Dr Rao was an inspirational leader, who was respected and loved by one and all.
He made sustained contributions towards the growth of IIP and CSIR. He not only created an environment of research excellence but helped establish credibility of our institute through transfer and commercialization of lab data. He was trustworthy, genuine, sincere and principled. Dr Rao always led by example.
But above all Dr Rao was a people’s leader, who understood and harnessed the potential of each individual. He was not just a Director, but family and a personal friend to each of us.
I spent many memorable moments with him but I distinctly remember when we were together in a conference at IICT Hyderabad in year 1993. Despite being unwell and suffering from spondylitis, Dr Rao insisted that he present the papers himself. We could only marvel at his dedication.
Another instance I will never forget is when during a conference at CLRI Chennai, he personally took me for a health check to his family doctor at Chennai. His humility at such a senior position and concern for my health instantly won me for life.
We all miss him deeply.
– Dr. R. P. Badoni