On 20th May 2025, India lost one of its most eminent scientists, Dr. M.R. Srinivasan, who passed away at the age of 95 in Ooty, Tamil Nadu. Known as the doyen of India’s nuclear power programme, Dr. Srinivasan’s contributions to the nation’s atomic energy sector were monumental, laying the foundation for India’s self-reliance in nuclear energy. His passing marks the end of an era for Indian science and technology.
Early Life and Education
A Journey Rooted in Excellence
Born on 5th January 1930 in Karnataka, Malur Ramasamy Srinivasan completed his schooling in Mysore. He pursued a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering (UVCE) in 1950, a prestigious institution founded by M. Visvesvaraya. Furthering his academic journey, he earned a master’s degree in 1952 and a PhD from McGill University, Montreal, in 1954, specializing in gas turbine technology.
Pioneering India’s Nuclear Power Programme
Collaborations with Legends
Dr. Srinivasan joined the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in September 1955, where he worked closely with Homi J. Bhabha, the father of India’s nuclear programme. His early contributions included the construction of India’s first nuclear research reactor, Apsara, which achieved criticality in August 1956. Over the years, he collaborated with stalwarts like Vikram Sarabhai, Homi Sethna, and Dr. Raja Ramanna, shaping the trajectory of India’s atomic energy initiatives.
In August 1959, Dr. Srinivasan was appointed principal project engineer for India’s first atomic power station. He later served as the chief project engineer of the Madras Atomic Power Station, a landmark project in India’s nuclear journey. His leadership extended to key roles such as director of the Power Projects Engineering Division and chairman of the Nuclear Power Board, overseeing the planning and execution of nuclear power projects nationwide.
Leadership and Legacy
A Visionary Leader
In 1987, Dr. Srinivasan was appointed chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy. During the same year, he became the founder-chairman of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL), under whose leadership 18 nuclear power units were developed. His foresight and expertise were instrumental in establishing India as a global player in nuclear energy.
Dr. Srinivasan was also a pioneer in fostering public discourse on nuclear safety. In the mid-1980s, he organized India’s first public debate on nuclear safety in Bengaluru, showcasing his commitment to transparency and public engagement. His work on the Kalpakkam reactor remains a testament to his technical brilliance.
| Milestone | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Born | 5th January 1930 | Born in Karnataka, completed schooling in Mysore. |
| Joined DAE | September 1955 | Began working with Homi J. Bhabha on Apsara reactor. |
| Apsara Reactor Criticality | August 1956 | India’s first nuclear research reactor achieved criticality. |
| Chairman of AEC | 1987 | Appointed chairman of Atomic Energy Commission and secretary of DAE. |
| Founder-Chairman of NPCIL | 1987 | Founded NPCIL, oversaw development of 18 nuclear power units. |
| Padma Vibhushan | 2015 | Awarded for outstanding contributions to India’s nuclear programme. |
| Passed Away | 20th May 2025 | Died in Ooty after suffering a cardiac arrest. |
Recognition and Tributes
A Nation Mourns
In recognition of his unparalleled contributions, Dr. Srinivasan was conferred the Padma Vibhushan in 2015. Following his passing on 20th May 2025, tributes poured in from across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief, stating, “Dr. M.R. Srinivasan’s instrumental role in developing critical nuclear infrastructure has been foundational to our being self-reliant in the energy sector.” Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi highlighted his visionary leadership, while Chief Minister M.K. Stalin called him a “pillar of India’s atomic energy programme”. V.S. Ramamurthy, former secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, described him as a “walking dictionary of nuclear power”.
Life After Retirement
A Legacy Beyond the Lab
After retiring, Dr. Srinivasan made Ooty his home, dividing his time between the hill town and Bengaluru. He remained a mentor to young scientists, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, leadership, and dedication to India’s scientific progress.
Key Highlights
- Dr. M.R. Srinivasan, a pioneering nuclear scientist, passed away on 20th May 2025 at 95 in Ooty.
- Instrumental in constructing Apsara, India’s first nuclear research reactor, critical in August 1956.
- Served as chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and founder-chairtilor de página
- Founded NPCIL in 1987, overseeing the development of 18 nuclear power units.
- Awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2015 for his contributions to India’s nuclear programme.
- Organized India’s first public debate on nuclear safety in the mid-1980s in Bengaluru.
- Tributes from PM Narendra Modi, TN Governor R.N. Ravi, and CM M.K. Stalin highlighted his visionary leadership.