Eminent Indian scientist and professor Yash Pal dies aged 90

High energy and astrophysics scholar and educationist Padma Vibhushan Professor Yash Pal breathed his last on Monday in Noida at the age of 90.

The reasons of his death are unknown. He had battled lung cancer and had recovered from it a few years ago.

Born in 1926 in current day Pakistan, Yash Pal received his Master's degree from Punjab University in 1949 and received his Doctorate degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1958.

The famed scientist served as the director of Space Application Center, Ahmedabad from 1973 to 1981 and the chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University from 2007 to 2012. He was also the chairman of the University Grants Commission from 1986 to 1991.

Professor Yash Pal became a household name among children and adults alike with his informative science show Turning Point broadcast on Doordarshan in the 90s.

He was awarded Padma Bhushan in 1976 and the second highest civilian award Padma Vibhushan in 2013 for his outstanding contribution to science and space technology.

He spent a major part of his life teaching and researching at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research.

His last rites are set to take place on Tuesday afternoon.