Rajagopala Chidambaram was a prominent name in India’s development of nuclear capabilities. As the former Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, he helped advance the country’s scientific landscape. The 88-year-old was an integral part of India’s atomic tests in 1974 and 1998.
He made significant contributions to India’s scientific community, making him a renowned personality. In his stellar career, he has held multiple important positions, such as the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Government of India and Director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). He created a legacy in the scientific community by showing his undying commitment to using science and technology for national development.
Early Life
Rajagopalan Chidambaram was born in Chennai in 1936. After completing his schooling, he went on to graduate from Presidency College, Chennai. His academic vigour motivated him to pursue excellence, and he ultimately got admission to the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, for his master’s. Chidambaram also pursued a PhD from the IISc, where he received his D.Sc.
The First Nuclear Test
After completing his education, he joined BARC in 1962. This institution was a mere stepping stone to his great journey. While at BARC, he made a name for himself, which allowed him to become the institution’s director in 1990.
While at BARC, he played a leading role in the nuclear explosion experiment that was carried out at Pokhran in 1974. This nuclear test or experiment was assigned the code ‘Operation Smiling Buddha’ or ‘Pokhran-I’. This test was the entry of India into the elite group of nations that possessed nuclear weapons. The test was also significant in terms of national security.
The Second Nuclear test
Given the success of the first nuclear test, India planned to conduct another nuclear test at Pokhran in 1998. This operation was named ‘Operation Shaki’ or ‘Pokhran II’. Chidambaram became an essential part of this test as well. During this time, he was heading the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and oversaw the execution of the entire operation. His contribution to this test was immense, allowing India to become a noticeable country in terms of possession of nuclear power.
In a press release of the DAE dated January 6, 2025, the department acknowledged Chidambaram’s contribution by stating, “Dr. Chidambaram played a pivotal role in shaping India’s nuclear capabilities. 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.”.
Successful career
During his stellar career, Chidambaram held several important positions that allowed him to make an impact on society and the scientific community. As mentioned above, he joined BARC in 1962 and became its director from 1990 to 1993.
In 1993, he became the secretary to the government of India, DAE, and held this position until 2000. In 2001, he was appointed the principal scientific advisor to the government of India and held this position until 2018. In addition to these positions, Chidambaram also served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 1994 to 1995.
Contributions towards Advancements in Science
While his contributions to nuclear technology are laudable, it is also important to acknowledge his contributions in other aspects. He took responsibility for implementing certain missions and was very successful in these endeavours. He initiated several indigenous programs for the development of supercomputers. He was also behind conceptualising the National Knowledge Network (NKN). The aim behind this network was to create a network that could connect various research and educational institutions throughout India.
He also advocated for the application of science to national development. This led to creating programs such as the Rural Technology Action Groups and the Society for Electronic Transactions and Security. He emphasised ‘coherent synergy’ within India’s scientific efforts. This was when he was fulfilling his duties as PSA. This showed his dedication towards advancing science while keeping in mind the development goals of the society and the country.
Chidambaram was a world-class physicist whose research in high-pressure physics, crystallography, and materials science paved the way for an increased understanding of these fields. He did remarkable work in these fields that allowed other researchers to create a strong foundation for themselves.
Awards and Recognition
The government recognised Chidambaram’s contributions and ensured that his efforts and dedication to his field were rewarded appropriately. Therefore, he received the prestigious Padma Shri in 1975 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1999.
In addition, he was the recipient of honorary doctorates from several universities. This solidified his reputation in science and established his name as a prominent scientist.
A lasting legacy
Unfortunately, Rajagopala Chidambaram passed away on January 4, 2025, at Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai, where he breathed his last at 3.20 am. As soon as the news of his death came in, wishes poured in from all different fields and personalities.
The DAE released a press statement on January 6, 2025, in recognition of his efforts and highlighted his contributions to the field of science. In that press release, the DEA mentioned, “Dr. Chidambaram will be remembered as a trailblazer, an inspirational leader, and a dedicated mentor to countless scientists and engineers. His life’s work has propelled India to the forefront of global science and technology, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
Saddened with the passing away of a pioneer, Ajit Mohanty, the Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy, stated in the press release that “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.”
In a post on social media X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, “Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr Rajagopala Chidambaram. He was one of the key architects of India’s nuclear program and made ground-breaking contributions in strengthening India’s scientific and strategic capabilities.”. He also said, “He will be remembered with gratitude by the whole nation and his efforts will inspire generations to come.”
