VOLUME 16 NO. 2
April - June 2015
 

Contents

SPOT NEWS

EVENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS FOCUS ON UNIVERSITIES

ADVISORY BOARD

Prof M.C. Varshneya
President
Dr K.S. Khokar
Vice-President
Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah
Secretary-General
Dr N. C. Patel
Treasurer
Dr V.S. Tomar
Member
Dr A.R. Pathak
Member
Dr A.K. Gahlot
Member

EDITORIAL BOARD

Dr R.P. Singh
Executive-Secretary, IAUA
Dr Kirti Singh
Ex-Chairman, ASRB
Dr C.S. Cbakrabarti
Ex-President, IAUA (2013)& Ex-VC, WBUAFS, Kolkata
Dr Ramendra Singh
Ex-Chief Agronomist, FAICAR
Mr R.S. Gupta
Ex-Editor (English), T-9, ICAR

SPOT NEWS

 

Prof Panjab Singh, takes over President Agricultural Sciences from Jan., 2017

Prof. Panjab Singh
He has served in different capacities and with different organizations, including Director, IGFRI, Jhansi; FAO Regional Plant Production and Protection Officer, FAO RAPA, Bangkok; Joint Director (Research), IARI, New Delhi; Director, School of Agriculture, IGNOU, New Delhi; Vice Chancellor, JNKV, Jabalpur; Director (Vice Chancellor), IARI, New Delhi; Secretary DARE, GOI and Director General ICAR, New Delhi; Vice Chancellor, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi; Member, Scientific Advisory Committee, Government of India.

Besides several awards, he has received Life Time Achievement Award of Kharagpur; D.Sc. (honoris causa) Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Poorvanchal University, Jaunpur, N.D. University of Agriculture and Technology, Faizabad, Rani Durgawati University, Jabalpur, and Rajendra Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar; President, Range Management Society of India, Indian Society of Agronomy, Indian Society of Agricultural Statistics, Indian Society of Plant Physiology, and Indian Society of Agricultural Sciences. His areas of specialization are Agronomy, Crop Production, Water Management and Agroforestry.

Central Universities

 

CENTRAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, IMPHAL

Inaugural session of
national seminar

Seminar on Fisheries and Aquaculture: Livelihood Security

Inaugural session of national seminar The North-East Society for Fisheries and Aquaculture and Asian Fisheries Society (Indian branch) in collaboration with the university, organized a national seminar on Fisheries and Aquaculture: Livelihood Security, Sustainability and Conservation during 21-22 Jan. 2016 at College of Fisheries, Tripura. H.E. Shri Tathagata Roy, Governor, Tripura, the Chief Guest, inaugurated the seminar. The inaugural function was graced by the presence of Dr J.K. Jena, Deputy Director-General, Fisheries Sciences, ICAR, New Delhi; Prof. Madhusoodhana Kurup, VC, KUFOS, Kochi; Former VC's, CAU, Imphal Dr M.P. Singh and DrS.S. Baghel, former VC, CAU, Imphal; and DrW.S. Lakra, former Director/VC, CIFE, Mumbai. Prof. M. Premjit Singh, VC, presided over the function. The Chief Guest released a souvenir, containing various emerging issues in fisheries and aquaculture sector of national as well as regional importance, and a book of Abstracts comprising summary of research accomplishments of various scientists across the country. The seminar was attended by 170 delegates from 20 states and union territories, including professors, researchers, planners, administrators and officials from different ICAR research institutes, fisheries colleges and industries, line departments from the state, Niti Ayog, NGOs, and private sectors as well as 130 UG and PG students. The major recommendations are as follows:

  • There is need to improve and periodically update the present database of fisheries resources, fish diversity and fish production of the country, especially of the NE region which should include GIS based resource inventories and field-catch data-collection or acquisition systems.
  • Research and development efforts should be made for diversification of aquaculture species in holistic manner, through development of protocols for commercial seed production, rearing, grow-out for region-specific prioritized species, e.g. Osteobrama belangeri, Ompok bimaculatus, and CirrhinusrebaforNEH region.
  • To increase the export earnings and conserve endemic ornamental fish species, particularly of NE region, research into domestication and propagation of local indigenous ornamental fish and feed development should betaken up.
  • Development of organic certification may be undertaken to establish, promote and popularize organic aquaculture, especially in specific zones of NEH region.
  • Development and enforcement of regulatory mechanism and surveillance should be undertaken to check introduction of exotic species that may lead not only to bio-diversity concerns but also trans- boundary movements of the pathogens.
Vocational trainees with
faculty and staff

Training on Aquaculture Production and its Management

Vocational trainees with faculty and staff The College of Fisheries organized a 3-month vocational training programme on Aquaculture production and its management from 29 Oct. 2015 to 29 Jan. 2016 by Department of Aquaculture for school drop-out/unemployed youths from the States of Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. The trainees attended the lectures, followed by hands-on sessions and field works relating to pond management (did calculation and applications of fertilizer and lime, feeding, fish harvest or sale), production of floating pelleted fish-feed, seed production of ornamental fishes and Amur common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Other aspects like aquarium fabrication, live-feed culture, feed formulation, water-quality monitoring, etc. were also adequately covered. A manual containing various topics pertaining to the theme of the vocational training was prepared and distributed to the trainees.

Universities

ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, ANAND

National Convention of Agricultural Engineers

Shri MohanbhaiKundariya
inaugurating
A national convention of agricultural engineers on "Agro-tech Industries: Status, Scope and Strategies for Food Security", was organized during 20-21 Feb. 2016. It was jointly organized by the University and the institution Of engineers. Shri Mohanbhai Kundariya, Minister of State, Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, the Chief Guest, inaugurated the convention. Shri Babubhai Jebaliya, Chairman, Gujarat Agro-industries Corporation, was the Guest of Honour. The function was graced by the presence of Dr N.C. Patel, VC; Dr K. Alagusundaram, DDG (Engineering), ICAR; Dr Y.C. Bhatt, Chairman, Agricultural Engineering Division Board, IE(I); Prof. R.B. Marviya, Executive Director, SSNNL; Dr D.C. Joshi, Dean. About 200 agricultural engineers from all over the country participated in the convention.

