Profs Sen, George get GD Birla Award for Scientific Research

Two Indian researchers pushing the boundaries of quantum technologies and supramolecular chemistry were honoured with the prestigious GD Birla Award for Scientific Research for 2023 and 2024 at a ceremony in New Delhi on Friday.

- Sejal Sharma

Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia presented the 2023 award to professor Aditi Sen De of Harish Chandra Research Institute, Prayagraj, for her contributions to quantum technologies, and the 2024 prize to professor Subi Jacob George of Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru, for his work in supramolecular chemistry.

The ceremony, held at Birla House keeping with a 35-year tradition, recognised breakthrough research that could transform fields ranging from computing to medical treatment. Instituted in 1991 by the KK Birla Foundation, the annual award recognises exceptional scientific research by Indian scientists working in the country, preferably under 50 years of age. Each recipient receives ₹5 lakh.

“GD Birla believed in the ethos that building of corporations and building of institutions must not be driven by the motive of profit alone, but must be driven by the motive of improving the lives of the people around you,” said Scindia. “All the awardees over the last 35 years have been fired with that very purpose.”