Assoc Prof Dr. Prabha Bhola | Energy Transition | Best Researcher Award

Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, India

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Prabha Bhola’s academic journey began with an early passion for economics and its social implications. Her foundational studies were marked by a commitment to understanding socio-economic structures and their impact on communities, particularly in rural contexts. She pursued her Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Lucknow in 2003, graduating with First Division honors. This accomplishment laid a strong foundation for her advanced academic ambitions. Her graduate studies further developed her analytical and research capabilities, especially in economic theories, statistics, and policy analysis, which later proved invaluable to her scholarly contributions.Her academic pursuits culminated in a PhD from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur in 2010. Her thesis, titled “Rural Poverty in Uttar Pradesh: A District Level Analysis,” was a deep investigation into the structural and social factors contributing to rural poverty. By focusing on the district level, Dr. Bhola addressed economic issues at a granular level, which provided insights relevant to policymakers and development agencies. Her doctoral research was instrumental in establishing her as a scholar with a keen focus on real-world economic challenges, particularly those facing rural India.

Professional Endeavors and Experience

Dr. Bhola’s professional journey reflects her dedication to academia and her ability to make significant contributions in various educational institutions. Starting as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) at the Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Park (STEP) at IIT Kharagpur in 2010, she gained practical insights into entrepreneurial dynamics, technology management, and the interplay between academia and industry. This experience influenced her perspective on economic development, providing her with a unique foundation for her future roles.Her teaching career officially began as a Guest Faculty at the School of Management Studies, University of Hyderabad, in 2011. Here, she honed her skills in curriculum development, course design, and student mentorship. Her brief tenure as a Guest Faculty at Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Hyderabad, further diversified her teaching portfolio. Following this, she served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Management Studies & Industrial Engineering at IIT Dhanbad in 2012. In these roles, Dr. Bhola cultivated a distinct teaching style that emphasizes practical understanding, critical thinking, and real-world application, which resonated deeply with her students.In December 2012, Dr. Bhola returned to IIT Kharagpur as a Visiting Faculty at the Rajendra Mishra School of Engineering Entrepreneurship (RMSoEE), a position that marked her growing association with this prestigious institution. Her expertise in economics and entrepreneurship positioned her as a valuable addition to the faculty, leading to her appointment as an Assistant Professor (Tenure Track) in June 2013 and a subsequent promotion to Associate Professor in 2014. Her tenure at RMSoEE has allowed her to work at the intersection of economics and engineering, focusing on entrepreneurial education that empowers students with economic and business acumen.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Prabha Bhola’s research focuses on economic development, rural poverty, and entrepreneurial frameworks, with an emphasis on practical applications in the Indian context. Her doctoral work on rural poverty in Uttar Pradesh has been foundational to her research trajectory, informing her continued investigation into poverty alleviation and regional development strategies. Her research seeks to uncover the root causes of economic disparities, particularly in rural areas, and to propose strategies for sustainable development.In her role at RMSoEE, she has also dedicated significant efforts to exploring the role of entrepreneurship in economic growth, particularly in emerging economies. Her research contributions delve into entrepreneurial ecosystems, the economic impact of innovation, and sustainable business models. By integrating economic theory with entrepreneurial practice, she has contributed to a holistic approach to economic development, focusing on how entrepreneurial ventures can create positive social and economic impact.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Bhola’s contributions to academia and economic research have earned her recognition both within India and internationally. Her work on rural poverty and entrepreneurship has been published in leading journals and presented at conferences worldwide. These accomplishments have positioned her as a respected voice in her field, and she has received accolades from academic and professional bodies for her dedication to advancing economic understanding in contexts of social and technological change.Her teaching excellence has also been acknowledged by her students and peers, who value her ability to simplify complex economic concepts and her emphasis on practical applications. Dr. Bhola’s role as an influential educator at IIT Kharagpur reflects her commitment to guiding future leaders, entrepreneurs, and economists.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Bhola’s work has had a significant impact on the academic community, as well as on economic development initiatives in India. Her insights into rural poverty have contributed to discussions around policy reform and have provided a nuanced understanding of poverty’s structural roots. Her research at RMSoEE has also informed approaches to entrepreneurship, supporting a model of economic growth that values innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. By mentoring young entrepreneurs and future economists, she is fostering a generation that is equipped to address India’s socio-economic challenges with a fresh perspective and strong ethical grounding.Her influence extends beyond the classroom as she collaborates with government agencies, development organizations, and industry partners to bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications. This collaboration has enabled her to contribute to policy discussions and initiatives that address rural poverty, resource allocation, and economic sustainability, further enhancing her impact on society.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Prabha Bhola envisions a future where her research and teaching continue to inspire solutions for India’s economic challenges, particularly in rural development and entrepreneurial ecosystems. She aims to expand her research to include comparative studies on poverty and entrepreneurship in different regions, fostering a global perspective that could yield insights for both developed and developing economies. Her dedication to sustainable economic practices positions her to contribute to policy reform and educational innovation, leaving a lasting legacy that champions socially responsible and economically inclusive development.Dr. Bhola’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of economists and entrepreneurs reflects her long-term vision for a society that values both economic progress and social welfare. As a mentor, researcher, and educator, her legacy will undoubtedly influence future leaders who are well-equipped to address the challenges of tomorrow. Her work exemplifies the transformative potential of economics in creating a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous world.