A Christchurch based Scientist has been recognised by an Indian organisation for his services in the fields of research and other sectors.
The NRI Welfare Society of India, a Delhi based community organisation, presented Dr Surinder Tandon with the ‘Hind Rattan Award’ (Jewel of India) recently.
The annual Awards are given to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and People of Indian Origin for their significant contributions in their chosen field of activity or community.
The Awards ceremony held in Delhi on the eve of India’s Republic Day (January 25) was attended by Minister of State for Agriculture & Food Industries Tariq Anwar, former Assam and Tamil Nadu Governor Dr Bhisma Narain Singh, former Supreme Court Judge and current Press Council Chairman Markandey Katju, former Election Commissioner Dr G V G Krishnamurthy and other dignitaries.
Dr Tandon was recognised for his outstanding services and achievements in textile and wool research and technology commercialisation.
He described the honour as “the biggest surprise of his life.”
Impressive career
With a postgraduate (MTech) from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Delhi and a doctorate (PhD) from Leeds University, Dr Tandon migrated to New Zealand in 1988. His experience spans 25 years as a Senior Scientist at AgResearch Lincoln Research Centre, formerly Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand and Canesis.
In conjunction with domestic and international academics, scientists and experts in the textile industry, Dr Tandon has led the development and technology transfer for commercialisation of a number of wool fabric technologies for companies worldwide. He has nearly 70 publications to his credit.
He is a recipient of many other Awards including a Medal from the Royal Chartered Textile Institute in 2012 and the Inaugural Outstanding Product Innovation and Commercialisation Award of the Textile Institute in 2009 (Indian Newslink, March 1, 2009).
Dr Tandon is a member of several professional, trade and social service organisations. The latter include the Christchurch Multicultural Council, Rotary Club of Lincoln, and the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin, of which he is the Founder-President.
Dr Tandon’s family includes his wife Archna and their children Ruchika and Sachin.
