Kalpakkam (Tamil Nadu) April 30 (IANS) Distinguished Scientist S.C. Chetal Saturday took over as the director of Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), which is mandated with the task of designing fast breeder nuclear reactors.

 
 He takes over from Baldev Raj who retired Saturday.
 
 Prior to his elevation, Chetal, 62, was heading IGCAR’s reactor engineering group.
 
 A mechanical engineering from Delhi College of Engineering, Chetal has been engaged in the reactor engineering since 1971.
 
 Chetal is a recipient of the National Technology Award in 2000 from the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) for significant contributions in the field of high purity titanium sponge production and the Indian Nuclear Society Award 2003 for contributions towards nuclear related high technology.
 
 The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has issued him a letter of appreciation for his contribution in the fast breeder reactor engineering.
 
 He will hold his new position for two years.