Demonstration of Pipeline Milking Machine

Dr N.C. Patel with other
dignitaries
Livestock Research Station, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, organized demonstration of a pipeline milking machine on 24 May 2016. Besides Dr N.C. Patel, the other dignitaries present on this occasion were Prof. M. C. Varshneya, VC, Kamdhenu University, university officers and unit officers of AAU. Technical staff of Veterinary College also attended this demonstration. Dr S. V. Shah, Associate Research Scientist & Head, Livestock Research Station, explained the working and importance of this machine in achieving clean milk production.

Diploma Course for Input Dealers

Dr N.C. Patel with other
officers
"Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers" (DAESI) course was completed during April, 2016. Total 45 input dealers from various input agencies like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides etc., from Gujarat region, were enrolled in the DAESI course. The valedictory function was organized on 2 June 2016 under the chairmanship of Dr N.C. Patel. Diploma certificates were awarded to 45 successful input dealers.

Distinguished Visitors

Prof. M. Harvey and
Mr C. Railings in meeting
Deputy Vice Chancellor of University of Southern Queensland Prof. Mark Harvey (Research and Innovation) and Mr Carl Railings (Students and Communities) visited Sardar Patel Agricultural Educational Museum, AAU,Anandon21 June 2016.

ASSAM AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JORHAT

Workshop on Fisheries and Aquaculture Response in Emergencies

Participants at workshop
A workshop on 'Fisheries and aquaculture response in emergencies' was organized by ICAR-CIFE at Fisheries Research Centre, Jorhat during 10-12 Mar. 2016. Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah, VC, in his inaugural speech suggested assessment of the damage caused to fisheries due to floods in North-East region, such for developing a proper road-map to tackle flood-related disasters. Dr H.C. Bhattacharya, Director (Extension Education), and Dr D.K. Borah, Dean, (Agriculture) were present.

Total 33 participants attended the workshop, representing NGOs, Indian Red Cross Society, teachers or scientists from College of Fisheries, Raha, ICAR-CIFRI, KVK; officers of Department of Fisheries, Assam and Meghalaya as well as progressive fish farmers. Dr Bibha Chetia Borah, In-charge, FRC; Dr P.P. Srivastava, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer; Dr Rupam Sharma, Principal Scientist, NEH region, ICAR-CIFE; and Dr Arpita Sharma, Principal Scientist, CIFE, Mumbai & Co-ordinator of the workshop, were the resource persons.

Ms Tusi Chakma,
receiving award from
Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah
Foundation Day of AAU, Jorhat

The 48th Foundation Day of the university was observed on 1 April 2016. Dr K. M. Bujarbaruah, VC presided.

The Foundation Day lecture was delivered by Dr Sunil Roy, VC, Kaziranga University, Jorhat. Speaking on the agricultural development of the state, Dr Roy stated that besides producing human resource, the AAU plays a very important role in contributing towards technology generation and dissemination for the farming community of the state as well as the region. He informed that special importance would be given to pulses production in the state through the KVKs under AAU, and awareness among farmers would be created on Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojanaand Soil Health Card.

As a part of the ceremony, awards were distributed to the best teachers of the year Dr Polash Debnath and Dr Probodh Borah; the best research scientists Dr Tamizuddin Ahmed and Dr Niranjan Kalita from the faculties of Agriculture and Veterinary Science respectively, and the best extension scientist Dr Rupam Borgohain Dharmananda Das Memorial Award for best graduate in Department of Tea Husbandry and Technology was given to MsTusi Chakma.

H.E. P. B. Acharya at
KVK, Karimganj
Visit of Assam and Nagaland Governerto KVK, Karimganj

His Excellency the Governor of Assam and Nagaland, Shri P. B. Acharya visited KVK, Karimganj (under AAU) on 2 July, 2016. He took part in a tree-plantation programme in the KVK campus as a part Of Vana Mahotsav week. Thereafter, he had an interaction with Programme Co-ordinator and scientists of the KVK and released the fourth edition of KVK Karimganj Newsletter. Towards the end of the programme, he visited the Demonstration Units and lauded the success of Vanaraja poultry in the KVK. He also examined the farmers' fields of Karimganj district.

CHAUDHARY CHARAN SINGH HARYANA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, HISAR

Dr K.S Khokhar
VC, inaugurating Krishi mela
Krishi Mela

A Krishi Mela (kharif) was organized during 9-10 Mar. 2016 on sustainable agriculture. Over 46,000 farmers from Haryana and adjoining states of Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi and U.P. participated. D r K S Khokhar VC inaugurated the mela and Maj. Gen. (Dr) Shri Kant, VC, LLRUVAS, Hisar, presided over the function. In the mela the farmers purchased certified seeds of various rainy season (kharif) crops, vegetables and fruit saplings worth Rs 16.15 lakhs.

The university publications amounting to Rs 1.11 lakh were also sold. An agro-industrial exhibition, scientists-farmers meet (buzz session), live or dummy demonstrations on innovative farm technologies, testing of soil and water samples and crop competition were the other highlights of the mela

Release of Bajra and Cotton Hybrids

HHB - 271
Bajra hybrid HHB 272 was released and notified for cultivation in Zone A1 of the country, comprising dry areas of Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat (areas having less than 400 mm annual rainfall) in the 74th meeting of Central Sub committee on Crop Standard, Notification and Release of Varieties for Agricultural Crops, held on 12 April, 2016 at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.

It is a dual-purpose hybrid with high average grain yield ( 37.3 q/ha with potential of 44.8 q/ha) and dry-fodderyield (101.0 q/ha.) with maturity in 68-72 days. Its plant height is 150-176 cm and gives high tillering and flowers in 45 days.The panicles are compact with 20 cm length and 2.8 cm thickness. The grains are grey in colour and globular in shape. The 1000 seed weight is 9.4 g.

