Dr. Joseph K. Thomas Receives Charles Dickens Gold Medal at Kolkata Literary Carnival

Kolkata, Feb. 16, 2026: Dr. Joseph K. Thomas, a Kargil War veteran, educationist and author, was honoured with the Charles Dickens Gold Medal for Literary Excellence at the 11th International Annual Kolkata Literary Carnival. His latest work, Israel–Palestine War: Give Peace a Chance, was also recognised as Non-Fiction Author of the Year 2026.

The award ceremony was held at the Rabindranath Tagore Centre, where the honour was presented by Pranav Gupta, Vice President of the Federation of Indian Publishers. According to organisers, more than 7,600 submissions across genres were reviewed by the jury, with only 140 titles shortlisted.

Expressing gratitude to Catholic Connect, after receiving the award, Dr. Thomas said "I received the award from Mr. Pranav Gupta, Vice President of the Federation of Indian Publishers, at the stunning Rabindranath Tagore Centre (ICCR) here in Kolkata."

Adding to this he also said "This wouldn't mean nearly as much without all of you who've read, supported, and journeyed with me through these pages. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

An army veteran and engineer by training, Dr. Thomas has worked across sectors including military service, corporate leadership, education and social development. He currently serves as Founder Chairman of Mysore International School and St. Anthony’s International School, and is associated with several not-for-profit initiatives.

His body of work focuses on geopolitics, governance and education. Among his published titles are India: The Next Superpower, Conman-in-Chief of Capitol Coup, India’s New National Education Policy – 2020, Taliban 2.0 and Russia–Ukraine War, several of which have achieved top rankings on online retail platforms.

Organisers said the recognition highlights Dr. Thomas’s contribution to public discourse through writing that draws on professional experience and global perspectives, particularly in promoting peace, education and informed dialogue.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download