Mysore/Mysuru: Mysuru-born noted Cartoonist B.V. Panduranga Rao was awarded the prestigious Hon. Doctorate Award in Cartooning and Environmental Awareness by the World Culture and Environment Protection Commission, New Delhi.

He was honoured at the 9th Sahitya Seva Award Presentation Ceremony held at the Green Lounge, New Delhi, on Apr. 17 by Bollywood Actor Sudesh Berry, who was the chief guest on the occasion.

He was felicitated with a memento, medal and certificate of Hon. Doctorate and also presented the Certificate of Membership of the World Culture and Environment Protection Commission.

Over 100 achievers in various fields were present at the Award  Presentation Ceremony.

Rao created ‘On the spot sketch’ of Sudesh Berry and presented to him for his pleasant surprise.

While addressing the audience, Rao displayed some of his awareness cartoons on environment, women’s rights, children’s education and also the autographed caricature of  Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, the former President of India.

A unique collage of 35 environmental awareness cartoons banner of 7×4 feet size was also displayed at the venue.

The 82-year-old cartoonist was recognised with this Hon. Doctorate for his outstanding contribution in the field of cartooning and contribution for environmental awareness through his thought-provoking cartoons and other various activities for the past 55 years.

He has conducted solo cartoons exhibitions 55 times at various places of the country. He has won numerous awards at National and International- level cartoon contests. His various creations on environment awareness related works and other achievements have got entry into Limca Book of Records, India Book of Records and various World Records.

A retired Engineer from Bhilai Steel Plant and a Hobby Cartoonist for the past 56 years, Rao was born in Mysuru and studied in Chamundipuram Middle School and Hardwicke High School before shifting to Bengaluru.