82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards (2025)

The 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards, held on January 5, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, celebrated the achievements of the film and television industries over the past year. From performances to direction, scriptwriting, and musical achievements, the event highlighted exceptional talent and groundbreaking works in both the motion picture and television sectors. Notable winners included Adrien Brody for Best Actor in a Motion Picture — Drama for The Brutalist, and Zoe Saldaña for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Emilia Pérez. The ceremony was historic, with Nikki Glaser becoming the first woman to host the Golden Globes solo. Below is a summary of the winners and nominees across various categories.

Key Highlights of Event

Golden Globe 2025 Key Winners and Nominees

Category Winners Nominees
Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture — Drama Adrien Brody, “The Brutalist” Timothée Chalamet, “A Complete Unknown”
Daniel Craig, “Queer”
Colman Domingo, “Sing Sing”
Ralph Fiennes, “Conclave”
Sebastian Stan, “The Apprentice”
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture — Drama Fernanda Torres, “I’m Still Here” Pamela Anderson, “The Last Showgirl”
Angelina Jolie, “Maria”
Nicole Kidman, “Babygirl”
Tilda Swinton, “The Room Next Door”
Kate Winslet, “Lee”
Best Motion Picture — Drama “The Brutalist” “A Complete Unknown” “Conclave”
“Dune: Part Two”
“Nickel Boys”
“September 5”
Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture Zoe Saldaña, “Emilia Pérez” Ariana Grande, “Wicked”
Selena Gomez, “Emilia Pérez”
Felicity Jones, “The Brutalist”
Margaret Qualley, “The Substance”
Isabella Rossellini, “Conclave”
Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain” Yura Borisov, “Anora”
Edward Norton, “A Complete Unknown”
Guy Pearce, “The Brutalist”
Jeremy Strong, “The Apprentice”
Denzel Washington, “Gladiator II”
Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy Jean Smart, “Hacks” Kristen Bell, “Nobody Wants This”
Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary”
Ayo Edebiri, “The Bear”
Selena Gomez, “Only Murders in the Building”
Kathryn Hahn, “Agatha All Along”
Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Drama Hiroyuki Sanada, “Shōgun” Donald Glover, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”
Jake Gyllenhaal, “Presumed Innocent”
Gary Oldman, “Slow Horses”
Eddie Redmayne, “The Day of the Jackal”
Billy Bob Thornton, “Landman”
Best Screenplay — Motion Picture Peter Straughan, “Conclave”
Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez”
Sean Baker, “Anora”
Brady Corbet, Mona Fastvold, “The Brutalist”
Jesse Eisenberg, “A Real Pain”
Coralie Fargeat, “The Substance”
Best Original Song — Motion Picture “El Mal,” by Clément Ducol, Camille, and Jacques Audiard (from “Emilia Pérez”)
“Beautiful That Way,” by Miley Cyrus, Lykke Li and Andrew Wyatt (from “The Last Showgirl”)
“Compress/Repress,” by Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross & Luca Guadagnino (from “Challengers”)
“Forbidden Road,” by Robbie Williams, Freddy Wexler & Sacha Skarbek (“Better Man”)
Best Motion Picture — Non-English Language “Emilia Pérez” “All We Imagine as Light”
“The Girl with the Needle”
“I’m Still Here”
“The Seed of the Sacred Fig”
“Vermiglio”
Best Director — Motion Picture Brady Corbet, “The Brutalist”
Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez”
Sean Baker, “Anora”
Edward Berger, “Conclave”
Coralie Fargeat, “The Substance”
Payal Kapadia, “All We Imagine as Light”
Best Motion Picture — Animated
“Flow”
“Inside Out 2”
“Memoir of a Snail”
“Moana 2”
“Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl”
“The Wild Robot”
Best Television Series — Drama
“Shōgun”
“Mr. & Mrs. Smith”
“The Diplomat”
“Squid Game”
“Slow Horses”
“The Day of the Jackal”
Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy 
Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear”
Adam Brody, “Nobody Wants This”
Ted Danson, “A Man on the Inside”
Steve Martin, “Only Murders in the Building”
Martin Short, “Only Murders in the Building”
Jason Segel, “Shrinking”
Best Television Series — Comedy or Musical
“Hacks”
“Abbott Elementary”
“The Bear”
“The Gentlemen”
“Nobody Wants This”
“Only Murders in the Building”
Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Jodie Foster, “True Detective: Night Country”
Cate Blanchett, “Disclaimer”
Cristin Milioti, “The Penguin”
Sofia Vergara, “Griselda”
Naomi Watts, “Feud: Capote vs. The Swans”
Kate Winslet, “The Regime”
Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
“Baby Reindeer”
“Disclaimer”
“Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”
“The Penguin”
“Ripley”
“True Detective: Night Country”

