Bhopal. Mr. SMC Pillai, the former Director of NTPC Limited and a visionary leader in India’s power sector, breathed his last today at 10:30 AM. He passed away peacefully at his son’s residence in Bhopal.
A distinguished Mechanical Engineer from the 1962 batch of NSS College of Engineering, Palakkad, Mr. Pillai’s career was marked by immense contributions that shaped NTPC into a global power major. Known for his technical brilliance and holistic leadership, he played a pivotal role in the organization’s growth, spanning engineering, operations, and strategic management.
Beyond his professional accolades, Mr. Pillai is remembered by his colleagues and juniors as an energetic, smiling, and innovative mentor. Many recall him as a lively presence on interview panels—specifically for the early Executive Trainee (ET) batches—where his interactions were characterized by encouragement rather than scrutiny. To many who joined NTPC under his guidance, he was not just a director but a true leader who led by example.
He is survived by his son, Dr. Prashant Pillai, who serves as the Vice Chancellor of a private dental university in Bhopal. The last rites for the departed soul will be held the day after tomorrow in Bhopal.
