The Epic

The Epic Archive Of A Living History

The Secret Is Dedication That is the difference between good teachers and great teachers: good teachers make the best of a pupil's means; great teachers foresee a pupil's ends.

- Maria Callas

Dedicated to the best Teacher and Mentor ...

01

Preface

t was a pleasure and above all an honour to bring out this collection on the life of Prof.

U.C. Srivastava. It was definitely a great assignment to embark upon collecting moments from his life but at the same time herculean task given the magnanimity with which Sir has chauffeured his life- so large and so great yet so simple and sober. However, it definitely was an enchanting experience to be through. His life is way too great to be compiled into a feeble attempt of a diary like this and, therefore, we could only touch upon various facets and laurels of his life. This collection is merely a glimpse of what definitely is a much larger picture.

We have derived our collections from various sources and undoubtedly the most important was Sir’s beloved wife, Mrs. Mamta Srivastava Madam, a very kind and cheerful person, who happily shared a collection of old and new snaps and snippets for this work. Secondly, but nonetheless equally important to mention, the seamless efforts of Dr. Durgesh Singh and Dr. Sippy Singh, who left no stone unturned in collecting old memories, pictures, messages and greetings from all the people across country for this compilation. It would have been impossible to bring this diary into realms

02

of reality without their devoted efforts. We are also thankful to all old and new friends, Colleagues and Research Scholars of Professor for sending lovely messages for this occasion.

We have taken due care in compiling this piece of work to make it accurate and flawless.

However, error, if any crept in inadvertently, are deeply regretted. I am sure this diary will make you smile whenever you flip through it.

Dr. Prashant Chauhan. IRS, And a thankful student

A Journey Parents of Prof. U.C. Srivastava

PROF. U. C. SRIVASTAVA, F.N.A.Sc., F.I.A.N. • M.Sc., D. Phil (Alld.), Doctor of Neurophysiology (Pisa, Italy) • General Secretary NASI (HQ) • D. Phil. – Allahabad University • D.Sc. Equivalent Doctor of Neurophysiology – Pisa University

(Awarded degree with honour: 70/70) • Elected Fellow 2005 The National Academy of Sciences, India.

• Elected Fellow 2008 The Indian Academy of Neurosciences • Council Member and Treasurer, NASI, Allahabad (2007-2010) • Elected Sectional President ISCA, 2011 Animal, Veterinary and Fishery Sciences • Council Member & V. P. of Indian Academy of Neuroscience (2011-2013) • Awarded Post Doctoral Fellowship of Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy. 1980-1982 (Two Years)

03

The Beginning

t began on 5th June of year 1950; India was young with her independencehaving got independence just little over two years back- when a beginning was made. A person who was to rise as a stalwart in field of science had just made a humble beginning. That was the day when our beloved Prof. U.C. Srivastava was born.

He is a man of multiple tasks; He has worked as Proctor, Assistant DSW, Warden of PCB Hostel, Director/Coordinator All India UGAT 2007-2008, 2008-2009 and Director All India PGAT 2009-2010, University of Allahabad apart from being External

04

The Beginning Collaborator with Prof. O. Pompeiano, Institute of Physiology, Pisa 1985 (4 most advanced techniques of unit recording as well as computer analysis. weeks). Prof. Srivastava expertises in the fields of Neurophysiology, Neu- Sir has been a renowned name in scientific and academic parlance since roanatomy, Cell Biology, Cytochemistry and Physiology. His teaching ex- long. perience spans across a huge span of Forty Years in various capacities. He has been a part of coveted University of Allahabad since 1977, when he joined as a Lecturer in Zoology department of A.U. Later, in 1990, he was promoted as a Reader and to Professor in 2003. However, it is well mentioning that he had been indeed eligible for Professorship since 1996.

Dr. Umesh Chandra Srivastava, a senior Professor in the Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad, is an academician par excellence worked in famed laboratory of Neurophysiology of University of Pisa Italy with Prof. O. Pompeiano, Director of Institute of Physiology and was awarded the post doctoral degree of Doctor of Neurophysiology from Sculo Normale Superiore Pisa Italy; in this laboratory with the following marks; 70 out of 70 and honours, he performed experiments with the

Prof. Pompeiano

05

The Beginning

His 81 full length papers in ISI journals having impact factor, 4 Review articles and 89 Abstracts (Total 84+89=173) stand as a firm testimony to this fact. He also has Two books to his credit – “Handbook of Zoology” And “Emerging Trends in Zoology”.

Details of his Curriculum vitae, list of publications, paper presented in different symposia/conferences, academic profile, list of D. Phil produced and citation index are too bulky and illustrious to even list out in this small effort to encompass his glorious career.

Professor has graced over 75 National and 15 International Symposium/Conferences with his active participation and gracious presence. He has mentored Seventeen D. Phil. Theses including One foreign student from University of Seventh of April, Zawia, Libya).

As on date, six D.Phil. students are still working under him which manifests his never ending zeal for his active contribution to the field of Science. He has successfully completed three public funded projects amidst other accomplishments.

Sir has been a life member of leading Indian Professor Srivastava with his foreign student Dr. Ibrahim D. Ali Sakal

06

Science Academies viz. National Academy of Sciences India, Indian Science Congress Association, Indian Academy of Neurosciences and International Society of Applied Biology. He is also on Advisory Board of Asian Journal of Experimental Sciences, Advisory board of DNA club NASI, Allahabad and is a Member of UGC-SAP, ZDAU. Sir has delivered more than 75 invited Lectures across the country with more than 50 Extension Lectures in last five years itself and coordinated large number of refresher courses on various themes for rebooting those involved in Science education.

Quite importantly, he has been associated with the National Academy of Sciences, India as OSD, Nat. Acad. Sciences, India since 1993. He has been actively associated in Science Popularization programmes in country since the last two decades. He has conducted and organized Programmes of Summer School for 10+2 students. Science extension lecture series/ Practical workshop for teachers and students since, Science Quiz/ Debate/ Oration / Exhibition (Local and UP State level) from and Talent Search programmes

The Beginning His work in science has not only won accolades on our soil, but he has also got recognition and laurels from other Neurologists across the globe. His Research Work has been cited in papers/review articles in International journals of high acclaim and repute. His work has been cited widely across world with 261 Total Citations (and still counting) of 22 papers and the Max. Citation received by a paper stands at 83!.

