Thiruvananthapuram: Eminent cardiologist and scientist Dr. Marthanda Varma Sankaran Valiathan passed away on Thursday. He was 90.Hailing from Mavelikkara, Dr. Valiathan made significant contributions to the field of health technology and medical education in India. He is credited with the development of artificial heart valves. He is also the founder-director of Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology in Kerala.Throughout his distinguished career, Valiathan held prestigious positions, including President of the Indian National Science Academy and National Research Professor of the Government of India. His work earned him numerous accolades and honours.

In 2005, Dr. Valiathan was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, for his groundbreaking contributions to health technology. In 1999, he was named a Chevalier in the Ordre des Palmes Académiques by the French government.