Padma Shri Awardees of the Department
PROF. S. R. RANGANATHAN (1892–1972), Padma Shri Award in 1957
Prof. Shiyali Ramamrita Ranganathan was a renowned Indian Librarian and Mathematician and is regarded as the "Father of Library Science in India". His Five Laws of Library Science revolutionized the organization and management of libraries.
He developed the Colon Classification system and laid the theoretical foundations of modern library classification worldwide. His work continues to inspire librarians, researchers, and educators globally.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, the Government of India conferred the Padma Shri upon him in 1957.
PROF. B. S. KESAVAN (1909–2000), Padma Shri Award in 1960
Prof. Bellary Shamanna Kesavan was the first Librarian of the National Library of India (1947–1962) and is known as the Father of the Indian National Bibliography.
His pioneering services include drafting the Delivery of Books Act (1954) and instituting the Indian National Bibliography (1958). His contributions earned him global recognition in the field of Library and Information Science.
The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri Award in 1960.
PROF. SYED BASHIRUDDIN (1902–1984), Padma Shri Award in 1976
Prof. Syed Bashiruddin Ahmed was an internationally renowned library professional and an excellent administrator. His contribution towards the development of the Library will always be remembered. He was the brain and soul behind developing the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) Library into a knowledge hub at par with world-class libraries by strengthening its collection and renovating services.
He laid the foundation of education in Library Science at AMU in 1951, which has now grown into a world-class library education and research centre. He was also instrumental in establishing the Department of Library Science at Rajasthan University, Jaipur, and served as its Director and University Librarian.
Prof. Bashiruddin was associated with many professional societies at national and international levels and was a staunch advocate of women's working rights. The Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri in 1976 for his valuable contributions to the Library Profession.
PROF. P. N. KAULA (1924–2009), Padma Shri Award in 2004
Prof. Prithvi Nath Kaula was a pioneer and leader in the field of librarianship in India. He authored over 60 books, 400 research articles, and thousands of notes. A true disciple of Dr. S. R. Ranganathan, he carried forward the teachings of his mentor.
Prof. Kaula founded several journals, including the Library Herald (1958), and was instrumental in establishing library education and research centres nationally and internationally. His services earned him numerous national and international recognitions.
The Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri in 2004 for his outstanding contributions to Library and Information Science.
