Renowned Indian scientist Professor Yash Pal has passed away at his Noida home, family sources said on Tuesday. He was 90.
Yash Pal passed away late on Monday night due to age-related issues.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of Professor Yash Pal saying that the country has lost a brilliant scientist and academician.
"Pained by Professor Yash Pal's demise. We have lost a brilliant scientist and academician who made a lasting contribution to Indian education," Modi said in a tweet.
Sharing his picture with the eminent scientist, Modi said: "Interacted with Professor Yash Pal extensively on many occasions including the National Children's Science Congress in Gujarat in 2009."
The Congress party also expressed grief over the demise of the eminent scientist and said, "We condole the passing away of Professor Yash Pal, Padma Vibhushan."
"Education should be based on real life experience, observation and happenings," it said.
Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi described his death as a great loss to the nation.
"A scientist and a passionate educator who understood the true value of learning, Professor Yash Pal's passing is a great loss for all of us," Gandhi said.
Prof. Yash Pal was born in 1926 in Jhang, now in Pakistan, and was raised in Kaithal in what is now Haryana.
Known for his contribution to the study of cosmic rays, he had graduated with a Master's degree in Physics from Punjab University in 1949.
He gained a PhD degree in Physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1958.
He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1976 for his contribution to science and space technology.
Doordarshan’s science-based programme titled ‘Turning Point’ which was anchored by him, made him a cult figure during the 90s. Besides being a professor at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Mumbai, he also served as the Director at Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad for almost nine years, from 1973 to 1981.
He was also served as the Chairman of University Grants Commission (UGC) where he served one full term of five years.
Professor Yash Pal was awarded the Marconi International Fellowship Award in 1980.
In October 2011, he was awarded the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for excellence in public administration, academics and management.
He was bestowed the Padma Vibhushan in 2013.
(With IANS inputs)