Other Notable Winners

Category Winners Name
Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Television Series Jessica Gunning, “Baby Reindeer”
Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Television Series Tadanobu Asano, “Shōgun”
Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television Ali Wong, “Single Lady”
Best Cinematic and Box Office Achievement “Wicked”
Best Original Score — Motion Picture Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, “Challengers”

Who is Known as the Milk Man of India?

India’s journey to becoming the largest milk producer in the world is a remarkable story of dedication and innovation. This success transformed rural communities, empowered farmers and brought about a revolution in the dairy industry. Behind this achievement is an extraordinary individual whose efforts changed the face of milk production in the country. In this article, we will know about the “Milk Man of India.”

Milk Man of India

Verghese Kurien, known as the “Milk Man of India,” played a key role in transforming India into the world’s largest producer of milk. His efforts, called the White Revolution, helped improve the lives of millions of rural farmers and made dairy farming a self-sustaining industry.

Early Life and Education

Kurien was born on 26 November 1921 in Kozhikode, Kerala. He came from a Malayali Syrian Christian family. His father worked as a government doctor. After completing school, Kurien studied physics at Loyola College, Madras, and later earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Madras in 1943.

Starting in Anand

In 1949, Kurien was sent to Anand, a small town in Gujarat, to manage a government creamery. He met Tribhuvandas Patel, who had started a milk cooperative to fight against unfair milk prices set by private companies. Kurien decided to stay in Anand and help Patel grow the cooperative. This marked the beginning of Amul, which later become a world-famous brand.

The Growth of Amul

Kurien introduced innovative methods to process buffalo milk, which was plentiful in India. He worked with H.M. Dalaya to create milk powder and condensed milk from buffalo milk, helping India reduce its dependency on imports. Amul began producing high-quality milk products, competing successfully with global companies like Nestle.

Contribution to National Dairy Development Board

In 1965, Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri asked Kurien to expand the Anand model across India. Kurien became the first chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). Through Operation Flood, NDDB created a nationwide network of milk producers and consumers, increasing milk production and making dairy farming a major rural livelihood.

Achievements of Operation Flood

  • India became the world’s largest producer of milk by 1998.
  • Millions of farmers benefited from better income and fair milk prices.
  • The cooperative model was extended to other agricultural products like oilseeds and vegetables.

Awards and Honors to Verghese Kurien

For his work, Kurien received many awards, including:

  • Ramon Magsaysay Award (1963)
  • Padma Shri (1965)
  • Padma Bhushan (1966)
  • Padma Vibhushan (1999)

Legacy of Kurien

Kurien’s efforts brought dignity and financial stability to millions of rural families. His cooperative model inspired other countries, including Sri Lanka and China. Known as the “Father of the White Revolution,” Kurien’s vision transformed India into a self-sufficient nation in dairy production.

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti 2025: Date, History, Significance and Celebrations

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is a special occasion that honors the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Guru of Sikhism. Celebrated with devotion by Sikhs worldwide, this day reflects his teachings of courage, equality and selflessness. Known for founding the Khalsa Panth and promoting justice, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s legacy continues to inspire people to live with faith, compassion and bravery.

Guru Gobind Jayanti 2025

In 2025, Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti will be celebrated on Monday, January 6.

  • Saptami Tithi Begins: 8:15 PM on January 5, 2025.
  • Saptami Tithi Ends: 6:23 PM on January 6, 2025.

This date follows the Nanakshahi calendar, where the festival falls on the Saptami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Poh (Paush).

History of Guru Gobind Jayanti

Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born on December 22, 1666, in Patna Sahib (now in Bihar, India). He became the Guru at the young age of nine after the martyrdom of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who sacrificed his life to protect religious freedom.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s leadership during challenging times inspired courage and faith in his followers. His life was dedicated to upholding justice, equality and spirituality.

