ASSOCIATION OF

INDIAN UNIVERSITIES
NATIONAL WOMEN
VICE CHANCELLORS’ CONFERENCE
on

PROMOTING WOMEN
LEADERSHIP IN
HIGHER EDUCATION
July 17-18, 2023

Organized By

Association of Indian Shiksha Sanskriti

Universities (AIU) Utthan Nyas

Hosted By

IILM University, Gurugram, Haryana 1

2
 ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
Taking a step towards promoting women's leadership roles in academia, Association
of Indian Universities (AIU) is organizing the First National Women Vice Chancellors’
Conference in collaboration with Shiksha Sanskriti Uttahan Nyas and IILM University
Gurugram, Haryana. The conference is hosted by IILM University in the millennium
city of Gurugram from July 17 to July 18, 2023. The conference aims to bring together
women vice- chancellors, educators, administrators, and members of academic bodies
to discuss the theoretical and practical implications of learning, teaching, research, and
administration in order to create a conducive environment for holistic development.
The event will be attended by prominent women education leaders from India and
abroad, serving as vice- chancellors of various public and private universities, and
handling prominent organization.
Women in leadership positions are changing the world. The rise of female leadership
in communities, businesses, and political positions redefines ideas of what it means
to be an effective leader. Inclusion of women Leaders in Higher Education holding
various positions (such as Vice Chancellors, Deans, Directors) has ensured diversity
and inclusiveness and has witnessed greater impact on the culture of the institutions.
Though women participation is encouraged in Higher Education, gender parity
in top leadership roles at universities are still lacking. As per the most recent Times
Higher Education World University Rankings 2021, only 20 per cent of the top 200
higher education institutions the world over is led by women. The statistics on women
leadership in India paints a dismal picture. While many make it to mid-ranking posts
such as Deans, Heads of Departments and Controller of Examination, fewer than 7 per
cent of Vice Chancellors in India are women with many of them relegated to women-
only universities, where it is mandated that the post of Vice-Chancellor is to be held by
a woman only.
Women leadership in Indian academia is heavily skewed with over 1000 universities
but less than 70 women vice chancellors. As diversity and inclusion become well-
entrenched ideas in the global workspace, it is important to consider the push and pull
factors that determine the rise of women leaders. Even while clarion calls are made
to promote and ensure gender equity through well-meaning policies and schemes,
capacity building and mentoring of women for leadership roles assume importance.
Out of 989 Noble Prizes awarded till now, there are 61 women winners and 928 men
have received the Noble Prize. We need a culture in science that encourages women to
not just choose to enroll in STEM, but that also supports them to complete the graduation
and join the STEM workforce. One of the key reasons that women do not persist in STEM
is the combined effects of a “chilly,” “weed-out” and “masculine” culture of STEM, which
favours men. STEM pathway or pipeline studies have shown that culturally responsive
curricula and pedagogies, same-gender faculty mentoring, inclusive interactions with
peers, and networks and women role models through professional associations are crucial
factors to promote the retention of women in STEM fields.

3
 On a global scale, Higher Education needs to close the gender gaps by promoting
more women leaders, who would be instrumental in achieving all but more significantly
the following three Sustainable Development Goals namely:
Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
Goal 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth
Goal 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries by 2030

Objectives of the Conference:

This conference has multi-fold objectives as listed below:
 T
o sensitise top-level women academic leaders towards reforms and challenges
in higher education
 To enable women academic leaders to focus on globalisation of higher education
 T
o provide ways and means of administering tech-enabled higher education
system.
 To skill the women workforce to create Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Conference Sessions Details:

Session I: Gender Equity and inclusivity in Higher Education
Gender Equality & Inclusiveness are fundamental to the development process. Equity
is the provision of fairness and justice in the distribution of benefits & responsibilities
between women, men, and all genders. Inclusiveness creates belongingness amongst
the people in society. Gender Equity and Inclusiveness in Higher Education would
fuel sustainable economies and benefit societies and humanity at large. Sustainable
Development Goals 5 and 10 of the United Nations 2030 Agenda focus on achieving
gender equity and reducing inequalities through social, political & economic affairs.
One of the key aspects of promoting gender equity in higher education is ensuring
equal access to educational opportunities. Efforts have been made to remove barriers
that prevent women and other marginalized genders from accessing higher education.
Scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs have been implemented to provide
support and increase enrolment rates for underrepresented groups. Additionally,
outreach programs and mentorship initiatives have been established to encourage
young girls to pursue higher education and STEM fields.
However, inclusivity goes beyond access and also focuses on creating a supportive
and inclusive learning environment. Higher education institutions have to adopt
& implement policies and practices that address gender-based discrimination and
harassment. Anti-discrimination policies and codes of conduct need to be devised
to ensure they are comprehensive and protect all students, regardless of their gender
identity or expression. Further, training programs for faculty and staff are re-revised to

4
increase awareness and sensitivity to gender-related issues and create a more inclusive
classroom experience.
Also, curriculum has to be diversified to include a broader range of perspectives
and experiences. Of late, gender studies and women's studies programs have gained
prominence, exploring the social, cultural, and historical aspects of gender, as well as
the contributions of women and marginalized genders in various fields. This can help
in eliminating gender stereotypes and in promoting a more nuanced understanding of
gender issues. Focussed policy initiatives are required to increase the representation
of women in leadership positions, such as university administration and department
chairs to ensure that diverse perspectives are incorporated into decision-making
processes. Similarly, efforts to diversify the faculty are required, with a focus on
recruiting and retaining women and individuals from underrepresented groups. This
will help in creating a more inclusive learning environment and in fostering diverse
academic discourse.
Gender equity and inclusivity in higher education are essential for creating a fair
and inclusive society. Higher education institutions can foster an environment that
embraces and celebrates the gender diversity by ensuring equal access, promoting an
inclusive learning environment, diversifying the curriculum, increasing representation,
and supporting student-led initiatives. The efforts in this regard would benefit the
individuals directly involved and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society
as a whole.

Session II: Roles and contribution of women in promoting Higher

Education
Women’s participation in higher education helps to achieve gender equality in the
society and economy. The Gross Enrolment Ratio of Women in India is reasonably
good, but yet participation of marginalised and disadvantaged groups is at the minimal.
Measures such as ‘Gender Inclusion fund’ and ‘Special Education Zones’ (as proposed
in NEP 2020) would pave for inclusion of socially and economically disadvantaged
groups. Further, internationalisation of higher education becomes imperative for
learner today which would be fostered through internationally relevant curricula,
brand building of Indian HEIs, academic and research collaborations with foreign
universities, credit recognition under twinning agreement, global citizenship approach
and engaging with foreign alumni
Women have played pivotal roles in promoting higher education and have made
significant contributions to its advancement. Throughout history, women have
fought tirelessly for their right to education and have been instrumental in creating
opportunities for themselves and future generations. Their contributions have been
multifaceted and far-reaching, spanning various domains of higher education.
One of the key roles’ women have played is in establishing and advocating for
women's colleges and universities. These institutions have provided a safe and
supportive environment for women to pursue higher education when traditional

5
universities were largely inaccessible to them. Women like Savitri Bai Phule paved the
way for women education and helped establish the foundation for future advancements
in women's education.
In addition to their roles as advocates and founders, women have made remarkable
contributions to various academic disciplines. Women scholars have achieved
groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in fields ranging from mathematics
and science to literature and social sciences. For example, Marie Curie, a Polish-born
scientist, became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win
Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields. Her work in radioactivity revolutionized
the field of physics and inspired countless women to pursue scientific careers. India’s
rich history is replete with examples of several great scientists who have brought
immense pride to the nation. Among them there are several women scientists like
Anandibai Gopalrao Joshi, Janaki Ammal, Kamala Sohonie, Asima Chatterjee,
Rajeshwari Chatterjee, Kalpana Chawla, Dr. Indira Hinduja and Dr. Aditi Pant who
have contributed significantly to various disciplines of science. Their lives are role
models for all girls who aspire to make a mark in the field of science and technology.
In leadership roles, women have made substantial contributions to higher education
institutions. Women administrators and department chairs have brought a unique
perspective to decision-making processes, promoting policies that support gender
equity and inclusivity. By actively working towards increasing the representation
of women in leadership positions, they can not only create role models for aspiring
women leaders but they can also contribute to a more balanced and diverse leadership
landscape in higher education.

Session III: Enabling women for Tech enabled Higher Education

including AI
Covid 19 Pandemic has forced higher education to shift to online learning
overnight. Women have lot of opportunities unlike olden days to learn and at the same
time perform their household duties. Virtual classrooms provide lot a of flexibility
along with reduced cost. Women need to leverage on this tech-based teaching-learning
environment by equipping themselves with requisite computer skills and contemporary
education technologies. Women need to thus prepare themselves towards interactive,
diverse learning models and capitalise on the range of opportunities available in India
and abroad
Enabling women for tech-enabled higher education, including artificial intelligence
(AI), is crucial for fostering gender equity and preparing women for the opportunities
and challenges of the digital age. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition
of the importance of women's participation in technology and AI fields, as well as the
need to ensure their representation and inclusion in higher education.
To enable women for tech-enabled higher education, it is essential to address the
barriers and challenges they may face. Access to technology and digital infrastructure is
a fundamental requirement. Efforts must be made to bridge the digital divide, ensuring

6
that women have equal access to computers, internet connectivity, and relevant software
and tools. This can be achieved through initiatives such as providing scholarships or
grants for technology resources and establishing computer labs or technology centers
in educational institutions.
In addition to access, there is a need to focus on building digital literacy and technical
skills among women. Educational institutions should offer programs and courses that
specifically target women, providing training in basic computer skills, coding, AI, data
analysis, and other relevant areas. This will empower women to navigate the tech-enabled
higher education landscape, participate actively in digital learning environments,
and develop the skills necessary for future careers in technology and AI. Mentorship
and support networks play a crucial role in enabling women for tech-enabled higher
education. Establishing mentorship programs that connect women students with
experienced professionals in the technology industry can provide guidance, advice,
and support. These mentorship relationships can help women navigate academic and
professional challenges, build confidence, and gain insights into career pathways in
technology and AI. Creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment is also
essential. Educational institutions should foster a culture that encourages women's
participation in technology-related fields and AI. This can be achieved through the
implementation of inclusive policies, such as gender-balanced recruitment and
admissions processes, the inclusion of diverse perspectives in curriculum design, and
the promotion of gender diversity in faculty and leadership positions.
By addressing barriers to access, building digital literacy and technical skills,
providing mentorship and support networks, fostering an inclusive learning
environment, showcasing role models, and fostering collaborations, women can be
empowered to pursue education and careers in technology and AI. These efforts will
benefit women and contribute to a more diverse and innovative technology sector and
a society that values gender equity and inclusivity in higher education and beyond.

Session IV: International perspective on women leadership

Across the globe, there is a realization that gender diversity in leadership
positions is not only a matter of fairness and equality but also a strategic imperative
for organizations, societies, and nations. Numerous studies have demonstrated the
positive impact of women's leadership on various outcomes, including financial
performance, innovation, decision-making, and organizational culture. Countries
that prioritize gender equality and women's empowerment tend to experience higher
levels of economic growth, social progress, and overall well-being. As a result, there is a
growing demand for increased representation of women in leadership positions across
sectors and industries.
International organizations and initiatives have played a crucial role in advocating
for women's leadership and driving change. The United Nations, through its Sustainable
Development Goals, has recognized gender equality and women's empowerment as key
drivers of sustainable development. The UN Women agency works to promote women's
leadership and political participation, emphasizing the importance of women's voices

7
in decision-making processes at all levels. Global campaigns such as He For She and
International Women's Day have raised awareness and mobilized support for women's
leadership. These campaigns engage men and women as allies in promoting gender
equality and highlight the benefits of women's leadership in creating more inclusive
and effective organizations and societies.
In many countries, efforts to promote women's leadership have resulted in the
implementation of quotas or targets for women's representation on corporate boards,
government bodies, and public institutions. For example, countries like Norway,
Iceland, and France have successfully implemented board gender quotas, leading to
significant increases in the proportion of women in corporate leadership roles. These
policy interventions have been instrumental in breaking down barriers and creating
opportunities for women to ascend to leadership positions.
However, challenges and barriers persist. Women continue to face systemic biases,
discrimination, and cultural norms that limit their access to leadership positions. Gender
stereotypes, work-life balance challenges, and lack of mentorship and networking
opportunities also contribute to the underrepresentation of women in leadership
roles. Addressing these barriers requires a multi-faceted approach that includes policy
changes, organizational reforms, cultural shifts, and targeted interventions.

Session V: Role of women in creating a humane society

Women have greater responsibilities in creating a society dedicated to principles of
justice, equality and fraternity as humane approach is innate quality of women. The role
of a woman in modern society is continuously evolving with the changes in the world.
Women by nature have the acceptability and tenability to play versatile roles in their
society for well-being, growth and development. Throughout history, women’s role in
society, particularly as mothers in raising family has made her a catalyst in character-
building and inculcation of values among mankind with care and compassion. This
noble nature of women needs to be harnessed further in this fast-paced digital world
that lacks moral values and oneness.
Women play a crucial role in creating a more humane society by promoting
compassion, empathy, and equality. Throughout history, women have been at the
forefront of social movements, advocating for justice, peace, and the well-being of
individuals and communities. Their contributions range from addressing gender
inequality and violence against women to championing human rights, education,
healthcare, and environmental sustainability. One significant aspect of women's role
in creating a more humane society is their commitment to promoting social justice
and equality. Women have been instrumental in challenging oppressive systems and
advocating for the rights of marginalized groups. Their leadership and activism have
brought attention to issues such as gender discrimination, racial inequality, income
disparities, and access to healthcare and education. Women's voices and experiences
have shed light on the intersecting forms of oppression and have pushed for policy
changes and social reforms that promote inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.
Women also contribute to create a better society through their nurturing and

8
caregiving roles. As mothers, sisters, daughters, and caregivers, women often take
on the responsibility of providing emotional support, care, and compassion to their
families and communities. Their ability to empathize and connect with others fosters
a sense of community, empathy, and understanding. By nurturing and promoting
positive values and behaviours, women help create a more compassionate and cohesive
society. Women's involvement in education and healthcare initiatives has a profound
impact on society's well-being. Women educators, researchers, and practitioners play
vital roles in shaping the minds and lives of individuals. Their dedication to quality
education, inclusive teaching practices, and holistic development empowers future
generations with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to build a more just and
humane society. In the healthcare sector, women's contributions as doctors, nurses, and
healthcare providers are invaluable. Their empathy, compassion, and commitment to
the well-being of others enhance the delivery of healthcare services and contribute to
better health outcomes for individuals and communities.
Women's voices and perspectives are essential in decision-making processes that
shape policies and practices. Increasing the representation of women in leadership
positions, whether in government, organizations, or community initiatives, ensures
that diverse perspectives are taken into account and that the needs and experiences
of women are addressed. Women leaders bring a collaborative and inclusive approach
to governance and decision-making, fostering a more humane and responsive society.
Women's activism in environmental sustainability and climate justice plays a vital
role. Women have been at the forefront of environmental movements, advocating
for sustainable practices, conservation, and the protection of natural resources.
Their holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of social, economic, and
environmental factors enables them to promote sustainable development and advocate
for environmental justice, particularly for marginalized communities disproportionately
affected by environmental degradation.

Session VI: Skilling women to create Atma Nirbhar Bharat

Atmanirbhar Bharat which translates to ‘self-reliant India’ is our country’s ambition
initiative to become more efficient, competitive and resilient. Women need to become
financially independent which is possible through education and employment. Women
need to develop skills, take up jobs, start enterprises and stay empowered. Our country
has shifted its focus from women development to women led development and lot of
initiatives have been put forth to maximise women’s access to education, skill training
and institutional credit. Skilling Women to create a future-ready workforce of women
becomes a priority for any country aspiring to become a global economic superpower.
Skilling women to create an Atma Nirbhar Bharat, is a critical step towards achieving
gender equality and economic empowerment. Women constitute a significant portion
of India's population and have immense potential to contribute to the country's progress
and development. By equipping women with the necessary skills and knowledge, they
can actively participate in the workforce, start their own businesses, and become drivers
of innovation and change.

9
 Skilling women involves providing them with quality education and training
programs that address their specific needs and aspirations. This includes promoting
digital literacy and technology skills, as well as providing vocational training in various
sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. By
focusing on these areas, women can acquire the skills that are in demand in today's job
market and leverage technology to enhance their productivity and efficiency. Skilling
women should go beyond technical skills and encompass soft skills development.
Effective communication, leadership, problem-solving, and critical thinking are
essential for women to thrive in their chosen fields and navigate the complexities of the
professional world. By empowering women with these skills, they can enhance their
employability, adaptability, and ability to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
Government initiatives and policies play a crucial role in skilling women and
creating an Atma Nirbhar Bharat. Programs such as Skill India, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal
Vikas Yojana, and Stand-Up India have been launched to provide skill development
opportunities and entrepreneurship support to women. These initiatives aim to bridge
the gender gap in skill development and promote women's economic empowerment.
Additionally, financial incentives, scholarships, and access to affordable credit are
essential to enable women to invest in their skill development and entrepreneurial
ventures. In addition to government support, partnerships between educational
institutions, industry, and civil society organizations are vital for skilling women.
Collaboration can help design and implement gender-responsive training programs,
facilitate industry internships and apprenticeships, and create mentorship opportunities.
Industry participation is crucial to align skill development programs with market
needs and provide women with practical exposure to real-world scenarios. Creating
a supportive ecosystem that encourages and celebrates women's entrepreneurship is
vital. Providing women with access to business incubators, mentorship networks, and
market linkages can help them start and grow their businesses. Building awareness
about available resources, networking events, and funding opportunities is essential to
inspire and motivate women to take entrepreneurial risks.
Skilling women to create an Atma Nirbhar Bharat has numerous benefits for society as
a whole. When women are skilled and empowered, they contribute to economic growth,
poverty reduction, and sustainable development. Women's increased participation in
the workforce and entrepreneurship leads to higher household incomes, improved
living standards, and greater financial stability for families. Additionally, women's
perspectives and contributions drive innovation, creativity, and diversity, leading to
more inclusive and sustainable solutions.

