New Delhi:There are some names in the world of science who not only do research but also write history for the coming generations. Similarly, on the occasion of the 100th birth anniversary of Professor GP Talwar, a great scientist and one of the founding teachers of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, scientists from all over the world paid homage to this living symbol of science research and human service at the AIIMS campus.
On this special occasion, scientists from India and abroad, Prof. Talwar's alumni researchers and institutional officials recalled his six-decade-long scientific journey. During the ceremony Prof. A special coffee table book based on Talwar's life, achievements and scientific contributions was also released. The book also includes tribute messages from scientists and their disciples working in different parts of the world.
Scientists return to India after leaving a bright future abroad
Pro. The story of GP Talwar is not only the success story of a scientist but also an inspiring story of dedicating his talent for the country. He did his PhD at the prestigious Institut Pasteur in France under the guidance of Nobel Prize winning scientist Jacques Monod. Apart from this he also received the prestigious Humboldt Fellowship in Germany. Despite opportunities for a brilliant scientific career abroad, he decided to return to India. After this he played an important role in strengthening modern biomedical research in the country and giving world-class recognition to Indian scientific institutions.
Science's big weapon against leprosy
Pro. Among Talwar's major scientific contributions is the Mycobacterium Indicus Prani (MIP) based anti-leprosy vaccine. His research gave a new direction to India's fight against leprosy. This scientific initiative developed to fight a serious disease like leprosy was also seen as an important achievement at the global level. His research showed that Indian scientists can also make discoveries whose impact extends beyond the country's borders.
Historic initiative in the field of family planning
Pro. Talwar also took unprecedented scientific initiatives in the fields of reproductive health and family planning. He contributed significantly to the conceptualization and development of the world's first family planning vaccine. His research was a very new idea for the world of science and medicine at that time. This contribution earned him special recognition in the international scientific community.
Prof. was also the creator of institutions. Sword
Pro. Talwar's achievements were not limited to the laboratory only. He also played an important role in building scientific institutions in the country and giving them world-class recognition. He made an important contribution in strengthening the foundation of the Biochemistry Department in AIIMS. Along with this, he also played an important role in the establishment of National Institute of Immunology (NII) in Delhi. Talwar Research Foundation, associated with his efforts, has also been working towards scientific research. The establishment of ICMR-WHO Research and Training Center at AIIMS in the year 1969 was also a part of his visionary thinking. This center contributed to establishing India on the international stage in the field of immunology training and research.
World scientists came to India, new generation got direction
Pro. The impact of Talwar's scientific reputation was such that many eminent scientists and Nobel laureates of the world came to India and shared their research and experiences here. He played an important role in promoting scientific dialogue and international cooperation in the country. Hundreds of students trained under his guidance are today performing important responsibilities in major research laboratories and biotechnology institutes around the world. In this way Prof. Talwar not only conducted research but also prepared generations of scientists.
long list of honors
His contribution in the field of humanity and science has received recognition at many levels including India and France. The Government of India has honored him with the Padma Bhushan. The French government has also honored him with its prestigious Officier de la Legion d'Honneur. During the ceremony, the speakers also told that Prof. Talwar has been nominated for the Nobel Prize several times by scientists from America and Europe. In view of his contribution, the speakers present at the program also raised the demand from the Government of India to honor him with Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian award.
Disciples together decorated the stage of honor
A special feature of the ceremony was that it was organized by Prof. This was done with voluntary contributions from Talwar's alumni and colleagues across the country and abroad. Dr. Narendra Malhotra, convenor of the function committee and editor of the coffee table book, expressed his gratitude to all the people associated with the event. He Prof. The contribution of Talwar's wife Smt. Raksha Talwar was also specially remembered. Speakers said that the continuous support of the family helped Prof. Talwar to devote his life entirely to scientific research. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Dr. Reema Dada, Professor and Media Advisor of AIIMS expressed gratitude.