ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Former Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), renowned nuclear scientist and mechanical engineer Pervez Butt, NI, HI and SI, passed away on Sunday at the age of 84. His death marks the loss of one of the key architects of Pakistan’s nuclear and strategic programme, whose contributions significantly strengthened the country’s scientific and technological capabilities.

According to the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission, Pervez Butt was among the founding members of Pakistan’s strategic and nuclear programme. During a distinguished career spanning more than four decades, he played a pivotal role in advancing nuclear science, technology and engineering in the country. His visionary leadership, technical expertise and unwavering commitment to national service left a lasting impact on Pakistan’s scientific and strategic development.

Profile

Pervez Butt joined the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission in May 1963 and served the organisation with distinction for more than 43 years. Throughout his career, he held several key scientific, engineering and administrative positions, making significant contributions to the development of Pakistan’s indigenous nuclear fuel cycle, nuclear power programme, engineering infrastructure and strategic capabilities. His efforts also helped expand the peaceful applications of nuclear technology in healthcare, agriculture, industry, research and education, similar to how local institutions continue to strive for academic cooperation and progress.

In 2001, he was appointed Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission, a position he held until his retirement in 2006. Under his leadership, PAEC continued to expand Pakistan’s nuclear science and technology programmes while strengthening the country’s strategic and technological self-reliance. This period of growth was foundational for future initiatives, much like the emergency response committee and other national bodies that work to safeguard the nation’s infrastructure.

Following his retirement, Pervez Butt continued to serve the country in several important public roles. He served as Federal Secretary for the Ministry of Science and Technology from 2006 to 2008, later worked as Adviser on Nuclear Energy at the Planning Commission of Pakistan until 2013, and remained an adviser to the National Command Authority (NCA) and the Strategic Plans Division (SPD) until his passing, providing valuable guidance on strategic and nuclear affairs. His career reflects the same dedication seen in professionals who maintain vital national assets for the country’s future.

In recognition of his outstanding services to the nation, he was awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz (1998), Hilal-i-Imtiaz (1999) and Nishan-i-Imtiaz (2015), among Pakistan’s highest civilian honours. Tributes have poured in from scientific, defence and government circles, with colleagues describing Pervez Butt as a visionary leader whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers in Pakistan.