Personal and Professional Background
- M.R. Srinivasan (1930–2025) passed away at age 95 in Udhagamandalam.
- Joined the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in 1955, beginning a distinguished career spanning over six decades.
Relevance : GS 4(Ethics and Personalities)
Early Career and Contributions
- Worked closely with Dr. Homi J. Bhabha on India’s first nuclear research reactor, Apsara, which achieved criticality in August 1956.
- Appointed Principal Project Engineer in 1959 for the construction of India’s first atomic power station.
- Became Chief Project Engineer of the Madras Atomic Power Station in 1967, playing a key role in its development.
Leadership Roles
- Director of the Power Projects Engineering Division, DAE in 1974, overseeing nuclear power projects nationwide.
- Chairman of the Nuclear Power Board in 1984, responsible for planning, execution, and operation of nuclear power plants.
- Appointed Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy in 1987.
- Founder-Chairman of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) in 1987.
Achievements in Nuclear Power Development
- Under his leadership, 18 nuclear power units were developed:
- 7 operational
- 7 under construction
- 4 in planning
- Instrumental in expanding India’s nuclear energy capacity and infrastructure.
Recognition
- Awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2015 for his pivotal role in India’s nuclear programme.
Overall Impact
- M.R. Srinivasan is regarded as a key architect of India’s nuclear energy programme.
- His contributions significantly advanced India’s scientific and technological capabilities in nuclear energy.
- Mentored generations of scientists, leaving a lasting legacy on India’s nuclear landscape.
