Dr. C.M. Singh Fellowship of the Veterinary Association of India (VAI): Honoring Excellence in Veterinary Science

The Veterinary Association of India (VAI) has instituted its highest professional recognition in the name of the legendary veterinary educationist and visionary Dr. C M Singh (1922–2005). Widely regarded as one of the architects of modern veterinary education and research in India, he devoted his life to advancing animal health, veterinary science, and professional institutions.

This honor, known as the Dr. C.M. Singh Fellowship of VAI, represents the pinnacle of professional excellence, service, and leadership in veterinary and animal sciences.

Legacy of Dr. C.M. Singh

Dr. C.M. Singh: A Brief Profile

“Doyen of the Veterinary Profession”
Dr. Chinta Mani Singh was born on 30th November 1922 in Belaon village, Jaunpur district, Uttar Pradesh. He earned his GBVC degree from Bihar Veterinary College, Patna, with a gold medal in 1947. He began his illustrious career at Veterinary College, Mathura in 1950.

He pursued MS and PhD from Michigan State University, USA, in 1954 and 1956 respectively, followed by a post-doctoral fellowship in virology at Cornell University. In 1957, he returned to Mathura as Professor and Head of Pathology and Bacteriology.

Dr. Singh later served as Dean at Veterinary College, Hisar, and as Director of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, from 1966 to 1982. His visionary leadership expanded IVRI from 5 to 21 divisions, transforming it into a globally recognized institute.

He was the Founder President of the National Academy of Veterinary Sciences (India) and the Veterinary Council of India, New Delhi.

Dr. Singh made pioneering contributions to the study of listeriosis, salmonellosis, mycoplasmosis, bovine lymphosarcoma, and slow viral respiratory diseases. His vision led to the establishment of several key institutions, including:

Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar
Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom
Directorate of FMD, Bhubaneswar
High Security Animal Disease Laboratory (now NIHSAD), Bhopal

Even after retirement, he championed reforms in veterinary education and was instrumental in creating national-level veterinary bodies. He collaborated with FAO, WHO, UNDP, SIDA, DANIDA, and mentored numerous scholars.

Known for his simplicity, integrity, and tireless dedication, Dr. Singh is revered as the “Bhishma Pitamah”, “Purushottam”, and “Karm Yogi” of the veterinary profession.

The Dr. C.M. Singh Endowment Trust, established in 1999 under his guidance, continues to work for the advancement of veterinary science and the welfare of livestock, farmers, and veterinarians across India.

To honor the towering legacy of Dr. C.M. Singh and his transformative contributions to veterinary science and livestock development, Pashudhan Praharee—India’s leading livestock and veterinary outreach platform—has instituted the Dr. C.M. Singh Memorial Award.

This prestigious award is conferred annually to individuals who embody Dr. Singh’s values of scientific excellence, ethical leadership, and inclusive service. It recognizes outstanding contributions in:

Veterinary education and research
Livestock entrepreneurship and innovation
Public health and zoonotic disease control
Biodiversity conservation and integrative animal care

The award serves as a national benchmark for professional distinction and societal impact. It is also a foundational pillar of the Dr. C.M. Singh Fellowship (VAI), which aims to nurture emerging leaders, promote collaborative innovation, and advance integrative practices across veterinary and biodiversity domains.

Through this award, Pashudhan Praharee reaffirms its commitment to building a resilient, knowledge-driven, and ethically grounded livestock sector—one that reflects the enduring spirit of Dr. C.M. Singh.

By naming the Fellowship after him, VAI ensures that every awardee carries forward this legacy of vision, innovation, and service to veterinary science and society.

Objectives of the Dr. C.M. Singh Fellowship of VAI

The Fellowship is instituted with the following objectives:

Recognition of Excellence – To honor veterinarians who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in research, clinical practice, livestock development, education, administration, and service to the profession.

Advancement of Veterinary Science – To encourage innovation, research, and One Health initiatives that improve animal health, productivity, and welfare.

Leadership & Policy Guidance – To build a council of Fellows who will advise VAI on veterinary policies, education reforms, and livestock sector development.

Mentorship & Capacity Building – To utilize Fellows’ expertise in mentoring young veterinarians, guiding postgraduate research, and supporting professional training.

