Former defence research body chief VS Arunachalam passes away: V S Arunachalam, a prominent scientist and instrumental figure in India’s nuclear program, has died at the age of 87. He was well-known for his leadership duties at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), where he helped shape India’s defence capabilities.
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Arunachalam’s Distinguished Career
V S Arunachalam was a prominent scientist who played a key role in India’s nuclear program and defense capabilities. He held positions of leadership in a number of prestigious organisations, including the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), the National Aeronautical Laboratory, and the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory.
Arunachalam was born in 1934 in the Madras Presidency (now Tamil Nadu). He graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, with a degree in metallurgical engineering. He later earned a doctorate in metallurgy from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom.
After returning to India, Arunachalam joined BARC in 1962. He rose through the ranks and eventually became the director of the laboratory in 1980. During his tenure at BARC, Arunachalam played a key role in the development of India’s nuclear weapons program.
In 1982, Arunachalam was appointed as the Scientific Advisor to the Defence Minister. He held this position until 1992. During his time as Scientific Advisor, Arunachalam oversaw the development of several important defense technologies, including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV).
Arunachalam’s Awards and Recognition
Arunachalam was a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, the Padma Bhushan, and the Padma Vibhushan. He was also the first Indian Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering (UK).
In 2015, Arunachalam was awarded DRDO’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the field of scientific research and technology.
Arunachalam’s Legacy
V S Arunachalam was a forerunner in scientific research and technology. He was instrumental in developing India’s defence capabilities and nuclear programme. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of scientists and engineers.