10
 ABOUT ASSOCIATION OF INDIAN UNIVERSITIES (AIU)
Association of Indian Universities (AIU) is an apex inter university representative
body of universities and other higher education institutions in the country. Established
in 1925 as the Inter University Board (IUB) of India, it acquired its legal status
as a registered society in 1967 under the Societies Registration Act 1860 and was
rechristened as Association of Indian Universities (AIU) in 1973. AIU is the second
oldest university association in the world next to the Association of Commonwealth
Universities which was established in 1913. It has the distinct feature of having the
largest network of universities and other HEIs under its ambit with 954 members
(938 Indian & 16 Associate Members of Foreign Countries). The membership of AIU
includes all types of universities e.g., Conventional Universities, Open Universities,
Deemed to be Universities, State Universities, Central Universities, Private Universities
and Institutes of National Importance. In addition to Indian Universities, Universities
/ Institutes from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Republic of Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mauritius,
Nepal, Thailand, United Arab Emirates and United Kingdom are its Associate
Members. Since its inception AIU has played a very significant role in the development
of Education in the Country.
Some of the eminent scholars and visionary leaders like Dr. Sarvepalli
Radhakrishnan, Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, Dr Zakir Hussain, Sir. A L. Mudaliar
have given leadership to AIU. During such a long journey, AIU has carved a niche for
itself by serving the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India as a research-based policy
advisory body. Being an apex institution, it constitutes an integral part of all major
decision-making committees and commissions in the country. As an academic ‘think
tank’ organization, AIU supports the Government as research-based policy advisory
body with the wider mandate of taking up research projects on higher education
policy and capacity building. It also acts as a bureau of information on higher
education; liaise with international bodies and universities for internationalization
of Indian higher education among many others. The Vision of AIU is to emerge as a
dynamic service and apex advisory organization in India by undertaking initiatives
and programmes which could strengthen and popularize Indian higher education
as leading-edge system in the world and promote greater national and international
collaboration in Higher Education, Research, Extension, Sports, Youth and Cultural
Activities. It is bestowed with the mission of promoting and representing the Indian
Universities and other higher education institutions through strong liaison with the
government and National/International organizations, sister associations world over
and establish liaison between/among universities through active support, cooperation
and coordination among the member universities and all its stakeholders for quality
education, research and other academics and extension activities.

11
 ABOUT SHIKSHA SANSKRITI UTTHAN NYAS
Lora=krk ds ckn ;g vis{kk Fkh fd ns'k dh f'k{kk dk Lo:i Hkkjrh; n`f"Vdks.k ls viuh
vko';drkvksa ds vuq:i gksxk ijUrq ,slk ugha gqvkA gekjk ekuuk gS fd ns'k dh vf/kdrj
leL;kvksa dh tM+ nks"kiw.kZ f'k{kk O;oLFkk gSA blfy, f'k{kk esa ifjorZu ;g izkFkfedrk dk fo"k;
gksuk pkfg,A bl gsrq fnukad 24 ebZ 2007 dks f'k{kk laLd`fr mRFkku U;kl dk xBu fd;k x;kA
U;kl dk y{; gS ^^ns'k dh f'k{kk esa u, fodYi nsukA** bl gsrq f'k{kk gekjh laLd`fr] izd`fr
,oa izxfr ds vuq:i cusA blds ekè;e ls Nk=ksa ds pfj=k fuekZ.k ,oa O;fDrRo ds lexz fodkl
}kjk ns'k dk leqfpr fodkl djrs gq, fo'o dY;k.k dk ekxZ iz'kLr gks ldsA

bl gsrq %&
 'kSf{kd ikB~;Øeksa esa O;kIr fod`fr;ksa ,oa folaxfr;ksa dks Bhd djkukA
 f'k{kk dk Lo:i Hkkjrh; fl)karks ds vk/kkj ij vk/qkfud vko';drkuqlkj ikB~;Øe
rS;kj djukA
 f'k{kk Lok;Ùk] ewY; vk/kkfjr ,oa ekr`Hkk"kk esa gksA

U;kl dk ekuuk gS fd %&

 ns'k dks cnyuk gS rks f'k{kk dks cnyuk gksxkA
 leL;k ugha lek/kku dh ppkZ djsaA
 ek¡] ekr`Hkwfe ,oa ekr`Hkk"kk dk dksbZ fodYi ugha gks ldrkA

bl gsrq ns'kHkj esa fofHkUu 'kSf{kd laLFkkuksa ds lkFk feydj gtkjks dh la[;k esa laxks"Bh] ifjppkZ
,oa dk;Z'kkykvksa dk vk;kstu djds ^^f'k{kk esa u, fodYi** dk izk:i rS;kj fd;k x;k gSA

mijksDr ladYiukvksa dks vk/kkj cukdj fofHkUu fo"k;ksa ds ikB~;Øe rS;kj fd, tk jgs gSaA
bldks fØ;kfUor djus gsrq vusdksa fo'ofo|ky; ,oa vU; 'kSf{kd laLFkkuksa esa vuqca/k (MOU)
fd;s x, gSA

bl gsrq ljdkj] 'kSf{kd laLFkku ,oa lkekftd 'kSf{kd laxBu ,d eap ij vkdj la;qDr :i ls
,oa vius&vius Lrj ij iz;kl dks vkxs c<+k, bl gsrq fofHkUu Lrjksa ij ^KkuksRlo* dk vk;kstu
fd;k tk jgk gSA

12
 ABOUT IILM UNIVERSITY, GURUGRAM, HARYANA
IILM University aims at a Mission of “Empowering Global Citizens, Learning
with Purpose. IILM was established in 1993, under the aegis of the Ram Krishan &
Sons Charitable Trust. With more than 28+ years of experience in training future
entrepreneurs and managers, it has emerged as one of the distinguished Universities
in the Delhi NCR area. The University has been set up under The Haryana Private
Universities (Amendment) Act, 2018 (Haryana Act No. 10 of 2018). It is located in
Sector 53 Gurugram, with a built area of over 1.5 lac square feet known for its state-of-
the-art facilities. We are centrally located with safe and secure campuses in New Delhi,
Gurgaon, and Greater Noida.
The leadership team at IILM is committed to upholding and promoting the mission
of the school: educate and develop innovative, entrepreneurial and responsible business
leaders. With their diverse backgrounds and perspectives, the Board of Governors, the
Advisory Body and the Director work together to lead the school forward, supporting
the faculty and staff, spearheading a host of new academic projects and initiatives across
its campuses and around the globe, and building and sustaining the collaborative,
inclusive environment for students that encourages learning and invention. The vision
states as “To be a leading institution of higher education that empowers students
to become responsible global citizens and leaders in their chosen fields through an
innovative, interdisciplinary, and inclusive approach to learning, with an emphasis on
learning with purpose and preparing students for purposeful work.”
IILM University’s mission is to provide students with an education that is both
intellectually stimulating and practically relevant.
We strive to foster a community of learners that is inclusive, diverse, and committed
to social responsibility. IILM offer a range of programs that are designed to prepare
students for successful careers and to inspire them to make a positive impact on the
world.
We are dedicated to providing students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences.

13
 PROGRAMME SCHEDULE

TIME SESSION

July 17, 2023

09 .30- 10.30 AM REGISTRATION/ WELCOME TEA

10.30AM-11.50 AM INAUGURAL SESSION

10.30 AM Arrival of the Chief Guest
10.32 AM Lighting of Lamp with Saraswati Vandana
10.35 AM Welcome of Chief Guest & Guests on the Dais
10.40 AM Welcome Address: Dr Sujata Shahi, Vice Chancellor, IILM
University
10.45 AM Address: Dr S Y Quraishi, Chancellor, IILM University &
Former Chief Election Commissioner of India
10.50 AM Address: Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, AIU
10.55 AM Presidential Address: Prof. G D Sharma, President, AIU and
VC, USTM, Meghalaya
11:00 AM Address by Guest of Honour: Shri Atul Kothari, Secretary,
Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas
11:15 AM Address by Special Guest of Honour: Dr. Kiran Bedi, Former
Lieutenant Governor, Puducherry
11.30 AM Inaugural Address by Chief Guest: Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani,
Hon’ble Union Minister, Women & Child Development and
Ministry of Minority Affairs, Govt. of India
11.50 AM Vote of Thanks: Ms. Shobha Paithankar, Convener, Mahila
Prakoshth, Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas

11.52 AM GROUP PHOTOGRAPH

11.55 AM -12.15 NETWORKING TEA

PM

14
12.15 PM- Session I: Gender Equity and inclusivity in Higher Education
1.45 PM
Chairperson: 
Prof. Shashikala Wanjari, VC, NIEPA,
New Delhi
Co-Chair: 
Prof (Ms) Shalini Bharat, Director, Tata
Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai
INTERACTIVE SESSION

1.45 PM-2.30 PM LUNCH

2.30 PM-4.00 PM Session II: Roles and contribution of women in promoting

Higher Education
Chairperson: 
Prof. (Dr.) Ami Umakant Upadhyay, VC,
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University,
Ahmedabad
Co-Chair: 
Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, The
Energy and Resources Institute (TERI),
New Delhi
INTERACTIVE SESSION

4.00 PM–4.30 PM TEA BREAK

4.30 PM -6.00 PM Session III: Enabling women for Tech enabled Higher
Education including AI
Chairperson: 
Prof. (Dr.) Nupur Prakash, VC, The
NorthCap University, Gurugram
Co-Chair: 
Prof Balvinder Shukla, VC, Amity
University, Noida
INTERACTIVE SESSION

6.00 PM-7.30 PM NETWORKING/ TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES

7.30 PM Onwards GALA DINNER

15
 July 18, 2023
10.00 – 11.30 AM Session IV: International perspective on women leadership
Chairperson: 
Dr. Monica Kennedy, Minister-Counsellor,
Commercial, Australian Trade and
Investment Commission
Co-Chair: 
Ms. Gloria Berbena, Minister-Counselor,
US Embassy in India
INTERACTIVE SESSION

11.30 AM - 12.00 TEA BREAK

NOON

12.00 NOON – Session V: Role of women in creating a humane society

1.30 PM
Chairperson: 
Prof. Najma Akhtar, VC, Jamia Millia
Islamia, New Delhi
Co-Chair: 
Dr. V. Bharathi Harishankar, VC,
Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science
and Higher Education for
Women University, Coimbatore
INTERACTIVE SESSION

1.30PM–2.30 PM LUNCH

2.30PM–4.00 PM Session VI: Skilling women to create Atma Nirbhar Bharat

Chairperson: 
Prof. Neelima Gupta, VC, Dr. Harisingh
Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar
Co-Chair: 
Prof Sushma Yadav, Pro-VC, Central
University of Haryana, Mahendergarh
INTERACTIVE SESSION

4.00 PM–4.15 PM TEA BREAK

4.15 PM–4.30 PM CULTURAL PROGRAMME

16
4.30 PM–5.40 PM VALEDICTORY SESSION
4.30 PM Arrival of the Chief Guest
4.32 PM Lighting of Lamp with Saraswati Vandana
4.35 PM Welcome of Chief Guest & Guests on the Dais
4.40 PM Welcome Address: Dr Sujata Shahi, Vice Chancellor, IILM
University
4.45 PM Address: Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, AIU
4.50 PM Address: Dr. Ranbir Singh, Pro-Chancellor, IILM University,
Gurugram & Former President, AIU
4.55 PM Address by Guest of Honour: Shri A Vinod, National
Convener, Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas
5.05 PM Presidential Address: Prof. G D Sharma, President, AIU and
VC, USTM, Meghalaya
5.15 PM Address by Guest of Honour: Ms. Kala Ramachandran, IPS,
Commissioner of Police, Gurugram
5.25 PM Address by Chief Guest Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar, Hon’ble
Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare,
Govt. of India (TBC)
5.40 PM Vote of Thanks: Ms. Shobha Paithankar, Convener, Mahila
Prakoshth, Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas

6.00 PM Bid Adieu with High Tea

17
 Profile of
Participants

18
 SPEAKERS

Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani

Hon’ble Union Minister, Women &
Child Development & Ministry of
Minority Affairs, Govt. of India

Born on 23rd March 1976, Mrs. Smriti Zubin Irani was elected to the Rajya Sabha,
the Upper House of Indian Parliament representing the State of Gujarat in 2011. In
August 2017 she was re-elected to Rajya Sabha from the state of Gujarat. In the 2019
General Elections, she was elected to the House of the People ‘Lok Sabha' from the
constituency of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh by defeating the then National President of
the Indian National Congress. Mrs. Irani is currently serving as the Union Minister for
Women & Child Development and Minister for Minority Affairs. She has previously
served as the Union Minister for Education (formerly known as Human Resource
Development) from May 2014 to July 2016, Minister for Information & Broadcasting
from July 2017 to May 2018 and Minister for Textiles from July 2016 to July 2021.
As Education Minister, Mrs. Irani introduced various educational reforms to
upscale India’s capacities in the field of research, innovation and technology. She was
instrumental in conceiving the New Education Policy of India and initiated several large
scale projects including India’s first MOOC platform SWAYAM, the National Digital
Library and a Global Network of Academicians called GIAN. She launched IM-PRINT
to foster research, innovation and technology among students and academia. In the
last three years as Minister for Women & Child Development, Mrs. Irani has worked
towards strengthening women & child protection services in India; including making
child pornography a criminal offence through POCSO Amendment Act. While serving
as National President of her political party the Bharatiya Janta Party’s Women’s Wing,
she successfully pursued Permanent Commission for Women in the Indian Army by
facilitating legal aid to women officers. She is credited with launching of ‘Saksham’- the
first ever Vision Document released by any political party in India underlining policies,
programs and implementation tools for the upliftment of the Differently- abled in India.
In the 126th Assembly of the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU), The World Economic
Forum has named Mrs. Irani as the Young Global Leader from India for the year 2015.
She has also served as the USAID Goodwill Ambassador to India for the WHO-ORS
program before her political debut in India.
Besides being an active social & political activist, Smriti Irani has had a successful
career as a Media Professional for over two decades starting from 1994. During this
period, she worked across different fields of media including creating content for news
& entertainment Television networks, films and theatre projects in 4 Indian languages.
She has also authored a book and contributed as a column writer to 2 national dailies.

19
 Dr. Kiran Bedi
Former Lieutenant Governor
Union Territory of Puducherry

Dr. Kiran Bedi, PPMG, PNBB (born 9 June 1949) is an Indian social activist,
former-tennis player who became the first woman in India to join the officer ranks
of the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1972 and was the 24th Lieutenant Governor of
Puducherry from 28 May 2016 to 16 February 2021.[2][3][4] She remained in service
for 35 years before taking voluntary retirement in 2007 as Director General, Bureau of
Police Research and Development.
As a teenager, Bedi was crowned the national junior tennis champion in 1966.
Between 1965 and 1978, she won several titles at various national and state-level
championships. After joining the IPS, Bedi served in Delhi, Goa, Chandigarh and
Mizoram. She started her career as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in the
Chanakyapuri area of Delhi, and won the President’s Police Medal in 1979. Next, she
moved to West Delhi, where she brought about a reduction in crimes against women.
Subsequently, as a traffic police officer, she oversaw traffic arrangements for the 1982
Asian Games in Delhi and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
1983 in Goa. As Deputy Commissioner of Police of North Delhi, she launched a
campaign against drug abuse, which evolved into the Navjyoti Delhi Police Foundation
(renamed to Navjyoti India Foundation in 2007).
In May 1993, Bedi was posted to the Delhi Prisons as Inspector General (IG). She
introduced several reforms at Tihar Jail, which won her the Ramon Magsaysay Award
in 1994. In 2003, Bedi became the first Indian and first woman to be appointed head
of the United Nations Police and Police Advisor in the United Nations Department of
Peace Operations. She resigned in 2007, to focus on social activism and writing. She
runs the India Vision Foundation. During 2008–11, she hosted a court show Aap Ki
Kachehri. She was one of the key leaders of the 2011 Indian anti-corruption movement,
and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in January 2015.

20
 Jh vrqy dksBkjh
lfpo
f'k{kk laLd`fr mRFkku U;kl

 f'k{kk laLd`fr mRFkku U;kl] ubZ fnYyh ds jk"Vªh; lfpoA

 f'k{kk cpkvks vkUnksyu lfefr ds jk"Vªh; lgla;kstdA
 f'k{kk&lao/Zu ds dk;ksZa gsrq fujUrj jk"Vª&O;kih izoklA
 ns'k esa f'k{kk {ks=k esa ldkjkRed dk;Z djus okyh laLFkkvksa] fo}kuksa ,oa dk;ZdrkZvksa dks ,d
 e ap ij ykus ds fy, fujarj ;Ru'khyA
 ^^ns'k dh f'k{kk esa u;s fodYi** gsrq d`rladfYirA
 f'k{kk ds fofHkUu fo"k;ksa ds fo'ks"kK ds :i esa ns'k ds fofHkUu fo'ofo|ky;ksa ,oa 'kSf{kd
  aLFkkvksa ls lEc¼A
l
 fgekpy izns'k Ldwy cksMZ ds lnL;A
 Hkkjrh; Hkk"kk eap ,oa Hkkjrh; Hkk"kk vfHk;ku ds laj{kdA
 f'k{kk LokLF; U;kl ds laLFkkidA
 nf{k.kk iQkm.Ms'ku ds laLFkkid lnL;A

iwoZ nkf;Ro
 iatkc VSfDudy ;wfuoflZVh ds osY;w ,T;qds'ku cksMZ vkWiQ LVMht vè;;u cksMZ ds lnL;A
 ^^pfj=k&fuekZ.k ,oa O;fDrRo ds lexz fodkl** ikB~;Øe lfefr ds lnL;A
 fo|kFkhZ dky ¼yxHkx 1979½ ls gh lkekftd {ks=k esa lfØ;A
 f'k{kk cpkvks vkUnksyu lfefr ¼o"kZ 2004½ ds vk| laLFkkidksa esa ls ,dA
 ^^f'k{kk cpkvks vkUnksyu ds ekè;e ls ns'kHkj ds ikB~;Øeksa o ikB~;iqLrdksa dh
 fod`fr;ksa o folaxfr;ksa dks nwj djkus esa ;'kfLork ds vtZd o vHkh rd 11 U;k;ky;ksa ds
fu.kZ; f'k{kk cpkvks vkUnksyu ds i{k esa ykus esa eq[; HkwfedkA
 vLFkkbZ :i ls 'kq: gq, f'k{kk cpkvks vkUnksyu ds LFkk;hdj.k esa egRoiw.kZ Hkwfedk dk
fuoZguA
 f'k{kk laLd`fr mRFkku U;kl ds laLFkkid lg&lfpo 2010 rdA

fuEukafdr fopkj&lw=kkas ds iqjLdrkZ&

 ^^ns'k dks cnyuk gS] rks f'k{kk dks cnyuk gksxk**A
 ^^leL;k dh ugha] lek/ku dh** ppkZ djsaA
 ^^ek¡] ekr`Hkwfe ,oa ekr`Hkk"kk dk dksbZ fodYi ugha**A

21
 Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar
Hon’ble Minister of State
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Govt. of India

Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar is an Indian politician currently serving as the Minister of
State for Health and Family Welfare of India from 7 July 2021. Bharti Pawar was born
on 13 September 1978 in Narul-Kalwan, Adivasi region of Nashik, Maharashtra, She
is married to Pravin Pawar. Pawar earned MBBS in 2002 from N.D.M.V.P's Medical
College, Nashik. She was elected to the 17th Lok Sabha, lower house of the Parliament
of India from Dindori, Loksabha Constituency Maharashtra in the 2019 Indian general
election as member of the Bharatiya Janata Party . She has been awarded as Best Women
Parliamentarian in December 2019 - by Lokmat Media Group.

