JAMMU/RAJOURI : Buddhist Studies Scholar Dr. Suresh Kumar Selected for ‘IARA Outstanding Academician Award–2026

JAMMU/RAJOURI: DAINIK NEWS UDAAN

Dr. Suresh Kumar Assistant Professor in the Department of Buddhist Studies at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara (Deemed University), Nalanda, has been selected for the ‘IARA Outstanding Academician Award–2026’ by the Indian Academic Researchers Association (IARA), Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu.

The award recognises his contributions to academics and research.

According to the official communication issued by the Association, Dr. Kumar was unanimously selected by its Awards & Recognition Committee after an evaluation of his academic record, research contributions and dedicated service to the disciplines of History and Humanities.

The award will be formally conferred upon him during the Association’s Annual Award Ceremony scheduled to be held in May 2027.

Dr. Kumar has been associated with the Indian Society for Buddhist Studies (ISBS) for nearly 17 years and has been actively working for the advancement and promotion of Buddhist Studies at the academic level in India. His areas of academic interest include Buddhist Studies, Buddhist Ethics, Pali Literature, Indian Knowledge Traditions and Buddhist Heritage and Tourism. He has also remained actively engaged in national and international conferences, seminars, research and publication activities related to Buddhist Studies.

Alongside his academic pursuits, Dr. Kumar has been actively involved in social initiatives for nearly two decades. He is the Founder General Secretary of SANGARSH – A Civic Movement for Justice, Equality, Peace, Prosperity and Brotherhood, and has been working for the past 20 years to promote the values of social justice, equality, peace, prosperity and brotherhood.

Dr. Kumar has also received several recognitions for his academic, social and cultural contributions over the years.

In 2021, he received the Dadhi Mahanta Memorial Social Science Research National Award. He was conferred the Student Pride Award in 2013 for his contribution to the student fraternity in Jammu and Kashmir and for upholding high values of life. In 2012, he received the Best Paper Award at a two-day UGC-sponsored National Seminar on Democratic Values in Buddhist Literature.

During his association with the University of Jammu, Dr. Kumar was recognised in 2008 for excellence in cultural, fine arts and literary activities. Earlier, in 2003, he received the Vice-Chancellor’s Award from the University of Jammu for his outstanding performance in the National Service Scheme (NSS) and contribution to social activities. In the same year, the Police Headquarters

RAJOURI -POONCH Range, Jammu and Kashmir, awarded him a Class-I Commendation Certificate in recognition of his services through sports and social service and his efforts towards strengthening communal harmony and social integration.

Expressing gratitude on his selection, Dr. Kumar said that the recognition belongs equally to the teachers, senior scholars, colleagues and students whose guidance and support have shaped his academic journey.

He added that the honour would further encourage him to continue his work in Buddhist Studies and Indian Knowledge Traditions with greater dedication and commitment.

Report....Anil Bhardwaj