National Teachers' Awards 2024: IIT Roorkee, Delhi, Indore, and IISER Pune Professors Among Outstanding Educators

Educators from diverse institutions, including CHRIST University, Punjab Engineering College, and Banaras Hindu University, are recognized for their innovative teaching methods, research, and contributions to nation-building."

On the occasion of Teachers' Day, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, conferred the prestigious National Teachers' Awards to exemplary educators from across the country. In a ceremony held in New Delhi, President Murmu highlighted the pivotal role that teachers play in shaping not only the minds but also the character and future of the nation. She emphasized that the true meaning of life lies in working for the welfare of others, and teachers must go beyond academics to nurture well-rounded, ethical, and enterprising citizens.

Recognizing Excellence in Education

During the ceremony, President Murmu stressed that while academic achievement is vital, it represents only one dimension of a child’s potential. "A child might be an excellent athlete, a budding leader, or someone deeply engaged in social welfare. It is the teacher's responsibility to identify and nurture these diverse talents," she said. The awardees included educators from various disciplines who have contributed significantly to the educational landscape through the integration of new technologies, experiential learning, and a strong focus on skill development.

Honoring IIT Professors for Their Contributions

The National Teachers' Awards 2024 also celebrated several professors from prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) who have set new benchmarks in education and research, shaping the future of their fields.

Prof. Kapil Ahuja – IIT Indore

With 14 years of experience in both India and the U.S., Prof. Kapil Ahuja has transformed the field of Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Indore. His leadership in establishing the M.Sc. program and his groundbreaking research on bilateral stability have earned him recognition, including IIT Indore’s Best Teacher Award. His work has significantly enhanced network efficiency for companies, contributing to advancements in both industry and academia.

Prof. Nidhi Jain – IIT Delhi

A leader in the Department of Chemistry at IIT Delhi, Prof. Nidhi Jain’s sustainable research on medicinal compound synthesis has garnered over 3,900 citations. Her involvement in the IIT-PAL program, which simplifies learning for students, has made her a beloved figure in the academic community. With 16 years of dedicated service, her contributions continue to drive innovation in both research and education.

Prof. Vinay Sharma – IIT Roorkee

With more than three decades of experience in the Department of Management at IIT Roorkee, Prof. Vinay Sharma has significantly contributed to human resource development, mentoring over 5,000 senior executives. His pivotal role in the Ganga River Basin Environment Management Plan and his widely recognized book Affordability for the Poor and Profitability for the Provider have had a lasting impact on social development and industry engagement.

Prof. Srinivas Hotha – IISER Pune

Prof. Srinivas Hotha, from IISER Pune’s Department of Chemistry, has pioneered significant research, including the discovery of the first gold-catalyzed glycosidation and contributions to tuberculosis vaccine research. His innovative teaching methods, paired with his research, have made him a leading figure in the field of chemistry education, with 21 years of experience shaping future scientists.

Celebrating Educators from Other Prestigious Institutions

In addition to the IIT and IISER professors, several educators from other esteemed institutions were honored for their groundbreaking work.

Dr. Anitha Suseelan – CHRIST University

Dr. Anitha Suseelan has revolutionized architectural education at CHRIST University with her Rural Studio Program, focusing on sustainable design, skill development, and rural research. Her work has brought national and international recognition to the institution and has transformed architectural education through experiential learning.

Dr. Shimi S.L – Punjab Engineering College

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Shimi S.L. from Punjab Engineering College has made significant strides in Power Electronics and Electro-mobility, earning a patent for her work on a ‘Multilevel Inverter’. Her leadership in sustainable education, integrating renewable energy solutions such as solar-powered classrooms and EV charging stations, has positioned her as a key figure in the shift towards eco-friendly education.

Prof. Biranchi Kumar Sarma – Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Prof. Biranchi Kumar Sarma, with 22 years of experience at BHU, has been a leader in developing MOOCs and promoting experiential learning in bio-fertilizer and bio-pesticide production. His focus on entrepreneurship and real-time problem-solving equips students with the skills to tackle industry challenges, making him a standout in the field of agricultural science.

Dr. A.S. Smiline Girija – PGIBMS, University of Madras

Dr. Smiline Girija’s innovative teaching methods and research in medical microbiology at PGIBMS, University of Madras, have transformed clinical education. By implementing game-based assessments and emphasizing evidence-based dentistry, she has bridged the gap between theory and practice, significantly enhancing student engagement and outcomes.

A Vision for the Future

The awards ceremony reflected the evolving landscape of Indian education, particularly with the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020, which places a strong emphasis on skill development and vocational training. President Murmu expressed confidence that the awardees' contributions would help propel India toward becoming a global knowledge hub.