He did his BSc (Hons) in Chemistry and MSc, PhD and DSc degrees in Agricultural Chemistry & Soil Science, all from the University of Calcutta.
Industry : At the time of joining as Director, PDIL (Central Public Sector Undertaking) was running at a loss in the fourth year in succession. At the completion of three years term, PDIL made a remarkable turnaround into a high profit-making company.
Research : Involvement over forty years. Supervising doctoral research since mid-seventies; guided over two dozen candidates for their PhD degree. PhD examiner of other Universities/ Institutes. Conducted more than two dozen Research Projects sponsored by Central Government agencies like CSIR, UGC, ICAR, DOE, DST, DRDO, etc.
Published over 100 research papers (mostly in International journals), reviews/book chapters, patents and numerous other conference proceedings, popular articles, etc.
Since early eighties, involved in the area of patents and intellectual property rights --- a subject little known at that time. Widely well-known in that field. Early proponent of applied and interdisciplinary research.
An unusual scientist working at all the three interfaces of Chemistry, viz., technology, earth science and biology. Current research activities encompass various branches of fertilizer technology, clay mineralogy, soil chemistry, geochemistry and environmental chemistry. Internationally, one of the leading experts in humus chemistry; work frequently referred and taught all over the world particularly with respect to global warming. Delivered Delivered the First Foundation Lecture of the Clay Minerals Society of India, New Delhi. Delivered the Foundation Lecture of the Indian Society of Soil Science, New Delhi.
Interdisciplinary Sciences
