Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood Has Appointed as the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions issued an order, in which Mr.Ajay Kumar Sood has been appointed as the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the government for a period of three years, with effect from the date he assumes charge of the post or until further orders.

Previously, Mr.Sood was a member of Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. Currently, he is an honorary professor at IISc Bangalore. 

The appointment was approved by the PM chaired Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). He succeeded renowned biologist K VijayRaghavan who was retired on 2nd April.

Among his patented innovations, he has developed some of the finest experimental techniques and applied them to discover many fascinating natural phenomena and used them to design sensitive devices for practical applications. He was honoured with 'Padma Shri' in 2013.

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser was established in November, 1999 to advice the government on matters related to science, technology and innovation with a focus on application of science and technology in critical infrastructure, economic and social sectors in partnership with government departments, institutions and industry.

   Important points for the exam:

• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointment of Eminent physicist Mr.Ajay Kumar Sood as the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the government for three-year period.
• He replaced biologist K VijayRaghavan.
• For his patented innovations and his service to the science & technology, he was honoured with 'Padma Shri' in 2013.
• The office of the PSA will advice the Prime Ministers and Cabinet Ministers on matters related to science, technology and innovation.

   Facts to know:

• Union Minister of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions: Mr.Narendra Modi.
• Chairman of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet: Prime Minister of India.
• Vigyan Sarvatra Pujyate, a science festival was organized in coordination with the PSA to mark the National Science Week.