In the illustrious realm of international publishing, few names resonated with as much reverence and admiration as that of Asoke K. Ghosh. As the Chairman and Managing Director of PHI Learning Private Limited, Delhi, Ghosh had not only carved a niche for himself but had also left an indelible mark on the global publishing landscape. His journey, spanning over six decades, was a testament to his unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and profound impact on the world of education and literature. Ghosh's remarkable achievements had garnered him numerous national and international accolades, including the prestigious ‘Simon Master Chairman's Award’ and the inaugural ‘IPA Champion Award’ from the International Publishing Association (IPA). These honours underscored his exceptional contributions to the field and recognized him as a luminary in the realm of publishing.
Often hailed as the “Father of Indian Publishing” on the international stage, Ghosh's influence extended far beyond the borders of his homeland. His visionary endeavours in the 1960s revolutionized the accessibility of higher education publications, with the introduction of Eastern Economy Editions (EEE). These affordable yet high-quality books filled a critical void in the academic sphere, empowering Indian scholars with access to world-class resources at a fraction of the cost.
Furthermore, Ghosh's commitment to nurturing indigenous talent and promoting Indian authors had been unwavering. Through his leadership, he championed the dissemination of scientific knowledge and facilitated the global recognition of Indian academia. His efforts transcended geographical boundaries as he led delegations of Indian publishers to numerous countries and participated in international book fairs to showcase the wealth of talent within India.
Ghosh's foresight was equally evident in embracing technological advancements. In 1969, he became the trailblazer in Indian publishing by releasing the first-ever book on Computer Science, anticipating the burgeoning importance of this field. Decades later, in 2007, he once again led the industry into the digital age by pioneering the release of Digital Editions, laying the groundwork for the future of publishing in India.
His visionary initiatives aligned closely with Government policies made him an inspirational personality for publishers across the nation. His contributions had not gone unnoticed, with organizations such as the National Book Trust (NBT) and the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce recognizing his outstanding achievements. In March 2023, he had been honoured by National Book Trust (NBT) for his ‘Outstanding Contribution to the World Publishing’ during the 'New Delhi World Book Fair 2023'. On this ceremonial occasion, the Hon'ble Director of NBT, Lt. Col. Yuvraj Malik, had felicitated Mr. Ghosh with the Golden words, “Dhruv Tara”, The Pole Star of the world publishing.
Beyond his professional endeavours, Ghosh's humanitarian efforts stood as a testament to his compassion and generosity. Through the Rimjhim Ghosh Foundation, established in memory of his daughter, he had provided free education and healthcare services to underprivileged girls, embodying the spirit of service and empathy.
As a Rotarian for over four decades, Ghosh had been a beacon of service, spearheading initiatives for polio eradication and literacy promotion. His commitment to community welfare had earned him the highest accolades from Rotary International, further cementing his legacy as a humanitarian leader.
In every facet of his life, Asoke K. Ghosh exemplified excellence, compassion, and vision. His contributions to publishing, education, and humanitarianism had left an indelible imprint on society, enriching the lives of countless individuals. As we celebrate his extraordinary journey and countless achievements, we are reminded that true greatness lies not only in personal success but in the positive impact we leave on the world. Asoke K. Ghosh, a true luminary, continues to illuminate our path towards a brighter future.
We honour his initiative and dedication in empowering society with timely access to books!
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