National Research Professor Innovation & science policy advisor Former Director General of CSIR
Dr. R. A. Mashelkar is a renowned Indian chemical engineer and former head of CSIR, celebrated for transforming India’s scientific research ecosystem, defending India’s traditional knowledge, and promoting inclusive innovation.
83 years
1943-01-01
B.Chem.Engg. Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering
University of Bombay – Chemical Engineering (Bachelor & Doctorate)
Full Name: Raghunath Anant Mashelkar
Nickname: R. A. Mashelkar ( Mashelkar Sir )
Country/State: India
Date of Birth: 1943-01-01
Languages Known: English, Hindi, Marathi, Konkani
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Food Habit: Not Public
Religion: Not publicly disclosed
Hobbies: Science writing Mentoring innovators Policy advocacy Public speaking
School: Early schooling in Goa and Maharashtra
College: University of Bombay – Chemical Engineering (Bachelor & Doctorate)
Degrees Obtained: B.Chem.Engg. Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering
Height: 165 cm
Weight: 65 kg
Parents: Details not widely published
Siblings: Not Public
Marital Status: married
Wife: Not Public
Children: 0
Current Position: National Research Professor Innovation & science policy advisor Former Director General of CSIR
Skills:
Net Worth: Not applicable (public service career)
Awards & Achievements: Padma Shri Padma Bhushan Padma Vibhushan Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize for Science & Technology Fellow of major global science and engineering academies Led transformation of CSIR into an innovation-driven organisation Pioneer of Traditional Knowledge Digital Library initiative Advocate of Gandhian Engineering: affordable innovation for all Authored several books and mentored thousands of scientists Recognised as one of the world’s leading science administrators
Born in Goa in 1943, R. A. Mashelkar studied chemical engineering in Mumbai and began his career as a researcher in polymer science and engineering. His scientific work in transport phenomena and reactor modelling gained high international recognition.
He later took up leadership roles, becoming Director of the National Chemical Laboratory and subsequently the youngest Director General of CSIR. Under his guidance, CSIR shifted from a purely research-focused network into one driven by innovation, patents, technology transfer, and global competitiveness.
He championed the protection of Indian traditional knowledge against wrongful patents and played a major role in shaping India’s intellectual-property policies.
Mashelkar strongly believes in science for the people, promoting the concept of doing more with less for more — making innovation inclusive, affordable, and accessible to society.
His life’s mission continues to focus on national scientific growth, sustainability, and empowering future innovators.
Continues working with organisations to build sustainable and inclusive innovation models in India.
Frequently invited to international forums to speak on science policy, IP rights, and frugal innovation.
His philosophy of Gandhian Engineering is increasingly adopted by Indian start-ups and global development agencies.
Honoured in multiple events celebrating 70+ years of CSIR’s scientific leadership, crediting his reform era as a milestone.
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