Prof. (Dr.) Janki Mohan Nigam, a renowned expert in veterinary surgery, was born on October 5, 1938, in Satna, Madhya Pradesh. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry in 1960 and Master’s degree in Veterinary Surgery in 1963 from M.P. College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Mhow.
Dr. Nigam’s illustrious career spans over four decades, with significant contributions to veterinary education, research, and extension services. He has held various academic and administrative positions in prestigious institutions in India and abroad, including Demonstrator in Surgery at College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Mhow; Assistant Professor, Obstetrics & Gynaecology at College of Veterinary Sciences, Hisar; Associate Professor, Surgery & Radiology at Punjab Agricultural University, Hisar Campus; Professor, Surgery at Punjab Agricultural University, Hisar Campus; Dean, College of Veterinary Sciences, and Director, Student Welfare at Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar and Founder Dean, College of Veterinary Sciences, Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidhyalaya (HPKVV), Palampur. Dr Nigam has the honour of being associated with Academics, Research, Extension & Administrative bodies of Indian Veterinary Research Institute Izatnagar, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Rajendra Agricultural University, Patna, Sher-e- Kashmir University of Agriculture & Technology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Jabalpur and the Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University.
He was a member of the first executive committee of Veterinary Council of India and also the member of Committee of the council and played an active role in development of the curriculum for B.V.Sc &A.H which has been implemented in all the colleges in India. Dr. Nigam was the Founder Secretary of the Indian Society of Veterinary Surgery and later held the office of the President for two tenures.
Dr. Nigam’s outstanding contributions to veterinary science and education have been recognized with numerous awards and honours, including Fellow of National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fellow of National Academy of Veterinary Sciences, Fellow of Indian Society of Veterinary Surgery, Fellow of National Conservation Society, ICAR Team Research Award, R Swaminathan Award, S.J. Angelo Memorial Award of Indian Veterinary Association. He travelled extensively to several countries like Denmark, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, England, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Kenya, USA & Canada and contributed in developing capacities in the field of veterinary surgery.
Dr. Nigam published over 275 scientific papers in national and international journals, with significant contributions to small animal, large animal and wild animal surgery. He has guided more than 20 students for their M.V.Sc & Ph.D programs in different fields of Veterinary Surgery & Reproduction. Dr. Nigam was known for his expertise and contribution in animal health, his dedication, humility, sportsman spirit and was also popular amongst his friends and colleagues.
The Prof. (Dr.) J.M. Nigam Memorial Award for Excellence in ‘Wildlife Surgery, Anaesthesiology, Radiology & Imaging” is a testament to his enduring legacy in the field of veterinary surgery and education. This award will inspire future generations of veterinarians and researchers to follow in his footsteps and make significant contributions to the field.