22
 Ms. Kala Ramachandran, IPS
Commissioner of Police,
Gurugram- Haryana

Ms. Kala Ramachandran has created history and become the first woman Police
Commissioner of Gurugram. Apart from being the first woman at this post, Kala
Ramachandran has many feathers in her cap. She is only the second IPS Officer of
ADGP rank, after Mohammad Akil, who has been given the charge of executing the
duties of the Police Chief of Gurugram. Though her career remains largely dominated
by her stint with the Intelligence Bureau, the journey to this place spanned across
departments and was full of a variety of experiences.
Kala Ramachandran is originally from the Tamil Nadu cadre of officers. Her work
with the Haryana cadre started only after she got married to the senior IPS officer
Navdeep Singh Virk. While Ramachandran has also discharged her duties at the
level of Joint Director, her husband Virk was also a former Police Commissioner of
Gurugram. Ramachandran's career at the Haryana cadre had several stints like SP
Rewari, Panchkula and Fatehabad. Her being posted at the ADGP rank happened only
in Panchkula.
The appointment of the first woman Police Chief came at a strategic time when
the Gurugram Police has found itself in the middle of several controversies. Be it the
issue of crime in the city or alleged bribe cases of the officers, issues in the city's police
have surfaced every now and then. Kala Ramachandran puts forward her ideas for the
betterment of city and the police force. While her aim is to make Gurugram a safer and
better city for its residents, especially women and children, she also wants to focus on
traffic problems. Talking to PTI she said, "I will spell out my detailed plans when I join
and meet my team but my basic goal of strengthening basic policing is very clear. As
police personnel, I would ensure that the entire force works towards making the city
and its residents safe and secure."

23
 Prof.G D Sharma
President
Association of Indian University & Vice
Chancellor, USTM, Meghalaya

Professor G.D. Sharma is a leading educationist, eminent scholar, reputed life-

scientist, and well known academic administrator of India as a Vice Chancellor. Prof
Sharma has been given various Awards like Birbal Sahni, Award by Indian Botanical
Society, Best research paper award by Indian Phyto-pathological Society, Higher
Education leadership Award by International Society, DEEDS award by Federation of
Indian Universities, UNESCO, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan Education Excellency Award in
recognition of outstanding contribution in the field of Education conferred by Indian
under ministry of education government of India.
During his tenure as Vice Chancellor, he was deputed by the Ministry of External
Affairs to Myanmar (Rangoon University in 2005) to uplift the higher education
standard.He has edited/authored 13 books published by Indian and foreign publishers.
Prof Sharma has visited countries like USA, England, Canada, Japan, China, Malaysia,
Myanmar, and Thailand for various academic activities and assignments. Prof Sharma
is currently working as Vice Chancellor, University of Science and Technology
Meghalaya after serving Bilaspur State University in Chhattisgarh since June 2012.
As a Founder Vice Chancellor, he has made significant contributions in Quality
enhancements of Higher Education during his two terms of Vice Chancellor in the
state of Chhattisgarh. At the same time, he envisions a rapid development of Central
and North East India with his master plan. He has Fellowship of Academic Society from
Royal Society, London, UK &amp; INSA, India under exchange programme, Fellow of
Indian Mycological Society. 2009 (FIMS), Fellow of Indian Botanical Soc.(FBS), Fellow
of International Natural Resource and Environment Society (FINRES).
He has received several Awards/honours namely Dr. Narsimhan Medal award by
Indian Phytopathology Society In 1993 for best research Paper, Rashtriya Ratna
Award by International Study Center, 2003., DEED Award by Confederation of Indian
Univs, IAEWA Affiliated to UNESCO, 2004., Birbal Sahni Award By Indian Botanical
Society 2010, S.K. Barua Memorial Lecture at Calcutta Univ. 2009., CSIR Foundation
Day Lecture at NEIST, Jorhat, 2009, Foundation Day Lecture, Dibrugarh University
2005, Education Excellence Award by CCLP Worldwide, Dec. 2010, Vidya Ratan
National Samman2015 By All India Higher Research Sanskrit, Raebareli, Outstanding
Educational contribution Award by CMAI, New Delhi 2015 at National Chhattisgarh
Education Summit, Swami Vivekanand Excellence Award by International Institute
of Oriental in March 2019, Indo-Asian Eminent Vice Chancellor Award, 2020.
Vivek Jyoti Ananya Samman (Lifetime Achievement Award) awarded by Swami
Vivekananda University, Kolkata.

24
 Dr. (Mrs) Pankaj Mittal
Secretary General,
Association of Indian Universities

Dr (Mrs) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities

(AIU) is the second women Secretary General of the Association in its 97 years of
existence. She has been serving the higher education sector for more than 03 decades
at senior positions at the University Grants Commission of India. She is the Chief
Commissioner for Guides of Bharat Scouts and Guides. She is also the Member of
General Assembly and Finance Committee of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations
(ICCR), New Delhi.
Dr. (Mrs) Pankaj Mittal is a Fulbright Scholar and has been a topper in MSc and
PhD in Agricultural Statistics from IARI, New Delhi. Dr Mittal has also served as the
first regular Vice Chancellor of Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila Vishwavidyalaya, Haryana,
the first rural women university of North India for two terms. Dr Mittal is also the
recipient of many Awards and Honours like Fulbright Nehru Scholarship grant for
Educational Administrators, President of India Award in 2017 for Digital Initiatives in
Higher education, Honorary Doctorate-D. Litt. (Honoris Causa) from Karnataka State
Women’s University, Karnataka, First Padam Shri Subhashini Devi Award 2018 for
contributions in Societal Development and Community Engagement, Qimpro Gold
Standard Award for leadership in Education for the year 2018 and Smt. Sushma Swaraj
Stree Shakti Samman 2020.
Dr Mittal has visited a number of countries like USA, Canada, Mexico, United
Kingdom, Japan, Australia, China, South Korea, Spain, Germany, South Africa, Hong
Kong, Malaysia, Mauritius and Philippines to name a few, for academic purposes for
presenting papers in international conferences and for academic exchanges. She has
published a number of papers, articles, occasional papers and reports on issues relating
to higher education and women empowerment in national and international
journals.

25
 Dr. S Y Quraishi
Chancellor, IILM University
& Former Chief Election
Commissioner of India

Dr. S.Y. Quraishi joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1971 and after
holding several strategic and key positions, rose to become the 17th Chief Election
Commissioner of India. He figured in The Indian Express list of 100 Most Powerful
Indians of 2011 and again in 2012. He also figured in India Today's Power List of 100
most powerful Indians, 2012. He has a postgraduate degree in History from St. Stephen’s
College, Delhi University and Ph.D from Jamia University New Delhi.
Dr. Quraishi hold many prominent positions in his career apart from being the
Chief Election Commissioner of India such as Election Commissioner of India,
Secretary, Govt. of India Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Director General,
National AIDS Control Organisation, Additional Secretary & Financial Adviser,
Ministry of Steel, Director General, Doordarshan ( National Television),,Principal
Secretary to Chief Minister, Haryana and many more such positions.As the Election
Commissioner and Chief Election Commissioner of India, he introduced a number of
innovative electoral reforms, established an Expenditure Control Division and a Voter
Education Division in the Commission. By this he controlled money power elections
and brought about a participation revolution among voters. He also founded the India
International Institute of Democracy and Election Management to professionalize
election management and share it with the emerging democracies of the world. Over 70
countries have received training in this institute within five years.He has been a Member
of the Board of Advisors of International IDEA (Institute of Democracy and Electoral
Assistance) Stockholm. He was also a Member of the Advisory Committee to assist and
advise the Global Commission on Elections, Democracy and Security, headed by Mr
Kofi Annan. He founded the Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development at
Sriperumbudur (Tamil Nadu) and was its first Director. He has contributed to policy
and program development in the health sector, women and child development sector
through writing books, articles, educational Programs He puts India’s AIDS program
on the world map.
A known face in the international conferences in India and abroad, he has received
several prestigious awards in recognition of his contribution to civil society and human
development issues such as 'Nehru Fellow- Award from Nehru Children's Museum,
Calcutta, Secular India Harmony Award, 1988, Silver Elephant in 1995, NDTV Indian
of the Year in 2009 and 2013, Defender of Democracy by Chauthi Duniya Group
of Newspapers in 2011. He has also received the FICCI Fellow in 2015 at London. He is
a Distinguished Fellow at Ashoka University, Sonepat, Haryana

26
 Dr. Sujata Shahi
Vice Chancellor
IILM University Gurugram, Haryana

Dr. Sujata Shahi is Professor of Organizational Behavior and Human Resource. Dr.
Shahi holds an academic and administrative experience of over 4 decades. She has been
engaged with IILM Gurugram for the past 17 years and has been in the steering seat for
the IILM University since its inception in 2018 as the Vice Chancellor.
She has keen interest in analyzing the behavioral aspects of employees in
organizations and has published various research papers in this area. Dr. Shahi has
made significant contribution through research in the areas of consumer behavior,
perception about retail sector, Corporate social responsibility, Innovation, Manpower
management, mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence. She has also made a mark in the
research domain through her PhD scholars, who under her able guidance, have come
up with some very meaningful and socially relevant research work that has received
acclaim across academia. She has also authored books on Diversity and Inclusion – a
subject that going to make our organizations, society and the entire globe, a better place
to be in.
She has conducted Management Development Programmes for organizations like
Alcatel, BHEL EIL, PHDCCI, CII , Defense, Military Engineering Service, TI, Auto
to name a few. She is the member of Professional Bodies like The All India Rail Safety
Council, Editorial Board Member at Psychologs Magazine, National Human Resource
Development (NHRD), Higher Education Committee (FICCI), Confederation of
Indian Industry (CII), Editor for MBA Journals, Consortium E-learning network,
Indian Society of training and development, AIMS International and the member of
Executive Council and Board of Studies of different Universities.

27
 Prof. (Dr.) Ranbir Singh
Pro Vice Chancellor
IILM University
Gurugram, Haryana

Prof. (Dr.) Ranbir Singh is the former and founder Vice-Chancellor of

National Law University, Delhi established by the Delhi Government in 2008. In just
a short span of 12 years he has steered NLU, Delhi which has been ranked as the 2nd
best law school of India in the NIRF – 2018 rankings. It’s the acknowledgement
of his administrative and leadership abilities that NLU, Delhi is now recognized not
only in India but also at the international level. With over two decades of experience
in heading the law school he carries the aura of a visionary who as an outstanding
statesmen and academician shown immense commitment and contribution towards
changing the legal education landscape of the country. Prior to his stint in NLU, Delhi,
he was the founder Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR, University of Law, established by the
Andhra Pradesh Government and had been at its helm since its inception in 1998. Prof.
Singh’s acumen took NALSAR to great heights as a well-known premier institution for
legal education and research in the country. He has been a Vice-Chancellor for over 20
years now.
Prof. Singh’s contribution in redesigning legal education in the country has been
significant being a member of the Legal Education Committee of the Bar Council
of India. His legal writings span the areas of Jurisprudence, Human Rights, Legal
Education, Legal Aid, Personal Laws and Justice Education and has more than 50
research publications to his credit. He has edited two publications one on “Human
Rights Education, Law and Society” and the other on “Cyber Space and the Law –
Issues and Challenges”. He has also authored along with Prof. A. Lakshminath two
scholarly publications, one on ‘Fiscal Federalism – Constitutional Conspectus’
and the other on ‘Constitutional Law’. Under his guidance several scholars have been
awarded Ph.D. Degrees and his rich teaching/research experience enabled him to visit
and participate in several International Conferences and Seminars and present papers
in several countries like Australia, Brazil, Bhutan, China, Taiwan, South Africa Cyprus,
Canada, France, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, Pakistan, Switzerland, Sri Lanka, Singapore,
Thailand, Russia, Germany, South Korea, U.K. and United States of America. He has
visited best of law schools in U.K. and USA and interacted with leading legal academics
and functionaries of higher judiciary in these countries.
.He has also been a part of the high level delegation which presented India’s National
Report on Human Rights in the third Universal Periodic Review at United Nations
Human Rights Council, Geneva, Switzerland held in May, 2017. Prof. (Dr.) Ranbir
Singh prepared the India’s National Report for the First UPR, while he was the Vice-
Chancellor of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad and the Second and Third UPR
has also been prepared by Prof. (Dr.) Ranbir Singh at NLUD on behalf of MEA and
Govt. of India.

28
 Mr. P Dwarkanath
Pro-Vice Chancellor IILM University
Gurugram, Haryana.

Mr. P Dwarakanath is B.Sc., B.L. and P.G.D. (P.M., I.R. & L.W.) He is retired as
Director – Human Resource w.e.f. July 31, 2006. Since his retirement, he has been
associated as Non-Executive Director till June 30, 2018 and now Nominee Director of
the Company.
Mr. P. Dwarakanath served as the Advisor – Group Human Capital of Max India
Ltd, a multi- business corporate with consolidated revenue of more than two billion
USD and having business interests primarily in the insurance and healthcare space.
Prior to this current, he was the Director – Human Resources and Administration,
India/ South Asia of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) for close to three decades. During his
tenure, GSK was adjudged as one of the top five Best Employers in India for people
related practices for several years. He was also a member of GSK’s International HR
team. He is on the board of several Companies / Institutions including GSK Consumer
Healthcare Ltd. He brings a rich and varied experience of over four decades.
Mr. Dwarakanath has held several management positions in various professional
bodies. To name a few, he was the President of the National Human Resources
Development Network (NHRDN), President of Delhi Management Association
(DMA), Regional President – Northern Region of All India Management Association
(AIMA) and currently Treasurer of AIMA.
He has over 45 years of experience in the Engineering, Chemical, Pharma and
Consumer Goods industry in the core functional areas of Legal, Employee Relations,
Management Development, Leadership Development & HR Management.
He has won several prestigious awards for his valuable contribution in the field
of Human Resources including the “Pathfinders Award” by the National Human
Resource Development Network; “HR Professional of the year” by Mid-Day in
association with DAKS, London and the “Career Achievement Award” by GSK
International, “Life Time Achievement Award” by Asia’s Best Employer Brand Award
and “Chairman’s Award” by Max India Group.

29
 Prof (Dr.) Shashikala Wanjari
Vice Chancellor
National University of Educational Planning
& Administration, New Delhi

Prof. Shashikala Wanjari is presently leading National Institute of Educational

Planning and Administration (NIEPA), New Delhi as a Vice Chancellor. She was also
VC of SNDT Women’s University Mumbai which is the first women university in entire
South East Asia.
The rank of Honorary Colonel in the National Cadet Corp was conferred to her
in July 2018. Prior to this she headed the Department of Education at RTM Nagpur
University, Nagpur and led Nagpur Nagrik Sahkari Bank Pvt. Ltd as Ex - Vice
Chairperson. She has 29 years of teaching experience, 16 years of research experience
and 05 years’ experience of heading women’s university in Mumbai. She is the
chairperson of syllabus cum teaching -learning material development committee for
foundational stage of NEP:2020 which was assigned by Ministry of Education, GOI.
She has authored 03 books;44 research papers and 13 articles. She has attended several
International and national conferences and delivered more than 300 expert lectures in
different academic programs. She is a member of different academic bodies. She also
received award from common wealth council for educational administration and
management (CCEAM) in 2014.She is recipient of Madam Marie Curie Award from
Swadeshi Vidhyn Banglore.
She has significantly contributed to education domain in the capacity of Hon’ble
visitor’s nominee at Central University Panjab, Bhatinda and Ranchi and ex visitor’s
nominee in the central university Pondicherry. She had contributed in various apex
national bodies like UCG, AICTE, ICSSR, NCTE, NCERT etc.
She has also guided 17 students for their Ph.D. in Education during her academic
career. She chaired Yoga Committee of Maharashtra state. Teacher education is the area
of her interest and to achieve the goal of NEP; 2020 she is keen to work passionately.

