Scientist Ajit Kumar Mohanty to Lead Atomic Energy Commission as Chairman

Scientist Ajit Kumar Mohanty has been appointed Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission by the Centre. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved his appointment, effective until October 10, 2025, or until further orders.

Dr. Mohanty is the 13th Director of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and has held several honorary positions at various organizations. He completed his graduation and post-graduation in Physics from MPC College, Baripada and Ravenshaw College, Cuttack, respectively. He joined the Nuclear Physics Division, BARC in 1983 after graduating from the 26th Batch of BARC Training School. He obtained his doctorate from Mumbai University.

Dr. Mohanty has also served as the General Secretary and President of the Indian Physics Association and twice as the CERN Scientific Associate. His appointment as the Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission is a significant achievement for the scientist and the state of Odisha.

Previously, several eminent personalities from Odisha have been appointed to key roles in important departments at the national level. Shaktikant Das, a 1970 batch IAS officer of Tamil Nadu cadre, currently serves as the Governor of Reserve Bank of India. Similarly, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, also known as the ‘Cyclone Man,’ is serving as the Director General of the India Meteorological Department.

Dr. Mohanty’s appointment as the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission is expected to bring laurels to the nation and the state of Odisha. It is a proud moment for the scientific community and serves as an inspiration for young students who aspire to pursue a career in the field of science and technology.