sikhpride

Description

Dr Hardarshan Singh Valia from Nagpur, India, had recived his masters in applied Geology from Nagpur University before moving to USA where he added a Masters in Geology from Bryn Mawr College and a Ph.D. in Geology from Boston University. He worked as a scientist with Arcelor Mittal (formerly Inland Steel Company) for a number of years. After retiring, he started his own consulting firm, Coal Science Inc., and jointly owns Coal Science Laboratory in Gary, Indiana. When he presented his book “Indiana Coals and the Steel Industry” to Indiana Senator Dan Coats who is tirelessly working to improve economy and create jobs in Southern Indiana by unlocking affordable energy while protecting the environment, his work was highly appricated. His contribution as a coal scientist brought him international Laurels when he was honored with three prestigious awards bestowed upon him by the American Steel Industry. The first honor is to recive Joseph Becker Award (for distinguished achievement in coal technology) for his work on coal usage in the steel industry. He was also awarded the Joseph Kapitan Award (for Best Paper) from the Association for Iron & Steel Technology on his work regarding unique properties of Indiana coals. Dr Valia was also made a recipient of the American Iron & Institute Medal. S. Rajinder Singh Mago, his friend, rightly said “It is like a Hollywood actor winning the Academy Award, the Grammy Award and the Amy Award.” It is a matter of great pride for all the Indians and particularly for the Sikhs that Dr. Valia is the first ever Indian American to be honored with such great honors. In fact, he is one of the greatest coal scientists of the world.