The variety has higher degree of resistance to downy mildew and otherdiseases.

Desi cotton hybrid AAH 32 was identified by Central Variety Identification Committee in the Annual Group Meeting held at NAU, Surat during 7-9 April, 2016. This hybrid gives superior seed-cotton yield over the checks.

Genetic male-sterile lines HGMS 20 and HGMS 21 of American cotton were registered with NBPGR, New Delhi.


CHAUDHARY SARWAN KUMAR HIMACHAL PRADESH KRISHI VISHVAVIDYALAYA, PALAMPUR

Golden Jubilee Lecture

Dignitaries on dais
DrNarendra Singh Rathore, DDG (Education), ICARvisited CSKHPAU, Palampur on 5 April, 2016. He delivered 'Golden Jubilee lecture' to commemorate 50 years of College of Agriculture at CSKHPAU. He asked the farm scientists to extend whole-hearted support in sustainable development of the rural India. He told that the ICAR has decided to introduce Student READY(Rural Entrepreneurship Awareness Development Yojana) in under graduate courses. These will have provision of experiential learning, hands-on training and skill development, rural agricultural work experience, in-plant training and student project fori year period.

While presiding over the function, Dr K.K. Katoch, VC, appreciated the successful journey of 50 years by College of Agriculture . He informed that the university has decided to introduce 10 percent inputs in its examination system from e-Krishi Shiksha Portal of the ICAR to broaden the understanding of subjects by the students and has started on-line viva voce examination through video conferencing. Dr N.S. Rathore also laid the foundation stone of a new boy's hostel funded by the ICAR to be constructed at a cost of Rs 2.5 crores, it will house about 90 students.

Dr Y.S.R. HORTICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, TADEPALLIGUDEM

ZREAC Meeting Meetings

ZREAC meeting
The meeting of Zonal Research and Extension Advisory Council Committee for Coastal zone was organised on 21 April, 2016 at Vizianagaram. Shri. U.G.C. Nageswara Rao Additional Joint Collector, Vizianagaram, inaugurated the programme. The ZREAC meeting for Rayalaseema zone was organizedon 26 April, 2016 at Kadapa. Dr B.M.C. Reddy, VC, presided, Dr J.Dilip Babu, Director of Research and Dr R.V.S.K.Reddy, Director of Extension, along with progressive farmers, officers from Department of Horticulture, scientists of DYSRHU and ANGRAU participated in the programme. The Heads of the Research Stations and Krishi Vigyan Kendras functioning in the respective zones presented the research highlights. The field-level problems were discussed among the officers of department of Horticulture and farmers.

Visit of DDG (Hort.)

Dr Krishna Kumar during
visit @ Ambajipeta
Dr N.K. Krishna Kumar, DDG (Horticulture), ICAR, New Delhi, accompanied by Dr B.M.C. Reddy, VC, and Dr K.V. Prasad, Director, Directorate of Floriculture Research, Pune visited Horticultural Research Station, Ambajipeta on 16 April, 2016. They reviewed the progress of research under AICRP on Palms and other research activities of the station.

High Ranks in SRF and JRF

 
Y Mounica
SRF Rank - 4
(SPMA)
 
G.Koteswara Rao
(Veg.Sci)
SRF Rank - 21
     
 
A.S Latha
JRF Rank -23
(Hort.Sci)
 
R.Hareeswari
JRF Rank -35
(Hort.Sci)
     
P. D. Teja JRF Rank-41
(Plant Sci.)
The students of DYSRHU bagged good ranks in the ICAR's Junior Research Fellowship and Senior Research Fellowship examinations 2016. Ms Y. Mounica, from HC & Rl, Anantharajupeta, secured 4th rank in the SRF in SPMA division; and Mr N. Koteswara Rao from HC & Rl, V.R. Gudem secured 21st rank in Vegetable Science division. Ms A. Sumalatha, Ms Hareeswari and Mr P.D. Teja, HC & Rl, Anantharajupeta, secured 23rd , 35th and 41st rank respectively in the JRF in Horticulture Science. Total 34 students bagged ranks between 35 to 710 and are likely to get non-JRF seats. Out of 34 students, 18 students are from HC & Rl, Venkataramannagudem and 16 students from HC & Rl, Anantharajupeta.

GURU ANGAD DEV VETERINARY AND ANIMAL SCIENCES UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA

Record Milk Yield by University Farm Cows

Cow FC 1319 with hiest milk Yield
Two indigenous crossbred cows in Ludhiana set a new nationalrecord by producing 54.3 and 53.6 litres milk respectively in a day, smashing the previous record of 53 litres set in 2010.The cows - F C 1363 and FC 1319 - were crossbred by GADVASU, scientists. Both the cows had been genetically modified through cross-breeding. These cows also broke previous record of milk production from the government institute farms. The cows are milked thrice a day against the normal twice a day. Both the cows are a hybrid of Holstein Friesian (Holland) and Sahiwal. Cow FC 1363 is 5 years old, and FC 1319 is of 6 years. Both were born at the GADVASU dairy farms.

Elite Sahiwal Calves

Elite Sahiwal calves
The programme on conservation and propagation of Sahiwal cows got a major boost with the production of five elite calves from two elite Sahiwal donor cows through application of embryo transfer technology under field conditions. The technique involves various interdependent steps like selection of donor and recipients, management of donor and recipients, super-ovulation or treatment of donor for optimum superovulatory response, synchronization of oestrous cycles of donor and recipients, breeding of donors, the collection, evaluation and transfer of embryos as well as pregnancy diagnosis. The whole process takes 20 to 40 days, depending on the kind of treatment used for superstimulation of donor cows.

