Dirac Medal 2026: Deepak Dhar, ICTP & Contributions to Theoretical Physics

UPSC Reference: Science & Technology

Why in News?

Indian theoretical physicist Deepak Dhar was named a co-recipient of the Dirac Medal 2026.

Key Facts

  • Awarded by the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP).

  • Named after physicist Paul Adrien Maurice Dirac.

  • First awarded in 1985.

  • Awarded annually around 8 August, Dirac's birthday.

  • Recognises outstanding contributions to theoretical physics.

  • Deepak Dhar became the second Indian Dirac Medal recipient after Ashoke Sen.

  • Dhar is particularly known for work involving Abelian sandpile models.

ICTP

  • Located in Trieste, Italy.

  • Founded in 1964.

  • Associated with:

    • UNESCO

    • IAEA

    • Government of Italy

Key Pointer

Dirac Medal → ICTP → Theoretical Physics → Deepak Dhar