Turmeric Man of Himachal Pradesh

Sunil Kumar, a dedicated teacher from Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh, has been selected for the prestigious National Teachers' Award. This honor, conferred by the President of India, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the field of education despite the significant challenges he has faced. Kumar’s story is not just one of professional excellence but also of personal resilience, as he has overcome physical disability to make a remarkable impact on his students and community.

A Remarkable Journey

Sunil Kumar's journey is an inspiring one. At just eight months old, a polio vaccine left him physically disabled. However, rather than allowing this to define his life, Kumar used his experiences to fuel his passion for teaching. His perseverance in the face of adversity is a shining example of how determination and dedication can overcome even the most challenging circumstances.

Recognition of Excellence

The National Teachers' Award is one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon educators in India. Each year, teachers who have made outstanding contributions to the field of education are recognized with this prestigious award. Sunil Kumar's selection for this honor is a recognition of his exceptional contributions to the field of education, despite the personal challenges he has faced.

This year, a total of 50 teachers from across the country have been selected for the National Teachers' Award. Kumar is the only teacher from Himachal Pradesh to be nominated for the award in 2024. His selection is a significant achievement, highlighting his dedication to education and his impact on his students and community.

Award Ceremony

The award will be conferred upon Sunil Kumar by President Draupadi Murmu on September 5, 2024, during a ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. This date, celebrated annually as Teachers' Day in India, is particularly significant as it honours the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of India’s most respected educators and statesmen.

The award includes a cash prize of ₹50,000, a silver medal, and a citation. These honours are a reflection of the immense respect and gratitude that the nation holds for its educators, who play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country.

Teachers' Day: A Tribute to Educators

Teachers' Day in India is celebrated every year on September 5th. The day commemorates the birth of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who served as the first Vice-President and the second President of India. Dr. Radhakrishnan was an eminent philosopher and educator, and it was at his suggestion that his birthday be celebrated as Teachers' Day to honor the contributions of teachers, researchers, and professors in India.

Key Points About Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

1. Birth:
• Born on 5th September 1888 in Tiruttani, Tamil Nadu, India.
• Belonged to a Telugu family.
2. Education:
• Studied philosophy at Christian College, Madras.
• Became a professor at Madras Presidency College and the University of Mysore.
3. Career Highlights:
• Served as the first Vice-President of India from 1952 to 1962.
• Became the second President of India from 1962 to 1967.
• Ambassador of India to the Soviet Union from 1949 to 1952.
• Vice-Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University from 1939 to 1948.
4. Recognition:
• Posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1984, India's highest civilian honor.
5. Notable Works:
• Authored significant philosophical works, including:
• The Hindu View of Life
• An Idealist View of Life
• Reign of Religion in Contemporary Philosophy
• Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore
• Kalki or the Future of Civilisation
• Gautama the Buddha
6. Legacy:
• His birthday, 5th September, is celebrated annually as Teachers' Day in India in honor of his contributions to education.

National Teachers' Awards

The National Teachers' Awards are given annually to educators who have made significant contributions to the field of education. The awards recognize teachers who have not only excelled in their professional duties but have also enriched the lives of their students through their commitment and dedication.

Eligibility Criteria for National Teachers' Awards

1.     Regular Faculty Member: The nominee must be a regular faculty member at a college, university, higher educational institution, or polytechnic in India.

2.     Experience: The nominee should have at least five years of full-time teaching experience at the undergraduate or postgraduate level.

3.     Age Limit: The nominee must be under 55 years of age as of the last date of receiving the application for the awards.

4.     Positions Excluded: Vice-Chancellor, Director, or Principal (whether regular or officiating) are not eligible to apply. However, individuals who held such positions but are below 55 years of age and still in active service are eligible.