The Infosys Science Foundation has appointed Dr. Kaushik Basu, Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India and C. Marks Professor of International Studies and Professor of Economics at Cornell University, as the Jury Chair for the Infosys Prize in Social Sciences.
Dr. Basu said, "A Prize, once it gets a reputation for being awarded with a single-minded focus on excellence, is not just a tribute to past achievements but also a catalyst for future creativity and it can play a transformative role in society. In its short history, the Infosys Prize has been able to drive attention to scientific research in the country. I am honored to be given this opportunity to play a role in assisting the Infosys Science Foundation to take this initiative forward and nurture new ideas and insights in Social Sciences".
Prof. Amartya Sen said, "Infosys Science Foundation has been doing wonderful work in drawing attention to and encouraging research in various areas including the natural sciences, mathematics as well as the social sciences. The Humanities as a cluster of subjects – Literary Studies, Philosophy, History, Art, Legal Theory - complement these sciences and have an important role in broadening human lives, like science has, but they work through very different channels. Having a prize in Humanities will add incentive for younger people in the country to pursue these subjects. I am delighted that the Infosys Science Foundation is moving in this direction."
S. Gopalakrishnan, Executive Co-Chairman Infosys & President - Infosys Science Foundation said, "The Infosys Prize has come a long way since its inception in 2009 and has gained critical acclaim from various sections of society. The jury chairs selected for each category of the Prize have achieved highest standards in their respective work areas. We are confident that their association with the Infosys Prize will help us reward outstanding scientists and researchers for the contributions to their respective fields and society at large. We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Kaushik Basu as the new Jury Chair for the Infosys Prize for Social Sciences, and are also thankful for the continued support from Prof. Amartya Sen as we work towards encouraging bright young minds to adopt careers in research".
