VOLUME 16 NO. 3
July - Sept. 2016
 

ADVISORY BOARD

Prof M.C. Varshneya
President
Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah
Vice-President
Dr N. C. Patel
Secretary-General
Dr V.S. Tomar
Treasurer
Dr A.R. Pathak
Member
Dr A.K. Gahlot
Member
Dr B.S. Dhillon
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, FAI
Mr R.S. Gupta
Ex-Editor (English), T-9, ICAR

SPOT NEWS

 

New Executive Committee of IAUA for the year 2017

Dr K M Bujarbaruah
Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah, VC, AAU, Jorhat President
Dr N.C. Patel, VC, AAU, Anand Vice-President
Dr V.S. Tomar, VC, JNKV, Jabalpur Secretary General
Dr A.R. Pathak, VC, JAU, Junagadh Treasurer
Dr A.K. Gahlot, VC, RAJUVAS, Bikaner Member
Dr B.S. Dhillon, VC, PAU, Ludhiana Member
Prof. Mathew Prasad, VC, UUHF, Bharsar Member

Focus on Universities: Events and Achievements

Central Universities

 

CENTRAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, IMPHAL

VC attending tree planting

Tree Plantation

A tree-plantation programme was organized by NSS unit of College of Agriculture, Imphal during 16 - 17 May 2016. The camp was attended by the Vice Chancellor, Dean, faculty members and students.
 
Prof. R. B. Singh distributing fish-seed

National Fish Farmers' Day at Tripura

The College of Fisheries, Lembucherra observed National Fish Farmers' Day on 10 July 2016. Amidst the presence of 124 fish farmers from across various N-E states as well as students, faculty members, researchers, staff members of the college and a host of dignitaries, Dr Pramod Kumar Pandey, Dean, College of Fisheries, welcomed the audience with the exposition on relevance of National Fish Farmers' Day and the role being played by the College. Padma Bhushan Prof. Ram Badan Singh, Chancellor of CAU, Imphal the chief guest, inaugurated the programme, Prof. M. Premjit Singh, VC, presided over the inaugural function, which was also attended by Shri Rameshwar Das, IFS, Secretary (Fisheries), Government of Tripura, and Dr M.L. Bhowmik, former Dean, College of Fisheries, as the Guests of Honour. The inaugural function also featured the release of 5 folders, 2 booklets, and 1 calendar, covering some key areas of scientific fish farming by the chief guest and other dignitaries. In this programme the current issue of quarterly College Newsletter was also released and Pond Health cards were distributed to the fish-farmers of the College adopted village. Five fish-farmers of the states of Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura were honoured with "Best Fish Farmer" awards of their respective states.

Skill Development/ Training Programme for School Dropouts

The College of Fisheries, has been organizing vocational training programmes of 1-6 months duration on different topics of aquaculture for school drop-out unemployed youths from NE states. In this series skilldevelopment programme on "Seed-production technology of carp, magur and giant fresh-water prawn"


Vocational trainees with faculty and staff

was organized by Fish Genetics and Reproduction Department, during 15 June, 2016 to 15 September, 2019 for the rural youth of the North-East India.

Deemed- to- be Universities

INDIAN VETERINARY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, IZATNAGAR

Visit of Dr Trilochan Mohapatra to Institutes at Mukteswar

Dr Trilochan Mohaptra, visiting IVRI
Campus Mukteswar

Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education & Director-General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, visited IVRI, Mukteswar campus on 2 and 3 July 2016 . He was accompanied by Directors, Dr R.K. Singh, IVRI; Dr B. Pattnaik, Directorate of Foot and Mouth Disease; Dr A. Pattanayak, Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan; Dr B.P. Mishra, Joint Director (Research), IVRI; and Heads of Campuses: Dr A.B. Pandey, IVRI and Dr Raj Narayan, Central Institute on Temperate Horticulture. An interaction meeting was held on 3 July 2016 with the scientists and staff of these institutes. Dr B.P. Mishra, IVRI, welcomed the dignitaries. A brief presentation on status of Foot and Mouth disease in India was made by Dr B. Pattnaik, along with research activities undertaken by DFMD. Dr R. K. Singh, Director-cum-VC, IVRI welcomed the guests and presented historical sketch of the institute and its achievements, on-going research on need-based animal health and production, as well as the education and extension activities being carried out by the institute and its campuses. Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, addressed the gathering providing glimpses of the work being carried out the world over in different areas of agriculture sector. He appreciated IVRI for developing large number of diagnostic tests and vaccines to control or eradicate various animal diseases, their current research activities. We suggested to lay emphasis on research in the areas of host resistance or disease tolerance in the animals, particularly the Indian breeds, genetic improvement of various indigenous livestock breeds, up-gradation of local breeds, stem cell therapy and the prevention and control of zoonotic diseases. The scientists, research associates and students were advised to work hard with perfection to develop cutting-edge technologies for the benefit of the farmers. The DG also visited the laboratories of DFMD and farm including floriculture, vegetables and temperate fruits of regional station of Central Institute of Tropical Horticulture.

"Management of Infertility in Cattle and Buffalo"

Training was organized for Deputy Directors and Veterinary Officers of various districts of Animal Husbandry Department, U.P., at IVRI, Izatnagar. Addressing the 20 participants, the chief guest, Dr V.K. Gupta, Joint Director, CADRAD told that updating the knowledge,

Dr Harendra Kumar, addressing
the function

sharpening the diagnostic skills and treatment protocols are essentially required not only to get optimum fertility but also for augmentation of reproductive efficiency. Dr Harendra Kumar, Head, Animal Reproduction, informed that two sucht rainings were al ready conducted at the division. This training included seven field-oriented practicals /demo-nstrations and 22 deliberations on common conditions of infertility like delayed puberty in the buffalo heifers, post-partum anaestrus, uterine infection, repeat breeding and cystic ovaries in high yielding cows.

Value Addition and Quality Evaluation of Meat and Poultry Products

Dignitaries releasing the course
compendium

A Winter School on "Advances in value addition and quality evaluation of meat and poultry products" of 21 days duration was formally ingugurated on 20 September, 2016 by Prof. Nagendra Sharma, former VC, SKUAST, J ammu . Th e inaugural ceremony was also graced by Dr M.B. Chetti, Additional Director-General (HRD) and Prof. V.V. Kulkarni, Director, NRC on Meat. Dr S.K. Mendiratta, Head, Division of Livestock Products Technology briefed about the course and its relevance of content in present time. Prof. V.V. Kulkarni elaborated over future prospects of meat processing in India. He emphasized that for the demand of quality food by the consumer, meat processing is likely to play a key role.
Dr M.B. Chetti expressed happiness over the organization Winter School and appreciated the faculty members for taking the initiative. He informed that Livestock Products Technology Division has been playing a key role in the development of Human Resource for Meat Sector and it is quiet pleasing to see the alumni of this division almost at every Veterinary College in India. Prof. Nagendra Sharma congratulated both the organizers and the participants for holding the Winter School. Dr Sharma also delivered a lecture on "Dimension and utility of convenient and value added meat products in the changing scenario". Dr V.K. Gupta, Joint Director, CADRAD in his presidential address asked the participants to fully utilize these 21 days and learn as much as they can from the IVRI faculties.