No doubt by the time this piece of collection is being read, the numbers must have shot up.

Apart from his academic wonders and outstanding work in academics and science, Sir is a wonderful family man. This picture speaks volumes of the joy and pristine environ of his family life. Sir is also a master of kind heart, upright character and sharp brain. No doubt he’s a perfect in all fields.....may it be world outside, the world around him or the world within himself.

Professor U.C. Srivastava with his family

07

Messages

“

Prof. P.P. Mathur, Vice Chancellor KIIT University Bhubaneswar, Odisha

08

“

I would have loved to be part of the celebration. Please convey my appreciation and congratulation to Prof Srivastava. I believe he will remain active and contribute more after his superannuation.

May Almighty bless him with good health and energy to contribute to science and society! Wishing the event a grand success.

“

“

It is really nice gesture on the part of all research scholars to organize such a farewell function for their guide. I would miss the event but my thoughts will be with you all. I only believe that such an energetic and dedicated person like Dr Srivastava would not retire but would contribute more to the society in many different ways. I convey my felicitations and best wishes to him.

Prof. M. K. Thakur, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Lab, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi.

Messages

Prof. Subodh Kumar Jain Head, Department of Biotechnology Dr. H.S.Gour Central University, Sagar.

I have learned about the retirement of Professor U.C. Srivastava my friend, philosopher and guide from the department of Zoology, Allahabad University, Allahabad in the month of June 2015. On this occasion, I have mixed emotions, on one hand I feel happy and excited that he is going to start next chapter of his life and will be able to give his valuable quality time towards service, and on the other the departmental colleagues, employees, research scholars, students and friends in the university will miss him.

I had the privilege of working with him for last fifteen years on various platforms and experienced his devotion towards science and his working style with strict discipline. His research work in the field of neuroscience is well cited and appreciated throughout the globe. I remember

his organising calibre during his term as sectional president in the section of Animal, veterinary and fishery sciences at Chennai (2011), where he published a book entitled “Emerging Trends in Zoology�, and International Symposium on Neurosciences, Allahabad (2013). I am fortunate enough to work with him on various occasions and learned a lot from him.

His devotion for the National Academy of Science India, Allahabad where he worked as treasurer and presently working as General Secretary is remarkable and highly appreciated. He always has a positive impact on everything he involved with.

I am sure no one with his zest for challenges will ever retire but enjoy whatever new challenges he takes on. I wish him funfilled and relaxing retirement.

I applaud you for your years of service and achievement at University of Allahabad. My heartiest congratulations and best wishes for your retirement.

I will always remember the first day we met and the way of making me feel like one of your family member. I continue to benefit from your personal wisdom and professional expertise. Few have worked as Prof. Ajai Kumar Srivastav, hard as you have. I hope you will enjoy Department of Zoology directing your energies into your other DDU Gorakhpur University, special interests.

For many of us, your career has been a Gorakhpur. model to follow. I can't count the times I have come into your office to ask for advice.

May you retire knowing that you have made a remarkable contribution and have touched the lives of your colleagues in immeasurable ways.

You are one of the hardest workers I have ever known. You deserve a great retirement, but I know you will still keep yourself busy.

You can be taken out of the workforce, but the work force can never be taken out of you. I am confident you'll never stop working on things you love to do.

We'll miss you.

AND PLEASE DROP IN TO VISIT US FROM TIME TO TIME.

09

Messages

10

“

Prof. Krishna Misra, NASI Senior Scientist at CBMR (SGPGI Campus), Lucknow

“

Prof. Diego Manzoni, Dipartimento di Fisiologia Umana via S. Zeno 31, 56127, Pisa.

Dear Umesh, I have been touched by knowing that you are going to retire. Since I will be unable to participate in the event, owing to family reasons, I wish to tell you that it has been a real pleasure, 30 years ago, to have the opportunity to work with you. This was due to your outstanding professional abilities, but also to your human qualities that made you a friend rather than a simple colleague. I see that these qualities have informed your professional life making you a qualified scientist and a respected teacher.

Now you are starting a new chapter of your life and I wish it will be full of peace, joy and satisfaction.

God bless you and your family.

“

“

My hearty congratulations to Prof.

U.C.Srivastava for superannuating after such a wonderful and successful career. I am happy to know that his students are organizing a farewell for him. That evidently shows how much his students respect and revere him.There is nothing more important for a teacher than his students dedication to him. I would have loved to be present on such an occassion, however, unfortunately I am not in Allahabad on this date. Please convey my best wishes to him for a bright future and a meaningful post superannuation career.

Messages

Prof. Bipul Kataki, Assam.

A few lines to his Colleagues, Research Scholars and Students Prof. Umesh Chandra Srivastava , whom I met for the first time in July 1969 when I got admitted in Allahabad University in the Deptt. of Zoology impressed me so much at the very sight that the memory of the day still fresh in my mind. He looked so young in his look and gait that I used to call him “chotta ladka”. That “chotta ladka” has become so big academically in his later life for which I am so proud of. His present students may not be aware of the fact that he wanted to shift to Botany Deptt. in his first few days in Zoology but my continuous insistence made him to remain in the present Deptt. In the two years in the University we both were in separable and opted for the same special paper. The ambiance in the Deptt. during those days were different from what it is today though I have not visited my Alma matter for the last few years . The Allahabad University has been made Central University and as a result the Deptt. must have undergone tremendous changes . On this day of his farewell emotional feelings haunts me . Farewell is a word – it is not the end of the any relationship though time and distance may separate him from you but still Prof. U. C. Srivastava will always have an important role to play in the life of his students. Life is a battle field and there are few people who can enjoy the happiness of success in life. I consider myself to be a lucky person to tell you that one of the most successful persons in life is a very close friend of mine. Actually our life is a total of time. Time offers many ways to become successful. Prof. U.C. has utilized properly each and every moment of his youth and service. As a human being we cannot refuse what time commands us but as Prof. U.C. Srivastava we can act properly at present and do something for the future until the last moment of our life.

