Key Points

Former Atomic Energy Commission Chairman MR Srinivasan, a key architect of India’s nuclear programme, passed away at 95. He began his career under Homi Bhabha, contributing to India’s first reactor, Apsara. Congress leaders Kharge and Ramesh hailed his leadership in establishing 18 nuclear power units nationwide. His legacy remains pivotal in India’s scientific and energy advancements.

Key Points: Nuclear Pioneer MR Srinivasan Passes Away at 95

  • Worked with Homi Bhabha on India’s first reactor Apsara
  • Led development of 18 nuclear power units
  • Served as AEC Chairman and Planning Commission member
  • Honored with Padma Vibhushan
3 min read

MR Srinivasan, former Atomic Energy Commission Chairman, passes awat at 95

Padma Vibhushan recipient and former AEC Chairman MR Srinivasan, who shaped India’s nuclear power programme, dies at 95.

"His visionary leadership led to the development of 18 nuclear power units. – Mallikarjun Kharge"

New Delhi, May 20

Former Atomic Energy Commission Chairman MR Srinivasan passed away at the age of 95 on Tuesday. The Padma Vibhusan recipient had played a key role in the development of India's nuclear power programme.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge condoled the death of MR Srinivasn and said his demise mark a significant loss for India's scientific community.

In a post on X, Kharge said, "The demise of Dr. MR Srinivasan, a pioneering nuclear scientist and Padma Vibhushan recipient, marks a significant loss for India's scientific community."

https://x.com/kharge/status/1924669234803798100

Kharge also shared the significant accomplishments of MR Srinivasan.

"Starting his distinguished career with Homi Bhabha on India's first nuclear reactor, Apsara (1956), he went on to hold key national roles, including Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Member of the Planning Commission," Kharge said.

Kharge highlighted that MR Srinivasan leadership led to development of 18 nuclear power units.

"His visionary leadership led to the development of 18 nuclear power units. His technical brilliance and unwavering service have left a lasting legacy in India's nuclear energy landscape," Kharge said.

"Our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and loved ones," he added.

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh also condoled the demise of Srinivasan and said, "The nuclear power stations now operating at Kalpakkam, Rawatbhata, Kaiga, Kakrapar, and Narora are all shining testimonies to his yeoman contributions to nation-building."

"It has been my good fortune to have known him for a long time and he is someone who has left a deep and lasting impression on me by the strength of his commitments, his deep appreciation of the larger social functions of science, and his profound understanding of India's rich cultural traditions," he added.

https://x.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/1924663158683402475

MR Srinivasan joined the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in September 1955 and began his distinguished career working alongside Homi Bhabha on the construction of India's first nuclear research reactor, Apsara, which achieved criticality in August 1956.

Srinivasan held several key positions of national importance. In 1974, he became Director of the Power Projects Engineering Division, DAE, and in 1984, Chairman of the Nuclear Power Board. In these roles, he oversaw the planning, execution, and operation of all nuclear power projects across the country.

In 1987, he was appointed Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
A true legend of Indian science! His work on nuclear energy laid the foundation for our energy security. We need more visionaries like him today. May his soul rest in peace 🙏
P
Priya M.
While we honor his contributions, we must also ask why India hasn't produced more scientists of his caliber in recent decades. Our education system needs serious reforms to nurture such talent.
A
Arjun S.
Worked with Homi Bhabha himself! These were the real architects of modern India. Today's youth should learn about such unsung heroes rather than just film stars and cricketers.
S
Sunita R.
My father worked at Kalpakkam plant and always spoke highly of Dr. Srinivasan's leadership. He was not just a scientist but also a great mentor. India has lost a gem 💎
V
Vikram J.
His contributions to nuclear energy helped India become self-reliant during difficult times. We need to document and preserve the stories of such pioneers for future generations.
N
Neha T.
It's heartwarming to see politicians across parties paying tribute to a scientist. Shows that when it comes to nation-building, we can rise above politics. Respect! 👏

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