**Sham Lal Nasa**, an eminent figure in the realm of pharmacy education known for his efforts to connect educational institutions with the pharmaceutical industry, sadly departed recently in New Delhi following an extended illness. Born in December 1935 in Jhallari village, now within Pakistan’s borders, Nasa’s remarkable journey showcased his fervor for promoting pharmaceutical education and practices across India.
A forerunner in the field, Nasa was integral to the inception of the Indian Pharmacy Graduates’ Association (IPGA) and the Indian Hospital Pharmacists Association (IHPA). He embarked on his career in pharmacy after obtaining a Diploma in Pharmacy from Punjab University, Amritsar, in 1956. His early professional life included roles as a hospital pharmacist at Lady Hardinge Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital. Continuing his education, he achieved a B.Pharm and M.Pharm from Delhi University’s College of Pharmacy (DIPSAR).
For over thirty years (1964–1995) at DIPSAR, Nasa inspired numerous students specializing in pharmaceutics and hospital pharmacy. Beyond merely educating, he pioneered policies, mentored postgraduates, and served as an external examiner for universities nationwide.
His leadership extended to various industrial associations, where he served as the Executive Secretary for the All India Small Scale Manufacturers Association and as executive director for the Bulk Drug Manufacturers Association. As an advisor to the Paam Group of Companies from 1996 to 2004, he demonstrated expertise in the intricacies of the pharmaceutical industry’s regulatory landscape.
Nasa’s significant contributions earned him prestigious accolades, such as the M.L. Schroff Memorial National Award (1993), the Delhi Government’s Best Teacher Award (1994), and the Lifetime Achievement Award by IHPA (2009). Both the Institute of Chemists and the Indian Pharmaceutical Association awarded him only their Fellowship, underscoring his influence in the field.
Renowned for his relentless dedication to enhancing pharmacy education, Nasa’s enduring legacy can be seen in the reforms and standards he boldly promoted. His passing signifies the close of a chapter but leaves a lasting impact on the profession.
Nasa is survived by family, former colleagues, and innumerable students whose lives he positively affected. The pharmacy community mourns the loss of a visionary committed to shaping India’s healthcare future.