Throughout his dedicated service he has shown his success in guiding the students as well as his colleagues by his beautiful mind. Students must

have experienced his passion for teaching which has made him “Professor – par – excellence”. Though it is the time to bid him farewell but it will be nice to tell Prof. U.C.S – the educator, the visionary, the mentor and above all the great teacher that Sir “you will be missed”.

Dear Umesh, I was happy when I learned you had completed 40 years of loyal service at the Allahabad University, the place where I studied and made lifelong valuable friends like you. For many of us, your career has been a model to follow. You truly have the department the success it is today, and I think I can speak for all of us when I say we are sad to see you leave. May you retire knowing that you have made a remarkable contribution and have touched the lives of your colleagues and mine in immeasurable ways. I personally believe your dedication, your presence, your advice and your encouragement will be definitely missed by everyone at the department of Zoology as you have no substitute.

Forty years is a long, LONG time. But now it's behind you and you have a wonderful retirement planned. I truly believe retirement opens the door to new opportunities and now onward you are your own boss. Starting now you will have more time to invest in the things you want to do and this will lead to new success in whatever you pursue. I can’t come with you in your new endeavors, but my highest hopes for your future definitely can.

Congratulations for your richly deserved retirement.

Lastly I would like to say, enjoy the freedom your achievement has earned.

Relax, have fun and avoid anything that resembles work for as long as possible. Have a great retirement period with the Best of your Health.

Your long time friend.

11

Messages

Skeâ veÙeer G"eve nw Ùes : Deefvelee ieeshesMe

Prof. Anita Gopesh, Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad.

12

TIJe&peeceer nesleer nw Thej Deewj Thej peeleer ngF& Ùes TIJe&ieeefcelee oes lejn keâer nes mekeâleer nw Skeâ JÙeJeneefjkeâ Yeeweflekeâ ogefveÙee keâer Deewj Skeâ Devleme cele keânes, DeeOÙeeefcekeâ ogefveÙee keâer~ efoJeme keâe DeJemeeve nw Ùes~ peerJeve keâe Ùes "eBJe keânlee nw efkeâ Skeâ heue ®keâ keâj osKeW heerÚs keâer Deesj jeef$e kesâ DeBOesjs keâes Ûeerj keâj ner, Yeer efkeâ Gmeves keäÙee KeesÙee keäÙee heeÙee~ ogefveÙeeJeer DeLeeX ceW mecYeJe nw efkeâ efvekeâuelee nw, Deceuee meyesje~~ ueies Deehekeâes efpelevee heevee Lee, Glevee heeÙee veneR - hej Devleme kesâ Skeâ uecyes efove keâe Ùes Deieuee meyesje~~ Øeefleceevees mes osKeW lees Deehekeâes ueiesiee, heeÙee DeefOekeâ, KeesÙee yengle keâce~ ef]pevoieer nj Meece jbie yeoueleer nw GcesMe YeeF&, nceves efkeâleveer yeej yeele keâer nw Fme meye keâer Deewj leceece osKe mekeâes lees osKees, celeYesoeW kesâ yeeJepeto efkeâmeer Skeâ mlej hej nceejs yeerÛe Jen mebJeeo megve mekeâes lees megvees mLeeefhele nes mekeâe nw pees Deepe keâer ogefveÙee ceW efJejue nw – nceves yengle Fkeâ otmejer megyen DeeJee]pe osleer nw~ yeej ogKe ceW yeele keâjkesâ peer nukeâe efkeâÙee nw yengle yeej nBmes Yeer nQ~ ef]pevoieer Fme ceesÌ[ mes FmeerefueS ceQ DeeÕemle ntB efkeâ pees Deepe ceQ keân jner ntB Jen Deehe mecePe jns Fkeâ veÙee G"eve uesleer nw~~ nQ~ Deehe Jen meye Yeer mecePe jns nQ pees ceQ veneR keân jner ntB Deewj Jees Yeer GcesMe YeeF&, neB Deehekeâes efjmeÛe& kesâ efoveeW mes Ùener mecyeesefOele keâjleer Dee heÌ{ jns nQ pees Fve hebefòeâÙeeW kesâ Devleme ceW nw~ Ùen DeJemej peerJeve kesâ keâeÙeevlejCe keâe nw Skeâ øesâce mes cegòeâ neskeâj ceve Ûeens øesâce ceW meceeves keâe jner ntB~ 40 meeue keâe meeLe – Skeâ uecyee meeLe neslee nw – Deepe kesâ – pees kegâÚ Deye lekeâ øesâce ceW yeBOe keâj efkeâÙee Deye ceve Ûeens lejer]kesâ mes #eCeYebiegj efjMleeW kesâ yegjs meceÙe ceW Skeâ GheueefyOe Skeâ pewmee veneR jne keâjves Ùee ve keâjves keâe nw~ Fme "eBJe hej Deepe ®keâ keâj cecelee peer kesâ ncesMee.. Skeâ pewmee keâesF& menpe mecyevOe neslee Yeer veneR~ Gleej-ÛeÌ{eJe, meeLe Skeâ efJenbiece Âef° [eues efJeieled hej Deewj hetjer lewÙeejer kesâ meeLe DeÛÚe-yegje meye keâYeer menpe keâYeer Demenpe hej mLeeÙeer jne lees yeme ]keâoce jKeW Deeiele kesâ Fme ØeLece meesheeve hej – peerJeve mes Deehekeâes yengle Skeâ mecePe meodYeeJevee keâe met$e~ ogKeer veneR nesleer, efJeieled Yeer veneR ceeveleer Fme mecyevOe keâes~ hej Ùes meceÙe Skeâ "eBJe lees nw ner jemles ceW heÌ[les kegâÚ heevee nw - peerJeve keâes DeYeer Deehekeâes yengle kegâÚ osvee nw~ Deye lekeâ ceerue kesâ helLej keâer lejn, pees heerÚs leÙe efkeâÙes meheâj keâes ner veneR yeleelee, peerJeve ves Deehekeâes keâmeewšer hej keâmee, Deye meceÙe Dee jne nw efkeâ peerJeve yeleelee nw Deehekeâes DeYeer efkeâleveer otj Deewj Ûeuevee nw~ Deewj GcesMe YeeF& keâes Deehe keâmeewšer hej keâmeW Deewj peerJeve keâes ceveceeves {bie mes efpeS~ ceveÛeene Deekeâej oW~ peerJeve kesâ Fme veS efJeneve hej Deehekeâe Deewj cecelee Ssve cebef]peue hej hengBÛevee veneR, Ûeueles jnvee ner lees ef]pevoieer nw~ Ssmee peer keâes MegYekeâeceveeSB~ Deehe Yeer ceeveles jns nQ~ Ûeueleer ngF& nj Ûeerpe Ùeefo cebMee mener nes lees