"ICAR Best Teacher Award 2015-16" to Dr Mahajan

University Best Teacher
Awards to Dr Mahajan
Dr Shashi Kant Mahajan, Professor, Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, was conferred "ICAR Best Teacher Award 2015-16", in recognition of hiscommendable contributions to teaching, research and extension in Veterinary Surgery and Radiology. Dr Amarjit Singh Nanda, VC, presented him a plaque, certificate and cash prize of Rs 10,000. Dr Shashi Kant is a clinician par excellence, and has been instrumental in the development of phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation for cataract surgery and grafting techniques for corneal ulcers in dogs. He introduced the use of total intravenous anaesthesia and the use of general anaesthesia in large animals. Earlier, he received "Raman Post-Doctoral Fellowship" (sponsored by UGC) in Veterinary Anaesthesia at Purdue University (USA) underthe guidance of Dr Jeff Ko.

Visit of Consul General of Canada

Visit of Consul General of Canada
Dr Christopher Gibbins, Consul General of Canada at Chandigarh, visited GADVASU on 5 May. He met and interacted with Dr Amarjit Singh Nanda, VC. They discussed the research projects between Canadian institutes and GADVASU. Dr Nanda informed Dr Gibbins that the vet varsity has a strong linkage with University of Saskatchewan, Canada, through which the Exchange of a large number of scientists and students has already been taken place. A very significant students-exchange programme CREATE, an International Training Programme in Infectious diseases, Food safety and Public policy between both these universities is going on.

Visit of British Deputy High Commissioner

VC with Delegation of
British High Commission
A delegation of British High Commission led by British Deputy High Commissioner , at Chandigarh Mr David Lelliot visited GADVASU on 24 May along with Mr Dipankar Chakraborty, Lead-Agritech, Head, UKTI North India; and Ms Swati Saxena, Senior Science & Innovation Adviser, New Delhi. Dr Amarjit Singh Nanda, VC, apprised the delegates about the university setup and its major activities of teaching research and extension. During the meeting several issues are discussed like antimicrobial resistance, pesticide residues in food products of animal origin, functional food products and exchange of the students.

GOVIND BALLABH PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, PANTNAGAR

Workshop on Radio Chemistry

Dr Mangala Rai, VC, giving
certificates to participants
A national workshop on 'Radiochemistry and application of radioisotopes' was organized jointly by Indian Association of Nuclear Chemists and Associated Scientists, BARC, Mumbai; and Radiation and Isotopic Tracers Laboratory of the university, during 22-27 Feb. 2016. Scientists of the department of Atomic Energy, BARC, and Pantvarsity were the resource persons of the training. The purpose of this workshop was to bring awareness among the people and allay their apprehensions and fears about radioactivity and nuclear energy, besides explaining its benefits for basic sciences as well as applied sciences, including agriculture. Total 42 participants comprising teachers and research scientists registered for the workshop.

Visit of American Team

Mr Scott Sindeller, with Dr J. Kumar,
and others during meeting
A 2 member team of United States Department of Agriculture visited Pantnagaron 11 May 2016. The members were : Mr Scott Sindeller, Minister Counsellor for Agricultural Affairs (head of the team) and Mr Santosh Kumar Singh, Senior Agricultural Specialist, USDA/FAS, New Delhi. A meeting with the Dean, Directors, Comptroller, Chief General Manager (Farm) and faculty members was held in the committee room of International School of Agriculture which was presided by Dr J. Kumar, Registrar. In the meeting, the work done by the university in the areas of nano-bio-information technology, animal diseases and biotechnology application, food safety, impact of climate change on wheat production and productivity etc. was presented by the faculty members and discussed with the team.

The team was also shown the laboratories of the colleges of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, and Basic Sciences and Humanities, in which the works being undertaken on animal and crop biotechnology and microbiology was shown. The team discussed the areas of mutual interest and cooperation with the Dr Mangla Rai, VC, in the evening.

JUNAGADH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JUNAGADH

Krushi Mahotsav - 2016

Smt Anandiben Patel
inaugurating Krushi
Mahostav 2016 at JAU, Junagadh
Smt. Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat inaugurated the Krishi Mahotsav mega event organized at JAU, Junagadh on 14 May 2016, to enlighten the farmers about latest scientific research and modern agrotechnologies.



Visit of Prof. Peter Martens

Shri Babubhai Bokhlriainangu
Tflttag Agri Fair
On this occasion, Shri Mohanbhai Kundariya, Minister of State for Agriculture, Gol, New Delhi; Shri Babubhai Bokhiriya, Minister of Agriculture, Gujarat State; Dr A.R. Pathak, VC, JAU, Junagadh; Smt. Vasuben Trivedi, State Minister; Junagadh Mayor, Shri Jitubhai Hirpara; MLA, Junagadh; Other government officials and dignitaries, farmers and people were present.

In her address to the august gathering, Smt. Patel stated that the new research and technology in the field of agriculture has changed the traditional method of farming as well as the age-old mind sets, and has resulted into better crop yields.

She appealed the farmers to interact with the scientists of agriculture universities to take advantage of various farmer-centric schemes of the state and central government. An Agricultural Fair -cum- Exhibition as well as a series of seminars on different Agriculture, Veterinary and Horticulture subjects were also arranged for the benefit of farmers for2 days

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Beema Yojana

Farmers' Fair-cam- Kisan
Sammelan at KVK, Targhadia

Farmers' Fair- cum- Kisan
Sammelan at KVK, Khapat
Farmer's Fair- cum - Khedut Sammelan programmes were organized at KVKs, Targhadia, Khapat and Nana Khandhasar on 2,16 and 7 April 2016, respectively, to make the farmers aware of the features and benefits of new crop-insurance scheme Pradhan-Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna.

