CNR Rao gets Bharat Ratna

However, no one can deny the fact that Rao is a well-known authority in the science world.

The Master Blaster and the eminent scientist were chosen for Bharat Ratna with the batting maestro, who retired from international cricket on Saturday, being the first sportsman to be bestowed with the country’s highest civilian honour.

An outspoken scientist, Prof Chintamani Nagesa Ramachandra Rao is a well recognised international authority on solid state and materials chemistry who has published over 1,400 research papers and 45 books.

CNR Rao is the third scientist after CV Raman and former President APJ Abdul Kalam to be given the Bharat Ratna.

Speaking to media, Rao termed the award as recognition to science and credited his wife Indumathi, family and his students on the achievement.

‘I am very grateful that the country has recognised my efforts. I hope that this encourages more youngsters to take up science,’ Rao said.

Prof Rao’s contributions have been recognised by most major scientific academies around the world through conferment of memberships and fellowships and has been honoured with several national and international awards, the official announcement said.

He currently serves as the Head of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India.

The Bharat Ratna was announced after a gap of four years with Hindustani music doyen Bhimsen Joshi being the last recipient in 2009.