Prof PK Khosla, Founder-Chancellor of Shoolini University, was honoured with the Prerna Srot Samman 2025 by the Government of Himachal Pradesh. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu conferred the award upon him during the State-Level Independence Day function at Sarkaghat, District Mandi.
The award recognised Prof Khosla’s contributions to education and his role in establishing Shoolini University as an institution of research and innovation in the Himalayan state.
Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla said, “I am delighted to share that our Chancellor and my father, Prof Prem Kumar Khosla, has been honoured with the Prerna Srot Samman for his contribution to Himachal Pradesh through Shoolini University. As Chancellor, he has been my boss and also my best boss ever. His vision and grit are unmatched. At the age of 65, he sold all he had to pursue his dream of creating a world-class university in the mountains. Today, Shoolini ranks among India’s finest institutions, and his dream has truly come alive. He is my role model, and will always make us proud.”
Prof Ashish Khosla, President and Director (Innovation and Marketing) at Shoolini University, added, “This Independence Day became unforgettable as I watched my father receive the Prerna Srot Samman. Fifty years ago, my parents chose Solan over Austria because of their desire to contribute to the country and the state of Himachal Pradesh. Even today, in their mid-80s, they continue to work every single day with optimism and purpose. My father always reminds us that it is never too early or too late to follow your dreams and make the world a better place.”
Prof Khosla is a distinguished academician, scientist, and institution builder with more than five decades in higher education and research. An alumnus of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and Oxford University, he has held senior academic and administrative positions and earned recognition for his expertise in plant breeding, genetics, and education reforms.
In 2009, at the age of 65, he founded Shoolini University in Solan, investing his personal resources and inspiring colleagues and family to join him in building a global-quality institution in the Himalayas. Today, the university is the No.1 Private University in India and is known globally for its high-impact research and innovation.
Prof Khosla continues to guide students, faculty, and academicians with his philosophy of ‘karma’ without expectation. His journey reflects resilience, courage, and service, making him a true ‘Prerna Srot’ for Himachal Pradesh and the nation.
August 16, 2025