The world of physics mourns the loss of Bikash Sinha, a luminary in the realm of nuclear physics, who has left us at the age of 78, succumbing to the challenges posed by age-related ailments. Sinha’s journey was marked by groundbreaking accomplishments, underscored by his deep engagement with nuclear physics, high energy physics, Quark Gluon Plasma, and the origins of the universe. His imprint on scientific advancement is enduring, leaving an unforgettable legacy.
Bikash Sinha’s laurels include the esteemed Padma Shri award in 2001 and the prestigious Padma Bhushan accolade in 2010, both testaments to his exceptional contributions. He held the distinguished position of former director at the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics and the Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre, where he orchestrated pioneering work in nuclear physics and related fields. Notably, Sinha’s purview extended to heading the Indian contingent in their inaugural participation in experiments at the European Organization for Nuclear Research in Geneva, a watershed moment for India’s scientific engagement on the global stage.
Sinha’s intellectual journey was characterized by a transcontinental traverse. After a residence of around 12 years in England, he returned to India in 1976 and joined the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. His tenure there was marked by diligent dedication and significant contributions to the scientific community. Notably, in 1987, he was appointed the director of the Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre, a position he skillfully juggled concurrently with the directorship of the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics until 2009.
Born on June 16, 1945, in Kandi, Murshidabad, Bikash Sinha commenced his academic pursuits at Presidency College, Kolkata, where he undertook his bachelor’s degree in Physics from 1961 to 1964, graduating with exceptional distinction. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the hallowed halls of King’s College, Cambridge, where he further honed his understanding of physics through advanced studies.
Sinha’s relentless dedication did not go unnoticed; he was honored with the S.N. Bose Birth Centenary Award by the Indian Science Congress Association in 1994. Moreover, he became a fellow of the illustrious Indian National Science Academy in 1989, a recognition that mirrored his exceptional contributions to the field. He was also a distinguished fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, Allahabad, since 1993, and the Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore, from 2004.
Beyond his scientific exploits, Sinha’s impact extended to leadership roles. He chaired the board of governors at the National Institute of Technology, Durgapur (NIT Durgapur), underscoring his commitment to education and mentorship. His expertise was sought at the highest levels of governance; he served as a member of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, first appointed on January 27, 2005, and subsequently re-elected in December 2009.
As the world bids farewell to Bikash Sinha, his legacy of scientific brilliance, mentorship, and international collaboration remains an inspiration for generations to come.