Malur Ramasamy Srinivasan: A Pillar of India's Nuclear Programme
Malur Ramasamy Srinivasan was a pivotal figure in India's nuclear programme, advocating for nuclear disarmament and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Despite the prevailing sentiment to build a nuclear arsenal, Srinivasan focused on civil nuclear applications.
Early Career and Contributions
- Collaboration with Homi Bhabha:
At 25, Srinivasan began working with Homi Bhabha, contributing to the design of India's first nuclear research reactor, Apsara, achieving criticality in 1956. - Roles and Achievements:
He worked with notable figures like Vikram Sarabhai and R Chidambaram, serving as chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and founder-chairman of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd.
Significant Contributions
- Development of Nuclear Facilities:
Played a key role in establishing nuclear power stations at Kalpakkam, Rawatbhata, Kaiga, Kakrapar, and Narora. - International Involvement:
Served as a senior adviser at the International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, and was a founder member of the World Association of Nuclear Operators.
Legacy and Advocacy
- Nuclear Disarmament:
Despite geopolitical challenges, he advocated for disarmament and efficient, safe operation of nuclear facilities. - Environmental Causes:
Post-retirement, Srinivasan supported various environmental initiatives.
Timeline of Achievements
- 1930s: Born in Bengaluru; education in science with Sanskrit and English.
- 1950: Graduated in mechanical engineering from University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering.
- 1952-1954: Earned a Master’s and PhD in engineering from McGill University.
- 1955: Joined DAE, working on Apsara under Homi Bhabha.
- 1959-1967: Advanced to chief project engineer for major nuclear projects.
- 1984-1987: Became chairman of the Nuclear Power Board and Atomic Energy Commission.
- 1990-1992: Served as senior advisor at the IAEA, Vienna.
- 1996-1998: Member of the Planning Commission of India.
- 2002-2008: Member of the National Security Advisory Board, and chairman, Task Force on Higher Education, Karnataka government.
