Professor Ashutosh Sharma, a distinguished chair professor at IIT Kanpur, has been named among the recipients of the prestigious Padma Shri Award, as announced on Republic Day. A pioneer in nanotechnology and interdisciplinary research, Sharma’s contributions span academia, innovation, and public service.
An alumnus of IIT Kanpur (BTech, Chemical Engineering, 1977–1982), Ashutosh Sharma began his academic career as an assistant professor in 1990 and rose to prominence with groundbreaking initiatives. He established the Nano Technology and Imaging Centres at IIT Kanpur and served as Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, from 2015 to 2021. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sharma played a crucial role in launching impactful startup products aimed at patient care.
Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, the then Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Government of India sharing his insights at Elets Webinar titled Fighting Corona – Leveraging Scientific Research & Innovation held in May 2020.
Reacting to the honour, Sharma, who hails from Jaipur, said, “I was spending the evening with my family when I received the news of the Padma Shri. It’s a proud moment for all of us. Now, my focus is on working for society.”
Professor Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, lauded Sharma’s achievements, stating, “It is a matter of immense pride for the Institute. Professor Sharma is an exceptional researcher who has made path-breaking contributions, including a transformative approach to mission-mode programs during his tenure as Secretary DST.”
Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, remarked, “Prof. Sharma’s exceptional leadership and interdisciplinary contributions have significantly shaped India’s scientific landscape.”
The IIT Kanpur community also celebrated the honour, with heartfelt congratulations pouring in for their esteemed faculty member and alumnus.
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A Legacy of Excellence
Sharma joined IIT Kanpur as a professor in the Chemical Engineering Department in 1997 and has since been instrumental in advancing nanotechnology and soft nanofabrication. His tenure at the Ministry of Science and Technology saw significant strides in innovation and interdisciplinary research. Sharma is a recipient of over 20 prestigious awards, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award and the Infosys Prize.
His dedication to societal welfare is evident in his leadership during the pandemic, which saw the development of several innovative startup products. Sharma said about his future plans, “My goal remains the welfare of society through impactful initiatives.”
