Literature 

Hindol Sengupta

Historian & Professor O P Jindal Global University

Hindol Sengupta is a distinguished Indian historian, journalist and an author, renowned for his contributions to literature and history. His extensive educational background includes studies in South Asian history and politics at Oxford and Columbia University. Sengupta has authored several acclaimed books, such as “Being Hindu,” making it the first book on Hinduism to receive appreciation worldwide. His work “The Man Who Saved India” was awarded the best non-fiction book at the Valley of Words literary festival in 2019. In 2022, he published “Sing, Dance and Pray,” the authorised biography of Srila Prabhupada, founder of ISKCON, further showcasing his versatility and depth as a writer. He also co-authored ​ “Life, Death and the Ashtavakra Gita,” with Bibek Debroy recently.

His contributions to literature and his ability to weave historical narratives with contemporary relevance have enriched India’s literary and cultural heritage. 

Public Finance

V N Alok

Professor Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA)

V N Alok has made notable contributions to India’s fiscal decentralisation and public finance frameworks, significantly enhancing governance efficiency at local and state levels. He conceptualised and developed the ‘Devolution Index,’ an analytical tool designed to systematically assess the real extent of resource transfers and administrative authority delegated to local governments. This Index has become instrumental in guiding central and state governments toward establishing more transparent, equitable and accountable financial governance practices.

His recommendations for successive Finance Commissions, refining revenue-sharing mechanisms and augmenting the fiscal autonomy of local bodies have had a far-reaching impact. Particularly important has been his work focused on enhancing the fiscal capacity, accountability and responsiveness of municipalities and Panchayati Raj Institutions.

Macroeconomics

Pranjul Bhandari

MD, Chief India Economist and Asean Economist, HSBC & Adviser, 16^th Finance Commission

Pranjul Bhandari has significantly influenced India’s monetary and fiscal policy landscape through rigorous macroeconomic research. Her precise analysis, particularly during India’s post-COVID recovery, provided critical guidance on inflation forecasting, directly shaping RBI’s monetary policy decisions and maintaining investor confidence amid global economic uncertainties. 

Bhandari’s research highlighting rural consumption distress informed targeted fiscal responses, notably enhanced credit flows to MSMEs, supporting India’s economic resilience. Additionally, her analytical
contributions have helped to improve tax buoyancy and fiscal efficiency, refining revenue-sharing mechanisms and fostering balanced regional growth.

Swadeshi Economics

Ram Singh

Director Delhi School of Economics

Ram Singh has substantially advanced Swadeshi Economics through rigorous research on public-private partnerships (PPPs) and infrastructure in India. His analysis of cost overruns and project delays has enhanced resource efficiency, directly benefiting national economic growth. By critically examining compulsory land acquisition laws, he exposed systemic inefficiencies, prompting policy reforms to safeguard landowners’ rights and promote equitable development. He has actively contributed to Monetary Policy and actively integrates indigenous economic wisdom with contemporary theories, reinforcing India’s economic sovereignty. He has contributed extensively to Swadeshi Economics with unwavering dedication to sustainable and inclusive national progress.

Corporate Social Responsibility 

Reliance Foundation

The Reliance Foundation is honoured for its exemplary ‘Teerth Yatri Seva’ initiative at the Maha Kumbh, which served millions of pilgrims with compassion and innovation. This comprehensive programme provided nourishing meals, 24×7 healthcare, safe transportation via EVs and golf carts and enhanced safety measures, including life jackets for sacred water rituals. Reliance ensured a seamless pilgrimage with Campa Ashrams offering rest zones, clear navigational signage, and Jio’s upgraded 4G/5G connectivity. Supporting police efforts and collaborating with spiritual organisations like Niranjani Akhara and Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Reliance eased the journey of the vulnerable. As Anant Ambani stated, “The Maha Kumbh was our opportunity to serve,” embodying selfless devotion.