On the 21st of February, Nitin Gadkari Remembers great Scientist Sir Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar ji on his birth anniversary.
Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar is a name that every Indian science enthusiast is familiar with. Born on February 21, 1894, in Bhera, a small town in present-day Pakistan, Bhatnagar went on to become one of the most renowned scientists in India’s history. He was a pioneering chemist who made significant contributions to the field of science and technology. In this article, we will discuss the life and legacy of Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar.
Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar’s father, Parmeshwari Sahai Bhatnagar, was a successful lawyer who had a keen interest in science. He was a firm believer in the power of education and encouraged his son to pursue higher studies. Bhatnagar’s early education was in his hometown of Bhera, where he was known for his brilliance and inquisitive mind.
Bhatnagar went on to complete his Bachelor’s degree in Science from the Forman Christian College in Lahore. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Punjab. Bhatnagar was awarded a scholarship to study in England, where he completed his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of London.
After completing his Ph.D., Bhatnagar returned to India and began his career as a researcher at the University of Allahabad. He soon became known for his innovative research and was appointed the first professor of chemistry at the university. Bhatnagar’s research focused on the synthesis of organic compounds, and he made significant contributions to the field of applied chemistry.
In 1935, Bhatnagar was appointed the Director of the newly established National Chemical Laboratory in Pune. He transformed the laboratory into one of the best research institutions in the country and made significant contributions to the development of chemical industries in India.
Bhatnagar also played a key role in the establishment of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), which is now one of the largest networks of research institutions in the world. He was appointed the first Director-General of the CSIR and served in this position until his death.