30
 Prof (Ms.) Shalini Bharat
Director
Tata Institute of Social Sciences,
Mumbai (MS)

Professor Shalini Bharat is Director/Vice Chancellor of the Tata Institute of Social

Sciences, Mumbai, India and is known for her work on gender, equity and access issues
with special reference to reproductive and women’s health; social determinants of HIV
and TB, including stigma, discrimination and human rights issues; health vulnerabilities
in the context of migration; and demographic transition among minority communities.
Besides administration, teaching and research, Prof. Bharat leads the ‘Saksham’
program, a sub- recipient of Global Fund grant, for developing and implementing
psycho-social counseling and social linkages for drug resistant TB patients in four
Indian states. Prof. Bharat has published widely including a 4-Volume Series “Parsis of
India: Continuing at the Crossroads” from Sage, and “Health and Wellbeing of India’s
Young People” from Springer.

31
 Prof. (Dr.) Ami Umakant Upadhyay
Vice Chancellor
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar
State Open University, Gujarat

Prof. Ami Upadhyay currently serves as the esteemed Vice Chancellor of Dr.
Babasaheb Ambedkar State Open University, Gujarat since 2018. She holds an impressive
academic background, with degrees in Bachelors, Masters, Masters in Philosophy,
and a Doctorate in English Literature, as well as a Diploma in Naturopathy and Yogic
Science. Prof. Upadhyay is a skilled Indian Classical Dancer and choreographer.
With over two decades of experience in the Higher Education Sector, Prof.
Upadhyay has contributed her expertise to various committees constituted by MHRD/
Ministry of Education, UGC, AIU, NAAC, NIOS, State Education Department, Gujarat
Sahitya Akademi, and numerous state and central universities across India.During
her tenure, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar State Open University has achieved numerous
accolades, including an A++ accreditation by NAAC – the only state university in
Gujarat and the only State Open University in India to do so. Under her leadership, the
university has also been awarded Category 1 autonomy by the UGC. Prof. Upadhyay
has played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of NEP 2020 at BAOU,
ensuring its adherence to the highest standards.
Prof. Upadhyay has been honored with several prestigious awards, such as the
Honorary Fellowship by the Commonwealth of Learning, Canada, the Pride of Nation
Award, Manbhai Bhatt Pratisthit Nagrik Sanmaan, Award of Honor by CEMCA
and IDEA, Life Time Achievement Award by AIPC, and NGS Vibrant Leadership
Awards. She has been instrumental in introducing numerous innovative courses
and programs at BAOU. Prof. Upadhyay has over 30 publications to her name and has
participated in more than 100 conferences and invited talks.

32
 Dr. Vibha Dhawan
Director General, The Energy Resource
Institute (TERI), New Delhi

Dr Vibha Dhawan’s long association with The Energy and Resources Institute
dates back to 1985. During 2005-2007 she led TERI School of Advanced Studies in
the capacity of Vice-Chancellor. She is a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences,
India and is currently also serving as Adjunct Professor, Consul General South Asia
Partnership, Michigan State University. Being driven by a deep academic and research
interest, Dr Dhawan has authored 6 books and over 50 publications, which have added
immense value in scientific research.
Dr Dhawan’s thought leadership and engagement in research as well as policy
development, both at the national and international level is widely acknowledged.
She is currently a task force member of National Committees with the Department
of Biotechnology, the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council, and the
Biotech Consortium India. Dr Dhawan is Co-Chair of the T20 Task Force 4 on Refuelling
Growth: Clean Energy and Green Transitions, and a member of the Networks Strategy
Council that advises Sustainable Development Solutions Network – a global initiative
for the United Nations.. She has served on the boards of prestigious organizations in
India and overseas including Jawahar Lal Nehru University, Ambedkar University,
Ayurvet Foundation and Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI).
Dr Dhawan was instrumental in establishing the highly successful Micropropagation
Technology Park at TERI. Her other major achievements include developing e-contents
for the post-graduate programme in biotechnology for the University Grants
Commission. Her recent research interests are in the area of biofuels.
She was the key lead for the DBT-TERI Centre on Integrated Production of
Advanced Biofuels and Biocommodities. Her role as an advisor to the Late Tarun
Gogoi, the former Chief Minister of Assam specifically in the field of Bioresources and
Biotechnology is worth placing on record.The honour bestowed upon Dr. Dhawan
recently as one of Game-Changers from India by H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mabarak Al
Nahayan, a respected Cabinet Member and the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence
in the UAE is another feather in her cap. She has been also conferred with the Social
Impact Leadership Award early this year. Several other awards Dr Dhawan won include
Indian Women Achievers Sammaan 2017 by NRI Achievers; Women Leadership
Agriculture Award 2016 by the Indian Council of Food & Agriculture; First Biotech
Product and Process Development and Commercialization Award of the Department of
Biotechnology in 2000, the Kamal Kumari National Award for Science and Technology
and the first All India Biotech Association (AIBA) award in 1998.

33
 Prof (Dr.) Nupur Prakash
Vice Chancellor
The NorthCap University, Gurugram

Prof. Nupur Prakash is serving the NorthCap University Gurugram as Vice

Chancellor since July 2021, after completing her term as founder Vice Chancellor
of Delhi’s first women’s technical University called Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical
University for Women (Govt. of Delhi). A strong proponent of STEM education among
girls, she has spent several years holding key leadership positions as an academic
leader, researcher, and institution builder. She has served as a Scientist at CSIO
Chandigarh (a CSIR lab), Dean Engg &amp; Technology, Dean School of IT at GGS
Indraprastha University, and Principal, Indira Gandhi Institute of Technology, Govt. of
Delhi. Prof. Nupur Prakash possesses a work experience of around 37 years in teaching,
research and administration. She graduated from IIT Roorkee (erstwhile University of
Roorkee) with a degree in B.E. (Electronics &amp; Communication Engineering) and
M.E. (Computer Science &amp; Technology) from IIT Roorkee. She was awarded with
the Chancellor’s Medal for being the best student of the outgoing batch. She holds a
PhD degree in Artificial Intelligence from Punjab University, Chandigarh.
Prof. Nupur Prakash has received several awards for outstanding contribution to
higher education in the last two decades. Recently she received the “Indira Parikh Award
2022” for being among the top 50 women Education Leader of the Country. She was
also conferred with the title of ‘Elite Academician 2022’ by IEEE Industry Applications
Society, USA. She has been an International Consultant for Asian Development Bank
funded project at Tashkent, Uzbekistan in 2010 and has travelled extensively to 15
different countries for paper presentation, for chairing technical sessions and delivering
invited talks. As an ICTP fellow she received the UNESCO fellowship and attended G8
summit in Italy . She also participated in the U.S. government- sponsored international
exchange program for ‘Women in Leadership’ at University of Nebraska, USA in 2016.
She has guided 15 PhD scholars in Mobile Computing, Natural Language
Processing, Wireless sensor Networks and Artificial Intelligence and has published
more than 100 research papers and articles in various reputed national and international
journals/conferences. She serves as an expert member of several prestigious committees
constituted by DST, NAAC and Ministry of Electronics and IT, Govt. of India.

34
 Prof (Dr.) Balvinder Shukla
Vice Chancellor
Amity University, NOIDA

Prof. (Dr.) Balvinder Shukla (Professor – Entrepreneurship, Leadership & IT) Vice
Chancellor, Amity University Uttar Pradesh Prof. (Dr.) Balvinder Shukla is M.Tech from
IIT Kharagpur and a Ph.D. from Queen’s University, U.K. She has over 3 decades of rich
scholarly experience in Industry, Academia, Research and Administration. Currently,
Dr. Shukla is a Professor of Entrepreneurship, Leadership & IT and Vice Chancellor,
Amity University Uttar Pradesh.
Prior to this, Dr. Shukla has held numerous positions during 30+ years of career.
With a strategic mindset and creative thinking ability, she has been one of the key team
members, spearheading and instrumental in the exponential growth of Amity Group
engaged in Higher Education. She is an astute architect of a unique Flexi Framework that
includes Flexi Choice Based Credit System, Outcome Based Education and Education
4.0. Besides this, she has been instrumental in aligning the Learning Outcomes &
Operational Outcomes with Strategic Plans of the University. At the same time she
is a great Researcher and Academician and has authored numerous books, developed
unique models namely- “Accelerator model for promoting and ensuring Incubator
excellence” and “IT Enabled Strategic Operational Excellence Model for Higher Education
Institutions”. Besides this, Dr. Shukla has been on advisory board as well as independent
director on board of companies, National Institute of Immunology, Ministry of Science
& Technology, Govt. of India, Khadi Design Council of India and various NGOs. Dr.
Shukla is recipient of various prestigious awards and honours, such as Distinguished
Academician and Outstanding Administrator 2012 by Balkan-Ji-Bari International,
India’s oldest NGO founded in 1926 and “Bhartiya Manav Adhikar Samman -2012” for
Peace, Harmony, Protection and Promotion of human rights. She is also honoured with
“Outstanding Leader in Education” & “Person of the Year Award 2013”, Newsmaker’s
Achievers Award 2014, 100 Most influential Directors of India’ Award 2016 by World
Education Congress, Special Recognition Award 2016 by Society for Human Resource
Management (SHRM), Peacemakers Award 2017 by Global Peace & Prosperity Initiative,
USA, Eminent Engineer Award 2017 by IET, Institutional Award for Excellence in
Gender Diversity and Inclusion Practice 2017 by Women in Science and Engineering
(WISE), India, ‘Outstanding Contribution to Education Award 2017 by Dewang Mehta
Foundation & B-School Affaire, WomENABLER Award 2018 by TiE, the Phenomenal.
She was award for exemplary achievements & being “Phenomenal” by Indian National
Bar Association, also has been recognized at top 5 personalities in Asia Pacific for Triple-E
Awards in the category of “Lifetime Achievement in Entrepreneurship Award 2020”
by Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial & Engaged Universities (ACEEU, The
Netherlands) on 10th January 2020. Honoured with Agriculture Today - Agri- Education
Awards 2021 - Excellence in Entrepreneurship Development on 27th February, 2021.

35
 Prof (Dr.) Neelima Gupta
Vice Chancellor
Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya
Sagar

Prof. Neelima Gupta, M.Sc. (Gold Medalist), M.Phil., Ph.D. (AMU), D.Sc.,
Member, Governing Board, Indo- German Science &amp; Technology Centre, DST,
Govt. of India, Member, Higher Education Inward Mission–UK (British Council),
Visiting Scientist Poland (DST-KBN; INSA-PAS Senior Scientist), Member, Governing
Council, AIU, UGC Nominee, Member Governing Board, Consortium of Educational
Communication (CEC), Govt of India, Member, Promotion of Indian Languages,
University Grants Commission, Govt of India.
She is recipient of more than 70 awards including the exclusive Taxonomy award,
NATIONAL (EK JANAKI AMMAL NATIONAL AWARD) and STATE (SARASWATI
SAMMAN, VIGYAN RATNA) awards, Platinum Jubilee Award (Science Congress).
She is President’s Nominee, Executive Council, Central University of Tamil Nadu and
UGC Nominee, Board of Governors, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida. She
has published 225 research papers (Highest impact 41.44), is author/editor of 8
books, and has participated in 424 [International -71; National -353] conferences.
She was awarded “Centre of Excellence” by UP Govt. and has handled research projects
worth Rs. 1.8 crores. She is Chairman/Expert/Peer Member of International (NRC,
Cairo, Egypt), national (UGC, NAAC, UPSC, CSIR) &amp; state level (PSC-UP, PSC
Uttaranchal) academic bodies and selection committees for the appointment of Vice
Chancellors.
She is Editorial Board Member and Peer Reviewer of 14 national &amp; 14
international journals of USA, Egypt, Africa, Costa Rica, India. Exposure to 5
continents of the world including countries like USA, UK, Japan, Germany, France,
Poland, Hong Kong, Thailand, Egypt, China, Singapore, Egypt, Australia. Pioneer
woman Vice Chancellor of the country having served as Vice Chancellor of 4 different
government universities.

36
 Prof (Dr) Sushma Yadav
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Central University of
Haryana, Mahender Garh, Haryana & Member
of University Grants Commission, UGC

Prof. (Dr.) Sushma Yadav was the Vice-Chancellor, Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila
Vishwavidyalaya, Khanpur Kalan, Sonepat, Member of Press Council of India, Pro
Vice-Chancellor of Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi. Professor of
Public Policy & Governance at Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), New
Delhi, Chair Professor of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Chair at IIPA. Chairperson, Governing
Body, College of Vocational Studies, University of Delhi; FounderPresident of
National Social Science Association (RSVP); now Rashtriya Samaj Vigyan Parishad);
President of Indian Political Science Association; Coordinator, India International
Political Science Association (IPSA); Research Committee on Rethinking Political
Development;
Prof. Sushma Yadava has also coordinator Working Group on SCs for the 12thPlan
Approach Paper, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India; Member
of the Governing Body, Indian Social Institute, New Delhi; Member, Peer Team,
National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), Bangalore; A topper of
Delhi University, Prof. Sushma Yadava has published more than 15 books and several
research papers in national and international journals. She has played significant role
in planning, implementation and evaluation of policies and academic activities as
Chancellor’s nominee, visitor’s nominee and Member of Finance Committee, Academic
Council and Executive Council of a number of Central and State Universities. Such as
DU, JNU, IGNOU, Central University of Panjab, MDU, NLU Haryana etc.
Prof. Sushma Yadava is recipient of a number of prestigious awards like: Savitribai
Phule Rastriye Shiksha Samman,2023, International Woman’s Day:- Woman
Empowerment Award,2023; Pride of the Nation Excellence Award 2019.Woman of
the Year 2019 Award; Delhi Samman Ratan, 2015.Ambassador of Peace Award, 2015.
Women Leader Award, 2015; Mahatma Jotiba & Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule Balijan
Ratna Award, 2014.Kasturba Award, 2008.
National Leader Award, 2006; She has also visited a number of countries like China,
USA, Germany, Spain, Peru, Chile, Nepal and Bangladesh for academic, administrative
and training assignments.

37
 Prof (Dr.) Najma Akhtar
Vice Chancellor
Jamia Millia Islamia,
New Delhi

She is the first woman Vice Chancellor of a Central University in New Delhi.
She is currently serving as VC of Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. She is known for
spearheading international educational administrators' course for senior officials from
130 countries for more than 15 years at National Institute of Educational Planning and
Administration (NIEPA).
A widely acclaimed educationist, Prof. Akhtar is a gold medalist from Aligarh
Muslim University (AMU) and completed her Ph.D. (Education) from Kurukshetra
University. She held posts of faculty and Controller of Examinations and Admissions
and Director, Academic Programs at AMU. She was the founder director of State
Institute of Educational Management and Training (SIEMAT), Uttar Pradesh, which
was established for developing educational administrators for the country. She has
earned international accolades, including Commonwealth scholarship and the
prestigious National Science Talent scholarship. She studied in international institutes
such as University of Warwick and Nottingham UK and IIEP Paris (UNESCO). She
has been involved in collaborative research works with developing and developed
countries. She has been actively consulted by UNESCO, UNICEF, DANIDA and other
international organizations. Gender Equity has been part of most of her projects.
In 2022, Akhtar was awarded with Padma Shri by the Government of India. On
19 January 2023, she was conferred with the honorary rank of Colonel and appointed
“Colonel Commandant” of the University.

38
 Prof (Dr.) V. Bharathi Harishankar
Vice Chancellor, Avinashilingam Institute
for Home Science and Higher Education for
Women University, Coimbatore, T.N

Prof. V. Bharathi Harishankar is the Vice Chancellor of Avinashilingam Women’s

University, Coimbatore. The Institution is accredited with NAAC A++ and is placed
81 st in NIRF. She is instrumental in starting the first AIU supported Academic and
Administrative Development Centre (AADC) at her university.
She has also forged collaboration with IITM Research Park to inculcate a culture
of entrepreneurship and innovation among students through Build Clubs. Prof.
Bharathi is the Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) and has made significant
contributions in the areas of post colonial, gender and translation studies. She has also
successfully completed national and international projects related to online learning
and open educational resources funded by International Development Research
Centre, Canada and Erasmus + Programme. Prof. Bharathi’s notable achievement is
the setting up of Gender Lab, the first of its kind in the country, to offer online gender
sensitization workshops. She is also the recipient of the following Awards and Honours,
MHRD’s Leadership for Academicians Program (LEAP) at Jamia Millia Islamia and
University of Virginia, Humanities Research Centre Travel Grant, Australia,
She is a Visiting Fellowships to Universities in New Zealand, Shastri Indo-Canadian
Faculty Enrichment Fellowship, Honorary Adjunct Professorship at Athabasca
University, Canada, Nominated Member of Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS), Australia, Consultant Author for Commonwealth
of Learning and UNESCO, Preliminary Panel Adviser for Sahitya Akademi Award
in English, Member of the CII Southern Regional Committee on Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR), Member of the CII Southern Regional Committees on Affirmative
Action.

39
 Dr. Monica Kennedy
Minister Counsellor Commercial,
Australian Trade & Investment Commission

Dr. Monica Kennedy is Minister-Counsellor Commercial and Senior Trade and

Investment Commissioner, South Asia.
Monica leads the international education sectoral strategy and the
Australian government’s priority projects - Future Skills Initiative, Australia India
Business Exchange and Australia India Innovation Network.
In addition, she also heads the marketing vertical for South Asia, drawing on her
career experience in partnership development and growth in both the private and
public sectors. Monica has led teams working across pathways, ELICOS, VE and higher
education and in a range of modalities in India, China, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia,
Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
With an academic background in the discipline of education, Monica is published
in international journals and books on international education and practice-based
learning in higher education. Her commercial acumen, coupled with her academic
background informs Austrade's engagement in South Asia for the development of new
opportunities for India-Australia education cooperation.

40
 Ms. Gloria F. Berbena
Minister Counselor for
Public Diplomacy
U.S. Embassy, New Delhi

Gloria Berbena joined the U.S. Diplomatic Corps in 1989. A member of the Senior
Foreign Service, Gloria assumed her current posting as Minister Counselor for Public
Diplomacy to the U.S. Mission to India in October 2021. She previously served as
Charge’ d’Affaires and Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in San Jose, Costa
Rica; as Minister Counselor for Public Diplomacy at the U.S. Embassy in Rome; as
Senior Advisor to the Executive Secretary in Washington, D.C.; Executive Assistant/
Chief of Staff to the Undersecretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs; and as
Director of the Office of Public Diplomacy in the Bureau of European and Eurasian
Affairs. Other overseas service includes public diplomacy positions in Havana, Athens,
Naples, Rome and Bangkok.
Gloria is a graduate of the State Department’s Foreign Affairs language programs in
Spanish, Greek, Italian and Thai, and is the recipient of several Superior and Meritorious
Honor Awards. In 2012, she received the State Department’s highest honor in the public
diplomacy field, the Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Public Diplomacy.
Gloria is a native Californian and a graduate of the University of California.

