Kolkata/IBNS: Renowned nuclear physicist Bikash Sinha died at the age of 78 here on Friday.

Sinha was the director of the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics and Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre.

He was the chairman of the Board of Governors of the National Institute of Technology, Durgapur.

Sinha, who was honoured with Padma Bhushan, was also a member of the scientific advisory board to the Prime Minister of India.

Born in Kandi, Murshidabad, Sinha studied Physics for his bachelor's degree at Presidency College in Kolkata.

He finished higher studies at King's College, Cambridge in his subject.

Mourning his demise, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee tweeted, "Saddened to know about the untimely demise of the great scientist Bikash Sinha. An illustrious son of Bengal, this talented nuclear physicist made us proud by his contributions to not only the world of knowledge but also the ongoing public life.

"We could confer on him our highest state award 'Bangabibhushan' in 2022, and his personal presence on the dais inspired us. We could give him 'Rabindra Smriti Purashkar' too in 2022. I convey my sincerest condolences to his family, friends, students, and admirers."