Arun Kumar H. Chaurasia (1955 –2022)

Abstract

Mr. Arun Kumar H. Chaurasia, ex- Addl Director General, GSI, passed away on 20th November 2022 afternoon at his residence in Nagpur following a massive cardiac arrest. An extremely amiable and non-controversial personality, he virtually had only friends and no enemies. At office and beyond office, he was someone his friends could count upon for his no- nonsense approach, sincerity, cordiality and warmth. His wit and sense of humour were one of a kind that will be deeply missed. Mr. Chaurasia was born on 21st May 1955. Completing his schooling from Central School, Nagpur and his B.Sc. from the Institute of Science, Nagpur he did his M.Sc. (Tech) from the University Department of Geology, Nagpur, in 1980. He initially joined as Geologist in MECL and had worked for coal exploration in Bihar. Thereafter, he joined GSI at Nagpur during April 1981 and was engaged in systematic geological mapping in the Deccan Trap Province. He completed his two year North Eastern Region, Shillong, posting in the mid 1990's and soon after was assigned work in Map and Cartography Division, and thereafter at the Photo Geology and Remote Sensing (PGRS), Division, GSI, Nagpur. Mr Chaurasia was promoted as Director in July 2007 and took over as Director, PGRS Division at GSI, Nagpur. Under his leadership the PGRS Division did extremely well with the ongoing BRGM, France projects. He had undergone advanced PGRS training at the GSI Training Institute. After his promotion as Dy Director General he was posted in Eastern Region, GSI, Kolkata since July 2013. Just before his retirement, he was promoted as Addl Director General and HOD, North Eastern Region, Shillong on 30th May 2015, but took charge at Kolkata as he had just two days to retire. Post retirement, Mr. Chaurasia was leading a peaceful life, looking after the domestic needs of his family members and keeping in touch with his ex-colleagues and friends. A rare kind of human being, his sudden passing away shocked his friends and admirers who will personally miss him as one of their most trusted friends. Mr Chaurasia is someone so special who will never be forgotten. I pray for solace to his Mrs. Mamta, two daughters Ms. Parul and Ms. Pallavi to overcome their saddest loss. I quote lines by Anne Brontë: "Farewell to thee! but not farewell To all my fondest thoughts of thee: Within my heart they still shall dwell; And they shall cheer and comfort me"