Climate scientist Krishna AchutaRao dies at 62

Climate scientist Krishna AchutaRao, a professor at the Centre for Atmospheric Sciences at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, passed away on September 4, 2026, at the age of 62. AchutaRao made significant contributions to understanding the extent to which human activity influences climate change. Through collaborative research with fellow scientists, he demonstrated detectable human impact on temperature fluctuations across various Indian sub-regions, bridging global climate science with the regional challenges faced by India.

Colleagues and friends remembered AchutaRao as a clear and principled critic who upheld scientific integrity, even in the face of political pressures. His loss is deeply felt within the Indian climate science community and beyond, as he was not only an esteemed scientist but also a warm and humorous friend. AchutaRao's academic journey included a stint at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in the United States before returning to India in 2007.

He served as the Head of the Centre for Atmospheric Sciences and Dean (Faculty) at IIT Delhi, playing a pivotal role in establishing the institute's Centre of Excellence for Climate Change Adaptation. His work extended to applying artificial intelligence tools in climate change and monsoon research. AchutaRao was a member of the World Climate Research Programme’s Joint Scientific Committee from 2025.

He earned his Ph.D. under the supervision of another esteemed scientist, and described by many as a man of great integrity, kindness, and exceptional scientific prowess.