Biography:

Dr. M. M. Sheikh is a distinguished academic and a leading figure in the field of geography and environmental studies. He currently holds the position of Professor and Head of the Department of Geography at Govt. Lohia P.G. College in Churu, Rajasthan, which is affiliated with MGS University. His career, spanning many years, has been marked by a strong focus on environmental issues, natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development, particularly in desert regions like the Thar Desert. Dr. Sheikh began his professional journey working with the Indo-German Kfw Water and Sanitation Project in Churu, Rajasthan. This early involvement in a project aimed at improving water and sanitation infrastructure in desert areas laid the groundwork for his lifelong research interests in water management and sustainable resource use in arid environments. His experience with this project also helped shape his expertise in addressing the unique environmental challenges faced by communities in semi-arid and arid regions. Throughout his career, Dr. Sheikh has published more than 55 research papers and authored 10 books, covering topics related to geography, environmental science, and resource management. His research focuses primarily on environmental issues, the sustainable management of natural resources, and biodiversity conservation, particularly in the context of desert ecosystems. One of his key areas of expertise is rainwater harvesting, an essential practice for conserving water in areas where it is scarce. His contributions to these fields have not only advanced academic understanding but also had practical applications for local communities in Rajasthan and other arid regions.

Dr. Sheikh’s academic contributions are not confined to his research output. He has been an active participant in international academic circles, having visited countries like Germany, the Netherlands, France, Belgium, the UK, the USA, China, Egypt, and Ireland. These international experiences have enriched his work, providing him with a global perspective on environmental issues and resource management practices. Dr. Sheikh’s involvement in 21 national and international academic bodies further demonstrates his stature in the global academic community. He has also served as a mentor to 12 Ph.D. students, guiding them to complete their doctoral research on various topics related to geography and environmental science. His professional engagements have extended beyond his home country as well. Dr. Sheikh served as a College Review Member for the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) up to 2021, evaluating research proposals and providing valuable feedback on projects related to environmental science. He has also been a reviewer for Ph.D. theses and research projects at various universities, where his expert opinion and academic credibility are highly regarded. In addition to his scholarly contributions, Dr. Sheikh has also made significant practical contributions to the community. His work on water and sanitation projects in rural Rajasthan has helped improve living conditions and provided vital resources for underserved communities. His career reflects a deep commitment to both academic excellence and practical solutions to environmental challenges, particularly in regions affected by water scarcity and desertification. Dr. Sheikh’s legacy in the fields of geography, environmental science, and sustainable resource management is a testament to his passion for improving the environment and the lives of those who live in fragile ecosystems. His work continues to influence academic thought, policy-making, and community development, making him a respected leader in his field.