The decision was taken at a meeting of the Jnanpith Award selection committee chaired by renowned writer and former Jnanpith Awardee Mrs. Pratibha Rai. Other members of the selection committee present in the meeting included noted writers: Mr Madhav Kaushik, Mr. Damodar Mauzo, Mr. Prabha Verma, Dr. Anamika, Dr. A Krishna Rao, Mr Prafful Shiledar, Dr. Janaki Prasad Sharma and Director of Jnanpith Madhusudan Anand.

Vinod Kumar Shukla (born 1 January 1937) is a renowned writer, poet and novelist in Hindi. His writings are known for their d=simplicity, sensitivity and unique writing style. He is also famous for experimental writing in modern Hindi literature. His first booklet of poetry Lagbhag Jai Hind was published in 1971. His major novels include Naukar Ki Kameez, Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rahti Thi and Khilega To Dekhenge. His poems and stories present the nuances of a common life in a simple language. His writing beautifully expresses the feelings of the common man, his everyday life and the complexities of society. He has also been awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award among other prestigious honours.

The Jnanpith Award is the highest literary honour of India, given to writers who have excelled in literature in different Indian languages. The award carries with it a cash reward of Rs 11 lakh, a bronze statue of Vagdevi and a citation.

It is a matter of great joy and pride for Hindi literature lovers and the entire literary community that a gem like Vinod Kumar Shukla is being awarded this honour. This award is a tribute to his literary pursuit and creativity, which has given new heights to Hindi literature.