The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away of acclaimed physicist, Prof. M.G.K. Menon.

In a condolence message to his wife, Smt. Indu Menon, the President has said, "I am sad to learn about the passing away of Prof. M.G.K. Menon.

An acclaimed physicist and administrator, Prof. Menon will be long remembered for his service to the nation in various capacities including as MOS for Science and Technology and Education, Member, Planning Commission, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), President of Indian Statistical Institute, Director of TIFR, etc.

Prof. Menon distinguished himself through investigations in the field of Cosmic Rays and in particular on the high-energy interactions of elementary particles. He was a Fellow of all the three Science Academies in India and President of each one of them. Anasteroid 7564 Gokumenon was named in his honour in 2008.

Prof. Menon played a prominent role in the development of science and technology in our country. For his exemplary services to the nation, he was honoured with numerous awards including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. His demise is a great loss for our country and its scientific community.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences and convey the same to the rest of your family members. I pray to the Almighty to give you and other members of the family strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss”.

This release issued at 1130 hrs.