Former Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Pervez Butt Passes Away at 84

Former Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Pervez Butt, NI, HI, SI, has passed away at the age of 84. A eminent nuclear scientist, Butt devoted more than four decades to strengthening Pakistan’s scientific, technological, and strategic capabilities. He joined the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission in May 1963 and served the institution for over 43 years.

During his tenure, Pervez Butt played a major role in advancing Pakistan’s nuclear engineering and strategic capabilities. He also contributed significantly to promoting the peaceful use of nuclear technology in healthcare, agriculture, industry, research, and education. In 2001, he was appointed Chairman of PAEC, where he led several key scientific and technological initiatives.

Following his tenure at PAEC, Butt served as Federal Secretary for Science and Technology from 2006 to 2008 and later worked as Adviser on Nuclear Energy at the Planning Commission until 2013. In recognition of his outstanding national services, he was awarded the Sitara-i-Imtiaz in 1992, Hilal-i-Imtiaz in 1999, and Nishan-i-Imtiaz in 2015. He is remembered for providing new direction to Pakistan’s science and technology program, and his contributions to the nation’s scientific progress will be remembered for generations.