Partap Kishan Kichlu obtained his DSc degree (1927) from the University of Allahabad. His specialization was in Spectroscopy and Optical Instrumentation. He was Professor, Department of Physics, Panjab University, Lahore; Professor (1948-62), Department of Physics, University of Delhi; and Director, National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi (1963-64).

Academic and Research Achievements: Kichlu was well known for developing techniques for the fabrication of and improvements in optical instruments with indigenous materials. He developed techniques for making quartz microbalances, X-ray tubes, photoflash bulbs, diamond tools and diamond working machines, synthetic sapphires, vacuum furnace, etc. He was responsible for initiating the development and manufacture of sophisticated precision instruments such as high-resolution interferometers.

Other Contributions: After retirement Kichlu set up an optical instruments company for the production of sophisticated optical components and instruments to international specifications. This he did after studying and utilizing the process and procedure evolved over the ages throughout the world and introducing his own innovations. He was a Member of the INSA Council (1957-59, 1969-71).

Awards and Honours: Kichlu received the MN Saha Gold Medal of Asiatic Society (1980). He was a Fellow of the Asiatic Society and Vice-President of INSA (1967-68).