Release of stamp of Prof. R.C.Paul at PU

Chandigarh, March 6, 2019: Sh.V.P.Singh Badnore, Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, released commemorative postage stamp of Prof.Ram Chand Paul, here today in the presence of Sh.Anil Kumar, Chief Postmaster General, Prof. Raj Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Panjab University (PU), Prof.Shankarji Jha, Dean of University Instructions, Dr.K.K.Paul. Governor in his address said that Prof. Paul played a pivotal role in the growth of Panjab University in various capacities with distinction and dignity where he worked as Professor and Head of Chemistry Department (1959 - 74), Dean of University Instructions (1965-67) and as Vice-Chancellor (1974-84). He is remembered always for his critical inputs in the development of this university into a first rate academic institution of the country. He gave details of history of PU tracing its route to the University of Punjab established in 1882 at Lahore. He further informed that under the dynamic leadership and vision of Prof. Paul, the Department of Chemistry grew by leaps and bounds, and was recognized by the University Grants Commission as a Centre for Advanced Studies in Chemistry. The Department, underhis stewardship, achieved an international stature and signed several collaborative programmes with academic institutions in UK, USSR, Hungary and USA. Dr. K.K Paul in his recalled how Prof. Paul contributed towards making Panjab University a premier institution for higher studies in country as well as internationally and mentioned that he was a friend, philosopher and guide to numerous students who are now spread all over the globe. Dr. Paul expressed his gratitude to the Hon’ble Governor for observing this historic event in befitting manner. Mr. Anil Kumar explained how the proposals for issue of Commemorative Postage Stamps are examined and approved. He facilitated the electronical release of stamp of Prof. R C Paul by the Hon’ble Governor in presence of other dignitaries. Earlier, PU VC in his welcome address remembered Professor Paul as the longest serving Vice-chancellor (1974-84) of PU. He laid down an emphasis in the development of education at all levels strengthening and modernizing teaching in institutions. He desired an open dialogue to make strong interactions amongst students and learn about the achievements of such great and celebrated personalities. He expressed his desire to the family members of Prof. Paul to participate in the functions of PU in general and Chemistry Department in particular to inspire and ignite young minds. Dr. K.K. Bhasin, Convenor R.C.LPaul Centenary Celebration Committee highlighted the importance of this day and said that it will be remembered as a historical day in the history of Panjab University, in general and Chemistry Department in particular. Dr. Bhasin who was the last Ph.D. student of Professor Paul mentioned him as an inspiring, motivating teacher and an untiring researcher. His students have found in him the sagacity of a Guru, the affection of a parent and the leadership of a torch bearer. He always wanted his students to acquire greater and greater heights. He mentioned that likes of Professor Paul come into this world once in centuries. Dr. Bhasin mentioned the role Mrs. Bimla Paul played in keeping Professor Paul free from all domestic commitments and her affectionate temperament knitted all his colleagues as members of one family. I never found Professor Paul differentiating his biological children from his students. A documentary on the life journey of Professor Paul highlighted how distinguished he was as a chemist, an eminent educationalist, a capable administrator and a human being par excellence. The function was attended by the four ex-Vice Chancellors of the PU, Prof. R.P.Bambah. Prof. K.N.Pathak. Prof. R.C.Sobti and Prof. A.K.Grover, and many iconic personalities. Apart from PU fellows, faculty, researchers, student and many iconic personalities of the city were present on the occasion.