Innovative Strategies of Reprogenomics for Research & Teaching

Dr R.K. Singh, addressing the inaugural
function

A short course of 21 days duration on "Innovative strategies of reprogenomics for research & teaching " , conceived by the Centre of Advanced Faculty Training in Veterinary Physiology, Division of Physiology and Climatology was inaugurated on 1 September, 2016. While inaugurating the course, Dr R. K. Singh, Director & VC, IVRI, highlighted the importance of Reprogenimics in today's context of animal-reproduction research and thereby ameliorating the infertility problems in the animals.

Dr B. P. Mishra, Joint Director (Research), stated that one has to understand the basics and fundamentals of OMICS in view of their utility in research and academics. He showed his concern for infertility and


repeat breeding, as these are the prevalent reproductive problems in field condition. He also emphasized that Reprogenomics will be useful in sorting out the solutions for such reproductive problems.

Dr D.N. Kamra, National Professor, congratulated the participants for attending this short course and informed the house that such OMICS technologies have certainly enhanced the efficacy of research in identification of more number of rumen microbes in comparison to the conventional techniques in vogue.

Dr G. Taru Sharma, Head-cum-Director, CAFT (Veterinary Physiology), gave an overview of CAFT activities and highlighted the genesis of this course with its use in ongoing research in reproductive physiology.

NATIONAL DAIRY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, KARNAL

Benefit of Camel Milk for Type I Diabetic Condition

The research work conducted at NDRI, Karnal has established that physiological response to camel milk consumption in diseased condition differs from that to the cow, buffalo and goat milk. Camel milk has distinct advantage in treating type I diabetes. This conclusion has been drawn after conducting studies on experimental rats, which were first made type I diabetic after administration of streptozotocin and then subsequently offered milk from different species. Consumption of camel milk for 1 month impacted positively in reversing type I diabetes. The level of insulin, glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin in the camel milk-fed group to diabetic rats reached same level as noted for non-diabetic rats. This observation proved that camel milk is beneficial under type I diabetic conditions. Lipid profile and oxidative status under diabetic condition also change; the camel milk has properties to reverse these changes. In fact, the level of oxidative damaged products, viz. TBARS and protein carbonyls, in the pancreas of diabetic rats on consumption of camel milk became similar to the levels noted in non-diabetic rats. Amongst diabetic patients, about 10% are type I diabetic, whereas rests are type II, diabetes.

Effect of feeding of milk on the level of glucose (a), insulin (b) and glycosylated haemoglobin (c)
 

Training on Advances in Reproductive Biotechnology

Prof. (Dr) Col. A.K. Gahlot inaugurating
the programme

A 6-day training programme for the officials of South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) Countries was inaugurated at National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal on 25 July, 2016 by Prof. (Dr) Col. A. K. Gahlot, VC, Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner.

The theme of the training programme was Advances in reproductive biotechnology - toward improved animal productivity. There were 20 participants from six SAARC Countries (India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka). These trainees were field-level veterinary officers working in Dairy Development Board of the respective

countries. The co-ordinator of the training programme was Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Programme Officer, SAARC Regional Center, Dhaka, (Bangladesh). The participants were exposed to the recent knowledge accumulated in the area of reproduction biotechnology, and the training provided handson- experience on frontier technologies for improving reproduction efficiency in farm animals. A compendium of lectures was also released on this occasion by the dignitaries.

Universities

ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, ANAND

Annual Zonal Workshop for KVKs

Workshop on KVKs at ATARI,
Jodhpur, AAU, Anand

A three days' Annual Zonal Workshop for Krishi Vigyan Kendras of Rajasthan and Gujarat states was organized by ICAR - Agricultural Technology Appl i cat ion Research Institute, Jodhpur at Anand Agricultural University, Anand (Gujarat). In the inaugural session, Dr P. P. Patel, Director, (Extension Education), AAU, Anand, welcomed all the delegates. Dr S. K. Singh, Director, ATARI, Jodhpur, gave an introductory remark on the workshop and presented an overview of the centrally sponsored schemes and projects being executed in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Dr A.K.Singh, DDG (Ext.), ICAR, New Delhi, the chief guest, narrated that annual workshop is a learning platform, since the science is growing and exchanged here. He appealed to develop the joint action plan for the KVKs with ATMA and other departments to avoid the duplication and dilution of efforts at district level. For enhancing the production of pulses in the country, 100 KVKs have been identified for creation of seed hubs to meet the seed demand of preferred varieties at village level.

Dr Patel in his presidential address expressed gratitude to the ICAR for giving an opportunity to hold the workshop at AAU, Anand. He expressed concern on post-harvest technologies to generate the income and employment, importance of information technology and community radio for inclusive agricultural growth.

Directors from five ICAR institutes, viz. IIPR, Kanpur; CIAH, Bikaner; DGR, Junagadh; DRMR, Bharatpur; and NRCSS, Ajmer, actively participated and gave presentations on agricultural technologies suited to the KVKs of the region. Chief Scientists-cum Heads from 71 KVKs presented the achievements of their KVKs. Eleven Directors of Extension Education from State Agricultural Universities, Director, research and other staffs of AAU, Anand and ATARI, Jodhpur also participated in the workshop.

Agreement between AAU and Institute of Plasma Research

Dr D.C. Joshi and Prof. Amita Das
agreement

A Scientific Collaboration Agreement was signed between College of Food Processing Technology, AAU, Anand and Institute for Plasma Research, Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India, Gandhinagar, on 26 July, 2016. The Agreement was for collaboration on plasma-based technology on Development for surface decontamination of fruits and vegetables'


signed by Dr D. C. Joshi, Dean, College of FPTBE, and Prof. Amita Das, Dean, IPR. Those present were Prof. D. Bora, Director, IPR; Dr R.V. Prasad, Professor & Head, Dep of Food Quality Assurance; and Dr R.F. Sutar, Professor & Head, Dep of Post-Harvest Engng and Technology from College of FPTBE; and Dr Subroto Mukherjee, Head and Dr Sudhir K. Nema, Scientist (SG), FCIPT Division. Dr N.C. Patel, VC, is expecting fruitful research very soon through the collaborative work.

Distinguished Visitors

Dr T. Mohapatra being felicitated
by Dr N.C. Patel

Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR, New Delhi and Dr T. Jankiram, ADG (HS-II), ICAR, New Delhi visited AAU, Anand on 3 Sept., 2016. They had an interaction meeting with Dr N. C. Patel, VC, AAU and all the university officers and deans, which was followed by a brief presentation of various research, education and extension activities by AAU, and visit to Sardar Patel Educational Museum.

Visit of Delegation of South Korean Youth

South Korean Delegates

Thirty-five students of South Korean Youth Delegation visited AAU on 24 Sept., 2016 under bi lateral youthexchange programme. The interaction was conducted at College of Food Processing Technology and Bio-Energy. About 50 NSS student volunteers and five NSS Programme Officers of AAU participated and interacted with the delegation. Shri Kamal Kumar Kar, Regional Director, NSS (Gujarat) remained present with his team. Dr S.H. Akbari, DSW and Programme Co-ordinator, made conversation with Youth Delegation of South Korea. NSS student volunteers made interaction with South Korean Youth Delegation on education and cultural exchange.

ASSAM AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JORHAT

MoU between AAU and Bayers Crop Science Ltd.