Messages

Dr. K. P. Singh, Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad Prof. U.C. Srivastava : a rare blend of numerous characteristics It gives me immense pleasure to write something about Prof. U.C. Srivastava who is likely to be retired from the service very soon. Although, it is shocking time for me because he will not share the same platform in the Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad where he became a guiding force to me in several official and un-official meetings.

Really, it will be very hard to survive without his active guidance and motivation. Similarly, Departmental staff as well as students will also feel his constant encouragements and help. During last 25 years, I have seen different characteristics of his life and as I knew Prof. Srivastava so far: As a student It was my first interaction with Prof. Srivastava as a student when I was perusing my M.Sc. Zoology Ist Year in 1983 from the University of Allahabad, Allahabad. During those days, I was fond to attend the classes of Prof. Srivastava, probably he was teaching some topics of Annelida, especially on metameric segmentation. The way of teaching was excellent because he knew better which methodology will be suitable and useful for the students. He had well controlled in his profession, both in subject knowledge and motivation, hence he became the guiding force to the students. Therefore, students wanted to attend maximum classes of Prof.

Srivastava, popularly known as ‘UCS’ or ‘UC Sir’. His teaching also inspired me a lot for choosing my carrier as a teacher.

As a research scholar Although I was not enrolled with Prof. Srivastava for my D.Phil. (Ph.D.) programme but I had worked about 2 years in the Neurophysiology Lab. under his supervision in a U.G.C. sponsored research project sanctioned to him, after his returned from Italy. Probably, I was the third researcher in his lab. It was a nice experience to learn some techniques related to

neurophysiology especially HRP tracing through cranial nerves, and their innervations in selected areas of frog brain. Infact, this initial learning on complex structure of brain initiated the interest in the field of neuroscience. As a guide and research mentor, he always emphasized to record and interprets the data/results of experiments with honesty and ethics whether they are positive or negative. He also advocated that each and everything should be written if incurred during the experiments even if you have sneezed out. These lessons made my research perfection and non-manipulative. Due to these qualities, he is still a most popular supervisor/guide among the students who are willing to join the research as Ph.D. student or perusing their carrier in the field of neuroscience.

As a colleague I was fortunate enough to work again with Prof. Srivastava as a colleague in the Zoology Department, University of Allahabad, and have an opportunity to learn the teaching methodologies developed by him. These teaching aids were sincerely used by me in my teachings, hence I found myself as a good teacher; and this credit also goes to him among other teachers who had inspired me a lot for being a learned teache. I have also shared the similar platform with Prof. Srivastava in the Department since 2001 when I was appointed as a permanent faculty. Since then I have noticed his academic and administrative qualities, and substantive suggestions in different meetings associated with hot discussion, and in many occasions I found my- self differed with the views of him, but he never mind this act as opposing his notion. In contrast, he appreciated my notions with logistic views. In several times, he also encouraged me for active participation. Overall, I learned various aspects of Departmental affairs under the mentorship of Prof. Srivastava.

13

Messages As a Scientist Prof. Srivastava started his second phase of research carrier as a scientist after his return from Italy and persuaded his research in the field of neurophysiology and produced about half a dozen of Ph.D. thesis; and later on he has further deepened his research area in the field of comparative evolutionary neurobiology in vertebrates, thus he has not only produced more than half a dozen of Ph.D. students but also his research group had published more than fifty research papers in national and international journals of repute in high impact factor journals with vivid citation. He is a truly academician-cum- scientist.

As an administrator I have realized the quality of Prof. Srivastava as a good administrator since he had perfectly performed several administrative responsibilities assigned from University of Allahabad. Among those, one of the major responsibilities was to hold the undergraduate and postgraduate entrance exams of University with low budget; and he had successfully conducted the same with high performance report without any turmoil as previously occurred in the University. Despite this, he had also completed his tenure as Treasurer of the National Academy of Sciences India, Allahabad; and still he is also carrying the responsibility as a General Secretary (HQ) of the same institution, NASI. As a science communicator Prof. Srivastava is an excellent science communicator. So far, he has delivered more than 100 popular lectures or scientific talks on different fields of science on public interest in general and for higher secondary students in particular at national level as well as in the colleges of remote areas. His popular lectures on ‘antioxidant and health’, ‘Communicable diseases and health’ and ‘learning and memory dysfunctions’ etc. have been appreciated widely among the learned scientific communities.

As an organizer I have found that Prof. Srivastava is a great organizer and have ability to organize scientific events. He has organized an International Symposium on Neuroscience by IAN and one National Conference on Recent Advances in Neurosciences by Zoology Department, University of Allahabad.

Fortunately, I have shared the responsibility with him as an office bearer of

14

the organizing body. It was a great experience to work with him since he trusted upon us, and decentralized power of works with freedom and confidence. He had regularly and successfully organized several Refresher Courses in Zoology and in interdisciplinary fields of science. Despite this, he has also organized various events under his headship for NASI. As an critique Prof. Srivastava also strongly believes on critical analysis of every event before to start. His critical comments appreciated in different high profile meetings. He always sticks on this behavior which is very useful in the interest of science.

