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Ranikhet College Faculty Member Recognised for His Contributions to Education, Scientific Research and Science Popularisation
Dr. Bharat Pandey, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at SSJDWSSS Government P.G. College, Ranikhet, has been honoured with the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam National Excellence Award 2026 for his contributions to education, scientific research, innovation and science popularisation. The award, presented by the Tretayug Foundation, acknowledges his dedication to academic excellence and his efforts to promote scientific learning, particularly among students in rural and Himalayan regions.
Dr. Pandey has been actively involved in introducing innovative approaches to science education and creating opportunities for students to interact with distinguished scientists and researchers from India and abroad. His initiatives have helped connect classroom learning with modern scientific developments and encouraged students to explore new avenues in research and higher education.
As Coordinator of the college’s Science Popularisation Cell, he has played a key role in organizing international scientific lectures and academic programs in collaboration with the Bhaktivedanta Institute, Kolkata. These programs have provided students with opportunities to attend lectures by Nobel Laureates, including Prof. David J. Wineland and Prof. Morten P. Meldal, along with several internationally acclaimed scientists. Such initiatives have brought global scientific perspectives closer to students studying in the hill region.
Dr. Pandey has also made significant contributions to technology-enabled science education through the Virtual Laboratory initiatives of IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay. His efforts have helped students and faculty members gain practical exposure to scientific experiments through digital platforms, particularly where access to advanced laboratory facilities is limited.
Another important area of his work has been encouraging girls to pursue higher education and careers in science. As Coordinator of the SHE for STEM programme, implemented in collaboration with UCOST and VigyanShaala, he has been actively involved in providing mentorship, scientific exposure and research opportunities to female students. Under his guidance, five students from the college were selected for the Accelerator Phase of the programs.
An active researcher in natural products chemistry, medicinal plants and their potential applications, Dr. Pandey has published research papers in reputed international journals and contributed to various patent-related activities. His contributions to teaching, research and academic innovation have previously earned him several recognitions.
In addition to his teaching and research responsibilities, Dr. Pandey serves as District Coordinator of UCOST, Almora, Assistant Coordinator of the College Research Cell, and Coordinator of the Science Popularisation Cell and SHE for STEM programme. Through these responsibilities, he continues to promote scientific awareness, research culture and student participation in academic activities.
Principal Prof. Pushpesh Pande congratulated Dr. Bharat Pandey on receiving the award and expressed his pleasure over the achievement. He appreciated Dr. Pandey’s continued efforts to strengthen scientific learning, research and innovation in the college. He said that such recognition brings pride to the institution and encourages faculty members and students to pursue excellence in their respective fields.
Dr. Pandey said that receiving an award named after former President and eminent scientist Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam holds special significance for him. He described Dr. Kalam as a source of inspiration for teachers, researchers and young scientists, and reaffirmed his commitment to making quality science education, research opportunities and modern scientific resources more accessible to students from rural and Himalayan regions.
