Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and eminent scientist Prof. CNR Rao have been chosen for Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award on November 16, 2013. Sachin gets the top honour on the day when he bids an emotional adieu to his record-breaking cricket career lasting 24 years after playing record 200 Test matches. Sachin is the first sports person selected for the Bharat Ratna.
Chintamani Nagesa Ramachandra Rao, currently head of the Scientific Advisory Council to PM Manmohan Singh, is the third scientist, after C.V. Raman and the former President A.P.J Abdul Kalam to be awarded Bharat Ratna. Prof. Rao is a renowned international authority in the solid state and material chemistry. He is credited with 1400 research papers and 45 books. Mr. Rao is the only scientist and among handful in the world with close to 50,000 citation.
Mr,. Rao was also honoured with China top science award for his contribution in boosting Indo-China scientific cooperation in January 2013. ‘Transition Metal Oxides’, Understanding Chemistry, Climbing the Limitless Ladder and “Nan crystals: Synthesis, Properties and Applications’ are some noted books by Prof. CNR Rao.
Both Sachin and Prof. Rao are also recipients of Padma Vibhushan – the second highest civilian award of India.
Both Sachin and Prof. Rao join a list of 41 great personalities to get Bharat Ratna given in recognition of exceptional service of the highest order since it was established in 1954
