Former Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Dr MR Srinivasan passes away at 95

Mumbai: Former Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Dr MR Srinivasan, who played a key role in the development of India's nuclear power programme, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 95.

Mumbai-based Suhas Naik-Satam, General Secretary, National Centre for Science Communicators, confirmed the death of Dr Srinivasan.

Dr. Srinivasan joined the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in September 1955 and began his distinguished career working alongside Dr. Homi Bhabha on the construction of India's first nuclear research reactor, Apsara, which achieved criticality in August 1956.

In August 1959, he was appointed Principal Project Engineer for the construction of India’s first atomic power station. His leadership continued to shape the nation's nuclear program when, in 1967, he took charge as Chief Project Engineer of the Madras Atomic Power Station.

Dr. Srinivasan held several key positions of national importance. In 1974, he became Director of the Power Projects Engineering Division, DAE, and in 1984, Chairman of the Nuclear Power Board. In these roles, he oversaw the planning, execution, and operation of all nuclear power projects across the country.

In 1987, he was appointed Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy. That same year, he became the Founder-Chairman of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). Under his leadership, 18 nuclear power units were developed—seven of which were operational, seven under construction, and four in the planning stage.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to India’s nuclear energy program, Dr. Srinivasan was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, one of the nation’s highest civilian honours.

"Dr. M. R. Srinivasan leaves behind a legacy of visionary leadership, technical excellence, and unwavering service to the nation. His contributions to India’s nuclear energy landscape will be remembered for generations to come," said Naik-Satam.