Dr. Malur Ramasamy (MR) Srinivasan stands as a towering figure in India’s scientific annals, having been instrumental in sculpting the nation’s nuclear energy trajectory. His visionary leadership and technical acumen catalysed the metamorphosis of India’s atomic endeavours from nascent research initiatives to a robust power generation infrastructure, thereby underpinning the country’s economic fortitude.
Commencing his illustrious journey with the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in 1955, Dr. Srinivasan collaborated with luminary Dr. Homi J. Bhabha on Apsara, India’s inaugural nuclear research reactor, which achieved criticality in 1956. His subsequent appointments as Principal Project Engineer for India’s first atomic power station in 1959 (Tarapur, Maharashtra) and further as the Chief Project Engineer at the Madras Atomic Power Station underline his crucial role in establishing the nation’s nuclear infrastructure.
Elevated to Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in 1987, Dr. Srinivasan’s tenure was marked by the genesis of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL), where he served as the founding chairman. Under his stewardship, 18 nuclear power units were developed. His strategic foresight was instrumental in advancing India’s three-stage nuclear power programme, particularly emphasising the development of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) to harness the country’s abundant thorium reserves.
Dr. Srinivasan’s contributions have had profound economic implications. Currently, India operates 25 nuclear reactors with an installed capacity of 8,880 MW, accounting for approximately 3% of the nation’s electricity generation. The government’s ambitious roadmap aims to amplify this capacity to 100 GW by 2047, with projections indicating an increase to 22.48 GW by 2031-32. This expansion is poised to bolster energy security, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and stimulate economic growth.
The economic viability of nuclear power is made visible by its cost-effectiveness. For instance, electricity generated by the Kudankulam nuclear power plant is priced competitively at just over ₹3 per unit. Moreover, the high capacity factors and longevity of nuclear plants contribute to their economic appeal. Dr. Srinivasan’s advocacy for indigenous technology development has also stimulated domestic manufacturing capabilities, further invigorating the economy.
Dr. Srinivasan’s monumental contributions have been recognised through numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri (1984), Padma Bhushan (1990), and Padma Vibhushan (2015). His demise marks the end of an era, yet his legacy endures in India’s ongoing pursuit of energy self-reliance and economic resilience.
