Parimal Sir, often referred to as the 'Father of Indian Computer Science,' is a renowned figure in the field of technology and education. Born in 1936, Sir Parimal joined the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1957, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the country's computer science landscape.

Sir Parimal's contributions span over five decades, during which he held various prestigious positions, including the Director of the Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad. His relentless efforts in promoting computer education and research have left an indelible mark on the Indian IT industry.

Early Life and Education
Parimal Sir was born in a small town in West Bengal, India. He completed his early education in his hometown before moving to Kolkata to pursue higher education. He earned his Master's degree in Mathematics from the University of Calcutta in 1957.

It was during his postgraduate years that Sir Parimal's interest in computers was sparked. The early computers, with their limited capabilities, fascinated him, and he decided to dedicate his life to understanding and promoting this new technology.
Joining the Indian Statistical Institute

In 1957, Sir Parimal joined the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) as a research scholar. The ISI, founded by the legendary statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, was one of the first institutions in India to introduce computers. Sir Parimal's journey at the ISI was instrumental in shaping his future contributions to the field.
During his time at the ISI, Sir Parimal worked on various projects that involved the application of computers in statistical analysis. His work laid the foundation for the use of computers in data analysis and modeling, which are now integral to many fields, including economics, social sciences, and engineering.
Establishing the Computer Centre at ISI

In the late 1960s, Sir Parimal spearheaded the establishment of the Computer Centre at the ISI. This was a significant milestone as it was one of the first dedicated computer facilities in India. The centre provided a platform for researchers and students to explore the potential of computers in various fields.
The Computer Centre at the ISI also played a crucial role in training the next generation of computer scientists and engineers. Many of Sir Parimal's students went on to become leaders in the Indian IT industry, further propagating his vision.
Contributions to Indian IT Industry

Sir Parimal's contributions to the Indian IT industry are manifold. His efforts in promoting computer education and research have been instrumental in making India a global leader in the IT sector.
One of his most significant contributions was the establishment of the Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad. The institute, set up in 1994, was one of the first of its kind in India, dedicated to providing high-quality education in information technology.



















Promoting Open Source Software
Sir Parimal was a strong advocate of open source software. He believed that open source software could democratize technology and make it accessible to everyone. He actively promoted the use of open source software in Indian educational institutions and government organizations.
His efforts in this direction led to the creation of the Indian Open Source Movement, which aimed to promote the use of open source software in India. The movement was instrumental in making Indian institutions aware of the benefits of open source software and encouraging them to adopt it.
International Recognition
Sir Parimal's contributions to the field of computer science have been recognized internationally. He has been awarded several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan, one of the highest civilian awards in India.
He has also been honored with the IEEE Fellow title for his contributions to the field of computer science. The IEEE is one of the world's leading professional organizations for the advancement of technology, and being named an IEEE Fellow is a testament to Sir Parimal's outstanding achievements.
Sir Parimal's legacy continues to inspire generations of computer scientists and engineers. His vision of using technology for the betterment of society continues to guide the Indian IT industry. As we look towards the future, his contributions serve as a reminder of the power of dedication, innovation, and perseverance in shaping the course of technological progress.