As a human being Despite these qualities, he is a good human being, always ready to help to the needy persons in his daily life. I appreciate this character of Prof.

Srivastava during 20 years of his association with me in different categories. Also, he is a great host and is famous for his home hospitality.

Conclusion In brief, Prof. Srivastava has several feathers in his cap as credential of his academic and administrative life with numerous qualities like a man of substance with devotion and dedication, learned scholar, honest with scientific ethics, enthusiastic with helping attitude, a man of organized life style with punctual of time etc. Therefore, he is a rare blend of numerous characteristics. Despite these virtues, there are some demerits of Prof.

Srivastavsed because no man is perfect except to GOD. Hence, it will not be justified if these issues are raised and discussed here. The philosophy of the life should be: To receive and perceive the positive thoughts rather to discuss negative qualities or thinking.

I wish for a happy and healthy long-life to Prof. U.C. Srivastava.

Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary NASI, Allahabad.

MY HEARTFELT GRATITUDE TO SIR My dear and affectionate Sir ‘Prof. U.C. Srivastava Ji’, to whom I respect and regard from the deep corners of my heart. He is so loving and caring that I can’t express in my words. Sir has always been the source of inspiration, enthusiasm and fulfilling aspirations.

The scholarly aptitude, humanitarian approach and jolly nature make a man par excellence, like Prof.

U.C. Srivastava. The attributes of his benevolent personality are really rare and precious, when we are one after the other in rat race. My association with sir is since last more than 30 years when he was a fresher as a teacher and I was elder as a researcher; naturally the bond permitted an exclusive critical friendship, not of the teacher and taught, because I used to criticize him but he used to boost my zeal as elder brother.

The stepping stone in our life gradually bridged the gap and the friendship became informal, casting out the clouds of hesitation. He was still a teacher and I remained his student; but the duo sparked with glitters whenever joined hands together for the welfare of science or the society. There are many examples I can’t recollect but it is always soothing to be with him especially when many challenges are ahead and his presence in the Academy makes it more pertinent and important.

Hope Sir will always guide and remain with us.

With deepest regards

“

“

Messages

15

16

CA. A K Srivastava, Dy. Executive Secretary, NASI, Allahabad.

It was in 1987 when I, a new appointee in The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) family, had the first opportunity to interact with Professor Umesh Chandra Srivastava. He was presenting his views on some important issues in a meeting which was presided over by his ‘Guru’ Professor Uma Shankar Srivastava, the then General Secretary of NASI. A considerable time has passed since then. Professor U C Srivastava, a senior Fellow of the NASI, has been associated with it in many capacities, such as Officer on Special Duty, Council Member, Treasurer and the General Secretary; and I had a good fortune to work with him during all these days. He also has been members of its different committees and closely associated with its publications too in different capacities.

The most important fact is that Professor U C Srivastava did all these works while he was fully involved/engaged in teaching as a Professor in the Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad. To best of my knowledge, he is the one who devoted the maximum time in teaching and guiding the students in the department and even out of the classroom for their betterment, on one hand, and doing good science and nicely communicating it to the others, on the other.

I have been told that Professor U C Srivastava is retiring on 4th June, 2015. To me, the word retire mean to feel tired and quit the work which was one was doing. It may be a legal requirement to do so on attaining a specified age. But I am confident, a teacher like Professor U C Srivastava will never retire; and will continue to work for the furtherance of the objectives of teaching and spreading science.

I wish him a long life and many more happy and fruitful years ahead.

With profound regards

“

“

Messages

Messages

“

“

Sri. B.P. Singh, AES, NASI, Allahabad.

lj ! VsU”ku dks ck;&ck;] isa”ku dks gyks dfg;s] lqcg dk v[kckj] nksigj rd if<+;s A vki rks vc Hkh toka vkS glha fn[krs gSa] lkB dh mez esa 40 ds yxrs gSa] mez ds bl iM+ko esa Hkh] uotoka ls de ugha yxrs gSaA lj ! VsU”ku dks ck;&ck;] isa”ku dks gyks dfg;s] vki rks ft+Unkfnyh & [kq”kfetakth dh felky gaS] Kku dk HkaMkj gSa] eqLdqjkrs gq, gj fdlh dh] enn djus okys balku gSaA vki ;w¡ gh gj oDr] g¡lrs eqLdqjkrs jfg;s] ;w¡ gh i<+rs i<+krs jfg;s] foKku dk Kku ckVrs jfg;s] fjVk;jesaUV rks ,d cgkuk gaS] vkidks dks FkksMk vkjke fnykuk gSa] lj ! VsU”ku dks ck;&ck;] isa”ku dks gyks dfg;sA

17

Messages

Respected Sir, It’s a great pleasure & honour to share my sincere feelings on the valediction of your Academic Retirement from Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad.

Sir, You always become THE TEACHER & THE MASTER to all who renders in your shelter. I always found your reliance in each transverse of my life. To improve us Dr. Santosh Shukla, multidimensionally; You nurture us in AES various roles: some time caring & NASI, Allahabad. sometimes stiff nature.

Sir, We, with our family (spl. my parents) are unable to repay your debts.

Since, I have very little comprehension of wrap & weft of words; I want to express my gratitude in two stanza of Kabir:

xq: dqEgkj f”k"; dqaHk gS] xq: xksfoUn nksm [kM+s] x<+ x<+ dk<+S [kksVA dkds ykxks ik;A vanj gkFk lgkj nS] cfygkjh xq: vkius] ckgj ckgS pksVAA xksfoUn fn;ks crk;AA lknj pj.k Li”kZ lUrks"k

18

As far as I know Prof. U. C. Srivastava Sir, he is very good teacher, orator, hard worker and punctual person. I feel honored to have an opportunity and privilege of working and spending quality time with such a dedicated and devoted person for his profession. He will always be the perennial source of inspiration for young academicians.

Shiksha ho Ya phir anusandhan Her shetra me apne Diya vrihat yogdaan Ho prakashan Ya phir Vigyaan ka sanchar Har jagah mila Apka Margdarshan

Dr. Pavitra Tandon, AES, NASI, Allahabad.

