Former Earth Sciences Secretary Ravichandran Set to Join Academia at IIT-Madras

After retiring from his role as secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, M Ravichandran is preparing to start a new chapter in his career by joining IIT-Madras as a faculty member. His career highlights include modernizing the India Meteorological Department and contributing to the Deep Ocean Mission.

M Ravichandran, who served for five years as secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is transitioning from governmental work to academia at IIT-Madras. His tenure was defined by significant contributions to modernizing the India Meteorological Department and spearheading the Deep Ocean Mission.

Ravichandran's journey from a small village in Tamil Nadu to leading India’s research in polar and ocean sciences was marked by perseverance. Despite early challenges in communication and initial job setbacks, his commitment to education led him through prestigious physics research positions and eventually to national leadership in earth sciences.

Reflecting on his career, Ravichandran expressed gratitude for the community support that bolstered his academic pursuits and recognized the role of mentorship in shaping his scientific path. Now, he continues his dedication to ocean sciences by educating future scientists at IIT-Madras.