41
 DELEGATES

Prof (Dr.) Aparajita Chowdhury

Vice Chancellor, Rama Devi Women’s
University, Bhubaneswar (Odisha)

Professor Aparajita Chowdhury is the Vice Chancellor of Rama Devi Women’s

University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha joined on 26th November 2020. Professor Chowdhury
is the first Ph. D in Home Science in the state of Odisha and recipient of four prestigious
International Fellowships such as –Commonwealth Academic Staff Fellow at the
University of London, U.K; Fulbright Fellow at the University of Wyoming, USA;
ICSSR - NWO Social Science Scholar at the University of Maastricht, The Netherlands,
and DAAD (German Academic Exchange Program) Visiting Professor at Hamburg
University of Applied Sciences, Germany.
In addition, Prof. Chowdhury received “The Young Investigators” award from the
Johann Jacobs Foundation, Zurich, Switzerland for her post-doctoral research work
and completed major sponsored research projects of University Grants Commission
and National Women’s Commission, New Delhi. Her research interests include –
Early Childhood Care & Education, Youth, Family, Gender Studies, Elderly Issues
and Parenting across the culture. Professor Chowdhury is a trained assessor of National
Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) for more than two decades.
She is a member of various national and international academic bodies as
resource person, subject experts and engaged in social consultancy activities during
her long professional career and till date. At present, Prof. Aparajita Chowdhury is the
Vice Chancellor of a State Public University of Odisha – which is a Unitary – cum –
Affiliating Women’s University of the State and in the eastern region of the country.

42
 Dr (Ms) Alicia Gatphoh
Vice Chancellor
The ICFAI University, Meghalaya

Dr. Alicia Gatphoh is the Vice Chancellor of the ICFAI University Meghalaya. She is
an alumnus of the North Eastern Hill University from where she obtained her degrees
right from under graduation up to Ph.D. She had severed as a Lecturer in R. L. College,
Shillong for 26 years and held such other important portfolios like Examination in-
charge and several administrative duties before joining the ICFAI University Meghalaya
in 2010. It is by dint of her hard work, devotion and meticulous perseverance that she
was within a short span of time elevated to the highest position of the University.
Her responsibility as the Vice Chancellor of the ICFAI University Meghalaya is to
assist thousands of young people in realizing their objectives and aspirations because
it is on their shoulders that our nation will be built and will be led to greater heights
of glory. She also has a duty to consider the requirements of the educators who work
relentlessly to effect the necessary transformation in the lives of the students. She is a
firm believer of the fact that the success of the educational system depends as much on
the performance of the teachers as it does on that of the students. As the Vice Chancellor
of the University, Dr. Gatphoh is committed to developing a new cadre of citizens with
a high level of competence, a strong sense of ethics, and a commitment to the code
of professional conduct. She believes in generating and disseminating knowledge
and skills in fundamental and novel fields through creative educational programmes,
research, consulting, and publishing.
Dr. Gatphoh has been an innovative and pioneering educational leader in her
own rights in her profession. While navigating the period of reorganization and the
changing circumstances, she instills faith and confidence in the employees and pupils.
According to her, an avant-garde leader must not only have a clear vision for the future
but also a strategy for achieving it.

43
 Prof. (Dr.) Anjila Gupta
Vice Chancellor
Jamshedpur Women's University, Bistupur,
Jamshedpur, Jharkhand

Prof (Dr.) Anjila Gupta is the present Vice Chancellor of Jamshedpur Women’s
University. The university under her able guidance, pledges to collaborate to surmount
any hurdles impeding the institution’s advancement, with the ultimate goal of elevating
the university to greater heights.
The most able Vice-Chancellor expresses her gratitude for the several landmark
achievement, accolades and awards won, managed and organized at the university.
She speaks candidly about the difficulties encountered during the academic
accomplishments year after year and restated her commitment to developing the
university into a comprehensive institution of excellence, laying particular emphasis
on research.
Gupta announces several initiatives designed to enhance the quality of research work
at the university. She also plans for an several international conference, seminars and
events to be hosted by the institution. She has won several awards for her contribution
towards research-both national and international.
She raised concerns regarding number of hindrances and the scarcity of both
teaching and non- teaching staff at the university and expressed hope that the
government would consider this issue with the seriousness it deserved.

44
 Prof (Dr.) Anu Singh Lather
Vice Chancellor
Dr B R Ambedkar University
Kashmere Gate, Delhi

Prof. Anu Singh Lather, an eminent academician, is the 2nd Vice Chancellor of
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University Delhi. Prior to joining Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University
Delhi, Prof. Lather was holding the charge of Pro Vice Chancellor, Delhi Technological
University. Prof. Lather assumed charge as Vice Chancellor on 22nd February 2019.
She is currently the member of EC of NAAC-the Apex Statutory body for Assessment
& Accreditation in India. She is also the member of standing committee of NAAC for
“Approvals & Appeals”. Prof. Lather’s diversified academic experience and doctrinal
knowledge has contributed immensely in the field of learning and education and her
administrative acumen has helped Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University to reach new heights
in the educational arena of the city as well as nation.
Prof. Lather has a Post graduate in Psychology and MBA in Human Resource
Management. She received her PhD in Human Resource Management & Psychology
from Punjab University, Chandigarh. Prof. Lather’s field of specialization is Strategic
Human Resource Management, Organizational Behaviour, and Organizational
Development and Change Management, Business Communication and Technology &
Innovation Management.
In recognition to her valuable and worthy research contributions, she has been
conferred with the Best Researcher Award consecutively for 3 years i.e. 2010, 2011 &
2012 by GGS Indraprastha University. Faculty of Economics and Management, Slovak
University of Agriculture, Slovak Republic awarded Gold Medal to her for Excellence
in Academic & Research Activities. She received International Achievers’ Award for
Education Excellence by Indian Achievers Forum in collaboration with Singapore
Chambers of Commerce and Thai Chambers of Commerce at the International Summit
at Singapore in 2011. Received Best Paper Award in the 8th International Annual
American Business Research Conference held in New York, USA in 2016, Top Ranker’s
Management Consultant Excellence Award in Research in Management in Jan, 2015,
Szent Istvan Universtiy, Godollo, Budapest (Hungary) for excellent academic activities
in 2010 and a medal from Faculty of Applied Economics & Rural Development,
University of Debrecen, Hungary for Academic Excellence.

45
 Prof (Dr.) Archana Mishra
Vice Chancellor
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National
Law University, Sonipat

Dr. Archana Mishra is a distinguished academician and visionary leader who

is currently serving as the Vice Chancellor of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law
University, Sonepat and is also performing the additional duties of Vice-Chancellor,
Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology, Murthal. With a
strong background in academia and a passion for educational reforms, she has made
significant contributions to the field of higher education throughout her career.
She has a 36 years long period of teaching, research and administrative experience.
She has been Principal (equivalent to Professor) of Post Graduate College. She also
worked as Joint Director Colleges, in the Directorate of Higher Education, Haryana. She
worked as District Higher Education officer, Directorate of Higher Education, Haryana.
At present she is Chancellor’s nominee on the Executive Council of Kurukshetra
University, Kurukshetra. She is also Chancellor’s nominee in selection committee for
faculty members of Rishi Valmiki Sanskrit University, Kaithal. She has been NAAC Peer
Team member for more than 6 years. She has authored 20 books on various subjects
and especially on Ecology, Environment and climate change. She has also authored
Greenwich Series on Environment (0-5. She has notable publications in her name in
reputed journals such as Springer of USA, Science Letter of NASI, National Human
Rights Commission, India. She has presented several research papers in National and
International conferences. She has also chaired plenary sessions in different National
and International conferences. She has been associated with Environment Society of
India, Haryana Police and Forest Department of Haryana for cleaning water bodies,
establishment of Herbal/medicine parks in Haryana, plantation drive and afforestation.
She has been awarded for education, administration and for her outstanding
contribution to Environment protection and conservation by various state and central
authorities of India. She was awarded gold medal in M.Sc. (Botany). She has been
awarded for excellent work for women education by Hon’ble Governor of Haryana. She
is an academician and administrator who always have the fortitude to face challenges
and overcome them. She stands out from the crowd due to her vision and optimistic
outlook for the institute and the advancement of country.

46
 Prof (Dr.) Aruna Palta
Vice Chancellor
Hemchand Yadav Vishwavidyalaya
Durg (Chhattisgarh)

Hemchand Yadav University, Durg is a fledgling institution which came into

existence in 2015. Dr. Aruna Palta took up the chair of Vice chancellor on 13th
September 2019. Her Specialisation is Food Science and Nutrition. She has authored 17
Books and published 71 Research Papers in various national and international journals,
along with 500 articles on multiple disciplines in various National Newspapers.
Prof. Aruna was felicitated by the President of India in 2008 for excellence in
academics. She has played an important role in Framing of various policies of
Chhattisgarh State pertaining to Nutrition as chairperson of State Planning
commission for Nutrition Cell. She is in advisory board of number of committees of
State Govt. as well as Editor of Asian Journal of Dairy and Food Research. As chairman
of NAAC Peer team, she has visited number of Higher Educational Institutions across
the Country and Abroad.

47
 Prof (Dr.) D. Bharathi
Vice Chancellor
Sri Padmavathi Mahila Vishwavidyalayam
Tirupati

Dr. Depuru Bharathi, Vice-Chancellor, SPMVV, Formerly Professor of Biosciences

and Sericulture, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam, Tirupati, A.P. Secured her
Master’s Degree in Zoology (1981) from Karnataka University, Dharwar; M.Phil (1982)
& Ph.D (1984) from Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati; Post-Doctoral Research
from China (2001).
She was a Honorary foreign member of Sericulture Society of Zhejiang University,
P.R.China,2000. Best Teacher Award from Andhra Pradesh State Government (2008);
Best Research Award in Sciences from SPMVV, Tirupati (2017). Got second prize
in mountain climbing held at International tour festival, Moganshan, China on 29th
October, 2000; Lifetime Achievement Award in Zoology and Sericulture (2018)
from Venus International Foundation, Chennai ; Young Scientist Grant Award, DST
(1991); Shiksha Rattan Puraskar from India International Friendship Society, New
Delhi (2008); Distinguished Researcher and Scholar Icon in Sericulture from
Jupiter Publications Consortium, Chennai & Ingenious Cyberonics Pvt. Limited,
Chennai (2017); Outstanding Educator and Scholar from National Foundation For
Entrepreneurship Development, Coimbatore (2017).
Nominated as Member of A.P. State Level Expert Appraisal Committee by MOEF
& CC, Govt. of India in consultation with A.P. State Govt. (2021 - 2024); Executive
Council Member; Finance Committee Member (2016-2019); Dean, Academic Affairs
(2019–2021); Dean, School of Sciences (2011-2014); Dean Examinations, (2016-2018;
Convener, DST-CURIE Project (2010-2011); Convener, Central Purchase Committee,
(2012- 2014); Non Official member in the Advisory Committee of SV Zoological Park,
Tirupati, Forest Dept, Govt. of A.P (2013 -2016); Convener of Faculty Board for M.Sc.
Zoology course(Distance mode), (2001 -2017); Vice President, Teachers Association
(2009-2011); Member of Research committee for the evaluation of projects of Central
Silk Board ,Bangalore (2000 –till date).
Countries Visited On Academic Assignment: China, Japan, Thailand, Nepal,
Srilanka and Australia and acted as Keynote Speaker, Resource Person and also
presented papers.

48
 Prof (Dr) G. M. Sundaravalli
Vice Chancellor
Vikrama Simhapuri University
Nellore (AP)

Prof. G. M. Sundaravalli grew up in Tirupati finished her schooling, graduation,

post graduation from Sri Venkateswara University School, S. P. W. College &amp; S.V.
University respectively. She got her Ph. D degree from SVU in American Literature.
Started her career as Lecture in English in 1985 from Y. S. R. R. Degree College,
Pulivendula and later joined as Assistant Professor of English in S. V. University in
1992. Since then she served the University in various capacities as Head, Dept. of
English, Chairperson, Board of Studies, Warden of Girls Hostels for seven years and
as Rector for two and half years before joining as Vice-Chancellor, Vikrama Simhapuri
University, Nellore. She has 37 years of teaching experience. Published papers in
National and International journals apart from conducting National and International
Seminars.
The two major events organized are International seminar in Collaborations with
IACS (International Association for Canadian Studies) and All India English Teachers
Association. Conducted events in association with Sahitya Akademic, New Delhi. She
has to her credit 22 Ph.Ds and 15 M.Phils. Now being the Vice-Chancellor of Vikrama
Simahpuri University, Nellore she is trying to bring change to build the University
as repositories and generators of knowledge, to develop the academic, research and
infrastructure facilities.

49
 Prof (Dr.) Geetanjali Dash
Vice Chancellor
Berhampur University
Berhampur, (Odisha)

Prof Geetanjali Dash is the first woman Vice-Chancellor of Berhampur University,

the premier university of south Odisha. Before joining as the Vice-Chancellor of
Berhampur University, she was a Professor of Political Science in Fakir Mohan
University, Balasore, Odisha since 2008. Prior to that she was a Lecturer and Reader in
different Government Colleges of Berhampur and Balasore from
1988 to 2007. She held various key positions like Chairperson, Post-Graduate
Council, Registrar, Member, Executive Council, Dean of Social Sciences, Warden,
Chairman, Board of Studies, Head of the Department, Director, Library, etc. in Fakir
Mohan University between 2008-2021, which have enriched her administrative
experience. She has been working on an ICSSR Major Project on Tribal Women,
Climate Change and Social Equity in Selected Districts of Odisha.
She has more than 35 years of teaching and research experience. She was a
student of elite institutions like Delhi University, Allahabad University, Utkal University
and Berhampur University, before joining Orissa Education Service in 1987. She was
a member of Executive Committee of Indian Political Science Association (2017-19)
and is continuing as the Vice-President of Indian Political Science Association. Apart
from that she is a Master Trainer of UGC SAM Programme for Women Academic
Administrators. She is widely travelled and presented papers in 25th and 26th IPSA
World Conference in Brisbane and Lisbon.. She is a member of BoS and examiner/
adjudicator for Ph.D. theses in various universities.She has successfully guided 5 Ph.D.
scholars, 38 M.Phil. scholars and more than 80 P.G. students for their dissertation works.
Six Ph.D. Scholars are presently working under her supervision.She has authored and
edited five books and has published several research publications and book chapters.
They include: National Development Council and Indian Federal System (2009),
Globalisation and Consumer Rights: Emerging Dimensions (ed.) (2012), Climate
Change and Politics of Development (2013) and Politics of Underdevelopment (2017).
She has been Life Member of various national institutes like IIPA, IPSA, OPSA,
Gabeshana Chakra, AIWS. Her research areas are Political Economy, Odisha Politics,
Gender Studies and Political Theory.She has received various awards like National
Scholarship, UGC Teacher Fellowship, ICSSR Research Fellowship.She is a passionate
feminist and strong believer in equality and human rights for all. She is a person with
a positive attitude and strong conviction. She believes that she will be able to lead
Berhampur University to reach a new height.

50
 Prof Dr. Hemlata Bagla
Vice Chancellor, Hyderabad (Sind) National
Collegiate University (HSNC)
Mumbai, Maharashtra

Dr. Hemlata Bagla (Vice Chancellor) is an accomplished academician and a pioneer

educationist in strategizing excellence in institutions of higher learning. As the
Senior Dean, Science and Technology, HSNC University, Mumbai and the Director
of Niranjan Hiranandani School of Real Estate (NHSRE) and the Principal of K. C.
College, she is engaged in planning, organizing and executing innovative and state of
the art academic and professional courses backed up with her astute administrative
experience.
She is a noted authority in nuclear and radiochemistry having guided students at
Masters and PhD level for nearly 25 years. Her interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary
research interests cover the spectrum of chemical, radiochemical and biomedical
domains. She obtained her Masters in Sciences having specialized in Organic Chemistry
at the age of twenty and she was a top student at the Mumbai University. She obtained her
Doctorate in Inorganic Chemistry specializing in Radiochemistry at twenty-five years
of age. She has published more than 170 research papers in national and international
journals of repute, including nine publications in NASA’s Astrophysical database and
has presented papers in national and international conferences and delivered a number
of invited talks in various academic forums in colleges, universities and national and
international conferences.
Under her guidance as many 15 students have obtained Masters and PhDs. She has
spoken on a number of platforms as a panelist in order to guide students in their
career choices and has contributed career related articles to the leading newspapers
of Mumbai.

51
 Prof (Dr.) Ina Shastri
Vice Chancellor
Banasthali Vidyapith
Banasthali (Rajasthan)

Professor Ina Shastri is currently the Vice Chancellor of Banasthali Vidyapith.

