Cdr (Dr) Reji Kurien Thomas Awarded the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 for Groundbreaking Contributions to Science, Technology & Sustainable Development

Cdr (Dr) Reji Kurien Thomas, a decorated scientist, innovator, and thought leader from India, has been honoured with the prestigious Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 by the Ratna Puraskar National Committee under the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India.

This esteemed recognition celebrates his outstanding contributions across science, technology, and sustainable development, particularly in harnessing advanced research to address some of India’s most pressing challenges.

With a distinguished career that spans defence, aviation, quantum science, and sustainable systems, Dr. Thomas has consistently demonstrated how scientific innovation can be translated into impactful solutions for society. His pioneering work on quantum-resonant energy systems, water security, and space agriculture exemplifies the transformative role of science in improving lives and supporting India’s progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A former defence officer, Dr. Thomas embodies a unique blend of discipline, technical mastery, and social vision. His contributions extend well beyond research laboratories into policy, governance, and enterprise, creating pathways for India to integrate cutting-edge science with national development objectives. By linking advanced theoretical frameworks with ground realities, he has shown how frontier technologies can directly improve human welfare, reduce inequalities, and enhance national resilience in the face of climate change.

Beyond his scientific endeavours, Dr. Thomas has been deeply committed to empowering communities through education, innovation, and equitable access to technology. He has mentored researchers, guided start-ups, and advised institutions in aligning their strategies with sustainability principles. His leadership has inspired initiatives that bridge high-level research with practical applications, ranging from advancing renewable energy efficiency to developing resilience frameworks for climate adaptation in vulnerable regions.

His contributions to water security initiatives have helped to reimagine sustainable resource management at scale, while his advocacy for space-enabled agriculture is redefining how India can safeguard food systems in an era of uncertainty. By promoting an integrated approach that combines quantum science, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic equity, Dr. Thomas is actively shaping a holistic model for sustainable progress.

Dr. Thomas’s recognition with the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar also pays tribute to his role as a global communicator of science. His award of the Stephen Hawking Award 2024 for “Global Innovation & Science for Impact” underlines his international stature as a visionary who can bridge cultures, disciplines, and nations through knowledge. His efforts consistently highlight how India can not only achieve but lead in the pursuit of sustainability by combining scientific excellence with compassion and inclusivity.

This award stands as a testament to Dr. Thomas’s lifelong dedication to integrating knowledge with action, ensuring that technology is not confined to laboratories but serves as a driving force for inclusive growth, sustainability, and social well-being. His recognition is not only a personal milestone but also an inspiration for the next generation of Indian scientists, policymakers, and social entrepreneurs to carry forward the vision of a resilient and sustainable future. to scientists, innovators, and communities alike, demonstrating the powerful role that science can play in building a more sustainable and just future.