Recipients of Bayers Fellowship
(Front Row)

Bayer Crop Science Ltd, Thane, (Maharashtra), and AAU, Jorhat signed an MoU on 12 July, 2016 to initiate Bayer Fellowship programme at Jorhat. Bayer donated the fellowship funds to AAU for the years 2015 to 2018, as a part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives. Dr C. Hazarika, Director of Post Graduate Studies, AAU, and Mr Rajshekhar Sakhalkar, Head, Development & Regulatory Affairs, Bayer Crop Science, were the signatories of the MoU.

Four fellowships (each of Rs 6,000 month) for M.Sc. (Agri), and 2 (each of Rs 10,000 month) for Ph.D. degree programme for the academic session 2015-16 were awarded to the students.

5th DBT's Task Force on Aquaculture and Marine Biotechnology

The 5th meeting of Task Force on Aquaculture and Marine Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, was organized at Fisheries

Dr Dilip Kumar with dignitaries

Research Centre, at Jorhat during 14-15 July, 2016. The meeting was chaired by Dr Dilip Kumar, former Director, CIFE, Mumbai; and coc haired by DrIddya Karunasagar, former FAO Fellow. Prominent personalities like Dr A.S. Ninawe, Adviser, DBT; Dr W.S. Lakra, former Director, CIFE, Mumbai, Dr Sudhir Raizada, ADG (Inland Fisheries), ICAR, New Delhi, and others participated.

MoU for Commercialization of Fish feed- Sushama

MoU signing ceremony

An MoU was signed on 30 August, 2016 between Assam Agricultural University and M/s S.D. Bajaj of Guwahati, for commercialization of AAU fish feed 'Sushama', developed by Fisheries Research Centre, AAU, Jorhat. The ceremony was held in the conference hall of College of Veterinary Science, AAU Khanapara. The dignitaries present were Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah, VC, AAU; Shri T.C. Das, Member of NEC; Dr A.K. Chakraborty, Director of Research (Vet); Shri S.K. Das, Director of Fisheries, GoA; Dr R.N. Goswami, Dean, College of Veterinary Science, Khanapara; Dr K.K. Tamuli, Dean (i/c), College of Fisheries, Raha; Dr Bibha Chetia Borah, Principal Scientist, AAU, Jorhat; besides faculty of College of Veterinary Science and other stake-holders.

Visit of Assam CM

Srijut Sarbananda Sonowal, Srijut Atul
Bora, Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah; Srijut
Pitambar Dev Goswami on dais

Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, CM of Assam, was felicitated during a function organized in the Dr M.C. Das Memorial Auditorium of AAU, Jorhat on 6 September, 2016. The other dignitaries present in the function were: Shri Atul Bora, Agriculture Minister of Assam; Satradhikar of Auniati Satra of Majuli; Srijut Pitambar Dev Goswami; Shri Bhabendra Nath Bharali, MLA, Dergaon Constituency; Shri Tapan Goswami, MLA, Sonari Mahmara Constituency; Shri Jogen Gogoi, MLA, Mahmara Constituency; and Shri Hrishikesh Goswami, Press Adviser to Chief Minister, Assam. Addressing the faculty members and students of the university, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal lauded the university for its achievements and appealed to the university community to lead the state towards development in the agriculture sector. He also urged that the university should put all-out effort to materialize the dream of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji of transforming the entire North-East to a hub of organic agriculture. Earlier, in the welcome address, Dr. K.M. Bujarbaruah briefly presented the contribution of the university for the development of agriculture and allied sectors in the state. Shri Atul Bora, Agriculture Minister, Assam, in his address assured that the Department of Agriculture will work hand in hand with AAU in the endeavour of agricultural upliftment of the state.

CHHATTISGARH KAMDHENU UNIVERSITY, RAIPUR

New Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry College

Shri. Brijmohan Agrawalji, Minister of Agriculture, Government of Chhattisgarh, inaugurated the second constituent Veterinary College


of Chhattisgarh Kamdhenu Vishwavidyalaya at Bilaspur. The Government approved a set up of 225 teaching and non-teaching posts. Infrastructure for the new college is being created. Veterinary Council of India has recognized the college and permitted admission of 30 students in 1st year of B.V.Sc.& A.H. degree programme from the academic session 2016-17.

Dr Y.S.R. HORTICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, TADEPALLIGUDEM

Annual Zonal Workshop of KVKs, Zone-V

KVK zonal workshop

The Annual zonal workshop for Krishi Vigyan Kendras of Zone-V was conducted at DYSRHU Campus Venkataramannagudem from 2 to 4 June, 2016. Dr B.M.C. Reddy, VC, inaugurated the workshop. Dr Y.G.Prasad, Director, ATARI, Hyderabad; Dr Raja Reddy, Director of Extension, ANGRAU; Dr Jamuna Rani, Director of Extension, PJTSAU, Hyderadabad; Dr Virojirao, Director of Extension, DYSRHU; P.V. Narasimha Rao, Telangana State Veterinary University; Dr R.V.S.K. Reddy, Director of Extension; and Dr Bhave, Director of Extension, BSKKV, Dapoli participated. They explained the role of KVKs in all-round development and strengthening of farming community. Programme Co-ordiantors of 78 KVKs participated and presented the work done and significant achievements during 2015-16. They took the valuable suggestions from the experts participating in the workshop.

Farmers-Scientists Interface Meeting on Phytoplasma disease

Farmer-scientist interface

The academia and farmer interface meeting on "Phytoplasma diseases in horticultural crops: current status and future challenges" was organized jointly by DYSRHU, Directorate of Floriculture and Indian Nurserymen Association on 29 June, 2016 at Anam Kalakendram, Rajama-hendravaram. Dr B.M.C. Reddy, VC, attended the meeting as chief guest and announced that a new Quarantine Centre for identification of Phytoplasma diseases is going to be established at Rajamahendravaram. Dr B. Srinivasulu, Registrar; Dr J. Dilip Babu, Director of Research; Dr M. Krishna Reddy, Principal Scientist, IIHR, Bengaluru; Dr K.V. Prasad, Director, Directorate of Floricultural Research, Pune; and Dr P. Damodar Reddy, Director, CTRI, attended the meeting and shared their views with the delegates. Nurserymen from Kadiyam and farmers attended this meeting. Information brochure on Know about phytoplsma diseases and CD on 'Phytoplasma diseases in horticultural crops; current status and future challenges' were also released on this occasion.

GURU ANGAD DEV VETERINARY AND ANIMAL SCIENCES UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA

The Department of Bio-Shield to Increase Shelf life of Eggs

The Department of Livestock Products Technology developed an egg bio-shield, which when sprinkled on the egg increases its shelf-life. It is in powder form and one just has to add the powder in hot water, let the water cool and then sprinkle it on the eggs. There are nearly 1 lakh pores on an egg shell, and this powder develops a shield on the egg and helps it to last for 30-35 days during summer season. This egg bio-shield is very popular among poultry farmers.

MoU for Egg-Processing Technologies

MoU between GADVASU and firms

Department of Livestock Products Technology developed innovative products such as egg-drinks concentrate and egg paneer. The technologies of these products were transferred to three different firms on nonexclusive/ multiple user basis. A Memorandum of Understanding was entered between GADVASU and these firms in the presence of Dr A.S. Nanda, VC.

