New Delhi: The highest French Civilian Award - 'Officer dans I'Ordre des Palmes Academiques' (Officer of the Order of Academic Palms) has been conferred on the Vice Chancellors of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Prof. B.B. Bhattacharya and Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), Prof. Mushirul Hasan.

One of the oldest civil distinctions, the 'Order of the Academic Palms' was founded in 1808 by Napolean Bonaparte to honour eminent members of the University of France.

The awards were presented to both the Vice Chancellors by the Prime Minister of the French Republic.

Prof. Hasan has taught at the INALCO and 'Maison des Science de'l Homme' in Paris.

The 'Officer dans L'Ordre des Palmes Academiques' is given by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of France to noted personalities for their services in the field of culture, arts, national education and contribution to the intellectual, scientific influence of France in the World.

It also recognizes devotion and accomplishment in the areas of teaching and research.