Life and Legacy of M R Srinivasan

At the age of 95, M R Srinivasan passed away, having been re-inducted as a member of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) earlier this year. He was a significant figure in India's nuclear power program and one of the first-generation nuclear technologists in the country.

Career and Contributions

• Joined the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in 1955 at the age of 25.
• Became Chairman of DAE in 1987 and also headed the AEC.
• Contributed significantly to the refinement of Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors, forming the backbone of India's nuclear power.

Recognition and Tributes

• President Droupadi Murmu praised his contributions to India's energy security.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged his role in developing critical nuclear infrastructure.
• Former Union Minister Jairam Ramesh and other leaders recognized his foundational work in India's nuclear power stations.

Key Projects and Achievements

• Part of the team that built Apsara, India’s first research reactor.
• Led the establishment of nuclear power complexes at Kalpakkam and other locations.
• Managed the transition of the Nuclear Energy Board to Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) in 1987.
• Handled the fallout of Canada’s withdrawal after India’s 1974 nuclear test.

Public Engagement

• Pioneered public engagement on nuclear energy, writing and speaking publicly to increase awareness.
• Encouraged open dialogue on nuclear issues when others were reluctant.