GOVIND BALLABH PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, PANTNAGAR

ICAR Regional Committee Meeting at Pantvarsity

H.E. Dr K.K. Paul, inaugurating
the meeting

The 24th meeting of the ICAR Regional Committee No. 1 was held at Pantvarsity during 30-31 May 2016. H.E. Dr. K.K. Paul , Governor of Uttarakhand inaugurated it. This committee was constituted for north-western hill states, viz. Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, to understand their problems of agriculture and allied sector and find their solution through development programmes for research and development in agriculture and allied sectors.

The committee provides a forum for a meaningful dialogue among research and development agencies in the fields of agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries and agro-forestry, and plays an important role in forging an effective liaison and co-ordination amongst the ICAR institutes, State Agricultural Universities and state Departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Forestry and Fisheries of various state governments. In the inaugural session of the meeting: Shri Gulam Nabi Lone (Hanjoora), agriculture minister of J&K; Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, Department of Agriculture Research and Education, Government of India and Director General of ICAR; Dr. N.K. Krishna Kumar, DDG (Horticulture) and Nodal Officer of this committee; Shri A.K. Dhaundiyal, Secretary to Governor of Uttarakhand; Dr. Mangla Rai, Vice-Chancellor of Pantnagar University; and Dr. P.K. Mishra, Member-Secretary of this Committee and Director, Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Dehradun, shared the dais with the Governor. Members of ICAR Governing Body, vice-chancellors and scientists of state agricultural universities, directors of ICAR institutes and officers of different departments of state governments and the ICAR were present in this meeting.

Review meeting of ICAR Seed Project

Dr K.K. Paul delivering inaugural
address

The 11th annual review meeting of ICAR seed project 'Seed production in agricultural crops' was held at Pantnagar during 17-18 August 2016. H.E. Dr K.K. Paul , Governor of Uttarakhand, inaugurated the meeting. At this occasion Dr Mangala Rai, VC, and Dr J.S. Chauhan, ADG (Seeds), ICAR were also present.

Training to Goat keepers

A 4-day training on goat keeping was organized by Department of Livestock Production Management of College of Veterinary and


Animal Science during 5-8 September 2016. The training was organized under All-India Co-ordinated Research Project (Uttarakhand Goat Unit) of ICAR, New Delhi; sponsored by the Central Goat Research Institute, Mathura. In this training 188 goat keepers of villages of Kunda, Tilpuri, Bara and Bheemtal areas participated.

Fish-feed Machine at College of Fisheries

A feed preparation machine installed in College of Fisheries of GBPUAT, Pantnagar, was inaugurated by Dr. Mangala Rai. The machine imported from China has a capacity of 150 kg/hr. The machine can prepare different types of fish feed as per the requirement of fish inhabiting at different depths of the pond, thus minimizing the losses. The machine can also be used for preparing feed for poultry and other animals.

JUNAGADH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JUNAGADH

Annual Group Meet on Groundnut

Annual Group Meet on Groundnut

The Annual Rabi-Summer and Kharif ( 2 0 1 4 - 1 5 ) Groundnut Workshop under AICRP on Groundnut was organized jointly by Directorate of Groundnut Research, Junagadh and JAU, Junagadh during 18-20 April, 2016 at JAU, Junagadh. About 100 delegates from different centers of AICRP on Groundnut and the state and central government agencies participated in the workshop. The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Babubhai Bokhiria, Minister of Agriculture & Co-operation, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Cow Protection, Water Resources (except Kalpsar), Gujarat state. Prof M. C. Varshney, VC, Khamdhenu University, Gandhinagar was the guest of honour. Shri Bokhiria visited the exhibition of different varieties and exhibits showing research achievements under AICRP-G. He welcomed the scientists and emphasized the usage of groundnut as a food item, as a pulse-cum-oilseed crop, because the kernels having very good nutritional value. Dr A. R. Pathak, VC, gave presidential address and Dr T. Radhakrishnan, Director, DGR, ICAR, Junagadh, presented the highlights of research of AICRP on Groundnut for the period 2014-15 both in rabi-summer and kharif seasons. During the 3 days programme, the research conducted during rabi - summer and kharif 2014-15 of all the disciplines were reviewed and the new technical programmes for all the disciplines were also formulated after thorough deliberations

Meeting of Dr Trilochan Mohapatra with faculty members

Dr Trilochan Mahapatra, interacting
with faculties

Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE and DG, ICAR visited JAU, Junagadh on 4 September, 2016. Dr A. R. Pathak, welcomed and felicitated him on his first visit to the university. He presented the details of overall activities as well as research achievements of the university. Dr Mohapatra addressed and interacted with the senior faculty members of the university. He said that greater focus should be paid toward utilization of wild species, varietal development, quality improvement and management of biotic and abiotic stresses in the research programmes He also visited Food Testing Laboratory of the university.

Welcome Ceremony of Shri Rupala

A welcome ceremony of Shri Parsottambhai Rupala, Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of

Shri Parsottambhai Rupala, addressing
faculty members
Dr A. R. Pathak, welcoming the
Ministers of Agriculture

India, New Delhi; along with Shri Chimanbhai D. Sapariya, Minister of Agriculture and Energy, Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar; and Shri Vallabhbhai Waghasiya, Minister of State, Agriculture and Urban Housing , Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar was organized on his first visit to JAU on 18 September, 2016. Those present on this occasion were: Dr. A. R. Pathak, VC; Shri Rajesh Chudasama, Member of Parliament, Junagdh; Member sof Board of Management, University off icers, Heads of the Departments, teachers, scientists, employees and students of the university. Dr Pathak, welcomed and felicitated with shawl and memento. The ministers addressed the faculty members and students and gave their blessings for the research and development activities in agriculture for the better growth of nation and state.

Lokarpan of Riddhi Girls' Hostel

Lokarpan ceremony of "Riddhi
Girls Hostel"

Lokarpan ceremony of "Riddhi Girls Hostel" was performed on 18 September, 2016 by Shri Parsottambhai Rupala in the presence of Shri Chimanbhai D. Sapariya, Minister of Agriculture and Energy, Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar; Shri Vallabhbhai Waghasiya, Minister of State, Agriculture and Urban Housing, Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Dr A. R. Pathak, VC, Shri Rajesh Chudasma, Member of Parliament, Junagadh and the university offices.

LALA LAJPAT RAI UNIVERSITY OF VETERI-NARY AND ANIMAL SCIENCES, HISAR

World Veterinary Day

World Veterinary Day celebration

The University celebrated the "World Veterinary Day" on its campus on 30 April, 2016. Several activities including a workshop on "Continuing education with focus on one health", lectures, drawing and poster-making competition as well as awareness lectures were organized in the schools of Hisar. The day is celebrated on last Saturday of April every year all over the world. On this occasion a march for students and teacher was initiated by Maj. Gen (Dr) Shri Kant from Aravali hostel. Later he gave away prizes to the winners of different competitions. Mrs (Dr) Ranjana Sharma was guest of honor for this function. Speaking on this occasion Dr Shri Kant congratulated the faculty members and students for successful organization of all these activities and hoped that in the coming years more and more participants will be involved in these activities.

