Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condoled death of eminent Odia scientist Padma Shri Prafulla Kumar Jena.

Dr Jena was a genius scientist who encouraged, inspired scientific research, especially in metallurgy. With his sustained research, he has 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 establishment of several institutions of science and technology in Odisha, CM said in his condolence message.

His death is a great loss to the state, said the CM praying for peace and tranquility to the departed soul.

Conveying his deep sympathies for the bereaved family members, the CM said announced that the mortal remains of PK Jena will be cremated with state honours.

Padma Shri Dr Prafulla Kumar Jena, the former Chairman of Institute of Advance Technology & Environmental Studies and the former President of Natural Resources Development Foundation, passed away at his residence here on Tuesday. He was 92.

The National Metallurgist Awardee was conferred with Padma Shri by Government of India in 1977 for his outstanding contributions to Education and Research.