PAU’s Dr. Anil Sharma to receive ‘Best Award’ for Science Communication
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), March 17, 2026: In a significant recognition of excellence in science outreach, Dr. Anil Kumar Sharma, Associate Director (TV) at the Communication Centre of Punjab Agricultural University, has been selected for the “Best Award” in science communication by the Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush Foundation.
Congratulating him on the achievement, Prof. Gurbhajan Singh Gill, Chairman of the Punjabi Lok Virasat Academy, Ludhiana, termed it a proud moment and said the honour would further प्रेरਕ (inspire) the noted communication expert to scale new heights. He highlighted that Dr. Sharma, a Fulbright Fellow from PAU, has consistently blended traditional communication methods with modern technology to effectively disseminate scientific knowledge.
The award, which carries a cash prize of ₹50,000 along with a citation and memento, will be presented on March 18 at Pal Auditorium in the presence of renowned scientist Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush.
Prof. Gill noted that Dr. Sharma has been actively engaged in science awareness since his student days. Nearly 23 years ago, he used street plays in Fazilka-Abohar regions to spread awareness about agricultural challenges, particularly those affecting cotton crops. A disciple of Dr. Kesho Ram Sharma, he mastered innovative communication techniques early in his career.
Dr. Sharma has an extensive academic background, having completed his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. from PAU. He also holds a diploma in science journalism from the Indian Society of Science Communication under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, and certifications from All India Radio initiatives.
A Fulbright scholar (2010–11), he visited the United States to study technology transfer systems in agricultural universities. Over the years, he has received multiple national and international recognitions, including a National Award (2014) for science communication using traditional and innovative methods.
His contributions span over 600 street plays, 500 documentary programmes, and coordination of more than 20,000 radio and TV talks. He has authored five books, edited 45 scientific publications, and managed 18 projects, along with writing numerous research papers and articles.
Dr. Sharma has also gained recognition globally, winning an innovative challenge organised by the University of Bern (Switzerland and Germany) and receiving honours in Canada. He was awarded the Fulbright Alumni Award (2013–14) and was appointed Brand Ambassador of the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation for 2022–23.
His documentary on “Integrated Farming System” was declared Best Regional Film in 2024, and his science jingles have been featured in national-level platforms, including All India Radio broadcasts across the country.
Through popular outreach programmes like “KhetiBani,” Dr. Sharma continues to play a vital role in connecting farmers with scientific advancements, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic through virtual farmer fairs and digital engagement initiatives.