Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik has expressed deep condolences at the demise of eminent Odia scientist and Padmashree awardee Professor Prafulla Kumar Jena.
In his message, the Chief Minister said that Jena was a genius scientist who encouraged, and inspired scientific research, especially in the field of metallurgy.
Jena’s death is a great loss to the state, the Chief Minister added. He also conveyed his deep sympathies for the bereaved family members.
The mortal remains of PK Jena will be cremated with full state honours.
With his sustained research, Jena pioneered new waste management processes as well as metal value recovery processes from industrial and mining wastes. He was instrumental in popularising science among students and played a key role in establishing several institutions of science and technology in Odisha.