## Kamal Ranadive Biography##

Kamal Ranadive (November 8, 1917 – April 11, 2001) was a renowned Indian biomedical researcher, known for her groundbreaking work in cancer biology and for encouraging women to pursue careers in science. Born in Pune, Maharashtra, she grew up in a progressive family that valued education. Her father, Dinkar D. Samarth, was a biologist and fostered her scientific curiosity from an early age. Inspired by her passion for biology, she developed a keen interest in medical research. Ranadive completed her schooling in Pune and later earned a bachelor's and master's degree in zoology from Fergusson College, Pune University. At a time when few Indian women pursued higher education in science, her academic achievements were outstanding. She later moved to Mumbai (then Bombay) to continue her research at Tata Memorial Hospital, one of India's most renowned cancer research centers. Kamal Ranadive began his professional career at the Indian Cancer Research Centre (ICRC), which later became part of the Tata Memorial Centre. There, he worked under the mentorship of renowned cancer researcher Dr. V.R. Khanolkar. He then earned a Ph.D. in cytology, the study of cells, from the University of Mumbai. His research focused primarily on the relationship between cancer and viruses. At a time when cancer biology was still in its infancy in India, Ranadive made a major contribution by establishing the country's first tissue culture laboratory. Tissue culture techniques allowed scientists to study cancer cells in a controlled laboratory environment, providing insight into tumor growth and behavior. One of his key areas of study was breast cancer.

He investigated genetic and viral factors that may influence cancer development, helping to understand how some cancers may be linked to viral infections. Her work helped lay the foundation for cancer research in India and inspired generations of scientists to explore molecular biology and oncology. Ranadive also collaborated with international researchers, bringing global scientific methods and perspectives to Indian laboratories. Through her leadership and dedication, she helped modernize India's cancer research infrastructure, ensuring that Indian scientists could meaningfully contribute to the global scientific discourse.In addition to her scientific achievements, Kamal Ranadive was a strong supporter of women in science. In 1973, she founded the Indian Women Scientists Association (IWSA) in Mumbai. This organization aimed to provide support, networking opportunities, and resources to women pursuing careers in the scientific field. At a time when gender barriers were high, her initiative created a supportive environment for women researchers.Under her guidance, IWSA organized conferences, workshops, and training programs to help women develop professionally. The association also worked to address social challenges faced by women scientists, including balancing family responsibilities and demanding research careers. Ranadive believed that including diverse voices was essential for scientific advancement and actively mentored young women entering the field.

Her efforts significantly increased the visibility and participation of women in Indian science. Today, IWSA remains an important organization supporting women researchers across India.Throughout her career, Kamal Ranadive held numerous leadership positions at scientific institutions. She served as the Director of the Indian Cancer Research Centre and played a key role in shaping cancer research policy in India. His administrative abilities and scientific expertise helped him guide research teams and build institutional capacity.For his contributions, he received numerous awards and honors. In 1982, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Bhushan, one of the country's highest civilian honors, for his distinguished service to medicine and science. He was also honored by numerous scientific academies and organizations for his outstanding research work and commitment to public health.Ranadive believed that scientific research should benefit society. He was particularly interested in the links between nutrition, genetics, and cancer.