Significance of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti 2025

This days reminds us of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings and their relevance in today’s world. Here are some key aspects of his legacy:

  • Founder of the Khalsa Panth: In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa Panth, a group of dedicated Sikhs committed to equality, justice and selfless service. The Khalsa symbolizes strength, unity and devotion.
  • Advocate of Religious Freedom: Guru Gobind Singh Ji fought against oppression and and defended the right of people from all religious. His life was a shining example of standing up for justice and protecting humanity.
  • A Saint and Scholar: Guru Gobind Singh Ji was just a warrior but also a poet and thinker. He wrote spiritual and inspiring texts, including parts of the Dasam Granth, emphasizing courage, wisdom, and devotion to God.

Celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti

On this day, Sikhs around the world celebrate with great devotion.

  • Prayers and Kirtans: People gather in gurudwaras (Sikh temples) to listen to hymns and offer prayers.
  • Processions: Colorful processions with singing and martial arts performances are held in many places.
  • Langar: Community meals are served to promote equality and selfless service.
  • Reflection on Teachings: Families and communities reflect on Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s values of fearlessness, compassion and justice.

Similarities and Difference Between HMPV and Covid-19 Virus

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), first identified in 2001, is a respiratory virus from the Pneumoviridae family. Similar to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), it causes upper and lower respiratory infections and primarily affects young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Recently, India reported two cases in Bengaluru, raising concerns about its spread and impact. Here’s an in-depth look at HMPV.

Key Aspects of HMPV

What is HMPV?

  • Discovered in 2001; part of the Pneumoviridae family.
  • Causes respiratory infections resembling colds or flu.
  • Threatens children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
  • Circulates globally; prevalent in winter and spring.

Symptoms

  • Mild symptoms
  • Cough, fever, runny/stuffy nose, sore throat.
  • Shortness of breath, wheezing.
  • Severe cases
  • Bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, and ear infections.
  • High-risk groups: young children, adults over 65, immunocompromised individuals.

Spread and Infection Period

  • Transmitted via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
  • Spread through close contact or contaminated surfaces.
  • Infection lasts 3-5 days; immunity from prior infections is insufficient to prevent reinfection.

Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Diagnosed via nasal or throat swab testing.
  • Severe cases may require chest X-rays or bronchoscopy.
  • No specific antiviral treatment or vaccine available.
  • Treatments for severe cases,
  • Oxygen therapy.
  • Intravenous fluids for hydration.
  • Corticosteroids for inflammation.

Preventive Measures

  • Frequent handwashing with soap and water.
  • Avoid touching the face with unwashed hands.
  • Wear masks in crowded areas.
  • Stay home when unwell.
  • Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces.

HMPV vs Covid-19 Virus

Similarities

  • Both cause respiratory symptoms like fever, cough, congestion, and shortness of breath.
  • Spread through respiratory droplets.

Differences

  • HMPV: No vaccine or antiviral treatment; primarily seasonal (winter-spring).
  • COVID-19: Vaccines and antiviral treatments available; associated with more severe global impact.

Global Response and Concerns

  • Outbreak in China
  • Overcrowded hospitals reported; HMPV cases on the rise.
  • Chinese government assures it’s a regular seasonal occurrence.
  • Neighboring Countries
  • Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Japan monitoring cases closely.
  • Malaysia reported a 45% rise in cases from 2023 to 2024.
  • Japan noted a simultaneous influenza outbreak with over 94,000 cases.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? All You Need To Know About HMPV Virus
Discovered 2001
Symptoms
Mild: Cough, fever, congestion.
Severe: Bronchitis, pneumonia.
High-Risk Groups
Respiratory droplets, close contact, contaminated surfaces.
Infection Period
3-5 days
Diagnosis
Swab tests, chest X-rays for severe cases.
Treatment
Supportive: Oxygen therapy, IV fluids, corticosteroids.
No antiviral or vaccine available.
Prevention
Handwashing, mask-wearing, staying home when sick, cleaning surfaces.
Similar to COVID-19?
Yes, in symptoms and spread. Differences in treatment and seasonal behavior.
Global Impact
Outbreaks reported in China, Malaysia, Japan, and other neighboring countries.

World’s Oldest Person, Tomiko Itooka, Dies at 116 Years

Tomiko Itooka, a Japanese woman recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest person, passed away at the age of 116 in January 2025. Born in May 1908, she experienced an extraordinary life, living through major historical events, including both World Wars, technological advancements, and societal changes. Her legacy continues to inspire through her resilience and longevity.

Key Highlights of Tomiko’s Life

Birth and Early Life

  • Born in May 1908, six years before World War I.
  • Witnessed significant technological advancements, including the launch of the Ford Model T in the same year.