Service to Farmers & Society – To mobilize Fellows’ knowledge towards sustainable livestock development, rural livelihoods, and public health.

Strengthening VAI – To create an elite think tank within VAI that upholds ethics, values, and professional advancement.

Inspiration & Legacy – To inspire future generations by celebrating role models who embody veterinary excellence and national service.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

Must be a Life Member of VAI .

At least 20 years of professional standing in veterinary and allied sciences.

Demonstrated outstanding contributions in education, research, clinical practice, extension, policy, or professional leadership.

High standards of ethics and professional integrity.

Nominations made by two existing Fellows of VAI or recognized veterinary institutions.

Nomination & Conferment

Annual call for nominations issued by VAI.

Dossier to include full bio-data, achievements, publications, and contributions.

Scrutiny by a Fellowship Selection Committee, followed by approval of the VAI Executive Council.

A maximum of 20 Fellowships per year to maintain prestige.

Conferment during the National Conference/Convocation of VAI, with a Certificate, Medal, and Citation.

Awardees may use the title Fellow, Dr. C.M. Singh (VAI) or post-nominal FCMS (VAI).

Roles & Responsibilities of Fellows

Every Fellow is both an honoree and a custodian of veterinary excellence. They are expected to:

Uphold ethics, dignity, and professionalism.

Serve as advisors to VAI on policy, education, and research.

Mentor young veterinarians and students.

Contribute to training, workshops, and publications of VAI.

Support farmers and rural communities through veterinary outreach.

Represent VAI in national and international forums.

Actively participate in VAI’s committees and conferences.

Serve as ambassadors of veterinary science and torchbearers of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Benefits of the Fellowship

Professional Recognition – Post-nominal FCMS (VAI) as a symbol of excellence.

Visibility & Honor – Recognition at VAI conferences, publications, and media.

Leadership Roles – Priority in advisory panels, committees, and task forces.

Exclusive Privileges – Right to nominate future Fellows, inclusion in FVAI Council.

Academic Value – Enhances credibility for academic and administrative roles.

Networking – Part of an elite community of veterinary leaders.

Service & Legacy – Direct contribution to farmer welfare, veterinary reforms, and professional growth.

Honorary Fellowship

VAI may also confer Honorary Dr. C.M. Singh Fellowship on eminent Indian or foreign personalities who have made exceptional contributions to veterinary science, livestock development, or public health. A maximum of two honorary fellowships per year shall be awarded.

The Dr. C.M. Singh Fellowship of VAI is not only a recognition of past achievements but also a lifelong call to service, mentorship, and leadership. It brings together a distinguished community of veterinary leaders who will guide the profession, support farmers, and strengthen India’s livestock sector in line with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Every Fellow thus becomes a torchbearer of Dr. C.M. Singh’s legacy, a mentor to future generations, and a champion of veterinary transformation in India.

DR. C.M. SINGH FELLOWSHIP (VAI)

Nomination Form for Fellowship (FVAI / Hon. FVAI)

Section A: Personal Information of Nominee

Full Name (in block letters): ………………………………………………
Date of Birth & Age: ………………………………………………
Gender: ………………………………………………
Present Designation & Organization: ………………………………………………

Official Address:

Institution/Organization: ………………………………………………
Address: ………………………………………………
State: ……………………. Pin: ……………..

Residential Address: ………………………………………………

Mobile Number: ………………………………………………
Email ID: ………………………………………………
VAI Membership Number & Type (Life/Ordinary): ………………………………………………
Years of VAI Membership: ………………………………………………

Section B: Academic & Professional Qualifications

Veterinary Degree (B.V.Sc. & AH): Year, Institution, University.
Postgraduate Qualifications (M.V.Sc./Ph.D./Diplomas): Year, Institution, Field of Specialization.
Other Relevant Training/Certifications: ………………………………………………

Section C: Professional Experience

Total Professional Experience (in years): ………………………………………………

Positions Held (chronological order):

Post	Organization	Duration	Key Contributions

Section D: Contributions to Veterinary Profession

(Attach separate sheets if necessary)

Research & Publications:

Number of research papers in peer-reviewed journals.
Books/chapters authored.
Patents/technologies developed.
Citations/H-index (if applicable).