Messages

Dr. Sunil Kumar, Bareily

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Thanks for inviting me to this August list that will be gathering to honour my best friend Prof. Srivastava. We graduated together in 1969 and parted ways- he joining academics and myself joining medicine, but those two years of association built a long-term friendship which I can boast off. I saw him transforming from a fun loving guy to a serious and a sincere academician. I know he is not going to sit back and rest. I wish all the success in this new venture.

It will be my misfortune that I am not present physically but I am here in mind and spirit. May God be with you - Yours truly Sunil

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Respected Sir, I am thankful that I had a wonderful opportunity to work with you; your guidance had always supported me in my work. You are one of a kind, and will not be easily replaced.

You are wonderful, your spirit and energy will Dr. Shubha Srivastava, always guide us to move forward. We are Associate Professor, grateful to salute you for your dedication of work. We will always follow your path. Thanks Gyanpur PG College, for all the guidance and support that you have Gyanpur. provided me over the years. I appreciate all that you've done for me and shown me.

I have respected and admired the way you inspired me. You have made us all see that hard work always pays And goodwill always stay. Courage keeps you in good stead Ensuring prosperity ahead Retirements are the door to start great things. Wish you a happy life with fun and happiness. We wish you to lead your retirement with all good health and happy days! Happy retirement. May all your endeavors come true. Our wishes will be always with you.

With best compliments: Shubha and family

19

Messages

20

Dr. Ram Chandra Maurya, Assistant Professor, Kumaun University, S.S.J. Campus, Almora.

“

“

I feel great honour to write a few words in the form of message at the retirement ceremony of my supervisor during my D.Phil. thesis and teacher in M.Sc. He has a few superior qualities as human being other than being a good teacher. He has guided me to pursue the career towards an Assistant Professor at present. He taught me many lessons which are helpful to live a happy life in good environment.

He has given healthy, stress free and result oriented environment to complete the research work. His interest to publish research work in journals with impact factors was very amazing which gave us the strength to come over the impossible things. Even the work and discussions for the corrections in the research paper is memorable for me.

He always tells me that you have to do one extra work given with your other assignments because there is no free time in life for any particular work to be done. Another teaching includes that always take care of your health and of others because it is related with the joy of life.

He told that complete the work what you are given in time and then you are able to do and think about another work in your life. He tells that only consistent and laborious persons are successful in their life.

He is always concentrating the work what to be done and never at what not to do.

In our lab frequent treats at every small success promoted the confidence in the beginners in research along with maintaining the healthy environment. His quality to remain busy along with having surplus time devoted to his family members is an important lesson for me.

PROF. U. C. SRIVASTAVA taught many lessons by his guidance and by his life style which are of great help to me in living a happy social and family life. He is not only supervisor but actually a “GURU” for me. At last I would like to thank the lab colleagues who have given me such opportunity.

Messages

Dr. Prem Chand, Research Associate NBRC, Manesar.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

There have been many people who have influenced me and those who have set great examples in my life. Many of those people were teachers that I have had from childhood to the present time. If I had to choose one who has had the greatest influence, it would have to be Prof. U. C. Srivastava at Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad. He put much effort and time in teaching Zoology and research. There are many reasons why he is my favorite teacher of all times, but there is not enough space to share all of these. He is always kind, thoughtful, and generous. You are highly motivational. As a human being, you are truly inspirational.

He always ready to help me in research and other personal level.

He treats his students as a family member and support like a family head. I would like to thank him for all support and encourage given me.

21

Messages Dr. Prashant Chauhan, IRS, Assistant Commissioner, Customs, Central Excise and Service tax, Ministry of Finance, Government of India.

“Those who educate children well are more to be honoured than they who seemed impossible and I wanted to give up. But then, when I was produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well.” shrouded with all confusion, dejection and losing hope, you have been kind in trusting me; my energy, enthusiasm, and my capabilities. Then I -Aristotle. realized how wrong I was in feeling you as a guide for my D.Phil. It was just one facet of your kind and gentle personality; you were much beyond thatTo, Prof. U.C. Srivastava, My mentor and Guide, , a guiding guide, a marvelous motivator, and above all a true teacher.

Have it really been 40 years Sir? That sounds like a very long time ... but it You have helped me build the first bridges. From you, I learned that true seems to be a thing of quite recent when I was there in your class in late summers of 2003 learning the facets of Metameric Segmentation from you. teaching is a special partnership. It only really works when the teacher Barely few months later, I was there in you chamber with the group of Cell reaches beyond the outer image, looks into the heart, understands and respects what they see. The student's role is to allow themselves to be seen, Biology specialization of the year 2004 taking notes and listening to your missal of knowledge. It was definitely your heartiness, zest for teaching and not just for who they are, or have been, but also for who they could be. It paternal way of communicating, which made me choose your subject- Cell was your role as a mentor which made me find the best qualities a teacher should possess.

Biology-as special paper without a shred of confusion at a time when all It is with gratitude that I look back. I could enter a profession dedicated to the toppers invariably and conventionally had preferred to choose one other most famous specialization. It’s more than a decade back, but when I serving nation because you showed your faith in me and helped me see my capabilities. As I left University, I took many of your qualities with me or at look back at it, I feel it was one of the most important and righteous least I tried best to imbibe them in me. I'll always remember the things I decisions for my future. could do as a part of your team: the many successful papers presentations I remember coming to you with my brand new Post graduation complete when you took me under your guidance without a hitch. I was full of ideas, we put on, the speeches you gave and the informative talks on Antioxidants, Receptors etc delivered by you. things to do to make a difference. I thought you would be my guide for D.Phil. and help me write just a decent thesis, which would be a collection I'm dead sure that you are going to do a lot of things and very few of them conform to the notion of retirement as a time of waiting for the inevitable in your plethora of outstanding works done. How wrong I was.