World War II and Career

  • Managed her husband’s textile factory office during World War II.
  • Lived alone in Nara after her husband’s death in 1979.

Personal Life

  • Married at age 20 and had two daughters and two sons.
  • Survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren.

Longevity and Health

  • Verified as the world’s oldest person in September 2024, following the passing of Maria Branyas Morera, the previous record holder.
  • Enjoyed simple pleasures in her later years, like eating bananas and drinking Calpis, a popular Japanese soft drink.

Recognition

  • Received the official Guinness World Records (GWR) certificate in September 2024.
  • Celebrated during the Respect for the Aged Day in Japan, a holiday dedicated to honoring elderly citizens.

End of Life and Legacy

  • Passed away in a nursing home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture.
  • The mayor of Ashiya praised her for providing hope and courage to many people.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? World’s Oldest Person, Tomiko Itooka, Dies at 116 Years
World’s Oldest Person Verified as the world’s oldest person in September 2024 after Maria Branyas Morera passed away.
Country Japan
Historical Events Lived Through Two World Wars, technological breakthroughs, pandemics.
Career Managed husband’s textile factory during WWII. Lived independently after husband’s death in 1979.
Recognition Awarded GWR certificate in 2024; celebrated on Respect for the Aged Day.
Legacy Praised for providing hope and courage through her long life.
Successor Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, born 16 days after Itooka, is now believed to be the world’s oldest person.

December Month Current Affairs PDF 2024: Download Monthly PDF

Welcome to the December 2024 edition of the Monthly PDF – your one-stop resource for all the significant news events from the past month. This comprehensive compilation is meticulously organized to aid you in preparing for the General Awareness section of various competitive examinations. We have carefully curated information from reputable sources such as The Hindu, Indian Express, Mint, PIB, and NewsOnAir to ensure that your study time is utilized efficiently.

Staying informed about current events is very important for doing well in competitive exams, and it requires setting aside dedicated time for study. The Monthly PDF has been created to assist you in your preparations. It is available as a PDF download on our website every month. This monthly compilation contains all the major news stories from the past month. It is designed to be an easy-to-use reference to help make your revision process smoother and more effective. Use the 2024 Monthly PDF to improve your exam preparation efforts.

Which examinations will the Monthly PDF be helpful for?

The Monthly PDF is a useful study material for many competitive exams that have a section on General Awareness or Current Affairs. This includes exams like UPSC Civil Services, State Public Service Commission exams, Staff Selection Commission (SSC) exams, Bank Probationary Officer exams, Railway recruitment exams, and various other government job tests. It is also helpful for those preparing for entrance exams to get into higher education courses like MBA programs, law courses (CLAT exam), and more.

The categories included in the Monthly PDF are as follows:

  • Banking and Financial Current Affairs: Updates on banking and finance sector developments.
  • Economy Current Affairs: Key economic changes and updates.
  • Business Current Affairs: Important events in the business world.
  • International Current Affairs: Major global news and international relations.
  • National Current Affairs: Significant happenings within the country.
  • States Current Affairs: News specific to different states.
  • Schemes/Committees: Information on new schemes and committee formations.
  • Agreement/Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): Key agreements and MoUs signed.
  • Appointments/Resignations (National & International): Notable appointments and resignations.
  • Ranks and Reports: Important rankings and reports released.
  • Sports Current Affairs: Updates from the sports world.
  • Summits And Conferences: Major summits and conferences held.
  • Awards & Recognition: Recognition and awards bestowed.
  • Important Days: Observance of significant days.
  • Defence Current Affairs: News related to defence and security.
  • Science and Technology: Breakthroughs and advancements in science and tech.
  • Books & Authors: Notable publications and authors.
  • Miscellaneous Current Affairs: Other important news items.
  • Obituaries: Remembering significant personalities who have passed away.

December 2024 Monthly PDF: Important News Updates

  • PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar Awards 2024
  • Sahitya Akademi Awards 2024
  • Monetary Policy Meeting Dec 2024
  • 24th BIMSTEC Summit
  • FIDE World Chess Championship 2024
  • QS World University Rankings
  • Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024
  • Exercise Harimau Shakti
  • Good Governance Day
  • National Mathematics Day

How to Download the December 2024 Monthly PDF?

Here are the steps to access the December 2024 Monthly PDF:

  1. Click on the Monthly PDF link provided below.
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  3. Fill in your name, email, and other required information in that form.
  4. Click on the Submit button.
  5. After submitting the form, you will receive a link to download the Monthly PDF for December 2024.