Teaching & Training:

Number of years teaching veterinary students.
Students guided (M.V.Sc./Ph.D.).
Innovations in veterinary education.

Clinical Practice & Innovations:

Notable clinical contributions.
Innovative treatments, field-level success stories.

Extension & Livestock Development:

Farmer-oriented programs, outreach activities.
Models developed for livestock/poultry/dairy/piggery/goat farming.

Policy & Administration:

Roles in veterinary administration, government, or NGOs.
Contributions to veterinary policies and governance.

Professional Service to VAI:

Offices held, activities organized, contributions to VAI growth.

Awards & Recognitions:

National/international awards received.
Fellowships from other organizations.

Any Other Significant Contribution:

Public health, zoonoses control, One Health initiatives, etc.

Section E: Statement of Impact

(Not more than 500 words)
Please describe how your work has impacted the veterinary profession, livestock farmers, and society at large.

Section F: Nomination & Endorsements

Proposer 1 (Fellow of VAI):

Name: ………………………………………………
FVAI No.: ………………………………………………
Signature: ………………………………………………
Date: ………………………………………………

Proposer 2 (Fellow of VAI):

Name: ………………………………………………
FVAI No.: ………………………………………………
Signature: ………………………………………………
Date: ………………………………………………

Section G: Declaration by Nominee

I, Dr. ………………………………………………, hereby declare that all the information provided in this nomination form is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I agree to abide by the rules and bylaws of the Veterinary Association of India (VAI) regarding Fellowship.

Signature of Nominee: ………………………………………………
Date: ………………………………………………

Section H: For Office Use Only

Scrutiny Committee Decision: Accepted / Rejected.
Executive Committee Approval: Yes / No.
Fellowship Number Assigned: FVAI-…………..
Date of Conferment: ………………………………………………

Charter of Roles & Responsibilities of Fellows of Veterinary Association of India (FVAI)

The title of Fellow of the Veterinary Association of India (FVAI) is an honor and a responsibility. Each Fellow is expected to uphold the dignity of the profession, contribute to the advancement of veterinary science, and serve as a role model for younger generations.

1. Upholding Professional Integrity

Maintain the highest ethical standards in professional conduct, research, teaching, practice, and service.
Promote the code of ethics of VAI and ensure its observance.
Avoid activities that may bring disrepute to the profession or the Association.

2. Advisory Role to VAI

Serve as an advisor to the Governing Council on policy, education, research, and welfare.
Contribute expert position papers, policy briefs, and recommendations on livestock, One Health, and veterinary reforms.
Participate in VAI committees and task forces.

3. Mentorship & Capacity Building

Mentor young veterinarians, postgraduate students, and early-career professionals.
Contribute to training, workshops, and CVE programmes.
Encourage innovation and veterinary entrepreneurship.

4. Knowledge Sharing & Publications

Contribute to VAI journals, newsletters, and books.
Deliver lectures and keynote talks at VAI events.
Document and share case studies and best practices.

5. Service to Livestock Farmers & Communities

Develop cost-effective veterinary solutions for farmers.
Support rural, tribal, and marginalized livestock keepers.
Promote sustainable livestock management and animal welfare.

6. Representation & Advocacy

Represent VAI at national and international forums.
Advocate for veterinary profession recognition in public health, food safety, and rural development.
Strengthen collaborations with government, academia, and industry.

7. Participation in VAI Activities

Attend Annual Conference and General Body meetings.
Serve on committees, award panels, and nomination boards.
Support VAI growth through networking and resource mobilization.

8. Role as Ambassadors of Veterinary Profession

Project a positive image of veterinarians in society and media.
Inspire young professionals through personal experiences.
Contribute to Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.

9. Lifelong Contribution

Continue contributing to VAI goals even after retirement.
Serve as emeritus advisors and mentors.

10. Special Duties (Encouraged)

Support VAI in scholarships, fundraising, and student endowments.
Promote interdisciplinary collaborations.
Lead community initiatives (vaccination drives, One Health campaigns, farmer training camps).

Awards & Fellowships