Dr Kharak Singh, a Sikh scholar, passed away at Mohali today after a prolonged illness. He was 86. He will be cremated tomorrow at Mohali. Author of many books, Dr Kharak Singh, was a founder member of the Institute of Sikh Studies. He also worked as adviser in the FAO at Rome. He did doctorate in agriculture economics from Ohio University in the USA. Dr Kharak Singh was known as an authority on Sikhism. He was also convener of the International Sikh Confederation.He is survived by his wife, two sons and two daughters.