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Honorary Fellow

Honorary Fellow

Padma Bhushan Dr. V. K. Saraswat

Padma Bhushan Dr. V. K. Saraswat

Honorary Fellow, Ashoka Centre for a People-centric Energy Transition (ACPET)

A visionary scientist and policy leader, Dr. Saraswat brings over four decades of experience in strategic technologies, defence research, national innovation systems, and technology-led public policy. His contributions to India’s indigenous missile development, ballistic missile defence, and national policy innovation have been extraordinary.

At ACPET, his presence adds immense value to our work on people-centric energy transition, technology pathways, and policy dialogue.

Key Profile & Achievements ▼
  • Recipient of India’s prestigious civilian awards, the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, alongside numerous national science and government honours. Conferred Honoris Causa Doctorates by over 27 Indian universities.
  • As Member (S&T) at NITI Aayog for over a decade, Dr. Saraswat has driven national policy on critical and emerging technologies—including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technology, Cyber-Physical Systems, Small Modular Nuclear Reactors, and technologies for Energy Security with a focus on advanced materials, strategic supply chains, and sustainable development. He is currently actively engaged in the development of technologies for energy systems spanning Nuclear, Coal, Solar, Wind, and Hydrogen.
  • One of India’s most eminent defence scientist-administrators, he spearheaded the indigenous development of key missile systems (PRITHVI, DHANUSH, PRAHAR, AGNI-V) and interceptor missiles for ballistic missile defence, establishing national missile defence and nuclear arsenal infrastructure. In aeronautics, he led AMCA production planning and steered LCA TEJAS to IAF induction.
Institutional Leadership & Advisory Roles ▼
  • Current Positions: Chancellor of Graphic Era University; Chairman of the Quantum Ecosystems and Technology Council of India; Chairman of Prof. C.R. Rao AIMSCS, Hyderabad; Distinguished Professor at IIT Hyderabad and IIT Roorkee.
  • Fellow of INAE, INSA, AeSI, and elected Academician of the International Academy of Engineering, Russia.
  • Former Member of the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology & Innovation Committee; Chancellor of JNU; President of TIFAC and Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology; Chairman of CSIR’s Research Council; Chairman of Himalayan Region Development Council; and Chairman of Research Councils for IOCL, NTPC, and BHEL.