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.