The award is instituted in honour of Padma Bhushan Prof. R. Kumar, an outstanding chemical engineer and a visionary leader, whose exemplary research contributions brought international recognition to the Department of Chemical Engineering, at IISc. where he served as a faculty member his entire career, and placed it on its path of long-standing excellence in research and teaching. At the heart of his contributions was modelling. Built on remarkable physical insight and highly imaginative thinking, his models displayed rare novelty and not only helped solve difficult challenges of the time but also synthesize vast bodies of seemingly disparate knowledge.

The award is instituted with the generous contributions made by well-wishers and admirers of Prof. Kumar and those who have benefited from his association, with the intention of celebrating and furthering his legacy.

Prof. R Kumar Fund