N Bhaskara Rao

An eminent mass communication expert and founder of independent think-tank, Centre for Media Studies, Rao is a true trailblazer of psephology-based election studies in India. When Rao used psephology to analyse Indian political trends 30 years ago, it was a new science for most Indians. But his ideas were limited to Indian politics and public policies. His vast research on impact of television, including on children, are considered benchmark documents for formulation of television policies. Rao has the distinction of having three masters degrees and a Ph.D from two Indian and two US Universities. An author of serious essays on a variety of topics, Rao’s writings often attract the attention of policy-makers. He is also a pioneer in applied social science research in India, and has remained a key expert in public opinion, feedback and market research methodologies. At the state level, he was the coordinator of Vision 2020 Andhra Pradesh. Also, Rao held senior advisory positions with the Government and international agencies.