Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Prof. (Dr.) Tankeshwar Kumar has been appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University, Chandigarh, for a term of three years.
According to an official notification issued by the Secretariat of the Vice-President of India on November 9, 2026, the Chancellor of Panjab University has appointed Dr. Kumar under Section 10 of the Panjab University Act, 1947. His tenure will begin from the date he assumes charge of the office.
Dr. Kumar was serving as the Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh. He is a distinguished academician with more than 30 years of experience in teaching, research and higher education administration, including around 15 years of association with educational administration and management.
He has previously served as Vice-Chancellor of Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, and also held the additional charge of Vice-Chancellor at Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology and Chaudhary Bansi Lal University.
Interestingly, Dr. Kumar has a strong academic association with Panjab University, where he earlier served as a UGC Professor of Physics. His appointment brings an experienced academician back to the university in its top administrative position.
Hailing from Yamunanagar, Dr. Kumar completed his graduation from Kurukshetra University before pursuing his postgraduate studies and PhD from Panjab University, Chandigarh.
An expert in theoretical and computational condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, modelling and computer simulations, Dr. Kumar has made significant contributions to scientific research. His academic record includes more than 170 research publications and over 2,500 citations. He has also guided 14 doctoral scholars and contributed to research, academic governance and higher education policy in India.
The official notification has been signed by Amit Khare, Secretary to the Vice-President of India and Chancellor of Panjab University. Copies have been forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Education, Government of Punjab, Chandigarh Administration, University Grants Commission and Panjab University Registrar for necessary action.
Dr. Kumar's appointment is expected to bring his extensive academic and administrative experience to the leadership of one of India's prominent higher education institutions.