She has been the Pro Vice Chancellor of the university for over 10 years and has been
discharging the duties as a key Executive and Academic Officer of the University. Prof.
Shastri received her M.A. (Music) and M.Ed. degrees from Banasthali Vidyapith before
completing Ph.D. under joint supervision of Prof. Uday Pareek and Prof. Bala Sahab
Poonchwale.. She has published around 50 National and International research papers
and authored 13 books She has supervised over fifty Ph.D. thesis.
She has received a plethora of awards and honours from national and international
organizations, the most recent ones being IMRF Distinguished Inspiring Musician Award,
2020 by International Multidisciplinary Research Foundation, Outstanding Asian Faculty
Award of the Year 2020-21 by Women Icon, International Award 2020-21 for Academic
Leader ‘Certificate of Recognition’ by 12OR, MSME, 2021, The Phenomenal She 2021
Certificate of Appreciation by Indian National Bar Association, Dainik Bhaskar Woman
of the Year Award, 2022 for exemplary work done in the society and many others. She
has been instrumental in Banasthali Vidyapith winning FICCI’s University of the Year
award 2022 and in strengthening its position in reputed University rankings like Times
Higher Education and NIRF. She commanded the NCC contingent at the Republic Day
parade in 1986 and was adjudged the all rounder best cadet in India and won many gold
medals including those for shooting. She has also won gold medals for music & Dance
at Inter University Youth Festivals organized under the auspices of Association of Indian
Universities. Now, she is the key proponent in preserving, promoting and implementing
the comprehensive Educational ideology of the Vidyapith and spearheads aesthetic
development of 15,000 students every to. Under her leadership Vidyapith has won several
national and international laurels and has emerged as an undisputed Champion in Music
and Dance in the country for more than a decade. She started a small unit for khadi
production where the women were initially trained to operate the mechanical looms and
today women from virtually every family of villages in the vicinity have joined it where
they weave khadi fabric and earn decent livelihood. In her efforts to advance the social
development of rural women, she played a key role in establishing Radio Banasthali 90.4
FM at university campus which is the first community radio of Rajasthan state. It has
become a beacon of social empowerment for the rural women folk engaging them in
programmes of social relevance.
Of late, she is spending much of her time and energy for the overall development
of Banasthali as its‘Conscious Keeper’. Prof Ina Shastri has made a difference to this
institution, exemplified its mission and has positively impacted many lives. Her
commitment to women’s education, preservation of heritage and community service
make her an erudite academician and a charismatic leader.

52
 Prof (Dr.) Madhulika Kaushik
Vice Chancellor
Usha Martin University,
Ranchi (Jharkhand)

Professor Madhulika Kaushik, an MBA and PhD in Marketing, has a teaching and
research experience of over 44 year spread over different distinguished national and
international Institutions. Having started her career as a research fellow in 1978 and
rising to an Associate Professor at the University of Jodhpur, she joined the world of
Open and Distance Learning in 1988, as a Reader in Management Studies at IGNOU.
She was later selected as a Professor of Management in IGNOU in 1996 and continued
to hold that position till January 2011.Since then she has served as the Education
Specialist, Higher education, at the Commonwealth of Learning, Vancouver from
Feb2011-Jan 2014 and as the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic at Wawasan Open
University, Malaysia From February2014 to July 2017. She is now serving as the Vice
Chancellor , Usha Martin University Ranchi.
Besides being actively involved in the design and development of the Management
Programme at IGNOU since its formative years, she also served the University
as Director School of Management Studies, Director (Acting), Electronic Media
Production Division, Director(Acting)Planning, and the first Director of the National
Centre for Innovations in Distance Education. At the College, her major area of work
included ODL policy at national and institutional level, quality assurance at higher
education institutions, application of ICT in higher education, capacity building in
OER, leadership in universities, ODL material development and research . At WOU
she continued to work on ICT enabled ODL delivery and research in the area besides
driving OER based Course development
At her present assignment as Vice Chancellor, Usha Martin University she has the
oversight of all the academic programmes and processes at the university, is responsible
for the growth and strategic direction of the university and is at the helm of its leadership
team.She is in charge of all the schools of studies and has the responsibility for quality,
mainstreaming technology applications in teaching and research programmes of the
university.

53
 Prof. (Dr.) Manimala Puri
Vice Chancellor
Pimpri Chinchwad University
Pune, Maharashtra

She has worked as an expert member on the various teams of N.B.A (National
Board of Accreditation) Dr Manimala Puri works as Vice Chancellor (I/C) Pimpri
Chinchwad University, Pune and Group Director, Pimpri Chinchwad Education Trust.
Dr. Manimala Puri has over 30 years of teaching as well as administrative experience
in the field of technical education and has held various positions like Group Director
and Vice Chancellor at various Higher Education Institutes. She is M. Tech from
N.I.T Kurukshetra and PhD (IT) from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University
, Delhi. She has also completed post graduate diploma in business management
from I.M.D.R, Pune.She has had the distinction of working at All India Council for
Technical Education (A.I.C.T.E) as Director where she has contributed to policy
making and implementation in the field of technical education at the National Level.
Her experience as Director, AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education)
included visiting different colleges for approvals .She was involved in policy making
related to technical education, handled various faculty development schemes and
administration of AICTE headquarters at Delhi and seven regional offices spread
across the country.
She has published four books in the field of electronics. She has also presented
and published various research papers in National and International Conferences and
Refereed International Journals.

54
 Prof (Dr.) Meena Chintamaneni
Pro Vice Chancellor
SVKM’s NMIMS Deemed to be University
Mumbai, Maharashtra

Dr. Meena Krishnakar Chintamaneni is Pro Vice Chancellor at SVKM'S NMIMS

University, she has obtained M. Pharm., Ph.D. and her Areas of Specialisation is
Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, her Experience is Total in years 19 (Industry
- 0 years, Academics - 19 years). Her Interest Areas include Antiulcer and anti-
inflammatory Activity, Toxicity Studies, Acute and Repeated, Toxicity Studies of
herbal extracts, Immunomodulatory Activity, Antidiabetic Activity, Standardization of
Herbal Extracts
Dr. Chintamaneni Research Publications include more than 50 paper, Books, Book,
Chapters, Patents, Presentations -both International and National, Conferences/
Workshops/ Seminars. Academic activities include guidance to M.Pharm students for
their research projects. She has guided 5 PhD students successfully and 2 candidates
are registered under her supervision. Received Award for "Outstanding contribution
to the profession of teaching in Healthcare Management” from Higher Education
Forum organized by H R College of Commerce & Economics, Churchgate, Mumbai
on 5th September 2012. Awarded Best paper entitled "Assessment of bioactive
phytoconstituents of Acorus calamus Linn for hypolipidemia activity at World Ayurveda
Summit, Bangalore, 2003. Awarded Best Faculty award from School of Pharmacy and
Technology Management, SVKM’S NMIMS University in Year 2008 Received a minor
grant (FAT GRANT) from UGC for a project entitled "Pharmacological Studies on
hypoglycemic phytoconstituents from medicinal plants”. Organized Anti TB campaign
and won the first prize among all Pharma colleges in India, 2008-2009. Best Poster
Award in the 43rd Annual Conference of IPS and International Conference of IPS,
2010. Dr. A. B. Vaidya Award in the 3rd Third International Annual Conference on
‘Drug Discovery & Development – Challenges in Partnership organized by South
Asian Chapter of American College of Clinical Pharmacology and Bombay College of
Pharmacy, Kalina, Sntacruz (E), Mumbai-400098, Maharashtra, 2009.
Her Professional Memberships include Life member of Indian Pharmaceutical
Association , Life member of Association of Pharmacy Teachers of India , Appointed
as member of Ad-hoc board of studies of Pharmacy of Mumbai University, A reviewer
of Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical sciences, Life Member of Indian Pharmacological
Society.

55
 Prof (Dr.) Neelam Vedprakash Mishra
Vice Chancellor
Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth
(Declared as Deemed-to-be-University)
Karad, Maharashtra

Prof. Dr. Mrs. Neelam Mishra, Professor Emeritus, Director Professor (Physiology)
and National Head of Allied Sciences Bioethics Programme of UNESCO Chair, Haifa.
An academician par excellence having a total teaching experience of well over
34 years including that of a post graduate teacher for well over two decades and
administrative experience of the similar period.
She happens to be the first lady professional in the State of Maharashtra to be
appointed as the Pro- Vice Chancellor of a statutory University (DMIMS (DU),
Wardha). She is designated as IMA Honorary Professor by the National Headquarter
of IMA, New Delhi and is also conferred with the title of Professor Emeritus by Bareilly
International University, Bareilly Uttar Pradesh. She has been designated as the
National Head of Allied Sciences Bioethics programme of UNESCO Chair, Haifa. She
has been an outstanding teacher and has been conferred with “Priyadarshani Award”
in recognition of devoted services as a committed medical teacher and selfless mentor
of the learners on 19th November, 2016 in the name of Late Prime Minister Mrs.
Indira Gandhi. She was also conferred with ‘Best Teacher Award’ at the Govt. Medical
College, Nagpur on the ‘Teacher Day’ on 5th September, 2017 and “National Women
Empowerment Award” instituted by National IMA Woman Doctor Wing, New Delhi.
She was conferred with ‘Samaj Ratna Sanman-2015’ on 25th November, 2015 at
Nagpur in recognition of yeomen services rendered by her to the societal cause and
also being an inspiring role model.
She has been conferred with Honorary Fellowship by International Institute
of Organizational Psychological Medicine, USA, UK, Australia and India at 06th
Convocation held at Hyderabad on 1st December, 2018, Honorary Fellowship by
Association of Medical Specialties, Indian Medical Association, Headquarters,
Hyderabad in November, 2019 and also the Honorary Fellowship by Association
of General Practitioners, Indian Medical Association, Headquarters, Chennai in
November, 2019.

56
 Prof (Dr.) Neerja A Gupta
Vice Chancellor
Sanchi University of Buddhist-Indic Studies
Raisen (MP)

Dr Neerja A Gupta is at presently Vice Chancellors of Buddhist-Indic Studies,

Madhya Pradesh.
She is also the Chief Coordinator for Bharat Shodh Sansthan, Ahmedabad and Chief
Editor of International Journal Bharatiya Manyaprad, published by Bharatiya Vidya
Bhavan, Ahmedabad. She is on boards of Academic and Executive Councils of several
Central and State Universities of India, administrative panels of sixteen International
Universities, and Public Service Commissions.
She has published 22 books and several research papers with prestigious national
and international publishers. She is a multilingual academic researcher, proactively
contributing to the Nation Building.

57
 Prof (Dr.) Nilofer Khan
Vice Chancellor
University of Kashmir,
Srinagar (J & K)

A distinguished academician and administrator, Prof Nilofer Khan has a teaching

experience of more than 37 years and has served the corporate life of the University of
Kashmir in several important academic and administrative capacities, including Dean
College Development Council, Registrar, Dean Faculty of Applied Science and
Technology and Director Institute of Home Sciences. She also holds the distinction of
being the first woman Dean Students Welfare of the University and Founder Director,
Centre for Women’s Studies and Research.
Having visited a number of countries abroad, Prof Nilofer has a vast exposure in the
fields of academics and administration. In 2003, she visited several Universities in the
USA to study academics and the examination system under an International visitors’
programme. She has also visited a number of universities and colleges in Australia,
Malaysia, Sudan and UAE. Prof Nilofer has also supervised more than 25 PhD scholars
and 09 M.Phil. scholars. She has authored around
5 books of National and International repute, even as more than 70 publications
authored by her have figured in various journals of National and International
standing.Working with utmost dedication and commitment to discharge her
professional responsibilities, Prof. Nilofer is a staunch supporter of empowerment
and upliftment of women especially those from downtrodden and underprivileged
sections of the society using education as a means to achieve this goal. She has also
received an Award of Honor as a tribute to women academicians working for the cause
of women empowerment.
On the current assignment at hand, Prof. Nilofer has embarked on a mission
to make the University of Kashmir a true centre of excellence at the National and
International level where cutting-edge research, multidisciplinary education, innovation
ecosystem and dissemination of knowledge form the key areas of institutional focus.
Alongside this ambitious vision, Prof. Nilofer is committed to take the University of
Kashmir to newer heights in academics, research and extension education.

58
 Prof (Dr.) Nishtha Jaswal
Vice Chancellor
Himachal Pradesh National Law University
Shimla (HP)

Prof. (Dr.) Nishtha Jaswal is presently the Vice-Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh

National Law University, Shimla. She has served as Chairperson, Department of Laws,
Panjab University, Chandigarh. She has been Dean Students Welfare and Chairperson
of the Panjab University Committee against sexual harassment. She has been
awarded British Academy Visiting Professorship in 1992 and has been designated as
Mehr Chand Mahajan Professor of Law by Panjab University, Chandigarh. She was
member of Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights and several other
Government and University bodies.
Prof. (Dr.) Nishtha Jaswal is a prolific writer and has authored six books on various
subject of laws such as Environmental Law, Socio Economic Reforms, Right to Life and
Personal Liberty, Criminal Justice System, International Environmental Law. One of
the book authored by Prof. (Dr.) Nishtha Jaswal “Environmental Law” second edition
(2003) has been cited thrice by the Supreme Court of India in the landmark judgement
reported as In Re: Noise Pollution (V), (2005) 5 SCC 733. R.C. Lahoti, the Chief Justice
of India, has authored the judgement.
She is recipient of several national and international awards such as International
Women’s Club Switzerland Chapter, Geneva, International Extraordinary Women
Awards-2020, BW Legal Most Influential Women Academician Award, 2023 and
Himachal Ratan 2022 Award conferred by All India Conference of Intellectuals.

59
 Prof (Dr.) Padmakali Banerjee
Vice Chancellor
Sir Padampat Singhania University Udaipur
(Rajasthan)

Dr. Padmakali Banerjee is an astute Academic Administrator and a Management

Professional, a thought leader, an Institution Builder, a Leadership Coach, a Celebrated
Author, and an influencer. A doctorate from University of Delhi, she is the Fellow of
the prestigious Somatic Inkblot Society (FSIS–US). She is 2022 WELL Mind Advisor
(World Advisory -- International WELL Building Institute PBC, New York, USA).
Her concepts and contributions on the Indian Skill development ecosystem have
been widely recognized acclaimed on both national and international platforms.
She spearheaded many innovative initiatives including the introduction of a flexible
credit system, national and international academic accreditations, industry academic
integration and internationalization. She has been instrumental in shaping of many
organizations of repute as governing body/ editorial board member like Medanta
Research Institute (one of the biggest hospital chains in India) Some of her recent awards
include Esteemed Jury award 2021-22 by URS Asia One, a Pan Asia Business & News
Magazine, Exemplary Leadership award in Education by Credenc & prestigious 2018
Greenbuild Leadership Award from USGBC for her contribution towards sustainability.
Her book “The Power of Positivity - Optimism and the 7th Sense” published by SAGE is
a popular choice globally. She is the creator of several psychometric test tools including
‘Optimism index’, a predictive tool for success, used as screening tool for selection
and training and LEAPS Wellbeing Scale. As a life coach, she has a diverse network of
professionals, from creative artists to corporate leaders and policy makers.
She has exhibited a passion for entrepreneurship by empowering youth and
developing leaders in different walks of life. She has also established a Foundation
for nurturing her keen interest in upliftment and betterment of the lives of the
underprivileged. She believes that empowering and educating people, especially
women and other marginalized sections of society, has cascading effect in social
change, sustainable development, long-term equality, and fairness. Having a strong
commitment to social change, her dream is to transform the world into a happier place
to live in by instilling hope and optimism in today’s youth.

60
 Prof (Dr.) Renu Jain
Vice Chancellor
Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya
Indore (MP)

Prof. (Dr.) Renu Jain (born on Oct 06,1956) obtained her BSc Degree in
1974 and M.SC (Mathematics) degree in 1977 from Jiwaji University, Gwalior. She
is awarded UGC Junior Research for pursuing her PhD in Mathematics which she
completed in 1983 from Jiwaji University, Gwalior.
She served as Lecturer from March 1981 to 1985 against leave vacancy and on ad
Hoc basis in MP Govt Colleges. Dr. Jain joined the School of Mathematics and Allied
Sciences, Jiwaji University, Gwalior as lecturer in 1985, became a reader in 1987 on a
direct selection post and then professor in
1998. Dr. jain’s research interest include Lie Theory and Special Functions, Fractional
Calculus and the Mathematical Modelling of Biological and Ecological Systems. In
1989, she was awarded Nehru Centenary British (Commonwealth) Fellowship for
working as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in Imperial College, London for one Year. She has
supervised more than 29 PhD’s and over 40 M.Phil students so far. She has published
over hundred research papers, published in various Journals and proceedings. She has
also organized and delivered sessions in several conferences, symposia and workshops.
Dr. jain has served as Member, Executive Council and dean, faculty of Sciences and
co- ordinator, M. Sc ( Computer Science).
Dr. Jain has Chaired many important committees at Jiwaji University. She is a life
member of academic societies like Indian Mathematical Society, Society for Special
functions and Applications, Etc. At present Dr. jain is the member, editorial Board of
the Vikram Journal of Mathematics, Executive member of Vijnana Parishad of India
and Gwalior Academy of Mathematical Sciences. She also reviews several national and
international journals and is also active member of NAAC Peer Team. Recently she is
nominated Fellow of Vijnana Parishad of India.

61
 Prof (Dr.) Sangeeta Shukla
Vice Chancellor
Chaudhary Charan Singh University,
Meerut (UP)

Prof. (Dr.) Sangeeta Shukla is the Vice- Chancellor of CCS University, Meerut
(U.P.) Earlier she held the position of vice chancellor in School of Studies in Zoology
Jiwaji University, Gwalior. She has been the member of executive Committee of NAAC
(2013-2016); Vice President for Asian Continent of TEU, France; Council Member
of International Society for Trace Element Research in Humans 2007-2013 and
Coordinator, UGC SAP-DRS-II &II. She has held many more positions of repute
in national and international organizations.
On Academic upfront, her expertise lies in toxicology and pharmacology,
metabolism of drugs and contraception. She has authored four books and has around
one hundred published research articles to her credit. On numerous occasions, she has
been invited at inaugural lecture/guest speaker in foreign universities and conferences.
She has guided fifteen research scholars under her supervision and received more than
a crore from projects (ICMR, DST,UGC CCRUM, New Delhi & MPCST ,Bhopal)
and 160 Lakhs with TeamProjects (UGC-SAP and DST-FIST, New Delhi). She has also
filed one patent in the year 2009.
Her work has been professionally recognized by UGC and was awarded with
one time UGC BSR grant of Rs 7 lakh for academic excellence. She is a recipient of
Gold Medal by STOX, India for successfully organizing of International Conference
on Toxicology, Toxic genomics and Occupational Health “ICTTOH”, 2007. She has
received various other recognitions including Teacher of the year, Scientist of the year
and many more in the early three decades of her career.

