Dr. Daksheshkumar Rasiklal Thakar has assumed the office of the Vice Chancellor of Veer Narmad South Gujarat University with effect from 23 July, 2011. Dr. Thakar (b. 1965), born in Balasinor in north Gujarat, is a well known teacher and scholar in Gujarati literature, a Gujarati creative writer, and an educationist with a deep social concern. His academic career has been illustrious. He received a gold medal at B. A. and M. A. examinations each for excellent academic performance. His doctoral thesis has been on the notable Gujarati litterateur Chandrakant Bakshi. Further, he has had teaching experience of about two decades, including the administrative experience of a college principal of about nine years. Prior to his appointment as the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Thakar had been working as the principal of Arts College at Modasa (district: Sabarkantha), a college held in high repute for its tradition of scholarly principals and faculties.

Dr. Thakar published novels, poems and critical articles in Gujarati. Tadap (1986), Mane Bhinjave Tun (2005) and Tamane Mārā Sam (2005) are his novels, Vedanā (1987) is his poetry collection, and his critical writings include Kavi Pritam(1989), Sāhityakār Yogesh Shāh (1992), Chhanda E Anankār (1996), Chandrakānt Bakshi ni Sāhityasrushti (2001) and Aksharlok (2010). He has edited eleven books in various areas of literature and seven books in the area of education. Sannidhān (1995) is his co-edited work. A work like Aids (1995) underlines his social concern. Further, he has published more than twenty five research papers. He has presented his self-composed poetry recital at various poets’ gatherings. He has also participated in various seminars at national and international levels, and he has organized more than twenty five workshops and delivered more than two hundred lectures in educational institutions. He has also been active in the social crusade against female infanticide and has worked for the promotion of Gujarati as a language.

Dr. Thakar is associated with various literary, educational and cultural institutions like Gujarāti Sāhitya Parishad, Sannidhān (a students oriented institution) and others. He was awarded Shri Ashok Harsh Gold Medal for the year 1987 for his various literary activities. Moreover, his other areas of interest are journalism, travel and public education.