Padma Shri historian Dr. Meenakshi Jain, former professor at Gargi College, nominated to Rajya Sabha by President Droupadi Murmu, for a six-year term starting July 21, 2025.
Dr. Meenakshi Jain, Former Professor of Gargi College, University of Delhi, is among the four individuals nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President Droupadi Murmu on 12th of July. She was serving as an associate professor at the Department of History, Gargi College
Her writings as a historian include, among many others, Ram and Ayodhya, The Battle of Rama, Medieval India, Sati-Evangelicals, Baptist Missionaries, the Changing Colonial Discourse, her most recent book, Vishvanath Rises and Rises in 2024, and the NCERT history textbook. Her work highlights alternating perspectives regarding medieval history, Indian culture and historiography coming from British times. She was conferred with the Padma Shri in 2020, the fourth highest civilian award in the field of literature and education.
“At a time when the nation is reclaiming its cultural confidence at the global stage, her presence in Parliament will ensure that policy debates are more informed’’, said Himanshu Kumar, a third year student at Hindu College recalling when she came to his annual department event.
In response to a question about her future role in public life beyond the university as a Member of the Rajya Sabha, she stated,
I have not yet even joined so I think it inappropriate to comment on anything this soon.”
The other individuals nominated are public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam, Indian politician C. Sadanandan Master, and former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla. She will assume office from 21st of July, 2025 along with other members. Her tenure will continue till July, 2031. From teaching college students to now serving the public, she has made a significant mark on history.
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Arya Chaudhary
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