Prof Jayant V. Narlikar, eminent astronomer and founder director of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune, was presented the first Govind Swarup Lifetime Achievement Award by the Astronomical Society of India (ASI) on Thursday.
The ASI had instituted the award in 2022, as it celebrated its golden jubilee, to recognize eminent Indian astronomers for their contributions in the field of astronomy and astrophysics.
Prof Dipankar Banerjee, President of ASI, told The Indian Express that the award was announced earlier this year at the 41st meeting of the society held at IIT Indore. “However, Prof. Narlikar was unable to travel to receive it. Hence today we handed over the award to Prof. Narlikar at his residence in Pune and felicitated him,” Prof Banerjee said. The award carries a citation and plaque, and a cash prize.
“The most befitting recipient of the very first ASI Govind Swarup Lifetime Achievement award is Prof. Narlikar who has also been a past President of ASI,” Prof Banerjee said. He added that though their work domains differed widely, Prof. Swarup and Prof. Narlikar remained deeply committed to the country’s growth in astronomy and astrophysics.
Prof. R. Srianand, Director, IUCAA, said, “We at IUCAA are delighted that Prof. Jayant Narlikar has been conferred with the Govid Swarup lifetime achievement award of the ASI for the year 2022. It is indeed a very special moment as an award named after one of the brightest instrument builders of a generation has been given to the most inspiring cosmologist of the same generation.”
Prof Narlikar is known for his study of the Universe, contributing to various aspects of Astrophysics including the Narlikar-Hoyle theory. He was also among the first to initiate cosmology research in India.“He came up with an idea of creating a dedicated center to nucleate and spread astronomy curriculum and research in the Indian Universities. His dream was fulfilled with his hard work by the formation of IUCAA. He has been a motivational figure for young aspiring minds for decades. His continued active involvement in science and outreach is an inspiration to all of us,” Prof Srianand said.