Shri Mohanbhai Kundariya, Minister of State for Agriculture, Gol, New Delhi inaugurated it at Targhadia. Shri Babubhai Bokhiriya, Minister of Agriculture, Gujarat State inaugurated it at Khapat and Shri Mansukhbhai Mandavia, Member of Parliament (State Council-Bhavnagar district) inaugurated at Nana Kandhasar. Dr. A. R. Pathak, VC and Dr A. M.Parakhia, DEE, JAU, Junagadh graced the occasion. A large number of farmers and farm women participated in these events. Exhibitions were also organized during the events, in which latest agricultural technologies and products were showcased in different stalls of private stake-holders, companies and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

Ranking of CAET Engineering Colleges in Top

College of Agricultural
Engineering and Technology
The College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, JAU, Junagadh participated in the Competition Success Review ranking of Engineering Colleges - 2016 (Survey conducted by GHRDC). In this survey, the marks are given based on infrastructure, faculty, research, consultancy, EDP, admission, curriculum, delivery systems, placements, USP, social responsibility, networking, industry interface and other programmes. Out of the total 1,700 marks, the college obtained 791.88 and ranked 7th in top engineering colleges of excellence in India, and overall 81st ranking in all the categories. The college ranked 3rd in all Engineering Colleges of Gujarat state.

LA LA LAJPAT RAI UNIVERSITY OF VETERINARY AND ANIMAL SCIENCES, HISAR

Centre of Advanced Faculty Training in Veterinary Microbiology

Maj. Gen. (Dr) Shri Kant,
distributing certificates to
participants
The department of Veterinary Microbiology conducted the 2 8 t h ICAR Centre of Advanced Faculty Training on 'Development of validated diagnostic assays and accreditation of diagnostic laboratories'. Dr Ravindra Sharma, Director of Research inaugurated it on 3 Feb. 2016. Maj. Gen. Shri Kant, VC, in his valedictory function on 23 Feb. 2016 congratulated the 21 trainees from 8 states, viz. Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana, Gujarat, Bihar and Haryana, for successfully completing the course. He distributed the certificates and emphasized the need of setting up accredited veterinary laboratories in the country, to avoid trade barriers in the international trade of livestock and their products. Dr Swati Dahiya, Course Co-ordinator, informed that besides LUVAS Clinics and Animal Farm, the trainees were given exposure to worldclass facilities of nearby institutes like ICAR-CIRB, ICAR-NRCE, ICARVeterinary Type Culture Collection and Department of Bio-technology and Nanotechnology, GJU, Hisar.

Referral Veterinary Diagnostic and Extension Centre

CM Manohar Lai Khattar
inaugurated Centre
The university plans to establish its regional referral Centre at Village (Riwasa Dist, Mahendragarh). The foundation stone of this Regional Referral Veterinary Diagnostic and Extension Centre at Rewasa, was laid on 9 April, 2016 by Shri Manohar Lai, Chief Minister, in the presence of Shri Ram Bilas Sharma, Education Minister; Shri Om Prakash Dhankar, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Rural Development Minister; Shri Dharamveer, MP, Bhiwani- Mahendragarh; Major General (Dr) Shri Kant, VC, Dr Ravindra Sharma, Director of Research and Dr N.K. Mahajan.

This station will have facilities for X-rays, ultrasonography, operations, clinical diagnosis, artificial insemination, investigation of diseases and analysis of feed/ feed ingredients. Sero-surveiNance of the important diseases and compilation of epidemiological data will be a continuous process to create strong data-base for disease forecasting and control strategies.

MAHARASHTRA ANIMAL AND FISHERIES SCIENCES UNIVERSITY, NAGPUR

MAFSU Awards

To encourage the staff fortheiroutstanding work in the field of Education, Research and Extension, the university conferred Best Teacher, Best Researcher and Best Extension Worker Awards on the occasion of 125th Birth Anniversary of DrB. R.Ambedkaron 14April 2016. DrS. V Kuralkar, Associate Professor, Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Akola; DrN. V. Kurkure, Associate Professor, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur; and DrA. U. Bhikane, Associate Professor, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Udgir, were conferred with the Best Teacher, Best Researcher and Best Extension Worker Awards respectively. Prof. A. K. Misra, VC, presented them the awards, which included a memento, shawl, shriphal and cash prize of Rs 25000.

NVC Alumni Meeting

Prof. A. K. Misra felicitating
Dr Mohan Bhagwat
The Alumni Meeting of Nagpur Veterinary College was held on 25 April 2016 at the college campus. Dr Mohan Bhagwat, Sarsanghchalak, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and alumni of the college, inaugurated the meeting. Dr Sanjeev Kumar Balyan, Union Minister of State for Agriculture, who is also a veterinarian by education; Dr Umesh Chandra Sharma, President, Veterinary Council of India, New Delhi and Dr Nitish Bharadwaj, the famous actor who is also a veterinarian and an alumni of Bombay Veterinary College, (another constituent college of Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur) were the guests of honour. Prof. A. K. Misra, VC, chaired the function. Shri Mohan Bhagwat and other distinguished guests visited Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex of Nagpur Veterinary College and head quarters of Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur. Prof. A.K. Misra briefed about the various activities of the university.

Value-added Fish Products

Training on Value
added fish products
Four Training and demonstration programmes on "Value-added fish products", sanctioned by National Fisheries Development Board, Hyderabad, were conducted in Department of Fish Processing Technology and Microbiology, COFS, Nagpur during April to June 2016. Total 20 members nominated by Maharashtra Finance Development Corporation, Chandrapur, participated in each training and demonstration programme. Demonstrations on preparation of various fish products, visit to fish products retail Shop, preparation offish cutlet, fish orley, fish momos, fish burger, fish pickle, prawn pickle, fish biryani, fish pizza, marinated fish, fish patty were provided to the trainees. Mr S. S. Relekar, Assistant Professor was Training Co-ordinator for this programme.

PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA

Recommended Varieties or hybrids: Pumpkin

PPH-1: Its fruits are small, round, mottled-green at immature stage and mottled-brown at mature stage. Fruit cavity is small and flesh is golden yellow. It is extra-early in maturity and gives 206 q/acre yield.

PPH-2: Its fruits are small, round, light green at immature stage and smooth-brown at mature stage. Fruit cavity is small and flesh is golden yellow. It is extra-early in maturity and gives 222 q/acre yield.

Brinjal
PBHR-41: Its fruits are round, medium-large sized, shining, deep purple with purple green calyx. Its average yield is 269 q/acre.

PBHR-42: It has oval-round, medium sized, shining, purple-black fruits with green calyx. Its average yield is 261 q/acre.



