Introduction:
The first chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission was Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha. He played a key role in establishing India's nuclear energy program and is considered the father of India's nuclear program.

Background:
Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha was born on October 30, 1909, in Bombay, British India. He studied at the Cathedral and John Connon School and later pursued his higher education at the Royal Institute of Science in Bombay. Bhabha furthered his studies in Cambridge, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering and a doctorate in theoretical physics.

Establishment of the Atomic Energy Commission:
In 1944, Bhabha returned to India and became a member of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). He started working towards establishing a nuclear research center in India. Bhabha believed that atomic energy could serve as a crucial source of power for India's development.

As a result of his efforts, the Atomic Energy Commission of India was established in 1948. Bhabha became the first chairman of the commission, leading the country's nuclear program. Under his leadership, the commission played a vital role in developing India's nuclear capabilities.

Contributions and Achievements:
During his tenure as the chairman, Bhabha made significant contributions to India's nuclear program. He initiated the construction of India's first nuclear reactor, named "Apsara," which went critical in 1956. This marked India's entry into the exclusive club of nations with nuclear capabilities.

Bhabha also played a crucial role in the establishment of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Mumbai. The center became the hub of nuclear research and development in the country. He actively promoted research in various fields of nuclear science and technology.

Legacy:
Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha's contributions to India's nuclear program laid the foundation for the country's progress in the field of atomic energy. His vision and leadership have shaped India's nuclear policy and helped establish India as a prominent player in the global nuclear arena.

Even after his untimely death in a plane crash in 1966, Bhabha's legacy continues to inspire scientists and researchers in the field of nuclear science. The Atomic Energy Commission, now known as the Department of Atomic Energy, has since been led by several distinguished individuals, building upon the foundation laid by Bhabha.

Conclusion:
Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha, as the first chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, played a pivotal role in establishing India's nuclear program. His vision, leadership, and contributions have had a profound impact on India's nuclear capabilities, making him a key figure in the history of atomic energy in India.

Dr Homi Jahangir Bhabha