Dr Raja Ramanna

Dr Raja Ramanna, a nuclear physicist, held the post of a professor at the time of his appointment as the Scientific Adviser. He made significant contributions in the field of neutron thermalisation and reactor design. Dr Ramanna brought home to DRDO three important aspects of leadership. India’s first nuclear reactor, Apsara, was designed under his guidance. Under his tenure, DRDO was transformed into a more challenging workplace. The predominant activity of catering to the short- term requirements of the Services was replaced by technical activities, leading to contemporary systems development. Thrust areas were clearly identified and prioritisation of the resources was accordingly carried out. The personnel policy was also changed to conform to the ‘flexible complementing’ policy adopted by other S&T departments. Steps were taken to promote inter-laboratory interaction and cooperation for better utilisation of resources.