An Indian mathematician has won Ramanujan Prize 2021 for solving Zariski’s Problem. Here’s the success story of Neena Gupta whose solution was once rejected.
Neena Gupta, a mathematician and professor at the Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata, has won the renowned Ramanujan Prize 2021 for her solution to the difficult Zariski’s Cancellation Problem.
The Ramanujan Prize, first granted in 2005, is given to developing-country researchers under the age of 45 who work in the field of mathematics.
The prize derives its name for Srinivasa Ramanujan, who was an Indian mathematician.
Neena Gupta, from Kolkata, was awarded this coveted prize for her excellent contributions to algebraic geometry and commutative algebra. Neena is the world’s third woman and India’s fourth recipient of the Ramanujan Prize.
She has been recognised for her outstanding contributions to commutative algebra and affine algebraic geometry, particularly her solution of Zariski’s Cancellation Problem.
One of the world’s most difficult mathematical problems is Zariski’s Cancellation Problem.
Indeed, rejection has led to achievement for Neena, who presented her solution to Zariski’s Cancdellation Problem to her professor in 2009. Neena was a PhD student at the Indian Statistical Institute when her professor told her that the notion was a “waste of time.”
She solved the problem in 2012 and was awarded the Indian National Science Academy’s Medal for Young Scientists in 2014.
Neena Gupta, in an interview with the media, stated, “Mathematics is not tough. Even you can solve problems if your concept is clear. The secret to success is practise, and there is no other way to put it. The more you practise, the more your mind will open up to new possibilities.”
When asked about her plans for the future, Neena stated that this is not the end, but rather the beginning. She stated that there are many unanswered problems in mathematics.
Neena, who received her PhD in commutative algebra from Amartya Kumar Dutta in 2011, believes that there is no end to one’s ability to learn. She informed her father that she would need five years to complete her PhD. But, as her father predicted, she finished it in two years.
She later earned her master’s and doctorate degrees in mathematics from the Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata, where she now works as a professor. Neena Gupta and her family are quite proud of this accomplishment. She has stated in various media interviews that her family is quite supportive.
