Prof who explained scientific theories in layman terms

New Delhi, July 25

Eminent scientist Professor Yash Pal, who died at his Noida home on Monday night, was known for his contribution to the study of cosmic rays as well as for being an institution builder.

Yash Pal was also recognised because of the weekly science programme on Doordarshan called ‘Turning Point’, which was hosted by Girish Karnad, in which the professor would explain scientific theories in layman terms.

Read: Renowned scientist Yash Pal dies at 90

Yash Pal had graduated with a master's degree in Physics from Panjab University in 1949.

He gained a PhD degree in Physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1958.

Yash Pal began his career at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). He was awarded the country’s second highest civilian honour Padma Bhushan in 1976 for his contribution to science and space technology.

In his later years, he became one of the leading science communicators of the country.

He also served as the chairman of the University Grants Commission from 1986 to 1991.

In October 2011, Yash Pal was awarded the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for excellence in public administration, academics and management.

Condoling his death, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Twitter, "Pained by Professor Yash Pal's demise. We have lost a brilliant scientist & academician who made a lasting contribution to Indian education."

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."

Interacted with Professor Yash Pal extensively on many occasions including the National Children’s Science Congress in Gujarat in 2009. pic.twitter.com/nkUlgFRUNK

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 25, 2017

"Thank you Professor #YashPal for all the Science! It's sad to see you gone, it's a huge loss, but you'll always stay with us. Om Shanti,"  Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Harsh Vardhan tweeted.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi and vice-president Rahul Gandhi also condoled demise of Yash Pal.

Sonia said he will be remembered for his immense contribution to the study of cosmic rays, as well as for being an institution-builder and a remarkable administrator.

The professor made sharing of knowledge with younger generation his life's unflinching goal, the Congress chief said.

His accomplished report on "Learning without Burden" is now regarded as a seminal document in Indian education, she added.

The Congress vice-president said the educationist's death was a great loss.

"A scientist & a passionate educator who understood the true value of learning, Prof Yash Pal's passing is a great loss for all of us," Rahul tweeted. — Agencies