Click Here to download The Hindu Review December 2024

82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards (2025)_9.1

Where is Golden Temple Located?

The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is a famous religious and cultural site located in Punjab, India. It is a central place of worship for Sikhs and a symbol of peace and harmony. Covered in shimmering gold, the temple is surrounded by a sacred water tank, attracting millions of visitors from around the world every year.

Location of Golden Temple

The Golden Temple, also called Harmandir Sahib, is a world-famous religious site located in Amritsar, a city in the state of Punjab, India. It is known for its spiritual significance and beautiful design.

It is situated in the heart of Amritsar, Punjab, in northern India. It is surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar), which gives the city its name.

History of the Golden Temple

The Golden Temple was founded by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru of the Sikhs, and was completed in 1577. Later, in 1830, Maharaja Ranjit Singh rebuilt it with marble and gold, giving it its iconic appearance.

Significance of Sikhism

The Golden Temple is the most importance gurudwara (house of worship) in Sikhism. It serves as a sacred pilgrimage site for Sikhs around the world.

Other Names of the Golden Temple

The Golden Temple is also referred to by other names:

  • Harmandir Sahib
  • Darbar Sahib
  • Suvaran Mandir

Former Greek PM Costas Simitis Dies at 88

Costas Simitis, who served as Greece’s Prime Minister from 1996 to 2004, has passed away at the age of 88. He was instrumental in Greece’s integration into the European Union’s single currency, the euro, in 2001. His death occurred on January 5, 2025, at his summer residence in the Peloponnese region.

Political Career and Achievements

Leadership of PASOK: Simitis became the leader of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) in 1996, succeeding Andreas Papandreou. Under his leadership, PASOK secured electoral victories in 1996 and 2000.

Economic Reforms: He implemented austerity measures to stabilize Greece’s economy, focusing on reducing government spending and qualifying the country for eurozone membership.

EU Integration: Simitis played a pivotal role in securing Cyprus’s accession to the European Union in 2004.

Legacy and Tributes

Following his passing, the Greek government declared a four-day period of official mourning and announced a state funeral. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed respect and sorrow, acknowledging Simitis as a “worthy and noble political opponent.”

Personal Background

Born on June 23, 1936, in Piraeus, Greece, Simitis was the son of politically active parents. He studied law at the University of Marburg in Germany and economics at the London School of Economics. He is survived by his wife, Daphne, two daughters, and a granddaughter.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Former Greek PM Costas Simitis passes away at 88 – Served as Greece’s PM from 1996 to 2004.
– Led Greece into the Eurozone in 2001.
– Played a significant role in the integration of Cyprus into the EU.
Static Points Details
Name Costas Simitis
Birth Date June 23, 1936
Death Date January 5, 2025
Political Party Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK)
Key Role Prime Minister of Greece (1996-2004)
Economic Achievement Greece adopted the euro in 2001.
National Mourning 4-day mourning declared in Greece.
Survivor(s) Wife Daphne, two daughters, and a granddaughter.
EU Integration Role Cyprus joined the EU in 2004 during his tenure.
Prime Minister during Euro Adoption 2001

Top-10 Most Expensive Coins in the World, Check the List

Coins are not just used as money; some are valuable pieces of history and art. Over time, rare coins have become treasures for collectors. These coins are unique because of their age, design or historical importance, making them worth millions. In this article, we will know about the top-10 most expensive coins in the world, showcasing their fascinating stories and record-breaking prices.

World’s Most Expensive Coin

The 1933 Double Eagle is a rare U.S. $20 gold coin from the Great Depression. Although 445,000 were minted, most were melted down, and only 13 exist today. Only one, called the Weitzman Specimen, is legally owned privately. The coin’s rarity and legal status make it extremely valuable, with the U.S. Secret Service actively tracking others that surface.

Key Facts About World’s Most Expensive Coin

  • Coin: 1933 Double Eagle
  • Value: $20 USD
  • Mass: 33.431 g
  • Diameter: 34.1 mm
  • Thickness: 2.0 mm
  • Edge: Lettered with “E Pluribus Unum”
  • Composition: 90% gold, 10% copper
  • Years of minting: 1933
  • Observe design: Liberty with torch and olive beach, backed by sun rays and U.S. Capitol; surrounded by 46 stars.
  • Observe Designer: Augustus Saint-Gaudens (1907)

Top-10 Most Expensive Coins in the World

The 1933 Double Eagle, designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, stands as the world’s most expensive coin with an expensive value of $7 million, followed by Silver Dollar of 1804, Florin, Edward III and Kannari Sycee.

