NEW DELHI: Eminent physicist Rajagopala Chidambaram, who was a key figure in India’s nuclear tests in 1974 and 1998, passed away on Saturday, the department of atomic energy (DAE) confirmed. He was 88 years old and died at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, according to a DAE official.
In a statement, the DAE said, “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 also expressed his condolences, saying, “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.”
Born in 1936, Chidambaram studied at Presidency College in Chennai and the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.
During his career, Chidambaram held key positions, including principal scientific adviser to the Government of India (2001–2018), director of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (1990–1993), chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, and secretary to the Government of India, DAE (1993–2000). He also served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 1994 to 1995.
Chidambaram played a significant role in India’s nuclear program. He contributed to the first nuclear test in 1974 and led the Department of Atomic Energy team during the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998.
The DAE’s statement noted, “He played an integral role in the nation’s first nuclear test in 1974, and led the Department of Atomic Energy team during the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998. His contributions established India as a nuclear power on the global stage.”
Chidambaram was awarded the Padma Shri in 1975 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999. He received honorary doctorates from various universities and was a fellow of many Indian and international science academies.
Ajit Kumar Mohanty, secretary of the DAE, described Chidambaram’s death as an “irreparable loss.” He said, “Dr Chidambaram was a doyen of science and technology whose contributions furthered India’s nuclear prowess and strategic self-reliance. His loss is an irreparable one for the scientific community and the nation.”
The DAE said Chidambaram will be remembered as a leader and mentor to many scientists and engineers. It added, “The nation mourns the loss of a true visionary. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this time of grief.”