62
 Prof. (Dr.) Sabita Acharya
Vice Chancellor,
Utkal University
Bhubaneswar, Odisha

Professor Sabita Acharya has joined as the Vice Chancellor of Utkal University, in
2020. She is the first Woman Vice Chancellor of the oldest University of Odisha. She
has awarded Commonwealth Post Doctoral Fellow and joined in the University of
Oxford, UK in 2002.
Professor Acharya is an eminent Indian Anthropologist having more than 30
years of teaching and research experiences, an expert in the areas of Socio-cultural
Anthropology. During academic career she has presented research papers in various
academic forums at Kunming (China), Manchester (UK), Florianopolis (Brazil),
Poznan (Poland), University of Tuebingen University of Goethe, Frankfurt, University
of Humboldt, Berlin, University of Groningen , The Netherlands.

63
 Prof (Dr.) Sasmita Samanta
Vice Chancellor, Kalinga Institute of
Industrial Technology, (Deemed to be
University) Bhubaneshwar (Odisha)

Prof. Sasmita Samanta is an accomplished academician and administrator with

more than twoand half decades of experience in strategizing excellence in professional
and technical education. Currently she wears the mantle of Professor of Management
and Vice- Chancellor of KIIT Deemed to be University. She is a visionary, researcher,
motivator, popular teacher, author, phenomenal orator and engaged leader with a deep
commitment to create a sustainable ecosystem for all stakeholders in her sphere of
involvement.
Prof. Samanta’s intellectual capabilities is manifested in distinctions as Postdoc from
Taiwan, Ph.D. in Management, a Stanford LEAD Alumna and Stanford Distinguished
Scholar, Stanford Graduate School of Business, Stanford University, USA; Fellow
of Royal Society of Arts (FRSA, UK); and Fellow of Computer Society of India (FCSI,
India). She has been trained in leadership from the University of Nebraska Omaha
(UNO), USA and CSC Leaders programme, Common Purpose Charitable Trust, UK.
Her academic areas of interest and specialisation include Organisational Behaviour,
Human Development, Spiritualism and Leadership.
She has held leadership roles in various domains ranging from admissions, human
resource management, talent acquisition, general administration, governance and
competency management. Her emphasis has been on engaging and retaining people,
bringing transparencyin the system leading to high motivation, ownership and
commitment among the employees, and increasing their productivity for the triumph
of organizational goals.

64
 Prof (Dr.) Savita Sengar
Vice Chancellor
Jharkhand Rai University
Ranchi (Jharkhand)

Prof (Dr.) Savita Sengar is an architect by education with Bachelor’s degree in

architecture from National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Postgraduate Diploma in
Construction Management from National Institute of Construction Management &
Research, Pune and Doctorate in the field of Management.
Prof. Sengar is an educationist and a passionate academician, a believer in ‘education
for all’ -especially girl child education. Prior to her revered stint as an inspiring leader
in academics, she had served the industry for six years in a senior position as the
policy maker of the organization. Currently, as the Vice Chancellor of Jharkhand Rai
University (JRU), she is dedicatedly leading at the intersection of education bringing
skill based education to students across Jharkhand and neighboring states.
Under the expert leadership of the Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Savita Sengar,
Jharkhand Rai University has reached to the heights with the only private university
having NAAC accreditation and UGC recognition in the state of Jharkhand, Bihar and
West Bengal.

65
 Prof (Dr.) Seema Singh
Vice Chancellor
U P Rajarshi Tandon Open University,
Allahabad (UP)

Prof Seema Singh is presently working as Vice Chancellor, UP Rajarshi Tandon

Open University, Prayagraj. Before joining as Vice Chancellor, she was working as
Professor in Faculty of Education, BHU, Kamachha, Varanasi. She did M.Sc. in Botany
and switched over to the field of Education and got Gold Medal in M.Ed. She obtained
her PhD as JRF in Faculty of Education, BHU. She holds Certificate in Computing,
Teacher’s Certificate (Deaf) and Post Graduate Diploma (Hearing Impairment).
She has interest and experience in the field of Teacher Education, Special Education
and Educational Psychology. Professor Seema has her credit more than 90 papers
in journals of national and international repute, authored ten books (including one
Research Abstracts), completed one minor project from EdCIL, one major research
project of UGC with one project sponsored from NUEPA. She has organized more
than 60 seminars, workshops and Faculty Induction programs and Refresher courses.
She has presented papers abroad also (Thailand, Nepal) and delivered more than 100
resource lectures in offline and online mode. She is associated with and member of
several educational associations/organizations like RCI, UGC, UPHSC,UPSC, IATE,
NCTE, NIOS, CEAM, MHRD, World Peace movement. She has edited and translated
reading materials on Distance Education. She has also got experience of Adjunct faculty
at Malviya Mulya Anusheelan Kendra and Part time faculty and Academic counsellor
of B.Ed., M.Ed. and M.A. (Education) of IGNOU Study Centre, BHU. She also has two
years’ experience of working as Coordinator of Study Centre of Madhya Pradesh Bhoj
Open University, Bhopal. She has worked for four years as Coordinator of Centre of
Disability Studies, School of Education under PMMMNMTT scheme of MHRD. She is
also President of AAE (Alumni Association of Education), BHU.
She is also managing editor of International Journal of Education: Shaikshik
Parisamwad and member of editorial board of several journals. She is recipient of
Maitriyee Shikshak Samman, Hindustani Academy Award in the field of Education,
Lifetime Achievement award from GERA, New Delhi, International Women Ikon
Award by CEAM. Her mission of life is to work unrelentingly in the field of education
with special focus on women and towards the rehabilitation of special needs children.

66
 Prof (Dr.) Sudesh
Vice-Chancellor, Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila
Vishwavidhyalaya Sonipat
(Haryana)

Professor in University School of Management, Kurukshetra University,

Kurukshetra. Director, Women’s Studies Research Centre, Kurukshetra University,
Kurukshetra,Director, Human Resource Development Centre, Kurukshetra
University, Kurukshetra. Awarded prestigious Commonwealth Fellowship 2002-03
tenable at CardiffBusiness School at Cardiff, United Kingdom.
Awarded Post-Doctoral Fellowship in 2009-10 by the University Grants Commission,
New Delhi. She 31 years of experience which is blend of Academic, Administrative and
Research exposure. Published many defining research papers in the area of Banking,
Financial Services and Management.Has International exposure by way of visiting
Universities of United Kindom like Oxford University, Cambridge University, Warwick
University, London School of Economics and the University of Sydney in Australia.
Participated in Leadership for Academicians Program (LEAP) jointly conducted
by Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) and Penn State University, USA in 2019.
Participated leadership training Programme ‘SheLeads’ organized by Streeshakti: the
Parallel Force. The programme is designed to support aspiring women leaders across
all backgrounds and to equip all such potential women leaders to negotiate in political
and social spheres.Actively involved in the UGC Programe on capacity building for
women managers in Higher Education, as trainee, trainer and coordinator of SAM and
TOT workshops.
Privileged editorial board member of various Research Journals.Member of
various statutory bodies of universities like Executive Council, Academic Council
and Finance Committee.Associated with implementation of Choice Based Credit
System in the University.Organized International Seminar on “Relevance of Gita in
Modern Day Management” 9th December, 2016 and National Seminar “De- risking
Indian Agriculture Crop Insurance Way, February 10, 2017 supported by NABARD.
Member Expert Committee of UGC/AICTE for Assessment Accreditation and
Administration of grants in aid for educational Institutions. Member of the Association
of Commonwealth Scholars and Fellow (ACSF), New Delhi.

67
 Prof (Dr.) Suhrita Paul
Vice Chancellor
West Bengal University of Health Sciences
Kolkata (WB)

Prof Suhrita Paul has done her MBBS from Medical College, Kolkata in 1991 and
MD Pharmacology from Calcutta University in 1998. She was Professor and Head of
Pharmacology, Medical college, Kolkata, 2011-16., Medical Superintendent and Vice
Principal, Murshidabad Medical College, West Bengal, 2016- 18, Principal, Burdwan
Medical College, West Bengal, 2018-21.
Her Academic and Research Experience include more than 28 years’ experience
of teaching both UG and PG students, UG/PG examiner of many universities in
India, Remained Guide/ Co-Guide of MD and PhD students since 2008, More than
28 years of experience in Clinical and Preclinical Research, More than 70 publications
in various National and International Indexed Journals and Reviewer of various
National and International Journals. Other Involvements include Member, Medical
Advisory Council (MAC) of National Medical Commission (NMC), Member, West
Bengal medical Council, Acted as Organizing Secretary, Organizing Chair, Guest
Faculty/ Chairperson in a number of National and International conferences, Scientific
Seminars and workshops organized by Govt. of WB and National and State academic
bodies, Acted as resource person in various CME on Medical Education organized
by Institute of Health and Family Welfare, west Bengal, Life Member of Indian
pharmacological Society and Advisor, IPS West Bengal branch, Life Member, Indian
Medical Association, Member, Indian Society for Rational Pharmacotherapeutics,
Member, International Journal of Drug Formulation and Research, Member, expert
committee for remodeling of West Bengal Medical education Services (Recruitment to
teaching posts) rules 2010 vide order dated 22/07/2021, Member, governing body, Dr.
B.C. Roy College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences, Durgapur.
Prof. Suhrita was the Chairperson of Institutional Ethics Committee for Human
Research, Burdwan university since 2018, Chairperson of Institutional Ethics
Committee for Human Research, Rampurhat Govt. Medical college since 2019,
Chairperson Member of Institutional Ethics Committee for Human Research, Institute
of Post Graduate Ayurvedic Education and Research Since 2015 and Nominated by
CPCSEA (Ministry of Environment & Forest Govt. Of India) As Member/ Chairperson
of Institutional Animal Ethics Committee in Various Institutes Over West Bengal.

68
 Prof (Dr.) T Kumari Kharbamon
Vice Chancellor
Martin Luther Christian University, Shillong,
Meghalaya

Prof (Dr.) Kharbamon completed her PhD in Applied Linguistics from North
Eastern Hill University and then taught at Lady Keane College for 16 years before
joining CIEFL, later renamed as the English and Foreign Languages University. She
was deputed under the ASEAN project of the Government of India from 2007-2009 to
coordinate and teach at the Cambodia-India Centre for English Language Training, in
Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Prof. Kharbamon has participated and presented papers in national and international
conferences and is a recipient of several scholarships awarded by the IATEFL, UK and
TESOL, USA. She has published a number of articles and books, and is a member of
several national and international professional associations, apart from being a founder
member of the English Language Teaching Association of India Meghalaya Chapter.
She retired as Director of the English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU),
Regional Campus, Shillong, where she was also head of the Department of English
Language Education. She has 45 years of teaching experience in India and abroad, and
has been a professor of English for more than a decade.

69
 Prof (Dr.) T Sasipraba
Vice Chancellor
Sathyabama Institute of Science &
Technology, Chennai (TN)

Dr. T Sasipraba, completed her graduation in Computer Science and Engineering,

started her academic career as a Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science and
Engineering, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (Sathyabama Engineering
College then ) in the year 1995. She grew professionally in a span of 25 years, which is
evident from the various designations administered by her.As a Professor and Head of
the Department of IT, from 1999-2010 she proved effective in teaching more than 11
batches of students, operated several research projects worth of 125 Lakhs as a Principal
Investigator and 400 Lakhs as a Coordinator sponsored by the Department of Science
and Technology ,AICTE,MHRD,ISRO etcand affiliated the department to various
professional bodies which fetched her the Best Teacher Awards for the outstanding
performance .She also received Cognizant Technology solutions ‘Best Faculty Award’
in recognition for her excellence in Teaching and Research.
Her dedication and commitment earned her the status of Pro Vice Chancellor of the
32-year old pioneer technical institution since December 2016. All through her career,
she has been distinguished by her unique working style and has been a key person
who has contributed to the development of various new initiatives of the Institution.
She has been creating platforms for academicians and scientists to come together and
share their ideas. She has been a reliable choice of the Management to represent the
Institution in several international forums convened across the globe that gave wider
visibility of our institution to students, researchers and teaching fraternity worldwide.
She has represented Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology in NAFSA
(National Association of Foreign Student Advisers) Annual conference and Expo, a
networking event for all international educators who support international education,
organized in USA, for three consecutive years from 2017-2019.
She also regularly participates in EAIE (European Association for International
Education) Conference and Exhibition, organized in European Countries and EURIE,
an International Higher Education Summit organized in Turkey. Such visits to countries
like USA, South Korea, China, Turkey, Indonesia, Middle East, European countries
have been a threshold to signing of several Memorandum of Understandings with
good foreign universities like the University of Lorraine, France; University of Alaska,
USA; University of Florida, USA; Georgetown University, USA for nourishing Students
Exchange, Staff Exchange , Collaborative research and joint Conferences.

70
 Prof (Dr.) Ujwala Chakradeo
Vice Chancellor
Shreemati Nathibai DamodarThackersey
(SNDT) Women's University, Mumbai (MS)

Vice Chancellor of SNDT Women’s University. Earlier she was, Professor and
Principal of Smt. Manoramabai Mundle College of Architecture Nagpur. Dr. Ujwala is
an architect and urban planner. She graduated from VRCE- Vishveshwarayya Regional
College of Engineering Nagpur in 1984, she is in teaching architecture since 1985.
Completed M’Tech and Ph.D. from VNIT in 1989 and 2006 respectively.
Deeply involved in exploring methods and means of teaching architecture and other
subjects. Her topic for Ph.D. was ‘Impact of Social Change on Architecture Education
of India’. Her experiences with her students are documented in a Marathi book ‘Scale
ani T Scale’ published by Sahitya Prasar Kedra Nagpur in 2013. Experiments in
experiential learning motivated her to document student’s study tour work at Bhutan
and Harsil Valley. She is co author of two books ‘ Anubhuti’-1 and ‘Anubhuti’-2.
A chapter on Lifecycle Assessment, Methods and Procedures in Encyclopaedia of
Renewable and sustainable materials by Elsevier in 2019. Many research papers are
to her credit. Fellow of The Indian Institute of Architects &amp; Associate member of
Council of Architecture.
Eleven scholars have been awarded Ph.D. under her guidance. Four scholars are
pursuing Ph.D. at present under her guidance. Dr.Ujwala has six copyrights to her
credit. Dr.Ujwala has undertaken professional projects as architect and interior designer
for government and private clients. She is Member of various prestigious organisations
, she was President of MASA- (Maharashtra) Association of Schools of Architecture),
member of Bhartiya Shikshan Mandal All India Board of Town and Country Planning
of AICTE, PG board of COA, NEP committee of COA. She was Management Council
Member of IGNOU, Steering committee member of Unnat Bharat Abhiyan of UGC
for fostering social responsibility amongst students of Higher Education. Member of
Search Committee for appointment of Lokpal at Savitribai Phule Pune University,
Pune. Member of Sub-Committee of Academic Advisory Committee (Architecture
) of National Board of Accreditation, New Delhi. Appointed as Chairperson of
committee constituted by Government of Maharashtra for implementation of
National Education Policy in Maharashtra. Governor of Maharashtra appointed her
as Acting Vice-Chancellor of Homi Bhabha State University, Mumbai. She was also
appointed her as Acting Vice- Chancellor of Dr.Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi
Vidyapeeth, Dapoli. Appointed by National Board of Accreditation as a Member of
Sub-Committee of Academic Advisory Committee (Architecture).
She has founded post graduate programmes in Architectural Education and in Urban
Design at Rashtrasant Tukdoji Maharaj, Nagpur University, Nagpur in 2007 and 2020
resspectively. She is an Architect and a fellow of Indian Institute of Architecture and
Life Member of the Indian National Trust for Art &amp; Cultural Heritage (INTACH).

71
 Prof (Dr.) Uma Bhardwaj
Vice Chancellor
NOIDA International University
Greater Noida (UP)

Presently working as Vice- Chancellor with Noida International University

before that she was working as Vice-Chancellor with Mody University of Science and
Technology and Vice Chancellor of Maharaj Vinayak Global University, Rajasthan.
Total experience of working is 30 years in the University system and experience in
senior positions in administration is more than 15 yrs.
Travelled more than 25 countries of the world. She is the member of IQAC Cell,
Academic Council and Executive Council of many Universities. The areas of interest
are Photo Biology, Cancer Biochemistry, Nutraceutical, Biochemistry &amp; System
Biology. The current research interest is in “Molecular mechanism of cur-cumin
using Systems Biology”. She has published research publications in high impact factor
journals like &quot;Nature&quot;, patents, and books of international repute. She
has developed Commercial Products for Industries. She holds membership of many
national and international Journals. She has been honored with 1. “Late Shri Ram
Krishna Pandey Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award” 2022 by the Ayush Minister
of Uttar Pradesh Dr. Daya Shanker Mishra 2. “India’s Most Impactful Vice Chancellor”
by Daily Indian Media during the Edustar Leadership awards 2022” 3. “The Best
Citizen of India Award 2019” 4. “Bharat Jyoti Award 2018” 5. The 3rd CMAI
CCI Technology Education Excellence Award, July 2016, honored by his excellency
Governor of Gujarat and the high commissioners and ambassadors of eight countries.
She was invited Plenary Speaker for 4th World International Conference on Wound
Care 2020, Nursing & amp; Tissue Science Amsterdam, Netherlands March 23-24,
2020. Invited Speaker “6th Edition of International Conference on Plant Genomics,
Horticulture and Engineering” Scheduled from June 8-9, 2020 at Frankfurt, Germany.
Associated with reputed Professional Institutions like IIT Roorkee, AIIMS Rishikesh,
Rostock University, Germany to name a few.

