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 Sham Lal Nasa, a stalwart in the field of pharmacy education and an influential voice in bridging the gap between academia and industry, passed away recently in New Delhi after a prolonged illness. Born in December 1935 in Jhallari village, now part of Pakistan, Nasa’s extraordinary life was a testament to his passion for advancing pharmaceutical education and practice in India.
A trailblazer in the profession, Nasa was one of the founding members of the Indian Pharmacy Graduates' Association (IPGA) and the Indian Hospital Pharmacists Association (IHPA). His journey in pharmacy began with a Diploma in Pharmacy from Punjab University, Amritsar, in 1956. After starting his career as a hospital pharmacist at Lady Hardinge Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital, he pursued advanced studies, earning B.Pharm and M.Pharm degrees from Delhi University's College of Pharmacy (DIPSAR).
Over three decades of teaching at DIPSAR (1964–1995), Nasa inspired countless students in pharmaceutics and hospital pharmacy. He was not just an educator but a pioneer, shaping policies, mentoring postgraduate students, and serving as an external examiner for universities nationwide.
His leadership extended beyond academia to industry organizations, where he was the Executive Secretary of the All India Small Scale Manufacturers Association and executive director of the Bulk Drug Manufacturers Association. He also advised the Paam Group of Companies from 1996 to 2004, reflecting his deep understanding of the pharmaceutical sector's regulatory and industrial dynamics.
Nasa's contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the M.L. Schroff Memorial National Award (1993), the Best Teacher Award by the Delhi Government (1994), and the Life Time Achievement Award by IHPA (2009). He was recognized as a Fellow by both the Institute of Chemists and the Indian Pharmaceutical Association.
Known for his tireless efforts to elevate pharmacy education, Nasa’s legacy is etched in the policies and practices he championed. His passing marks the end of an era but leaves an indelible mark on the profession.
Nasa is survived by a family, former colleagues, and countless students whose lives he profoundly impacted. The pharmacy community mourns the loss of a visionary who dedicated his life to shaping the future of healthcare in India.
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