Prof. Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, former UGC Chairman and Vice-Chancellor of JNU, has been awarded the Padma Shri 2026 for his outstanding contributions to education. From his humble beginnings in Mamidala, Telangana, Kumar excelled in electrical engineering, nanoelectronics research, and academic leadership. Celebrated by peers, students, and institutions like IIT Delhi and UGC, he emphasizes strengthening universities, promoting innovation, and expanding access to education for all. His journey reflects decades of dedication to transforming Indian higher education.
