Writings, books, and achievements of Jayant Narlikar and M.R. Srinivasan, two pillars of Indian science:

Writings, books, and achievements of Jayant Narlikar and M.R. Srinivasan, two pillars of Indian science:

Jayant Vishnu Narlikar (1938–2025)

Field: Astrophysics, Cosmology

Key Achievements:

Co-developer of the Hoyle–Narlikar Theory of Gravitation, which integrates Mach’s Principle into Einstein’s General Relativity.

Founder-Director of IUCAA (Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics), Pune, in 1988 – a hub for astronomical research in India.

Advocated alternative cosmological models and the steady state theory with Fred Hoyle.

Promoted science popularization in India through lectures, writings, and media.

Awards:

Padma Vibhushan (2004)

Padma Bhushan (1965)

Bhatnagar Award, Kalinga Prize (UNESCO), Maharashtra Bhushan Award

Books (Popular Science & Fiction):

The Lighter Side of Gravity

Introduction to Cosmology

Scientific Edge

Fact and Fiction in Science

The Return of Vaman (Sci-fi)

Black Holes (co-authored)

The Structure of the Universe

It Happened Tomorrow (sci-fi short stories)

Legacy:

Bridged rigorous cosmological research with public outreach.

Inspired many young Indian scientists by making astronomy accessible.

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M.R. Srinivasan (1930–2025)

Field: Nuclear Engineering and Policy

Key Achievements:

Former Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

Architect of India’s indigenous nuclear power program, especially after technology restrictions post-Pokhran-I.

Played a crucial role in the design and deployment of PHWRs (Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors) in India.

Instrumental in the establishment and growth of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL).

Awards:

Padma Vibhushan (2015)

Padma Bhushan (1990)

Books:

Nuclear India: A Technological and Industrial Saga – Chronicles the development of India’s nuclear energy programme from the inside.

Contributed to policy and strategic planning literature on India’s energy needs and self-reliance.

Legacy:

Key figure in making India self-reliant in nuclear energy.

Balanced technical expertise with strategic and political insight.