Former PAEC Chairman Pervez Butt Passes Away at 84
More Than Four Decades of Scientific and Defence Service Come to an End; Nishan-e-Imtiaz Recipient No Longer Among Us
Islamabad — Former Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), distinguished nuclear engineer, and recipient of the country’s highest civil award, the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, Pervez Butt has passed away at the age of 84.
He devoted more than four decades of his life to strengthening Pakistan’s defence, scientific, technological, and industrial sectors.
Distinguished Career at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission
Pervez Butt began his professional career as a nuclear engineer at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission in May 1963.
During a remarkable career spanning more than 43 years, he played a key role in advancing Pakistan’s nuclear programme and strengthening the country’s strategic and defence capabilities.
- PAEC Chairman: He was appointed Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission in 2001.
- Federal Secretary: From 2006 to 2008, he served as Federal Secretary for Science and Technology.
- Planning Commission Adviser: Until 2013, he served as Adviser on Nuclear Energy at the Planning Commission and contributed to national policymaking.
Advocate for the Peaceful Use of Nuclear Technology
Under Pervez Butt’s leadership, nuclear technology was not limited to defence applications.
He strongly promoted its peaceful use in healthcare, agriculture, industry, scientific research, education, and other areas of national development.
Pakistan’s Highest Civil Awards
In recognition of his outstanding scientific and defence-related services, the Government of Pakistan honoured Pervez Butt with several prestigious civil awards:
- Sitara-e-Imtiaz: 1992
- Hilal-e-Imtiaz: 1999
- Nishan-e-Imtiaz: 2015
Pervez Butt’s leadership gave a new direction to Pakistan’s science and technology programmes. His invaluable contributions to the country’s scientific, strategic, and defence sectors will always be remembered in national history