Prime Ministers Fellowship to Students

Ashok Babadev
Jagtap

Hament Hukor
Two Ph.D. students of PAU, viz., Mr Ashok Babadev Jagtap and MrHamentThakur, were awarded "Prime Minister's Fellowship" for Doctoral Research. Mr Ashok Babadev Jagtap is doing research on "Identification and characterization of hightemperature stress-responsive genes in maize (Zea mays L.)" at School of Agricultural Biotechnology. MrHamentThakur, a Ph.D scholar in Department of Vegetable Science, PAU is undertaking research on "Genetics and molecular mapping of leaf curl virus disease resistance gene(S) in chilli pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)". Both the scholars will conduct their respective research in collaboration with private sector, since the main aim of this fellowship is to bring the researchers and industry at one platform. During this academic year total three PAU research scholars have been awarded this prestigious fellowship.

PROFESSOR JAYASHANKAR TELANGANA STATE AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY RAJENDRA NAGAR

Annapurna Krishi Prasara Seva

Expert s interacting with
registered farmers of HDS
" Interactive Information Dissemination System", popularly known as "Annapurna Model" or "Annapurna Krishi Prasara Seva" among the farming community, is an alternative ICT model developed under the Component -IV of NAIP project by the consortium partners - Media Lab Asia, New Delhi; National Institute of Rural Development, Hyderabad; Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Hyderabad and Mudra Institute for Communication, Ahemdabad.

The AKPS was launched by Secretary, Government of India, Department of Electronics and Information Technology, MCIT, on 3 March, 2013. As a post-NAlP initiative, PJTSAU has up-scaled this model from the year 2014- 2015 in six Krishi Vigyan Kendras and three District Agricultural Advisory and Transfer of Technology Centres, covering nine districts of Telangana State.

Registered farmers, the end-users of AKPS, are able to receive personalized advices on their farming problems and requirements on multi-platforms (mobile phone/ IVRS). They can also receive push messages (text and voice) in their vernacular language on their registered mobile number from their respective KVK/DAATTC of the university. With the help of this tool, the university is able to address information needs of the farmers on important aspects such as weather, crop production and protection etc., for specific location.

Total 9,626 farmers registered under AKPS and the farmers were able to interact directly with experts through toll free number (1800-425¬ 3141). If the expert is not available, the farmers can record their queries at any time on all days through toll-free number and they can get the replies in the form of text messages or voice message in local language. The university is utilizing this platform to alert the farmers about the breaks out of pest, natural calamities or in any other emergency messages through the AKPS. The university has provided 3,676 agroadvisories to the registered farmers, and pushed 420 voice messages and 389 text messages to the farmers of AKPS so far.

SARDAR KRUSHINAGAR DANTIWADA AGRICULTURE UNIVERSITY, SARDAR KRUSHINAGAR

27th Annual meeting of All India Coordinated Research Network

Dr Patel inaugurating
AICRN report
The 27th Annual meeting of All India Co-ordinated Research Network on Potential Crop was held at SDAU during 2 -3 May, 2016. Prof. (Dr) Ashok A. Patel, VC, Dr S. Acharya, Director of Research and Dr J. S. Chauhan, ADG (Seed) ICAR, were present at the inaugural ceremony. Dr S. Acharya narrated the research highlights of SDAU and success stories of the university in Teaching, Research and Extension. It was followed by presentation of Annual Report of the AICRN on Potential Crop by Dr B. S. Phogat, Network Cocoordinator. Two publications in Hindi and Kannada were released. Dr J. S. Chauhan, congratulated the SDAU scientists for their research contributions in the development and innovation in the micro-irrigation system. Prof. (Dr) Ashok A. Patel, in his presidential remarks, laid emphasis on young scientists and their contribution towards agricultural research.

Meeting of Varietal Identification Committee

The meeting of Varietal Identification Committee on All-India Coordinated Research Network on Potential Crops was held on 2 May, 2016 at Sardarkrushinagar underthe chairmanship of Dr J.S. Chauhan, ADG (Seeds) ICAR. Three varieties were identified viz, (i) Faba bean variety, HFB-1 for plains zone comprising Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh; Kalingada; and (ii) variety GK-2 for arid and semi-arid areas of north Gujarat and Rajasthan; and (iii) rice bean variety for low and mid-hills of western Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Identified Varieties

Gujrat Cowpea 6 (GC 6)
Gujrat Isabgul 4
During the 12th meeting of Combined Joint Agricultural Research Council of SAUs of Gujarat, Gujarat Cowpea 6 (GC 6) and Gujarat Isabgul 4 were identified. The meeting was held during 11-13 April, 2016. GC 6 recorded 18.97, 13.66 and 16.64 per cent higher grain yields than the checks GC 3, GC 4 and GC 5 respectively in different years and locations. The variety also exhibited superiority in grain yield during summer season (28.32, 12.49 and 28.33 per cent over GC 3, GC 4 and GC 5 respectively). It has medium, attractive creamish white colour with higher test weight (10.66 gm).

Besides giving a high yield (11.8 % higher over the check Gl 3); Gujarat Isabgul 4 is uniquely non-shattering type with higher husk-swelling trait. The non-shattering habit would especially be helpful to ramp up the sagging acreages of isabgul attributed to enormous yield losses due to shattering

TAMILNADU FISHERIES UNIVERSITY, NAGAPATTINAM

ICAR-NAE National Training

view of training
programme
A national training programme on Current methods in biochemical quality assessment of aquafoods was conducted at Fish Quality Monitoring and Certification Centre, Department of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, School of Harvest and Post-harvest Technology, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, during 14-23 Mar. 2016.