Earlier on 28 April, Dr N.K. Mahajan, Dr Ashok Kumar and Dr Vijay Jadhav from Dept. of Veterinary Public Health delivered lectures on Importance of veterinary profession and zoonotic diseases in different schools of the city. Also on 28 April, a workshop on the theme


Maj. Gen (Dr) Shri Kant showing
University achievements

"Continuing education with focus on one health" was also organized at LUVAS in which veterinarians from Animal Husbandry Deptt. Haryana participated along with faculty members. Dr Baldev Gulati, Principal Scientist, NRCE, Hisar also delivered lecture on "Control of zoonotic diseases through one health", and Dr N.K. Mahajan on " Concept of one health". On 29 April, a drawing competition for school children and poster-making for the university students was organized by the Dr (Mrs) Nita, Director, HRM.

Faculty Participation in Appreciation Course

VC with faculty participation in course

A team of delegates comprising Dr Harish Gulati, Dr Deepika, Dr Divya and Dr Nilesh Sandhu from the university participated in 27 Appreciation course in "Parliamentary processes and procedures' for professors/ Associate Professors/ Assistant Professors of the university and colleges from 2 to 6 May, 2016 organized by Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi. The training was attended by 120 participants from 80 universities from all over India. This university was the only veterinary university that participated in the course. In this training the participants were acquainted with the insight of parliament working procedures, to enable them help the students gain adequate knowledge of the parliament and its functioning. Smt. Smriti Irani, Union Minister of HRD, inaugurated the training, and eminent parliamentarians as Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi, Sh. Oscar Franandis, Sh. S.S. Ahluwalia, Sh. Prem Rai etc. Delivered lectures during the course. Maj Gen(Dr.) Shri Kant Vice- Chancellor congratulated the teachers for successful completion of this course.

MAHARASHTRA ANIMAL AND FISHERIES SCIENCES UNIVERSITY, NAGPUR

National Workshop

Dr P.S. Pandey, delivering speech
at inaugural function

A national workshop on Diagnostic approaches for zoonotic diseases', was organized during 8-12 Mar. 2016 at Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, under Niche Area of Excellence Project; on Centre for Zoonoses funded by the ICAR, New Delhi. Dr P.S. Pandey, ADG, ICAR, was the chief guest of the function; and Dr S.B. Garg, Director, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sewagram, Wardha was the guest of honour. Dr N. P. Dakshinkar, Associate Dean, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, was chairman at inaugural function; and Dr S.P. Chaudhari, Associate Professor and Principal Investigator of the project, was the co-ordinator of the workshop. Eminent scientists, academicians and experts in the field of zoonoses from all over the country attended and delivered expert lectures in the workshop. Various aspects of zoonoses like disease transmission, diagnosis, prevention and control, and epidemiology of important zoonotic diseases were covered in the workshop. Apart from theoretical aspects, practical exposure on various diagnostic techniques like

Pulse field gel electrophoresis, qPCR, PCR and ELISA as well as hands on training were given to the participants.

125th Birth Anniversary of Dr B. R. Ambedkar

Prof. A.K. Misra unveiling portrait of
Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar

The 125th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was celebrated at the university including its all constituent colleges during1- 14 April, 2016. Various activities were preferred on this occasion such as seminar on the topic of Dr B. R. Ambedkar, book volume exhibition on Dr B. R. Ambedkar, programmes on social justice and National Integrity through National Service Scheme in adopted villages, painting competition on various activities on life of Dr B. R. Ambedkar for school children, debate competition etc. The students of Dr Ambedkar Veterinary Association, NVC, Nagpur gifted the portrait of Dr B. R. Ambedkar for the University administrative building.

Exhibition at CICR

Dr N. N. Zade, Dir. Extnsn & Training,
explaining to Nitinji Gadkari

Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur and its constituent colleges; Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur and College of Fishery Science, Nagpur participated in the Farmer's Fair, organized by Central Institute of Cotton Research through its Krishi Vigyan Kendra on 16 April, 2016. The aim was to create awareness on the path breaking "Pradhan Mantri Fasal Beema Yojana" and other agricultural schemes launched by Central Government. Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Cabinet Minister (Road Transport and Highways and Shipping), was the chief guest of the function. He inaugurated the exhibition and visited the stall of the university. Various technologies developed by the university were showcased in the stall. Experts of the colleges guided the farmers on various animal husbandry and fishery practices.

Workshop on Livestock Insurance and Marketing Management

Shri Bijay Kumar guiding the farmers

On the occasion of Foundation Day of Nagpur Veterinary College on 1 July 2016 , awork shop on Livestock Insurance and Marketing Management was organized at Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur with the purpose to speed up and strengthen the work of livestock insurance and marketing of milk and milk products. More than 500 participants including livestock farmers, field veterinarians, academicians and Self help Group members in all 13 blocks of Nagpur district participated in the workshop. Apart from NABARD, workshop was sponsored by New India Assurance Company Ltd and Provincial Insurance Brocking Ltd, Nagpur. Shri Bijay Kumar, Principle Secretary, Animal Husbandry, Dairy and Fisheries, Maharashtra State, inaugurated the workshop; along with Prof. A. K. Mishra, VC, was the Chairman; and Dr G. P. Rane, Commissioner of Animal Husbandry, Pune; Dr Shankar Misala, Deputy General Manager, New India Assurance Co. Ltd. Nagpur. After the workshop, the Commissioner office, Animal Husbandry, released circular to organize special camps on Livestock insurances all over Maharashtra with the purpose to speed up and strengthen the work of livestock insurance.


World Rabies Day

Student vaccinating the dog
against rabies

The World Rabies Day was celebrated by the constituent colleges of university on 28 September, 2016 with the theme Educate, vaccinate and eliminate rabies. Bombay Veterinary College organized awareness programme for rabies and free anti rabies vaccination camp for pet and stray dogs. Pamphlets and folders in English and Marathi language were distributed among the pet owners. Anti-rabies vaccination camp was organized by Centre for Zoonoses, Department of Veterinary Public Health, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur in collaboration with Virbac Animal Health India Pvt. Ltd. and Animal Husbandry Department, Ashti, (District Wardha) at village Dhadi, Ashti. Total 45 dogs were vaccinated with anti-rabies vaccine. Experts delivered lectures for awareness on Rabies: prevention and control for the school students and staff members at Zilla Parishad High School, Dhadi, Ashti, Dist. Wardha and also interacted with the students for proper care of wound and vaccination after dog bite.

ORISSA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, BHUBANESHWAR

Dr T. Mohapatra with universities
dignitaries

Meeting on Double Farm Income was organized at OUAT on 1 July, 2016. It was attended by Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR; Prof. S. Pasupalak, VC and Shri D. K. Pattanaik , Additional Secretary, Agril. & FE, Government of Odisha, besides scientists from OUAT, senior officials from State Government and experts from the Government and private corporate sectors, Reserve Bank of India, nationalized banks and State universities of Odisha. In the concurrent brain-storming sessions conducted during this occasion on various themes, viz. Demand based production enhancement in crop, Animal and tree enterprises, Post harvest food processing and Supply-chain management, Marketing and branding both for domestic and international market, Role of biotechnology and IT for enhancing farm Income and investment in agriculture and allied sector. Discussions were held to strategize approaches for maximizing the income from agriculture and allied sector.

Mr Subroto Bagchi with Dr Pasupalak

A Conclave on "Skilled Odisha-Vibrant Odisha"was organized on 8 Aug., 2016 at Bhubaneshwar. This was attended by the students, faculty members, and the Deans and Directors of different colleges of OUAT. Mr Subroto Bagchi, Chairman, Odisha Skill Development Authority, Government of Odisha, delivered an inspirational talk, motivating the students and staff members on skill development in agriculture. Prof. S. Pasupalak, VC, in his opening remarks highlighted various aspects of skill development and its impact on the socio-economic development of the state.

