Dr. Subhash Mukhopadhyay was a brilliant Indian scientist and physician who is remembered as the pioneer of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) in India. He was born on 16 January 1931 in Hazaribagh (now in Jharkhand). He specialized in physiology and had an exceptional scientific mind, far ahead of his time.
Dr. Subhash Mukhopadhyay achieved a historic breakthrough on 3 October 1978 when he successfully helped deliver India’s first test-tube baby, a girl named Durga (later known as Kanupriya Agarwal) in Kolkata. This achievement came just 67 days after the world’s first IVF baby was born in England. Despite this extraordinary success, his work was not recognized at that time.
Tragically, instead of appreciation, Dr. Mukhopadhyay faced severe criticism, humiliation, and lack of support from authorities and the medical establishment. His research was dismissed without proper evaluation, and he was denied opportunities to present his work internationally. The continuous neglect and injustice deeply affected him.
Unable to bear the humiliation, Dr. Subhash Mukhopadhyay died on 19 June 1981. Years later, the scientific community acknowledged his contribution, and he was finally recognized as the true pioneer of IVF in India.
Today, Dr. Subhash Mukhopadhyay is remembered as a symbol of scientific brilliance, integrity, and sacrifice. His life highlights the importance of respecting innovation and supporting researchers. His contribution continues to inspire generations of scientists and medical professionals in India.