. Apart from this, he served as the Chairman of the Atomic Research Centre.
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