It took a while to understand for I was a reluctant learner. My head was so end. Helen Hayes, put it this way: 'People who refuse to rest honorably on their laurels when they reach “retirement” age seem very admirable to me.’ full of how things 'should be’; there was very little room for how things 'were'. The gap in those early days between what I thought I needed to Undoubtedly, people of your stature, caliber, zeal and devotion never retire; they never superannuate. They simply slip from one shoe to the learn and what you knew that I actually needed to learn was wide. There other and embark upon a new lively journey towards new engagements were times when bridging it was difficult. There were even times when it

22

Messages

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Dr. Mansi Srivastava,

Dear Sir, I still remember our first class in M.Sc, I was so inspired by your persona and knowledge that somewhere in my mind decided to do Ph.D. as your student . And was one of the fortunate one to do so.

Thank you so much sir for choosing me as your student, I always feel so proud of it. You have made me a better person, and I really mean it from bottom of my heart.

At one point of time I almost gave up, but it was you and Mamta ma'am who boosted me up and said I still can do it ...thankyou so much for everything sir ...thanks for being my guiding light .

Warm Regards

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

and new assignments. I know you too well to assume that you would ever stop working and contributing in the field of science and knowledge.

I want to pay my sincere regards and best wishes to my mentor for your support, character and exemplars of what it is to serve faithfully and with humility. I will always remember our shared laughter, our joys as well as our struggles. Thankyou for the never-ending supply of confidence bestowed on me, which has kept me awake and alert. Thank-you too, for the notes of appreciation, words of encouragement, sharing of resources, and time but mostly for your sincerity and trust.

And lastly, I leave you with this thought, which I could learn from you. There is only ever one of each us. We are unique. We are neither better nor less than anybody else but rather the best or least of ourselves. I am still working on finding the best of me and looking forward to seeing gamut of accolades, laurels and appreciations waiting for you to grace them. It is definitely going to be an exciting on-going journey for you Sir. Thanks a lot for guiding me along a large and important part of my way. I am forever grateful for your stimulating company and the enormous collection of shared experiences indelibly printed on my mind.

It was amour propre Sir, to have been able to work with you and I feel conceited in being ever associated with your magnificent career in the field of science.

Thank you, once again.

With best regards and wishes

23

“

Dr. Prashant Kumar, Jr. Tech. Assistant Central Warehouse, Rajkot.

Messages

Prof. U. C. Srivastava is a great teacher, guide, academician and of course administrator. He is serving nation and science in its true spirit. I wish him for his enjoyable and prosperous post-retirement life. As a student I will always indebted to him for what he has taught me.

Respected Sir, Today I find it to be the right time to express my feelings for you in the form of a short poem expressing my journey as a scholar under your guidance starting from the day when for the first time I met you in this Department at the time of my admission in M.Sc till the present day. Hope I would be able to do so.

Dr. Parul Gaur

Dear Sir, I am glad to be your student, a million thanks to you.

As you gave me the strength, to make my dreams come true.

I would have been lost if not for you You showed me the right path and I followed you.

You made me literate.

With your guidance, seemingly difficult things became easy.

You taught me to keep trying and never to lose hope.

You gave me wings and taught me to fly.

Thanks for the challenges you made me face.

For they gave me the courage to be leading every race.

You inspired me to find my goal and made me capable of realizing it.

You didn’t just teach, you mentored as a guide.

Whatever I did, you stood by my side.

You’ve praised, you’ve punished, you’ve always been fair.

Whenever I needed, you’ve always been there.

You blessed me with success. You gave me strength.

You made me a better human being. You are the cause for all my achievements.

I would thank you from the bottom of my heart, But for you my heart has no bottom.

All my warm wishes for a new journey of your life.

24

Messages MkW0 nqxsZ”k flag Rkduhdh lEiknd jk"Vªh; foKku vdkneh Hkkjr] bykgkckn

vKkufrfejkU/kL; Kkuk´~tu”kykd;kA p{kq#Uehfyra ;su rLeS Jhxqjos ue% AA Salutation to the noble Guru, who has opened the eyes blinded by darkness of ignorance with the collyrium-stick of knowledge.

vkfn dky ls gh xq# Kku ds izlkj ds lkFk& lkFk lekt ds fodkl dk chMk+ mBkrs jgs gSA xq# “kCn nks v{kjks ls feydj cuk gS&^xq^ dk vFkZ gksrk gS] ^va/kdkj* ,oa ^:* dk vFkZ gksrk gS ^izdk“k*A xq# ds eu esa lnSo ;gh fopkj jgrk gS fd mldk f”k’; loZJs’B gks vkSj mldh xq.kksa dh iz”kalk iwjs lekt es gksA vkt ds ifjis{; es xq# dh egRrk es tjk Hkh deh ugha vk;h gSA ,d csgrj Hkfo’; ds fueZk.k gsrq vkt Hkh xq# dk fo”ks’k ;ksxnku vko”;d gSA eS vius vki dks lkSHkkX;”kkyh ekurk gwaW fd eq>s firk rqY; xq#& vkpk;Z Jh mes”k pUnz JhokLro ds ekxZn”kZu es dk;Z djus dk volj feykA vkids laj{k.k es eSaus u flQZ “kks/k dk;Z cfYd thou es vuqdwy ,oa izfrdwy ifjfLFkfr;kWa gksus ij Hkh csgrj rjhds ls thuk lh[kkA eS thou Hkj vkids fn[kk, ekxZ ij pyus dk iz;kl djrk jgwWaxk vkSj bZ”oj ls vkids lq[ke; thou dh izkFkZuk d:axkA

dHkh lksprk og e/; ugh dksbZ izfrca/k dHkh l[kk rks dHkh T;s’B lk dHkh fi= lk og vkca/k os lnSo esjs mjry esa esjs lax os iy iy es

;fn thr gks rks mudh gS ;fn gkj gks rks esjh ;fn /k`k’Vrk gks esjh ;k le; gh gsjk Qsjh os ukfod thou dh dy-dy es esjs lax os iy iy esa

tUes ge ekuo cudj laLd`r cukrs muds dj Hk; lrk, ges dnk eqV~Bh es os ysrs gj os lgHkkxh esjs gj dy es esjs lax os iy iy es

dHkh miou gks thou esjk Lo;a e/kqi cu tkÅa dHkh pquq ebZ ihr-ijkx dHkh ogkW eS eaMjkÅa funsZ”kd iq’iksa dh “krny esa esjs lax os iy iy esa

;fn dHkh dVq opu gks dgrs u;u mUgs gks fu’Bqj dgrs bues tks vJq cgrs mudk gksrk bl ty es esjs lax os iy iy es

25

Messages

“

“

Dr. Sippy Singh, Project Coordinator SoRF Scheme of Department of Science & Technology, Government of India At NASI, Allahabad.