It formed a part of Capacity Building Programme under the ICAR Niche Area of Excellence in Fish Safety and Quality Assurance. The training focused on the biochemical quality assessment of aquafoods to determine their freshness quality at all stages of handling, processing and storage. Total 15 participants from the central research institutes, SAUs and EIAattended the programme. Dr G. Jeyasekaran, Professor and Head, Department of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, served as Programme Director; and Dr R. Jeya Shakila, Chairman, School of Harvest and Post-Harvest Technology, served as Programme Co-director.
course on Fisheries
Engineering
Some of the topics covered were Design of aquaculture systems, Hatchery system design, High-pressure processing system, Refrigeration and freezing systems for aquatic products, Waste-water treatment system and Seepage control in aquaculture ponds. The faculty members were also trained in designing aerators and hatchery system for broodstock. Dr B.C. Mai, VC, JIS University, Kolkata; Dr M.H. Chandrakant, ICAR, CIFE, Mumbai; and Dr P.S. Rao, Associate Professor, Aquaculture Engineering, NT, Kharagpur, were the resource persons.

Whale Stranding at Pazhayar Village, Nagapattinam

Whale seen at Pazhayar village
Two technical personnel, Technical Officerfrom TNFU, Mr M. Vasantharajan and Mr G. Rajesh, TNFU were deputed to study whale stranding at Pazhayar coastal village on 28 June, 2016. The stranded whale was identified as Rhincodon types, with total length of 9.5 ft. and an approximate weight of 0.5 tonne. The conservation status of the species is vulnerable (threatened).

The shark is believed to have entangled in the seine net operated by local fishermen, and was later released back into the sea on 27 June, 2016. The shark was found dead on the next day. The case of death might be due to the fatal injuries suffered by the animal on the previous day.

JRF

Total 13 students of Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNFU, Thoothukudi qualified to receive the JRF examination of the ICAR to pursue their Master of Fisheries Science degree programme in the academic year 2016-17. Miss J.S. Jenishma, a student of this college bagged the All-India second rank, and MrS. Kesavan won the first place in the reserved category. In addition 11 other students also qualified to receive the JRF.

UNIVERSITY OF HORTICULTURAL SCIENCES, BAGALKOT

Student Excellence in JRFs and SRFs

The ICAR, New Delhi has conducted 21st All India Entrance Examinations for Admission (AIEEA) test-2016 for admission to M.Sc. Degree Programme at farm universities throughout the country.

In these examinations this university secured maximum 17 out of 38 Junior Research Fellowships (JRFs) allotted for M.Sc. programme in Horticulture sector and thus bagged highest JRF awards in Horticulture in the country among all farm universities (65). Besides, it secured five ranks out of top ten ranks in Horticulture. Maximum 19 ICAR Senior Research Fellowships (SRFs) were bagged by UHS students for Ph. D. Program.

Accreditation of University and Constituent Colleges

The ICAR, New Delhi, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot and KRC College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, were accredited for 5 years (up to 31 March, 2019); and other three constituent colleges, viz., COH, Bagalkot, COH, Bidar and COH, Kolar were accredited for 2 years (up to 31 March, 2016).

The ICAR Peer Review Team recently visited UHS, Bagalkot (in the first Week of April 2016) for accreditation of four constituent colleges, viz., COH, Bengaluru, COH, Munirabad; COH, Mysore; and COH, Sirsi and continuation of accreditation forthe colleges completed two years viz., COH, Bidar, COH, Bagalkot and COH, Kolar. The letter of Accreditation from the ICAR is awaited forthen seven seven constituent colleges.

Awards

ASSAM AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JORHAT

ICAR Norman Borlaug Chair in International Agriculture

Dr B.K. Sarmah
Dr B.K. Sarmah has long experience in conducting collaborative research with various national and international organizations and his group is well-known for the development of transgenic chickpeas resistant to insect pests.

The Bt-chickpea lines so developed in collaboration with CSIRO, Canberra and NRCPB, New Delhi are being tested in confined field trials (BRLI) by the private partner - M/S Sungro Seeds. Dr Sarmah has been currently acting as member of four important expert committies / task forces of Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, and serving as Editorial Board member of two leading international journals of plant sciences.

CHAUDHARY SARWAN KUMAR HIMACHAL PRADESH KRISHI VISHVAVIDYALAYA, PALAMPUR

State Innovation Award

Dr P.K. Mehta
Dr Pankaj Sood
Dr C.S. Parbhakar
Three scientists of CSKH PAU were awarded with H.P. State Innovation Award viz., DrP.K.Mehta, Dr Pankaj Sood and Dr C. S. Parbhakar, who developed a fruit-fly trap (Palam trap) for the benefit of farming community. The fruit-flies are one of the most serious pests of agriculture in India and their management used mass-trapping techniques by developing a local bottle-based fruit-fly trap was achieved by a team of farm scientists lead by Dr P. K. Mehta.

Dr P.K. Mehta, Director of Extension Education and team leader told that more than 40,000 traps worth Rs. 50 lakhs have been provided to the farmers during the last 5 years.

The traps have also been demonstrated through KVKs in Haryana and Punjab. As the techniques is environment-friendly and easy to adopt, the farmers are readily accepting it.

GURU ANGAD DEV VETERINARY AND ANIMAL SCIENCES UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA

Fellowship of Indian Veterinary Congress to Dr M.K. Chatli

Dr Manish Kumar Chatli
Dr Manish Kumar Chatli, Professor & Head, Department of Livestock Products Technology, was felicitated as Fellow of Indian Association for Advancement of Veterinary Research during the 16th Indian Veterinary Congress - 2016, held during 27-28 Feb. 2016 at College of Veterinary Science, OUAT, Bhubaneshwar.

Fellowship of Indian Ecological Society to Dr Meera D.Ansal

Dr Meera D. Ansal
Dr Meera D. Ansal, Senior Scientist cum Head, College of Fisheries, was awarded honorary fellowship of Indian Ecological Society, at International Conference held on 'Natural resource management: ecological perspectives' during 18-20 Feb. 2016. The conference was organized by Indian Ecological Society, Ludhiana, in collaboration with SKUAST, Jammu. It was awarded for her remarkable contributions to Indian Ecological Society as a life member and for development of aquaculture sector in the state, with special reference to inland saline-water aquaculture.