Kendrapada Sheep

A unique breed of sheep, native to Odisha was registered with NBAGR, ICAR ( vide accession no . INDIA _ SHEEP _ 1500 _

Dr S.K. Dash receiving certificate
from Dr T. Mohapatra

KENDRAPADA_ 14042). Dr. Susanta Kumar Dash, Professor, Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, CVSc&AH, OUAT received the certificate from Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR on 23 August, 2016 at a special function held at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.

A Memorandum of Agreement between OUAT and CIMMYT

Exchange of MoA

A MoA was signed in the inception meeting of the project on "Stress-resilient maize for Odisha" on 17 September, 2016 at OUAT, Bhubaneshwar in the presence of Minister of Agriculture , FARD , Government of Odisha; Principal Secretary, Dept. of Agriculture & FE, Govt. of Odisha and VC, OUAT. The MoA was signed by Dr. P. K. Roul, Director, PME, OUAT, and Dr P.H. Zaidi, Team Leader and Senior Scientist, CIMMYT, Mexico.

PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA

Varieties and Farm Machines

The University recommended Various crop varieties suited to the state as well as farm machines for the farmers of Punjab, after experimental trial. These are described below:

Wheat

PC 6
  • PBW 725: It is a double dwarf variety with an average plant height of 105 cm. It's ears are medium dense and is tapering in shape with white smooth glumes. It's grains are amber, hard, medium boldand lustrous. It is resistant to yellow rust and brown rust and matures in about 154 days. Its average grain yield is 23.0 q/acre.

Celery

PBW 725
  • Punjab Celery 1: It is a high-yielding variety of celery. It produced an average seed yield of 4.46 q/acre. It's seeds contain 1.9% essential oil with total oil content of 20.1%. The seeds are brown in colour with characteristic odour and pungent taste. Punjab Celery 1 starts bearing flowers in March and matures in 140-150 days after transplanting.

African Sarson

Punjab Celery 1
  • PC 6 (2016) : This variety is the first determinate oilseed Brassica variety of the world. It is recommended for general cultivation in the state

under timely sown irrigated conditions. This medium tall variety is resistant to pod shattering and is suitable for combine harvesting. It is free from white rust and has better tolerance to Alternaria blight and mustard aphid. It's average yield is 7.7 q/acre with 40.1 per cent oil. It matures in 157 days.

Farm Machinery

Lucky seed drill
  • Lucky Seed Drill:It has an automatic spraying attachment , which sprays pre-emergence herbicide along with sowing in a single operation. This machine has been equipped with metal chains behind each tine for covering the seed wi th requi red quantity of soil before spraying the herbicides. Planking is not required.
Lucky seed drill
  • PAU Happy Seeder: It has been developed for efficient paddy straw management (which enables normal and early growth of wheat). During this rabi season, better emergence and less lodging of wheat was reported in wheat crop sown with PAU Happy Seeder compared with the conventional sowing.

Invitation to PAU Scientist for IWMI Workshop at Colombo

Dr R. Aggarwal
  • Dr Rajan Aggarwal, Head, Department of Soil and Water Engineering was invited as an expert in the area/key stakeholder to attend Regional Stakeholder Workshop on "Climate change risks in water resource management in South Asia", held in Colombo, Sri Lanka during 12-13 July, 2016. This workshop was a part of the project on 'International Water Management' supported by World Bank.

Invitation to PAU Research Scholar in USA

Mr Ashwini Kumar
  • Mr Ashwani Kumar, Ph . D . student , (admission No.L-2013- A-17-D), of Department of Food Science and Technology, attended International summit on 'Probiotics health and nutraceuticals' held at Baltimore, USA during 7-9 September, 2016, organized by the United Scientific Group. He was invited to deliver a speech on 'Symbiotic: traditional approach; Present status and future outlook'. Mr Ashwani Kumar was awarded research aid of US $ 10,000 by Asia Pacific Associations of Agricultural Research, Bangkok, Thailand.

SARDAR KRUSHINAGAR DANTIWADA AGRICULTURE UNIVERSITY, SARDAR KRUSHINAGAR

Organic Farming Policy- 2015

The university organized a seminar on "Gujarat organic farming policy", in collaboration with NABARD, Ahmedabad and Gujarat Association for Agricultural Sciences, Dantiwada Chapter, Sardarkrushinagar on 22 March, 2016. More than 100 farmers and entrepreneurs actively engaged in export-import of organic produce,

71 P. G. students and 90 faculty members participated in the seminar. The technical session comprised presentation of Mr Kapil Shah of "Jatan" on "Organic farming importance and prospects." During his presentation, he showed a video clip of FAO on "Save and grow" which was thought provoking. Significance of "Grower's Group" of organic farming and its registration to reduce the certification cost; standards of organic farming as per NPOP and the certification procedure for organic production under organic farming as well as plant protection and management in organic farming were deliberated in depth by different speakers. Among the important issues discussed included marketing of organic produce, pesticide-residue management, natural farming, co-operative societies' role and future thrusts in organic farming. The hazards of Bt cotton on human and animal health, mechanism of ion absorption in organic farming etc. were also discussed.

SRI KARAN NARENDRA AGRICULTURE UNIVERSITY, JOBNER

Visit of ICAR Peer Review Team for Accreditation

Dr. Kirti Singh, Dr. P.S. Rathore
and PRT members

The Peer Review Team for accreditation reviewed the university and its constituent colleges SKNCOA, Jobner (Jaipur) and College of Agriculture, Lalsot (Dausa) during 18-20 July, 2016. The PRT was headed by Dr Kirti Singh , former ASRB Chairman with its members Dr G. Venkateshwarlu, ADG (EQR), ICAR, New Delhi; Dr B.C. Saha, Dean (PGS), Bihar Agricultural University, Sehor; Dr L.N. Harsh, former Vice-Chancellor, Agricultural University, Jodhpur, and Dr. Shivamurthy, Director (Research), Central Agricultural University, Imphal. The ICAR Peer review team took the presentations in which university profile was presented by Dr V.K. Yadav, Director (Research) and Co-ordinator; profile of colleges by Dr R.C. Kumawat, Dean, SKNCOA, Jobner; and Dr R.S. Saini, Dean, COA, Lalsot (Dausa). Dr P.S. Rathore, VC presided over the meeting.

New Varieties

Barley

Barley RD-2849

RD-2849: Released in August 2016, it is recommended for NWPZ area for timely sown and irrigated condition. It is 2 rowed malt variety with yield capacity of 50 q/ha. Its maturity period varies from 128 to 133 days. The potential yield is 60 q/ha. Distinguishing morphological characters are plant height 91-95 cm, parallel long, uniform bold grain, erect plant type with semi-erect narrow leaves.

Groundnut

Groundnut RG 559-3

Raj Mungfali-3 (RG 559-3): Items released in Aug, 2016 for the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. It matures in 124-128 days. It has average yield 35-40 Q/ha, semi-spreading with extra bold kernels, high shelling turnover (69%) and high oil content (49%). It has tolerance against Spodoptera litura, leaf miner, leaf hopper and thrips.


