Legacy Dr. V.R. Senthilkumar’s professional journey exemplifies a rare blend of technical mastery, public service, and cultural stewardship. From spearheading modern research infrastructure projects under ICAR to restoring centuries-old temples with traditional methods, his contributions have left an indelible mark on India’s engineering and cultural landscape.

Dr. V.R. Senthilkumar

Overview Dr. V.R. Senthilkumar, Ph.D. (Honoris Causa), is a distinguished Civil Engineer with over four decades of extensive experience in civil engineering, infrastructure development, and cultural heritage restoration. His illustrious career spans critical roles in the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), as well as postretirement contributions to the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department, Government of Tamil Nadu.

Recognized for his technical expertise, leadership, and dedication, Dr. Senthilkumar has made substantial contributions to modern engineering projects and the conservation of ancient temples, blending contemporary techniques with traditional construction practices.

Education and Qualifications

•  Honorary Doctorate (Ph.D. Honoris Causa) in Construction Technology (2024) – Euro Asian University, Estonia.
•  M.Sc. (Geo-informatics) – Annamalai University, 2007 (First Class).
•  B.E. (Civil Engineering) – College of Engineering, Guindy, Anna University, 1999.
•  Diploma in Concrete Technology & Design of Concrete Structures – Annamalai University, 1989.
• Diploma in Civil Engineering (DCE) – Government Polytechnic, Coimbatore, 1985

. Professional Experience

Private Sector (1985–1992)

• Technical Assistant with M/s Raju & Co., Kangayam, Tamil Nadu – Supervised irrigation projects including canal excavations, culverts, syphons, sluices, and road bridge works.
• Public Works Department (PWD), Government of Tamil Nadu – Assisted in topographical surveys, canal alignments, contouring, and preparation of structural designs and estimates for irrigation infrastructure.
• Site Supervisor / Executive Field Assistant in Chennai – Gained expertise in residential and industrial building supervision, construction management, valuation, and structural drawing analysis.

Government Service – Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Research and Education, Government of India (1992–2023) ICAR–Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai (1992–2013)

• Designed and monitored the construction of aquaculture infrastructure, including fish hatcheries, broodstock tanks, laboratories, and culture ponds.
• Liaised with CPWD, State departments, and regulatory authorities for approvals, project execution, and land acquisition.
• Managed Indo-French collaborative projects and served as Engineer for the National Agricultural Technology Project (NATP).
• Led post-Tsunami restoration of damaged institute structures (2004–2005).
• Served as Officer-In-Charge, Engineering Cell, and Member Secretary of the Institute’s Works Committee.

ICAR–Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore (2013–2019)

• Oversaw design, construction, and maintenance of institute infrastructure and research facilities.
• Coordinated CPWD projects, managed minor civil works, and ensured operational upkeep of residential and non-residential buildings.
• Served on several committees including quarters allotment, building condemnation, stores purchase, and event organization.

ICAR–Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi (2019–2023)

• Promoted to Chief Technical Officer (Civil), supervising all infrastructurerelated activities.
• Responsible for planning, execution, and maintenance of institute buildings, laboratories, and residential facilities.
• Held key roles as Member-Secretary of the Works Committee, and member of the Senior Officers’ Committee and Institute Management Committee.

Dr. Senthilkumar voluntarily retired from ICAR service in February 2023, concluding an illustrious 31-year career in government service.

Heritage and Temple Restoration – HR&CE Department (2023–2024)

After retirement, Dr. Senthilkumar contributed his expertise as an Executive Engineer (Contract) in the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department, Government of Tamil Nadu.

Tirupur and Karur Districts (2023 – February 2024)

• Oversaw the repair, renovation, and restoration of ancient temples, some over 1000 years old.
• Conserved structures using traditional lime-mortar techniques, ensuring compliance with Agama and Vedic principles.
• Supervised Rope Car Project at Arulmigu Rathinagireeswarar Temple (Karur district).
• Managed consecration ceremonies, temple tank restorations, and construction of temple car sheds, marriage halls, annadhanam halls, and related facilities.

Chennai Region I & II (August – November 2024)

• Continued temple conservation and modernization initiatives, utilizing both traditional methods and modern tools such as Jockey lift systems.
• Guided large-scale consecration events and restored temples aged 700+ years with precision.

Training and International Exposure

• Advanced IT training at NIC (Chennai) and NIIT.
• International training in France (2006) on hatchery operations and management as part of the Indo-French Collaborative Project.
• Training in Technical Support for Consortia-based Research in Agriculture (2010) at MANAGE, Hyderabad.

Professional Affiliations

Dr. Senthilkumar holds Fellowship or Membership in over 25 national and international institutions, including:

•  Institution of Engineers (India) – FIE, Chartered Engineer
•  Indian Geotechnical Society – FIGS
•  International Society for Development and Sustainability (Japan) – FISDS
•  Institution of Civil Engineers (India) – Chartered Engineer
•  Engineering Council of India – Senior Professional Engineer
•  International Association for Life-cycle Civil Engineering (Italy) – MIALCCE

These memberships underscore his commitment to professional excellence and lifelong learning.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Senthilkumar’s achievements have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards:

•  Outstanding Engineer – 2021 (Institution of Engineers, India, Coimbatore Centre)
•  Best Civil Engineer – 2022 (Indian Aspirant Awards, New Delhi)
•  Best Civil Engineer of the Year – 2022 (Indian Prime Icon Awards, Jaipur)
• Best Academician Award – 2022 (Scholars Academic & Scientific Society)
• Pride of India Award – 2023 (Best Chartered Civil Engineer, Socially Point Foundation)
• Bharat Seva Puraskar – 2025 (Veyil Foundation, Bangalore)
•  Indian Icon Outstanding Achievement in Engineering Award – 2025
•  Bhartia Ratna Samman – 2025 (Worthy Wellness Foundation, Lucknow)

Legacy

Dr. V.R. Senthilkumar’s professional journey exemplifies a rare blend of technical mastery, public service, and cultural stewardship. From spearheading modern research infrastructure projects under ICAR to restoring centuries-old temples with traditional methods, his contributions have left an indelible mark on India’s engineering and cultural landscape.

Personal Details

•  Family: Married, with two daughters