GOVIND BALLABH PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, PANTNAGAR

GBPUAT Pantnagar "Best university of Uttarakhand"

Dr Mangala Rai
receiving award from
H.E. Dr K.K. Paul
Pantvarsity was adjudged the Best University of Uttarakhand by Dr. K.K. Paul, the Governor of the State,. VC of Pantvarsity. He handed over the running trophy, appreciation letter and Rs. 1.00 lakh for the university library to Dr Mangla Rai, VC,on 26 April 2016 at Dehradun.

Best Rice Production Award

Dr F. C. Pandey and
team scientists receiving
Award for AICRP on Paddy
The Pantnagar Centre of All-India Co-ordinated Research Project on Rice of the ICAR received Best Crop Production Award of 2016. It was given for the research done and technologies developed on different aspects of agronomic practices for increasing rice production. The award was given by the lead institute of the project, Indian Rice Research Institute, Hyderabad, of the ICAR, with whose assistance this project is being implemented at Pantnagar since 1966. The Principal Investigator of the component, Dr P.C. Pandey, and other scientists of department of Agronomy, associated with the project, received this award in 51st annual group meeting of the project held at Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur

PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA

Nestle Research Award to Dr Monika Chaudhary

chaoudhary
Dr Monika Choudhary, an alumna of Department of Food and Nutrition, College of Home Science, PAU, was conferred "Nestle Research Award" by M/s Nestle on 16 May, 2016. It was given in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field of nutrition, with focus on public health relevance. The award was bestowed upon herfor her Ph.D. thesis entitled "Development of rice bran oil blends for quality improvement," published in the journal Food Chemistry. The award carries a cash prize of 2.5 lakhs, was Nestle Research Awards and Grants Event, held at Research and Development Centre, Gurgaon.

Monsanto Beachell- Borlaug International Fellowship to Ms K.Kaur

Ms Karminderbir
Kaur
Ms Karminderbir Kaur, a Ph.D. student of School of Agricultural Biotechnology, PAU, was awarded the world renowned "Monsanto Beachell-Borlaug International Scholarship." She is among the eight students selected for the scholarship. Her mentor Dr Kuldeep Singh, Senior Molecular Geneticist, informed that Ms Karminderbir Kaur will work for 1 year at the University of California, Davis, the USA with Dr Luca Comai and Dr Anne Britt. Her research project aims at developing an in vivo haploid induction system in rice, using the most recent technology of genome editing.

New Vice-Chancellors

Dr K.P. Viswanatha joins as VC, MPKV, Rahuri

Dr K.P. Viswanatha
Dr K.P. Viswanatha joined as VC, MPKV, Rahuri on 30 December, 2015. Born on 5 November, 1955, Dr Viswanatha did Ph.D. in Genetics and Plant Bleeding during 1990 with academic excellence. He has 37 years of experience in teaching. More than 17 years as Professor. He guided 11 Ph.D. and 18 M.Sc. (Agriculture) students in his career. Dr Viswanatha held various positions, viz., Vice President, Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding, New Delhi; Vice President, Indian Society of Arid Legumes, CAZRI, Jodhpur; Joint Secretary - Indian Society of Arid Legumes, CAZRI, Jodhpur; Councellorfor Southern Zone- IndianSocietyofGeneticsand Plant Breeding, NewDelhi. Member, Editorial Board: Journal of Arid Legumes, Indian Society of Pulses Research and Development, IIPR, and Journal of Krishi Vigyan, PAU, Ludhiana.

Dr Viswanatha received various international and national awards including Endeavour Executive Award by Australian Govt. (2010); Life-time Achievement Award by Society for Extension Education and Management in Agriculture, Jhansi(U.P.) (2012); and Shri Choudhari Devilal Best AICRP award for Arid Legumes, CAZRI, Jodhpur (2008). "During his tenure as Director of Extension, UAS, Raichur", he was honoured by Best KVKAward of Zone - VIII for KVK, Bidarfrom ICAR (2015); National Best Farmer Award Mohammad Idris Quadri, Bagdal, Bidar. He was Fellow of Indian Society of Pulses Research and Development; and Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding. He published 100 research papers; 2 book chapters; training manual; 6 seminar/ symposia/ conferences; 4 national level publications. He also executed 12 projects. He was involved in the development and release of crop varieties viz., Rice- CTH- 1(Mukti) and CTH- 3 (Bilimukti); Horsegram- BGM-1 and PHG- 9; Cowpea- KBC- 2, KM-5 and IT.38956-1; Fodder Bajra (49-A).

Dr C. Chattopadhyay joins as VC, UBKV, Coochbehar

Dr C. Chattopadhyay
Dr C. Chattopadhyay took over as VC, UBKV, Coochbehar on 25 June, 2016. He completed his PhD from Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi.

He joined Agricultural Research Service of the ICAR at National Academy for Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad, (1992) served in different positions at Directorate of Oilseeds Research (now ICAR: Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research), Hyderabad (1993-1999), National Research Centre on Rapeseed-Mustard (now: ICAR: Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research), Bharatpur (1999-2009), ICAR: Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur (2009-2012); before working as the Director of the ICAR: National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, NewDelhi (2012-2016). He is a fellow of Indian National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Indian Phytopathological Society, etc.

He has been conferred several awards [Vividhlaxi Audyogik Samshodhan Vikas Kendra (VASVIK) award for Agricultural Sciences and Technology, 2004; Hexamar Agricultural Research and Development Foundation Award, Indian Society of Oilseeds Research, (2005); Prof V.P. Bhide Memorial Award, Indian Society of Mycology Plant Pathology, (2010); Dodla Raghava Reddy Memorial Gold Medal, Plant Protection Association of India, (2016), etc.], holds one patent, has more than 25 years of research experience, published more than 91 research papers in reputed journals, published 10 books, and wrote 29 review chapters.

His salient contributions include research in Integrated Pest Management in Oilseed, Pulse, Vegetable crops, disease forecasting (including by use of remote sensing), host resistance to crop diseases, etc. He guided 5 Ph.D., 7 M.Sc. students.