Mungbean Variety

Mungbean - RMG - 975
Mungbean MSJ - 118

RMG-975: Items released in Aug, 2016 for Rajasthan State. The variety is tolerant to moisture stress moderately resistant to Yellow M Virus, leaf crinkle, web blight, Anthracnose root - knot nematode (M. incognita) leaf hopper, pod borer and white fly. Seed is medium bold and green which is most preferred.

MSJ-118: It was released in Aug, 2016 for Rajasthan. It's characteristic features are semi - erect, profuse branching, synchronous f lower ing, sui table for cultivation in both kharif and spring seasons and tolerance to moisture stress. Seed medium bold 4.1 g/100 seed) and dull.

Field Pea

Field Pea - 4

RFP-4: It was released in Aug 2016. The characteristic features are white flowers, double as well as single pods, plant medium tall, resistant to moderately resistant against powdery mildew, rust, rootrot, root-knot nematode (M. Javanica); suitable for irrigated as well as rainfed conditions of the state. Seed medium bold (17.42 g/100 seed).

Lentil

Lentil RLG - 5

RLG 5: It was released in 2016 for Rajasthan. It performs well under irrigated and rain-fed condition; has erect, dark foliage which remains green up to maturity. It is double podded and moderately resistant to wilt and root-knot nematode.

TAMIL NADU FISHERIES UNIVERSITY, NAGAPATTINAM

Meet for Skill Development in Fisheries

Dr K. Rathnakumar presiding
over meeting

A Stakeholders meet on "Skill development porgrammes in fisheries" was organized by Tamil Nadu Fisheries University in Chennai on 6 May, 2016 to identify some certificate and diploma programmes to produce skilled manpower for the employment opportunities created in aquaculture and fish-processing industries in the fisheries sector. Dr K. Rathnakumar, Acting VC, TNFU and patron of the meetings, presided over the meeting. Dr N. Felix, Chief Executive Officer i/c, Fisheries Institute & Technology and Training and Organizing Secretary of the meet, delivered the welcome address and explained the objective of this meeting to the participants. Dr M. Nagoor Meeran, Director of Extension Education, on his felicitation address, emphasized the need for evolving various types of skill-development training

programmes in fisheries to address the acute skilled-manpower shortage experienced by aquaculture and fish-processing industries in India, and the co-operation industries for successful conduction of such programmes. The participants were formed into different groups, based on their expertise and the types of industries they represent, to suggest the fields for certificate / diploma programmes. Accordingly, total 11 fields were suggested for commencing certificate / diploma programmes. Now, the TNFU is evolving curriculum for these programmes.

Revitalizing Indian Fisheries Education

Experts at the meeting

An expert consultation on "Revitalizing Indian fisheries education 2016 " wa s organized in Fisher ies Col lege and Resear ch Institute, Thoothukudi during 17-18 June, 2016. The expert consultation is aimed at bringing together Deans and Directors of all the fisheries colleges in the country to discuss restructuring of undergraduate fisheries education in tune with the changing needs of the fisheries sector. The inaugural function of the programme was held on 17 June, 2016. Dr G. Sugumar, Dean, FCRI, Thoothukudi and Convener of the programme welcomed the gathering and elucidated the importance of revitalizing Indian Fisheries Education in the present scenario for the development of fisheries in India and across the world. Dr K. Rathnakumar, the Registrar and Acting VC, presided over the function. In the presidential address elucidated the key areas of concern for "Revitalizing Indian fisheries education" and the scope focus of today's fisheries on diversification of utilization through deep-sea fishing, culture of ornamental fishes, establishment of processing units etc. He advised all the fisheries professionals to work to implement blue revolution.

Dr. Joykrushna Jena, DDG (Fisheries), ICAR, New Delhi was the chief guest. He released a Souvenir for "RIFE 2016" and a book on Quality Seed Production Technique in Carp, Catfish and Tilapia, authored by the faculty staff of FCRI, Thoothukudi. Dr J. Jena highlighted the role of fisheries professionals in doubling the fish production on a sustainable manner within the next decade to fulfill the demand for fish as a health food.

UNIVERSITY OF HORTICULTURAL SCIENCES, BAGALKOT

VC with students and faculty
members

The University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences celebrated Vana Mahotsava (world Plantation Day) on 8 July 2016. The officers of the university, faculty members and students celebrated the programme by planting about 500 plants at UAHS Campus, Shivamogga.

The ICAR Peer Review Team

Dr S.S Magar chairing the meeting

visited the university and its constituent colleges during 25 - 30 September, 2016 for accrediting the constituent colleges and university. Its members were: Dr S.S. Magar - former VC, DBSKKV, Dapoli as Chairman, Dr K.K. Jindal, former ADG (Hort.), ICAR, New Delhi, Dr. K. Ram Krishna, Former Director of Research, SKNAU, Jobner and Dr. G. Venkateshwaralu, ADG (EQR), ICAR, member convenor.


Awards

ASSAM AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JORHAT

Best Centre Award for ICAR Seed Project

Dr P.K. Pathak receiving the Award

The University was adjudged the 'best centre' of the ICAR Seed Project - 'Seed production in agricultural crops', for the year 2015-16 among 39 agr i cul tural universities associated with the project. Dr Prasanna Kumar Pathak, Associate Director of Research and also Nodal Officer of the project at AAU received the 'Best Centre Award' from Dr Mangala Rai, Vice- Chancellor, GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar; and Dr J. S. Sandhu, DDG (Crop Science), ICAR on 18 August, 2016 on the occasion of XI Annual Review Meeting of ICAR Seed Project, held at GBPUAT during 17-18 August, 2016.

GOVIND BALLABH PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, PANTNAGAR

Awards to Prof. Anil Kumar and his Student Dr Kalyan Babu

Dr Anil Kumar receiving award

Dr Anil Kumar, Professor and Head , Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering of College of Basic Science and Humanities of GBPUAT, and his former Ph.D. student, Dr Kalyan Babu, were honoured with two different national awards of the ICAR, New Delhi. These awards were given during '88th foundation day, krishak goshthi and award ceremony', organized on 16 July 2016 at New Delhi, by the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare in the presence of other ministers and the Director-General, ICAR.

Dr Anil Kumar was awarded the prestigious Bharat Ratna Dr. C. Subramanian Outstanding Teacher Award of 2015 (Crop and Horticultural Science) for excellent research, teaching and training by him. Dr Kumar was given a citation, a certificate and Rs 1 lakh under this award. Dr Kalyan Babu was given Jawaharlal Nehru Outstanding Ph.D. Thesis Award in Agricultural and Allied Sciences 2015. He was given a citation, a medal and Rs. 50,000 under this award. Presently Dr Babu is working as Scientist in the Oilpalm Research Institute, Andhra Pradesh.

QS ranking to Pantvarsity

Pantnagar university is among the top two agricultural universities of India which have figured in top 250 universities of BRICS countries, as per QS University Ranking for 2016. In these top 250 universities, 45 institutions of India are included, and among these institutions, (mostly IITs and technical institutions) three agricultural universities are included. The BRICS countries include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Awards to Students in National-level Contest

Pantvarsity students again brought laurels to their almamater by winning national-level contest. Four teams of Pantvarsity students participated in 'Sensitization workshop-cum-agripreneurship idea contest' organized at Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, Ludhiana, on 5 July 2016. Two teams of Pantvarsity students fetched both the positions of winner and runner-up, thus outshining in the competition. The contest was

sponsored by National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad.

