Who was the first Indian woman scientist to receive the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award?

Dr. Asima Chatterjee became the first Indian woman scientist to receive the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award in 1961 for her outstanding contributions to organic chemistry. Her research focused on medicinal chemistry and phytomedicine, particularly the study of alkaloids, coumarins, and flavonoids derived from Indian medicinal plants. She developed anti-epileptic and anti-malarial drugs based on plant chemistry, combining traditional knowledge with modern science. Dr. Chatterjee’s pioneering work laid the foundation for drug discovery from natural sources in India. Her recognition represented a breakthrough for women in Indian science and remains a major inspiration in the field of chemistry.