
Dr. Mohanan M.P.’s journey is one of perseverance, discovery, and dedication. Born in Kidangoor, Kerala, he overcame economic hardships with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Encouraged by his uncle, who worked at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and supported by a government merit scholarship, he pursued a distinguished career in nuclear energy research at BARC.
His contributions to India’s nuclear energy security played a crucial role in plutonium production and nuclear deterrence, yet his heart lay in renewable energy research, particularly in Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)—a pioneering field in sustainable power generation.
Beyond science, Dr. Mohanan’s mission extended to education and social empowerment. After nearly four decades at BARC, he returned to his roots—not to retire, but to uplift students from disadvantaged backgrounds. His greatest legacy emerged through the Dr. Sarabhai IAS Academy, where he mentored aspiring civil servants, guiding them toward prestigious government careers.
His story is not just about scientific breakthroughs but about knowledge as a tool for societal progress. His life exemplifies how education is not merely for individual success but a means to empower communities and shape future generations.
Through his struggles and triumphs, Dr. Mohanan proved that shared knowledge becomes a force of transformation. His journey from BARC’s corridors to the classrooms of Dr. Sarabhai IAS Academy serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating that true success lies in uplifting others.