An Honorary Professor has been defined as an individual who has contributed significantly to the school and community. The honorary professor in India is primarily an adjunct professor, who does not have a permanent position in the Institute. Contractually speaking, his duties entail part-time teaching; literally speaking, he has the same and in some situations more teaching activities as compared to full-time professors.

Since the time of their inception, Medical Colleges have successfully flourished with the help of a handful of dedicated and honorable honorary professors. These professors, alongwith the full-time professors, have shouldered the responsibility of producing competent medical professionals. There are many instances, whereby departments have functioned only because of the honorary professor’s commitment.

Sadly, because of some vested interests; attempts are now ongoing to scrap this system. This is indeed an unfortunate situation in India, where there is a dire need for such committed academic individuals. Universities have another Professorial post – the Professor Emeritus, whereby a Professor remains with the Institute after retirement also. That is the value of a true Professor!!

A recent newspaper article commented on a number of faculty members from one of India’s most prestigious institutes, AIIMS, moving onto greener pastures outside India. The termination of the ‘Honorary System’ is an example of how the current educational system is in fact, kindling this move. A group of people interested in academics, who enrich academics with their vast knowledge and experience is being told that they are now obsolete!!

In a country where the Guru is considered God, where Ekalavya cut off his thumb as Dakshina, where are the students when their teachers are being insulted and reprimanded that they are not wanted!! Indeed the Yug has changed; but should we also lose a wonderful culture – the Honorary System!!