– Mohd. Naushad Khan
The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) has appointed Professor M. Aslam as an Honorary Distinguished Fellow, recognising his significant contributions to academia and grassroots research.
Founded in 2001, AGRASRI is an autonomous research institution focusing on policy research, training, and advocacy in grassroots governance and development. It is guided by Dr. Subhash C. Kashyap, a Constitutional expert and former Lok Sabha Secretary-General.
Professor M. Aslam, former Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, is a respected academic and internationally recognised trainer. His work in social science research has influenced open and distance learning, rural development, and grassroots governance. He is a member of the Collegium of Eminent Social Scientists at ICSSR and a fellow at the World Bank’s Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI).
His inclusion in AGRASRI’s prestigious list of Honorary Distinguished Fellows places him alongside notable figures like Professor Sukhadeo K. Thorat, former UGC Chairman; Dr. W.R. Reddy, former Director-General of NIRDPR; and Dr. Rajesh Tandon, Founder of PRIA.
Speaking to Radiance, Professor Aslam said, “Rural development and Panchayati Raj have been my passion for 46 years. AGRASRI, founded on October 2, 2001, was created to fulfil Gandhi’s dream of Gram Swaraj through grassroots democracy. I have been associated with AGRASRI since its inception, supporting initiatives for development dialogue, new ideas, and strengthening grassroots democracy. It is an honour to be part of this eminent group.”
