Scientist Trilochan Pradhan dies at 93

BHUBANESWAR: Noted scientist and educationist Trilochan Pradhan passed away here on Saturday due to age-related ailments. He was 93.
Pradhan was the founder director of Institute of Physics (IOP), Bhubaneswar, and former vice-chancellor of Utkal University.
He was conferred with the Padma Bhushan in 1990 for his contribution to education.
Born in Ghanashalia village of Nayagarh district, Pradhan completed his graduation with physics honours from Ravenshaw College in 1945 and did his post graduation from Banaras Hindu University in 1949.
Then he joined Ravenshaw College as a faculty in 1951 and went to the University of Chicago for his PhD.
He joined Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata, as an associate professor in theoretical nuclear physics division in 1962.
Pradhan joined IOP as director in 1974 after quitting his previous job. During his tenure, the IOP was taken over by the department of atomic energy as an aided institute. After his retirement from IOP in 1989, he served as vice-chancellor of Utkal University.
Tributes poured in from all quarters on the demise of Pradhan.
Governor Ganeshi Lal said, "Dr Pradhan's stellar contribution to the world of scientific research and education will be remembered forever." Chief minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted, "I am saddened to learn of the death of Dr Trilochan Pradhan. He will always be remembered for his contribution to the field of science. My prayers are with the bereaved family."