In another competition organized by UNESCO and CEMCA for 3 minutes film on community radio stations in India, the film produced by Pantvarsity students bagged certificate of merit. All the teams consisted of students of different colleges of the university.

Encouragement Award to KVK

The Krishi Vigyan Kendra of Pantvarsity at Dhanauri (Haridwar) was awarded 'Atal Rashtriya Krishi Vigyan Protsahan Puraskar (Zonal Level)' of the ICAR under the category Zone I for the year 2016-17. The award was given for espousing the cause of farming community and application of scientific methods, appropriate technologies for enhanced productivity, profitability and sustainability of farming systems.

JUNAGADH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JUNAGADH

Award to Farmer

Farmer receiving award from
Shri Parsottambhai Rupala

Mr Sanjaybhai Vaghasiya, an young farmer was awarded Sardar Smruti Kendra Rajat Jaynti Award; 2013-14 (Sardar Smruti Kendra , JAU , Junagadh) for his innovative approach in Sc ient i f i c Cultivation and Value Addition in Mango" (Amba ni Adhunik Kheti ane tenu mulyavardhan), by Shri Parsottambhai Rupala, Minister (State) of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi; Shri Chimanbhai D. Sapariya, Minister of Agriculture and Energy, Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar; and Shri Vallabhbhai Waghasiya, Minister of State, Agriculture and Urban Housing, Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar on 18 September, 2016 in an large gathering of farmers organized at JAU, Junagadh.

NATIONAL DAIRY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, KARNAL

Award to Institute

Dr R.K. Malik receiving award

Education Leadership Award was given to NDRI, Karnal during World "Education Congress", organized on 23 June, 2016 in Mumbai. The award was received by Dr R. K. Malik, Joint Director (Research), NDRI, Karnal.

Award to director

Dr A. K. Srivastava, Director NDRI was awarded 100 Most Influential Directors of India (Education) Award by World Education Congress 2016, held on 23 June, 2016 at Hotel Taj Land End, Mumbai.

Award to Prof. M.P. Yadav

Prof. (Dr) M.P. Yadav, Secretary, NAAS; former President, NAVS and IAUA was conferred Prof. K.S. Bhargava Oration Award of Indian Virological Society. The award was given on 8 December, 016 during the International Conference of IVS "VIROCON - 2016", held at Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, (Karnataka), for his outstanding contributions to Veterinary Virology. Prof. Yadav delivered his Oration Award Lecture "FAOOIEs Perspective on Global Control and Eradication of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR)". During the presentation, he dwelt in detail giving information on history, symptoms, economic losses due to


the diseases in small ruminants; epidemiology and distribution in different continents along with the strategy for their global eradication by 2030.

New Vice- Chancellors

Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, VC, CSKHPAU, Palampur

Prof. Ashok Kumar
Sarial

Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, a renowned farm academician joined as twelfth regular VC, CSKHPAU on 11 August,2016. He was working as Professor of Genetics and Plant Breeding at CCSHAU, Hisar. He is an alumnus of CSKHPKV and did his B.Sc. (Agriculture) in 1980 and M.Sc. (Plant Breeding) in Jan, 1983. Prof. Sarial obtained Ph.D. degree in Genetics from IARI, New Delhi. Being topper of the institute, he was awarded IARI Gold Medal.

Fellow of Rockefeller Foundation at Texas University, the USA (1997 to 1999); and Officer-in-charge, Regional Research Station, National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack (2001). Prof. Sarial also worked as Expatriate Fellow in World Bank/ UNDP - sponsored programme of Ministry of Education, FDR Ethiopia (2004-2006).

He has 7 first-time research reports to his credit, like World's longest grain Basmati variety Pusa 1121, developed and released in 2003; world's first aromatic hybrid Basmati Pusa RH 10 parental lines, etc. His research work earned to his alma mater IARI two IPRs including one for Pusa Basmati 1121.

He trained a large number of students and motivated them to excel in studies and their professional career. He guided over a dozen students in M.Sc. and Ph.D.

He was decorated with various awards, honours and recognitions like the ICAR's Jawahar lal Nehru Award for excellent academic achievements and ICAR recognition award for his outstanding research contribution in Basmati rice. He is member of several professional societies like Fellow of Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding and had wide exposure. He visited many foreign countries like the USA, Africa and Thailand.

Prof. Uma Shanker Sharma, VC, MPUAT, Udaipur

Prof. Uma Shankar
Sharma

Dr. Uma Shanker Sharma, graduated in Agricultural Science (1976) and took M.Sc. degree in Entomology (1980) and completed his Ph.D. (1988) in Entomology. He became Professor in 2005-2014. Prof. Sharma took over as the VC, MPUAT, Udaipur on 11 March, 2016. He published 44 research papers in different journals of international and national repute. Dr. Sharma guided 5 Ph.D. and 16 M.Sc. students for their research work.

Dr Sharma was conferred with international award for Scientific Agriculture and Social Services for outstanding contribution in Agriculture and Social Services on 10 February, 2003 from Governor of Gujarat. He was also awarded Fellowship from Rajasthan Council of Educational Administration and Management in 2001; received Appreciation Certificate and Trophy from Ministry of Parliamentary

Affairs, New Delhi for successful organization of Fourth and Sixth National Youth Parliament Competition during 2000-01 and 2002-03. He was Convener during 2004-05, where Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur stood First at national level.

He is Founder Member and Managing Editor of Indian Journal of Applied Entomology, Fellow of Entomological Society of India, New Delhi; Member, Applied Zoological Research Association, Cuttack, Orissa; Indian Society of Oilseed Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad; Insect Environment, Bangalore; Asian Agri. History Foundation, Secunderabad, Hyderabad; Indian Academy of Entomology, Chennai.

Prof. Juyal resumes charge as VC, NDVSU

Dr Prayag Dutt
Juyal

Dr. Prayag Dutt Juyal joined Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur as VC. Dr. Juyal completed his graduation from Meerut University, Meerut (1973); pursued Veterinary Science as career and graduated from GBPUAT, Pantnagar (1977) and completed his Masters in Veterinary Parasitology from GBPUAT (1979) and Doctorate from CCSHAU, Hisar (1987). He became Professor and Head, Department of Veterinary Parasitology.

He has been honoured with several awards and recognitions, viz. College merit certificate; Graduate teaching assistantship (1978), ICAR Senior Research Fellowship (1983), Travel Bursary Award (1993), Prof. B.V. Rao Gold Medal (1998), Fellow of National Academy of Veterinary Sciences, (2005), Prof. V.S. Alwar Memorial Award (2006), Shiksha Rattan Puruskar (2007), Fellow of Indian Association for Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology, (2007), Scientist Award from Indian Society for Veterinary Immunology and Biotechnology, (2010, 2013) and Fellow of National Academy of Dairy Sciences, (2014).

Prof. Juyal has to his credit more than 200 publications and 3 books. He has also been associated with societies and councils in different scientific initiatives and held the position of Vice President of IAAVP. He had been the Member, Academic Council, CSKHPKVV, Palampur (HP); Chhattisgarh Kamdhenu University, Raipur and Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar; and on the Editorial Board of Journal of Parasitic Diseases (Springer India), Journal of Laboratory Physicians (AIIMS, New Delhi), Journal of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore and Journal of Animal Research.