University Of Toronto Professor Awarded Order Of Ontario For Forest Resources Economics
BAMPTON: World renowned forest economist Professor Shashi Kant of University of Toronto was felicitated at a glittering function by the Yadav Association of Canada (YAOC) on his receiving the Order of Ontario 2017.
The Order cited his outstanding achievements in the field of forest resources economics and sustainability management.
The function was held at South Fletcher’s Sportsplex in Brampton on Saturday, July 14.
Dr. Kant, after his B.E (Hons) from Birla institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India, started his career as a forest officer. Initially he served in the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department and then went to work at the prestigious Indian Institute of Forest Management in Bhopal.
From there he came to University of Toronto as a Commonwealth Fellow which led him to get a Masters of Economics and a Doctor of Philosophy. He continued at the University of Toronto as a professor during which time he has won several prestigious awards including Queens Award for Forestry.
While speaking at the function, Dr. Kant emphasized the role of True Love and Happiness for our wellbeing. He said that external recognition and transient happiness may be possible through physical assets but internal peace and permanent happiness can be attained only through true love.
Dr. Kant is also a distinguished member on advisory board of Peel College of Professional Studies, which is a private career college registered with Ministry of Advanced Education & Skills Development. The President and Director of Peel College – Ms Chitra Potnis and Anuradha Yadav – were also present on the occasion and presented a bouquet to Dr. Kant recognizing him on this achievement.
In his brief introductory remarks, Professor Satyendra Narayan welcomed members and guests and lauded the achievements of Dr. Kant.
“….Shashiji, this honour to you is NOT just an honour to you. This is an honour for our community, more importantly to entire south Asian community and to each of us here in this room. A journey of thousand miles starts with a small step. This honour from the Ontario government is a beginning for you. Many more such awards, honours and recognitions will follow in the coming years……”)

The attendees, while enjoying delicious snacks and dinner, networked and the children had an opportunity to talk to Dr. Kant and others. General Secretary, Vikas Yadav gave concluding remarks and vote of thanks.
The Association has previously organized a number of charitable activities including Food Donation Drive, Used Cloths Donation Drives, fund raising for Sick Kids Hospital and Autistic Society.
Yadav Association of Canada formed in 2010, is a registered Not-For-Profit Organization under Canada Corporation Act. The purpose of YAOC is to promote community’s social, cultural, economic and educational values and traditions among the community members and also to provide opportunities to community members to interact with other communities.