Chandrakant Lahariya Wins Wiley Research Heroes Prize

Indian public health expert Chandrakant Lahariya has been awarded the prestigious Wiley Research Heroes Prize 2025, becoming the first Indian to receive this international recognition. The award highlights his sustained contribution to health policy research and its real-world impact beyond academic circles.

Global Recognition For Research Impact

According to an official press release, Dr. Chandrakant Lahariya was selected from over 2,000 nominations worldwide. He won the “Impact Beyond Academia” category, which recognises researchers whose work directly influences policy, programmes, and societal outcomes. He is among five researchers globally honoured this year for outstanding research contributions with measurable policy impact.

Professional Background And WHO Experience

Dr. Lahariya is a health policy researcher, academician, and practising medical professional. He previously served with the World Health Organisation, where he worked on public health programmes and policy frameworks. His career has focused on bridging the gap between research evidence and decision-making in health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Key Areas Of Research Contribution

Over the years, Dr. Lahariya has undertaken primary research in critical areas such as vaccination coverage, conditional cash transfer schemes for maternal and child health services, and strengthening primary healthcare delivery. His work has contributed to evidence-based policymaking aimed at improving immunisation uptake, reducing inequities in health access, and enhancing community-level health outcomes.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Wiley Research Heroes Prize recognises inclusive and impactful research.
• Dr. Chandrakant Lahariya is the first Indian recipient of this award.
• WHO is a specialised agency of the United Nations for global health.
• Conditional cash transfers are policy tools used to improve health outcomes.

Significance For Indian Health Research

The recognition underscores the growing global relevance of Indian health policy research. By translating research into actionable policy insights, Dr. Lahariya’s work demonstrates how academic evidence can directly shape public health interventions and governance. His achievement also highlights India’s expanding role in global health discourse, particularly in areas of vaccination, primary healthcare, and maternal and child health policy.