Here is the list of top-10 most expensive coins of the world:

Rank Coin  Year
1. 1933 Double Eagle 1933
2. Silver Dollar of 1804 1804
3. Florin, Edward III 1343
4. Kannari Sycee 1343
5. Brasher Doubloon 1787
6. Fugio Cent 1787
7. Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle 1907
8. Half Dollar 1838-O 1838
9. Silver Center Cent 1792
10. Double Eagle 1894

India’s Nuclear Visionary: Dr. R. Chidambaram Passes Away at 88

Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, a towering figure in the field of atomic energy, passed away at the age of 88 at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai on January 4, 2025. His contributions to India’s nuclear program and scientific advancements have left an indelible mark on the country’s technological and strategic development. Dr. Chidambaram was integral to India’s nuclear journey, from the first peaceful nuclear test in 1974 to leading Operation Shakti in 1998, which solidified India’s position as a nuclear power.

Apart from his significant role in nuclear energy, he was also a visionary leader in the fields of condensed matter physics, materials science, energy security, and advanced technologies like supercomputing and nanotechnology. His tenure as the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Indian government from 2002 to 2018 further demonstrated his leadership in shaping India’s scientific landscape.

Key Contributions and Achievements

Role in India’s Nuclear Program

  • 1974 ‘Smiling Buddha’ Test: Dr. Chidambaram was part of the team that carried out India’s first nuclear test, a peaceful nuclear explosion, at Pokhran in 1974. This test made India the sixth country in the world to conduct a nuclear test, though it faced global criticism, particularly from Canada and the U.S.
  • 1998 Operation Shakti: As Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, Dr. Chidambaram led the successful nuclear tests in 1998 at Pokhran, which included four nuclear fission bombs and one nuclear fusion bomb. This operation confirmed India’s status as a nuclear military power, despite international sanctions and condemnation.

Scientific Leadership

  • Dr. Chidambaram was the longest-serving Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Indian government, holding the position from 2002 to 2018.
  • During his tenure, he promoted advancements in energy security, materials science, and technological applications, including supercomputing and nanotechnology.
  • Advancement in Directed Basic Research: He championed the concept of combining basic research with technological applications, an approach that helped bridge gaps between academic science and practical technological innovations.
  • Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG): Dr. Chidambaram initiated the RuTAG project, which brought innovative technologies to rural communities, thus enhancing their livelihoods and empowering local populations.
  • Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Development: He was instrumental in launching the Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS), aimed at advancing India’s cybersecurity capabilities and hardware security infrastructure.
  • National Knowledge Network (NKN): Dr. Chidambaram also played a pivotal role in establishing the NKN, a nationwide initiative to connect educational and research institutions across India, fostering collaboration and access to knowledge.

Honors and Recognition

  • Dr. Chidambaram received prestigious honors for his contributions to science and technology, including the Padma Shri (1975) and the Padma Bhushan (1999).
  • These awards recognize his extraordinary impact on India’s scientific development and nuclear capabilities.

Legacy in Indian Science and Technology

  • Dr. Chidambaram’s legacy is that of a visionary leader who shaped India’s nuclear, technological, and scientific infrastructure.
  • His work continues to influence scientific discourse in India, and his contributions will be remembered for decades to come.
  • Personal Traits: Known for his intellectual depth, Dr. Chidambaram was described by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh as a man of great learning with a wonderful sense of humor.
  • His remarkable intellect and engaging personality made him a prominent figure in Indian science and technology.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India’s Nuclear Visionary: Dr. R. Chidambaram Passes Away at 88
Key Positions Held Former Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission

Principal Scientific Advisor to the Indian government (2002-2018)

Significant Contributions – Led India’s first nuclear test (1974) ‘Smiling Buddha’
– Led Operation Shakti (1998), India’s nuclear tests
– Championed directed basic research, energy security, materials science
– Initiated RuTAG, SETS, NKN
Awards and Honors Padma Shri (1975), Padma Bhushan (1999)
Legacy Visionary in Indian nuclear, scientific, and technological development
Personal Qualities Intellectual, humorous, and deeply erudite
Impact on Indian Science Shaped the nuclear energy and technological landscape in India