Advisory Board

Padma Shri (2020)
Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad Shiksha Puraskar (2017)
Ph.D., Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur

Padma Shri Prof. Dr. Harish Chandra Verma

For every Indian student who has studied physics, Prof. H.C. Verma needs no introduction. His legendary Concepts of Physics textbooks have shaped generations of learners, making complex scientific principles clear, engaging, and accessible.

A Padma Shri awardee, former IIT Kanpur professor, and one of India’s most influential science educators, Prof. Verma has made pioneering contributions to nanofabrication, magnetism, and earth sciences, with over 139 published papers. Yet, his impact extends far beyond research. He has developed 600+ hands-on physics experiments, produced Hindi video lectures, and founded the National Anveshika Network of India (NANI)—establishing 32 interactive science labs that have transformed learning for 1,000+ schools and colleges. As a key figure in the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT), he has trained over 8,000 educators, revolutionizing physics pedagogy across India.

At Navriti, Prof. Verma’s mentorship is instrumental in shaping an inquiry-driven, experiential curriculum, ensuring that students don’t just study science—they explore its wonders, solve real-world problems, and develop the mindset of future innovators. His presence on our Advisory Board strengthens Navriti’s mission to be a centre of excellence in science education, where curiosity leads, experiments inspire learning, and imagination knows no bounds.

Padma Shri (2014)
JC Bose National Fellowship (2007)
Ph.D., Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai

Padma Shri Prof. Dr. Ramakrishna V Hosur

A Padma Shri awardee and one of India’s leading scientists, Prof. Ramakrishna V. Hosur has been a pioneer in structural biology, protein research, and drug discovery for over four decades. He served as a senior professor at India’s premiere Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai (1978-2018), and Director of the Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, Department of Atomic Energy (DAE CEBS) (2009-2017). He has also been a faculty member at IIT Bombay and NIT Rourkela, mentoring students and advancing interdisciplinary research.

With over 250 research papers and four books, Prof. Hosur has profoundly shaped India’s scientific landscape. His latest book, When Science Meets Spirituality, reflects his deep understanding of the synergy between modern science and ancient wisdom. Early in his career, he worked with Nobel Laureates Prof. Richard Ernst and Prof. Kurt Wüthrich at ETH Zurich before returning to India to revolutionize structural biology. His accolades include the J.C. Bose National Fellowship, G.N. Ramachandran Gold Medal, and recognition from prestigious academies worldwide.

At Navriti, Prof. Hosur’s expertise will integrate cutting-edge research insights into education, inspiring scientific curiosity and preparing students for future careers in research and innovation while reinforcing the school’s commitment to excellence in learning and discovery.

Former Chief Executive, Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE)
Educational Consultant, Develop Schools

Mrs. Rita Wilson

With over four decades of experience in education, Rita Wilson has been a transformative force in shaping school education in India. A distinguished academic leader, she has served as Principal of renowned institutions, including Auckland House School, Shimla, and as the Chief Executive of the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE). Currently, she heads Develop Schools, an educational consultancy and was the founding editor of The Progressive Teacher, a magazine dedicated to empowering educators.

Ms. Wilson has pioneered innovative curricula, led nationwide teacher training programs, and played a key role in shaping educational policies. Her extensive exposure to global education systems in Japan, Germany, England, Singapore, and Dubai provides her with a deep understanding of international best practices. A prolific author, she has written English textbooks and worked as an academic consultant for leading publishers. Recognized among the Top 50 Educationists Reshaping Indian Education by Education World, she continues to drive educational innovation with her visionary leadership.

At Navriti, Ms. Wilson’s expertise in curriculum development, teacher training, and school leadership is instrumental in fostering a dynamic, world-class, student-centric learning environment. Her presence on the Advisory Board strengthens Navriti’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic education.

Associate Professor, Department of Elementary Education, NCERT
Ph.D., Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi

Prof. Romila Bhatnagar

A leading authority in early childhood care and education (ECCE), Prof. Romila Bhatnagar has dedicated over three decades to transforming foundational learning in India. As an Associate Professor at the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), she has played a pivotal role in curriculum development, teacher training, and research in ECCE. She holds a PhD in Education from Jamia Millia Islamia University, specializing in early childhood learning and pedagogy.

Prof. Bhatnagar has been instrumental in shaping India’s foundational learning landscape, contributing to national frameworks and learning-teaching materials such as Jaadui Pitara, and the NIPUN Bharat Mission.

She has to her credit many priced publications like, activity books, teacher handbooks and training guides aligned with the National Curriculum Framework for the Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) and she has also coordinated the development of textbook, ‘The World Around Us’ for grade-3. Her recent publication is, ‘ Professional Development Package in ECCE’. She is a pioneer in toy-based and experiential learning methodologies, she has transformed how play and exploration shape early education. She serves on advisory and editorial boards of leading education journals.

At Navriti, her expertise in early childhood pedagogy will ensure that young learners receive a strong, research-backed foundation. She will help redefine how children engage with education, fostering critical thinking, curiosity, and emotional intelligence—all while making learning a joyful experience!

Consultant, Science Communication, Policy, and Public Engagement
Ph.D., University of Oxford, UK

Dr. Sarah Hyder Iqbal

Dr. Sarah Hyder Iqbal is a researcher, practitioner, and trainer specializing in science engagement, communication, and public participation in research. With expertise in biomedical research, strategic communication, and science policy, she is committed to making science more accessible, interactive, and socially relevant.

Dr. Iqbal holds a Master’s and PhD in Biochemistry from Oxford University and completed postdoctoral research at The Scripps Research Institute, Florida. A Chevening CRISP Fellow, she has led pioneering science communication initiatives at DBT/Wellcome Trust India Alliance and Foundation for Advancing Science and Technology (FAST) India. She has also developed science communication courses for the Capacity Building Commission, Government of India, and teaches health communication at Sangath. She co-founded Superheroes Against Superbugs, an initiative tackling antimicrobial resistance through creative engagement, and has advised the India Science Festival. She champions dialogue-driven learning, drawing inspiration from Paulo Freire and Savitribai Phule.

At Navriti, Dr Iqbal’s expertise will nurture curiosity, critical inquiry, and social consciousness, shaping an inclusive learning environment where students don’t just study science—they engage with it, question it, and apply it to real-world challenges. Her presence on the Advisory Board strengthens Navriti’s commitment to scientific literacy, rational thinking, and transformative education.

B.Tech. Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi
MBA, Stanford Graduate School of Business

Saumya Yadav

Saumya Yadav is an entrepreneur and educator committed to revolutionizing education and shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science Engineering from IIT Delhi and an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business, blending technological expertise with strategic vision.

As the co-founder of Udayy, an edtech startup, she transformed learning through interactive storytelling and experiential education, impacting thousands of young learners. Her innovative approach earned her recognition in Forbes Asia. Beyond education, she co-founded Ionic Professional, a biotechnology-driven hair care brand rooted in scientific research, showcasing her ability to bridge science, technology, and entrepreneurship.

With a deep understanding of curriculum design, educational technology, and large-scale impact initiatives, Saumya brings a unique perspective to Navriti. She will play a key role in integrating entrepreneurial thinking into the school’s academic framework, ensuring students develop critical problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership skills from an early age. Her expertise in modern digital tools will also guide Navriti in creating an engaging, future-ready learning environment that aligns with global educational trends. Her insights will help cultivate a generation of creative thinkers, innovators, and changemakers—equipping them with the mindset to thrive in an ever-evolving world.