“People forget what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel” And Sir, you have always made me feel as if I was your own kid. Thank you so much for bestowing me with your kind blessings and knowledge. You have always been a great mentor, who inspired me in so many ways. I have learned the real essence of working and dedication from you. It’s due to your words, constructive criticism and advices, I’m now confident enough to face my new endeavours in life as well as science.

I would like to share a little secret with you Sir; my parents have been sometimes a little jealous of you because I listen to your advice over theirs. But I know that deep down in their hearts, they are actually very grateful to you for scientific temper, creativity, imagination and originality- the things you have inculcated in me. These qualities may not be quantifiable or measurable right now, but I am sure that their contribution in my life will be way more than just measurable.

I may not say this every day, but your inspirational words are like beautiful footprints that have been etched in my heart and mind forever and will always enlighten my path.

“It’s quite true that technology has made it easier for students to learn with devices now, but nothing can come close to the experience of being taught by an edifying teacher like you” Thank you so much Sir. I thank you Sir from the bottom of my heart and wish you healthy life ahead.

26

Messages

Anil Kumar Ojha, Research Scholar Dept. of Zoology, University of Allahabad.

“

What can I say about Prof. U. C. Srivastava because really I have no words to say. But in short, he is a very simple person with lots of knowledge in his mind. He has been continuously spreading his wisdom to younger generations since long and I think it would continue even after his retirement because “A GOOD TEACHER IS ALWAYS A GOOD LEARNER AND HE NEVER RETIERES”. As a student I learned a lot from him in field of research and I will always be indebted to him throughout my life. I wish a happy and joyful life ahead to him.

“

“

Suresh Chandra Mishra, Research Scholar Dept. of Zoology, University of Allahabad.

“

Vishva ki dharohar anupam guno ke khan, Apke yogdan se rini hai ye jahaan, Tantrika vigyan ke mahan vaigyanik, Shikshan yogdan hai jiska apratim alaukik, Shabdon me varnan jitna bhi karun ,hoga wo kam, Manwata ki mahan parakashtha ko shat - shat naman

27

Messages

28

“

Alok Kumar Bharati, Research Scholar Dept. of Zoology, University of Allahabad.

“

Ms. Surabhi Baghel, Research Scholar Dept. of Zoology, University of Allahabad.

Respected Sir, You are the best teacher in this world. You have always shown us the right way.

Whatever little I have achieved in my life, it is because of you only.

Without you, we would have been lost. Thanks for being our guide.

Your presence, guidance, and your supervision inspire us to do better.

A teacher like you is simply irreplaceable. No one can ever replace your position here and in our hearts. Again heartily thanks for guiding me inspiring me and making us what we are today.

“

“

Thank you for being such an amazing teacher, best supervisor, mentor and friend.

We have learned so much because of you.

You encouraged us to be the best we could be and we will always be thankful to you for all the hard work and efforts you have put in to make us what we are today. We are all at a loss that you are now retiring. Your smile and friendly greeting have given many students the courage to continue their educational journey. Thank you for your many years of service. We were glad to work with a mentor like you.

Wish you a happy and stress-free life.

Messages

Ms. Pooja Singh, SoRF Intern.

“

Everyone says that “Experience is the best teacher”, but for us – having you as our teacher is the best experience.

The way you teach, the knowledge you give, the care you take, the love you shower, makes you the world’s best mentor. You are a wonderful teacher who proved that learning can be fun and pleasant experience. You did everything you could to help your students. You have been an excellent friend, teacher, mentor and a great inspiration for all your students. You have inspired us to pursue our goals with hard work and dedication.

You have shown us the value of honesty and sincerity.

I just want to say “Thank You” for all things you have done for me. I truly value everything I have learned from you. It will forever remain a major contributor behind my success and achievements.

The things you taught to me, I will use them as life’s guide.

“

“

Ms. Kirti Ojha, Research Scholar Dept. of Zoology, University of Allahabad.

“

The first occasion I drew the attention of honourable sir Prof. U C Srivastava was when I went to him with a frog for Perfusion practical and it was the 1st step of my research journey with respected UC sir.

Now, I am happy and proud of registered under him. I find the ingredients of a teacher, a guardian and a father all the three in him. May god grant him a long happy life post retirement.

29

Snippets FLASHBACK: I remember it like it was yesterday

â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.â&#x20AC;?

Abraham Lincoln

30

Snippets FLASHBACK: I remember it like it was yesterday

31

Snippets GET SET N GO: It’s time to work

“You are always a student, never a master.

You have to keep moving forward.”

Conrad Hall

32

Snippets EXCURSIONS

“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”

Vince Lombardi

33

Snippets AT DEPARTMENT: With teachers & colleagues

34

Snippets SCIENTIFIC VENTURES

“The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.”

Sydney J. Harris

35

Snippets SCIENTIFIC VENTURES

36

Snippets SCIENTIFIC VENTURES

37

Snippets SCIENTIFIC VENTURES

38

Snippets LIGHTER MOMENTS

39

A successful team is a group of many hands but of one mind. We are glad to work with a mentor like you Sir... Wish you a stress-free life full of success and happiness!

Coffee Book Team: Dr. Prashant Chauhan, IRS Dr. Sippy Singh Dr. Durgesh Singh

Special Thanks to: All the contributors for sending their feelings

It’s a never ending story of zeal and enthusiasm...It’s a never ending Saga of simplicity with calibre and character... Sir May you live long and healthy...

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched they must be felt with the heart.”

Helen Keller