Vishishta Anusandhan Purasakaar
About the Event
The India Rising Foundation, in collaboration with St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, proudly presents the inaugural Vishishta Anusandhān Puraskaar 2026—a landmark initiative dedicated to honouring excellence that bridges India’s indigenous wisdom, scientific research, and global impact.
This prestigious award celebrates Fr. Dr. S. Ignacimuthu, S.J., an eminent ethnopharmacologist and scientist, renowned for pioneering contributions such as PONNEEM biopesticides, Ignaciomycin, and transformative research in biopesticides, antimicrobials, and herbal therapeutics. A mentor to over 60 PhD scholars, former Vice-Chancellor, and recipient of 40+ national and international awards, his work exemplifies the spirit of research rooted in tradition and validated by science.
The event features Guests of Honour including Shri Santosh Lad, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Government of Karnataka; Padma Shri Dr. Darshan Shankar, Vice-Chancellor, The University of Trans-disciplinary Health Sciences & Technology; and Rev. Fr. Jesudoss Rajamanickam, Director, St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences.
A thought-provoking panel discussion on “Reimagining Human Health” will explore the integration of indigenous knowledge, modern scientific research, and planetary well-being, moderated by Dr. Tony D. S. Raj with distinguished panelists from IISc, Apollo AyurVAID, Arka Integrative Healthcare, and Synterra Foundation.
The program also includes a powerful fireside chat on Antimicrobial Resistance, featuring Dr. Maneesh Paul and Dr. Gifty Immanuel, addressing India’s RDI response to the growing threat of superbugs.
Through award recognition, dialogue, and collaboration, Vishishta Anusandhān Puraskaar 2026 reinforces India Rising Foundation’s mission to catalyse a ₹1000 Crore RDI Grant Fund, Open Labs, and Fellows for Research—fueling innovation for Viksit Bharat 2047.
Vandemataram. Let us honour knowledge. Empower research. Rise together for India.