At a special ceremony held at the famous MP Birla Planetarium, renowned astrophysicist Prof. Yashwant Gupta, Distinguished Professor and Centre Director at the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Pune, received the MP Birla Memorial Award 2025.

The biennial award, which was established in 1993 to honor the late Syt. M.P. Birla, the planetarium’s founder, is one of the most prestigious honorees in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics, space sciences, and related fields. Prof. Gupta was chosen for his groundbreaking work in radio astronomy and his contributions to the advancement of the discipline’s research and institutional growth.

In front of eminent scientists, academicians, and members of the scientific community, the MP Birla Institute of Fundamental Research, which oversees the Planetarium, presented the award.

“His research has not only opened new avenues for scientific inquiry but also provided solutions that will benefit the advancement of human knowledge. We are delighted to give him this well-earned honor,” said Mr. S. Datta, Curator at M P Birla Planetarium.

Prof. Yashwant Gupta said, “I am extremely honored to receive the M. P. Birla Memorial Award. Curiosity, teamwork, and persistent scientific effort are the foundations of astronomy, and accolades such as these emphasize the significance of ongoing funding for scientific institutions and research”.

The event honored Prof. Gupta’s exceptional contributions to radio astronomy and his guidance in the advancement of significant scientific projects in India.

Priyanka Dutta