72
 Prof (Dr.) Ved Kumari
Vice Chancellor
National Law University
Cuttack, Odisha

Professor Ved Kumari is former Dean and Head, Faculty of Law, University of Delhi.
She began teaching law in 1983 and has taught graduate and undergraduate courses in
the University of Delhi, Jammu University in India, and Vanderbilt University (USA),
supervised LL.M. dissertations and Ph.D. Theses. She has written many books and
innumerable articles in national and international journals. Professor Ved Kumari’s areas
of primary academic interest are juvenile justice, criminal law, gender discrimination,
clinical education, judicial training. She is the first and perhaps the only woman
academic to hold such a prestigious position. She initiated several landmark changes
in the teaching and training of judges during her tenure. She introduced participatory
learning with a range of innovative participatory teaching methods in judicial training
and organized two Training of Teachers Workshops to training judicial officers in the
art of teaching.
The Village Immersion Programme for Judicial Officers is a pioneer programme
evolved and introduced by her in the One-year Training Schedule for the newly
recruited judicial officers to expose them to various social issues like poverty, gender
discrimination, education, etc. at the grass root. She also conceived and successfully
directed the first and so far the only E-course on Judicial Ethics and Conduct for judicial
officers in collaboration with the Commonwealth Judicial Education Institute, Canada.
She is the Fellow of Commonwealth Judicial Education Institute, Canada (2010);
Commonwealth Fellow at Warwick University, UK (1998); and Fulbright Fellow at
Vanderbilt University, USA (1997). She spent one year in Russia doing research on the
Law and Advocacy in Relation to Children in Russia as part of her sabbatical leave in
2005. Prof. Ved Kumari’s greatest contribution is in the field of Juvenile Justice in India.
She was introduced to Juvenile Delinquency in 1978 by Prof. Lotika Sarkar during her
LL.M. course. Her first book Treatise on the Juvenile Justice Act 1986 published by
the Indian Law Institute in 1993 is a pioneering book on the subject and has been
referred to as the Bible in the field of Juvenile Justice by the social activists working with
children. Her later books Child Advocacy International Perspectives (ed) (2004
She had pointed out in the book the lacunae in the classification of offences as petty,
serious, and heinous and taken the position that the residuary offences not covered in
these definitions should be classified as serious and not heinous. The same was held later
by the High Courts of Delhi, Punjab, Patna and Bombay and confirmed by the Supreme
Court of India in Shilpa Mittal decided on 9th January 2020. The JJ Amendment Bill
2021 as passed by Lok Sabha too has modified the definition to include the left over
offences within the ambit of Serious Offences as suggested by her.

73
 Prof (Dr.) Viney Kapoor Mehra
Pro Vice Chancellor
SGT University
Gurugram, Haryana

Prof. (Dr.) Mrs. Viney Kapoor Mehra has been the founder Vice- Chancellor of
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law University, Sonipat. Earlier she held the position of
Commissioner, State Information Commissioner Punjab and Head, Department of
Laws Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar. She is the member of Autonomy Review
Committee of UGC and on the panel of NAAC for Assessment and Accreditation
of Higher Educational Institutions. She has been frequently participating in various
activities with UPSC, UGC, NAAC, Prominent Universities and other Institutes of
Higher Learning.
Dr. Kapoor has served as a member of advisory board of various universities
including D.S National Law University Vishakhapatnam, Maharishi Markandeshwar
University etc. She has held many more positions of repute in government and non-
government bodies and has always justified the same. She has been bestowed, with
many Awards and Honours during her career. On Academic upfront, her expertise
lies in Women and Law, Family Law, Human Rights. Prof. Mrs. Vinay Kapoor Mehra
is the recipient of Post Doctor Fellowship of UGC. She has authored two books and
has several published research articles to her credit. On numerous occasions, she has
delivered the keynote address and has been Resource Person/Chair Person/ Participant
in more than one hundred academic exercises of repute. She has organised more than
one hundred seminars / webinars/ guest lectures and camps during her spotless career
which makes her an extremely dedicated academician. Dr. Kapoor has successfully
guided six Ph.Ds and one Post-Doctoral Degree. She has guided more than 150 LLM
dissertations and project Works.
During the Assignment as Founding Vice- Chancellor of DBRANLU her
performance has been exceptionally well. She is credited with establishing it from a
scratch. During the three years term by dint of the missionary Zeal, she has made it
fully functional from its own campus, got approval from BCI, membership of CLAT,
prospective admissions, collaborations with national and international educational
institutions. With the blessings of the Almighty, her untiring work at DBRANLU
helped the university in scaling up the ladder among all twenty-four National Law
Universities in 2022. She believes in bringing a change in the education system with her
continuous efforts and devotion to the academia.

74
 Prof (Dr.) Vineeta K Saluja
Pro Vice Chancellor
Mangalayatan University,
Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh

Dr. Vineeta Saluja is the Pro Vice-Chancellor at Mangalayatan University , Jabalpur.

A doctorate in English Literature, she is a research supervisor for both M. Phil, as well
as, Ph. D scholars. Presently, she is researching cross-cultural communication and
actively training students in effective communication and soft skills. She completed a
UGC funded major project on poems and short stories in tribal literature of Madhya
Pradesh. Her persevering efforts have been recognized and well rewarded by national
awards for academics as well as community service.
She says, “Leading with optimism improves your chances of leading a successful
team. Focusing on everyone’s innate potential gives you more opportunities to leverage
everyone’s unique talents. If your leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that
constant learning is both important and possible, you may adapt to changes with
relative ease.” Reflecting the image of a true leader. Diversity is high on the agenda for
institutions around the world right now, and for good reason. Learning environments
that promote diversity of thought are more conducive to creativity and innovation.
To promote this, Mangalayatan University is providing Scholarships to the vulnerable
section. The student exchange programs have proven to be fruitful. Mangalayatan
Jabalpur also has taken many other initiatives in this direction to promote diversity in
the learning process under her leadership.
She firmly believes that “considering the evolving nature of industry and changes in
the labour market, it has become essential for us to understand various requirements
of the dynamic industry. The university curriculum is revised and is developed in
accordance with what industry needs. Pedagogies are made more practical in approach.
Case studies and industry interactions have proved to be extremely beneficial for
everyone.”

75
 Dr. Amita Dev
Vice-Chancellor
Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical
University for Women, Delhi

Dr. Amita Dev, Vice-Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for
Women, Govt of Delhi is a true leader, excellent administrator and passionate researcher.
She is doing extensive research in the field of Deep Neural Networks, Speech Processing,
Speech Modeling, Speech Recognition, Speech Synthesis etc. Having vast experience of
more than three decades , she has unparalleled track record of Administration, quality
Teaching, Innovation and Research. She has published more than 123 research papers
in the Renowned International and National Journals and Conference Proceedings.
She is an avid speaker and a great motivator and has been invited at various National
and International forums.
In recognition to her valuable and worthy research contributions, she has been
conferred with many awards viz. National Level AICTE Young Teacher Career Award"
with Research Grant for pursuing, Advanced Research in the area of “Hindi Speech
Recognition Using Connectionist Model",State Level Best Teacher Award" awarded by
Govt. of Delhi, National Level Best Engineering Teacher Award" by ISTE for significant
contribution in the field of Research and Technology, International ECONS Education
Excellence Award" for Academic Excellence, Vittiya Saksharta Abhiyan Award" by the
Hon’ble Minister for HRD, GoI for spreading Digital Literacy, Numerous Appreciation
letters from State/Center for her Exemplary Performance and for her Outstanding
Contribution in the field of Technical Education.
Dr Amita Dev introduced a series of innovative practices and reforms as the Vice
Chancellor of the university. Under her able leadership and guidance, IGDTUW has
achieved several milestones in a short span. Recently, University has been conferred
Shrimati Sushma Swaraj "STREE SHAKTI SAMMAN" due to her vision and
commitment.

76
 Prof. Poonam Saxena
Vice Chancellor
National Law University
Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Prof. Poonam Saxena is an eminent distinguished professor of law. She holds degrees
of LL.B. & LL.M. from University of Delhi and has attained national scholarship for
meritorious performance in academics. She obtained her Ph.D. from University of
Delhi in 1988 on the "Similarities and Divergences in Inheritance laws in India: A
feasibility study in Unification". She has also been the creditable recipient of Junior
Research Scholarship by the University of Delhi (1982) and scholarship by the Indian
Institute of Islamic Studies (1981).
She has a wide experience of teaching of 31 years in University of Delhi in various
positions including her momentous experience as Professor, Law Centre-II , Faculty of
Law University of Delhi, Delhi (2004-July 2013). She has been a versatile administrator
as Professor in Charge, Law Centre-II, Faculty of Law , University of Delhi (2007- 2010
& April 2013-July 2013).She has also been awarded the prestigious Senior Fulbright
Fellowship (1998) and Shastri-Indo Canadian Fellowship (2000). She has published
around 50 articles in prestigious international and national journals covering diverse
areas of significance in law and pertinent social issues.
She has been an illustrious writer of various books including Mulla's Transfer
of Property Act, 1882 ( Lexis Nexis, Butterworth India) , Family Law Course book
(ICADR),Family Law Lectures, Family Law-II (Lexis Nexis, Butterworth India),
Property Law ( Lexis Nexis, Butterworth India), Property and Easements, Halsbury
Laws of India Vol 12 ( Lexis Nexis Butterworth India) , Trusts and Charities, Halsbury
Laws of India ( Vol 29(2)) ( Lexis Nexis Butterworth India), Family Law, Halsbury laws
of India (Vol 26) (Lexis Nexis Butterworth India), Family Law-II, Halsbury laws of
India (Vol 28) ( Lexis Nexis Butterworth India). Her success as an ingenious writer is
evident from the publication of a number of successive editions of her books. Being a
prolific writer, she is also on the editorial board of reputed national and international
journals including "Ius Gentium" Journal of the University of Baltimore, Center for
International and Comparative Law, Maryland, USA., National Capital Law Journal,
University of Delhi etc. She has been invited by various Law schools across the country
to share her vast experience in legal education. The philanthropic aspect of her
personality is well reflected by her in-depth involvement in conducting various legal
aid activities for women, children and other deprived sections of society. She is also
actively involved with the gender justice programme. She is a committed humanitarian,
a teacher par excellence and a versatile administrator.

77
 Dr. Anubha Singh
Vice-Chancellor
Alliance University
Bengaluru, Karnataka

Prior to assuming this responsibility, Dr. Singh has worked in many different
capacities at the University— Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academics, Research & Strategy),
Dean of the Alliance School of Business, Director of International Affairs, Chairperson—
Placements, to name a few.
Dr. Singh, a talented coalition builder, brings significant expertise and rich
experience in international development. She has established 47 partnerships with
reputed universities in 15 countries, specifically, 26 articulation agreements in Europe;
13 in North America and 8 in Asia. She has developed 23 exchange programs, 11 dual
degree programs, 9 credit transfer programs and has been very effective in making
significant contributions in the field of sustainable global development.
Dr. Singh has served on numerous international bodies and committees including
the President of Asia Region of International Assembly for Collegiate Business
Education, USA.
Dr. Singh has published numerous scholarly articles, reviews and research papers.
She has provided consultancy to Microsoft Research Lab India for parallel corpus for
statistical machine translation, and annotation and verification on the multilingual
systems research. She is the co-author of Management Communication – A Case
Analysis Approach with James S. O’ Rourke IV. Dr. Singh serves on the editorial board
of numerous journals. She has presented papers in several conferences, conclaves
and summits around the world. As a Cross-Cultural Management & Strategic
Communication Trainer and Consultant, Dr. Singh has closely worked with leading
Indian and Multinational organizations. She also actively engages with the industry
through Management Development Programs. She holds a Ph.D. from Banaras Hindu
University and held a fellowship during her research. She earned the prestigious
Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial award for academic excellence during her post-graduation
in Linguistics. She also has certification in Computational Linguistics from Indian
Institute of Technology, Delhi and certification in Natural Language Processing from
University of Hyderabad. Her main research interests include international higher
education landscape, cross cultural management, human resource management and
linguistics.

78
 Prof. Supriya Pattanayak
Vice Chancellor
Centurion University of Technology and
Management, Odisha

Supriya Pattanayak comes with over 25 years of experience in the development

sector and academia. She has earned a reputation of being a highly competent
professional working with Bilateral, Multilateral, Government and non-government
organisations. She has demonstrated excellent relationship management skills with
multiple stakeholders for policy advocacy and good program management skills. She
has specifically provided advisory support in all programs on social development and
governance aspects. She has maintained oversight of all DFID programs in the State
of Odisha over the past 15 years. She has taken on increasingly challenging roles in
planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating large programs with a focus on
results.
In addition to this, Supriya maintains her interest in academics, being involved in
teaching/ training/ supervision, research and conducting study tours across several
continents. Presently Supriya holds the position of an Adjunct Professor at the RMIT
University, Melbourne, Australia and is a Research Fellow at the St Petersburg State
University, Russia. She has a number of publications to her credit.

79
 Dr Archana Mantri
Vice Chancellor
Chitkara University
Punjab

Dr. Mantri’s areas of expertise include Project Management, Problem and Project
Based Learning, Curriculum Design & Development, Pedagogical Innovation &
Management. Her key areas of interest are Change Management, Education Technology,
Cognitive Sciences, Predictive Analysis, Technical Writing, Assessment Technologies,
Augmented Reality and Electronics & Communication Engineering. Dr. Mantri has
handled numerous International and National research projects and has guided several
PhD and ME scholars. Her contribution to the growth of Chitkara University has
been tremendous: she established the Chitkara University Research and Innovation
Network (CURIN) which in turn facilitated filing of 250 patents, with over 5000 ideas
vetted and over 500 innovators getting benefitted. Research proposals written under
her able guidance have secured 3 prestigious research projects – CLIL, OCULUS and
PREVENT IT worth Euros 800,000 from ERASMUS+. She also established the Tech
commercialisation wing of the University. Dr. Mantri has over 30 publications in refereed
journals and international conferences. She has also edited 2 books, both published by
Springer and is an esteemed member of the Global Engineering Deans Council, IEEE
and an Advisor at IUCEE (Indo – Universal Collaboration for Engineering Education).

80
 Prof Kajal De
Vice Chancellor
Diamond Harbour Women’s University
West Bengal

As the Vice Chancellor of this historical women’s university, the empowerment and
holistic development of young girls of the university would be my commitment. I am
sure and confident that the vision and mission of the university will be taken a step
further with the cooperation and support of the highly qualified faculty, efficient non-
teaching staff, promising students and experienced alumni of the university. We all will
be able to bring many more laurels to the university with our sincerity and hardwork.
The university remains fully committed to ensure transformative impact on society
through continual innovation in education, research, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
The legacy set by all the outgoing Vice Chancellors i.e. Prof. Samita Sen, Prof. Anuradha
Mukhopadhyay, Prof. Soma Bandyopadhyay will be carried forward in true spirit so
that the university shines like the diamond forever.

81
 Dr. S Geethalakshmi
Vice Chancellor
Dr M G R Educational and Research
Institute, Chennai

Dr. S. Geethalakshmi is the 9th Vice-Chancellor The Tamilnadu Dr.M.G.R. Medical

University, She has born on 04 January 1958 and completed M.B.B.S in 1979 from
Stanley medical college and M.D (Microbiology), Madras medical college. She studied
her Ph.D. in (Basic Science) - on Allergic Broncho Pulmonary Aspergillosis - 2007
The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University. Dr. S Geethalakshmi started her job
as a Assistant Professor of Microbiology in Madras Medical College then she worked
as a professor in various colleges and she has also worked as a dean in various medical
colleges. Dr. S Geethalakshmi worked as a Director of Medical Education from 2014
to 2015 now she is working as a vice chancellor of The Tamilnadu Dr.M.G.R. Medical
University. In her career she has won many prestigious awards like best teacher
award in 2011 and Life Time Achievement award conferred by The Organizing of the
Conference - ARISE 2015.

82
 Dr. K. Kala
Vice Chancellor
Mother Teresa Women's University
Anandhagiri, (TN)

An erudite scholar and an administrator par excellence with 34+ years of experience
at various levels and various positions. Dr. K. Kala is a graduate of Botany who had her
Masters in the same discipline. She has been awarded Doctorate in Botany with the
specialization of Medicinal Plants. She started her career as an Assistant Professor in
Government Arts College, Karur; promoted as the Head of the Department of Botany
and Principal of the same institution with a brief period of principalship in NKR
Government Arts College for Women, Namakkal. As an educator, she is remembered
for her teaching of 42 courses for UG, PG, M.Phil. & PhD. As an innovator, she has
newly designed and handled some courses, modified some other courses in BOS. To
prove her meticulous research flavor, she has authored 2 text books, published 20+
articles in National and International Journals; presented 11+ papers in seminars;
organized 18+ seminars and conferences; chaired plenty of sessions in international
seminars; acted as the Team Judge in National Science Congress; guided plenty of Ph.D.
and M.Phil. Scholars; signed MoUs with some of the reputed institutions; mobilized 2
Crores of funding from RUSA, 44 Lakhs from various funding agencies; 26 Crores of
Building Grants and multi lakhs in CSR scheme from KVB.
She has visited universities of Oxford, Cambridge and Sussex, interacted with them
about academic affairs. She has served as the Member of Editorial Board of some
International Journals. She has conducted Environmental Awareness Programmes;
Played key role in the Massive Tree Plantation Scheme of the Government; Deputy
Area Commander of Home Guard Service in Karur District Police Department;
Delivered many motivational lectures; Encouraged young staff to apply for research
funding; Trained young minds; conducted skill development programmes for students;
Yoga programme for students.
Her dedication and commitment earned her the CM Medal for 14 years of best Home
Guard Service; Twice rewarded Meritorious Medal and Award for Best Performance in
the Flag Day Collection by the Governor; Award for Unblemished Academic Service
from the Government of Tamil Nadu; Thiran Nirai Kalviyalar Award' from Her
Excellency Dr.Tamilisai Soundararajan, Governor of Telangana in the Mathru Sakthi,
Women Saints Conference, held in Velur on 01.07.2022 To highlight, she is an asset
to wherever she is placed with sparkling skills of handling resources in any critical
ambience.

83
 भारतीय विश्वविद्यालय संघ
Association of Indian Universities
AIU House, 16, Comrade Indrajit Gupta Marg, New Delhi -110002
EPABX : 011-23230059, 23232305, 23232429, 23232435, 23233390
Email : [email protected] | @AIUIndia
Website : http://www.aiu.ac.in

84