Prof. Roddam Narasimha was instrumental in convincing GoI to go for indigenous development of a contemporary fighter suited to Indian requirements. This at a time when we as a nation were generally dismissive about our capabilities. Prof. Narasimha, along with others, worked on the preliminary requirements and design which impressed Dassault. The positive reaction from Dassault convinced a person deputed from IAF to agree to support a home-grown effort.
Unfortunately some folks across the border say that LCA's design came completely from Dassault. Had this been the case then we would have faced immense criticism like the Chinese face.
Prof. Narasimha's name never figures in the credits list.