Higher Education and Research in Prakrits and Jainology

Author(s): Gokulchandra Jain
Publisher: Sampurnanda Vishva Vidyalaya Varanasi

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( ) sity, the Institute had been trying its level best to promote Jainological studies. First Research scholar who enjoyed full facilities including sellowship at the institute was awarded Ph. D. in 1952 by Baparas Hindu University. It continued its mission even when it was not recognised by the University as a centre. Almost all the researchers who have been awarded Doctoral Degrees by B. H. U. in any subject relating to Jainology have been benefitted by P. V. R. Instituto directly or indirectly. At present, Varanasi is the most facilitating centre for Jainological research, and here too P. V. R. I. is the most. It is now recognised as a centre for Jainological research by Banaras Hindu University.
L. D. Institute of Indology, Ahmedabad is recognised by Gujarat University and has developed as an important centre for Indological research in general and Jainological research in particular in the state of Gujarat.
In Rajasthan mention of Udaipur University has been made above. Among institutes, Jaina Vishwa Bharati, Ladaun has been recognised by Rajasthan University.
Other institutions are gradually coming up. Even an independent university is proposed at Jalgaon (Maharashtra).
These institutes still need competent leadership for planning the research, a team of devoted scholars and assistants, and potential financial backup. If these institutes and the University Departments work in co-ordination, and in well-planned directions, the achievements will prove of extra-ordinary importance in the field of Advanced studies in the cultural heritage of India.
The role of some individual scholars-traditional as well as associated with the university, have been more than that of an institution. Their untiring efforts and devotion for the advancement of Jainological studies are of historical importance. Names of some European and Indian scholars have been mentioned above. In this connection contributions of late Pt. Nathuram Premi, Pt. Jugalkishore Mukhtar, Pt. Sukblal Sanghvi, Pt. Mahendra Kumar Nyāyācārya, Pt. Bechardas Doshi, Muni Puoya-Vijay, Muni Jinvijay. Dr. P. L. Vaidya and Dr. A. N. Upadhye deserve special mention.
The founders of various publication series and the traditional Pandits who brought to light many ancient texts have laid down the solid foundation of Jainological studies.