IN
Golden Jubilee Year (1967-2017)
 
VOLUME 17 NO. 1
Jan. - Mar. 2017
 

Contents

EVENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
FOCUS ON UNIVERSITIES

ADVISORY BOARD

Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah,
President
Dr N.C. Patel,
Vice-President
Dr V.S. Tomar
Secretary-General
Dr A.R. Pathak
Treasurer
Dr A.K. Gahlot
Member
Dr B.S. Dhillon
Member
Prof. Mathew Prasad
Member

EDITORIAL BOARD

Dr R.P. Singh
Executive-Secretary, IAUA
Dr Kirti Singh
Ex-Chairman, ASRB
Dr C.S. Chakrabarti
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

Focus on Universities: Events and Achievements

Central Universities

 

DR RAJENDRA PRASAD CENTRAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, PUSA

DBT Officers in meeting
with Dr Srivastava

Visit of DBT Officers

The Advisory Committee meeting of Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, supporting M.Sc. in Agricultural Biotechnology programme of the university, was held on 25 Feb. 2017 under the chairmanship of Dr R. C. Srivastava, VC. The meeting was attended by external experts viz., Dr Anil Kumar, Professor and Head, Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, GBPUAT, Pantnagar; Dr Manoj Prasad, Scientist V, National Institute of Plant Genome Research, New Delhi, Dr Ashok Mishra, Advisor, Jain Irrigation, Baroda; besides other officers and faculty members of the university. It was informed that Dr Rajeev Kumar, had visited University of Helsinki, Finland for 2 months under BRAVE fellowship.

 

Dr T.L. Roberts, interacting
with Dr Singh

Foreign Visit

Dr S. P. Singh, Junior Scientist, Soil Science, participated in 'Frontiers of potassium science: an International conference during 25-27 Jan. 2017 at Rome (Italy). He presented a paper 'Response to potassium fertilization in hybrid rice-maize cropping system in calcareous soil of eastern India' The conference was organized by International Plant Nutrition Institute, Georgia, the USA. Dr Singh discussed about the role of potassium in hybrid rice-maize cropping system. Omission of potassium decreased the grain yield of hybrid rice-maize system from 5 to 15% at different farmers' fields.

 

Symposium on Stress-resilient
wheat

Stress-resilient Wheat: International Symposium

An International Symposium on 'Stress-resilient wheat in the Regime of climate change' was organized by the university during 22-24 April 2017. In the symposium a galaxy of experts of the relevant field participated and deliberated on the pressing problems.

 

 

 

H.E. Shri R.N. Kovind being
welcomed by Dr srivastava

Governor's Visit

Shri Ram Nath Kovind, the Governor of Bihar, visited the university on 3 Mar. 2017. He inaugurated a brain-storming session on 'New paradigm in production and value chain management for achieving targeted growth of maize'. In his inaugural address he said that Bihar represents an agriculture-based economy, and hence has great potential to become a leading state in maize production. The second Green Revolution is expected to occur in eastern India, with joint efforts of both state and central governments. The conversion of Rajendra Agricultural University to Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University is a welcome step. He said that this brain-storming session on such an important theme involving various stakeholders would come up with concrete suggestions for improving the maize productivity, reducing production cost and thus increasing the farmers’ income. He also visited Gorai Ghat, to see boat-mounted solar power pump developed by the scientists of the university for irrigation in dhab areas. He also inaugurated the newly developed park and renovated Vidyapati auditorium in the university premises.

Laying of Foundation Stone/Inauguration

Dr R.C. Srivastava, inaugurating
irrigation system
On 4 Jan. 2017 Dr R.C. Srivastava, VC laid the foundation stone and performed bhumi pujan for the installation of a complete Irrigation System, consisting of tubewell, pumping set, pump house and state-of- the-art under ground water-distribution system in the village Saidpur Sitamarhi district. The work is being carried out under Tribal Sub-plan of AICRP on Irrigation Water Management. About 12 tribal families of Dhangar Tribe will be benefited from the system, who are paying unusually high price for irrigating their crops. The project is targeted to be completed by the end of this month so that the beneficiaries can irrigate the crops of this season.
Shri Radha Mohan Singh,
addressing the gathering
On 11 Mar. 2017, Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, laid the foundation stone of Administrative-cum-Laboratory building of Banana Research Centre, Goraul, Vaishali with initial fund of Rs 1400 lakhs. At national level this is the second Banana Research Centre after that of Tamil Nadu. During his address to people, Dr R.M. Singh underlined the importance of tissue- cultured Banana plants, which could boost the production level to 65 t/ha from the present 42 t/ha, apart from reducing production time and improving the fruit quality.

Saraswati Udyan

Shri Radha Mohan Singh and
Dr M. Premjit Singh,
with other dignitaries
Shri Ram Nath Kovind, the Governor of Bihar, inaugurated Saraswati Udyan in the university HQ premises on 3 Mar. 2017. This garden has completely changed the outlook of the campus with its green lawns, lights and fountains.

 

International Women's Day

Dr R.C. Srivastava with faculty
members and students
The International Women’s Day was celebrated on 8 Mar. 2017 in University Girls’ Hostel premises in the presence of Dr Meera Singh, Dean, College of Home Science, and all the women faculty members of the university with inmates of Girls’ Hostel. Dr R.C. Srivastava, VC, was the chief guest and Smt. Neeta Srivastava, the first lady of University, was the chief guest of honour. Dr Srivastava on this occasion said that if the women are empowered, the whole family will be strengthened. He said that the working women spent 70% of their earning on family food, especially child nutrition and education. Playcards, slogans, dance, drama and music by the girls were the highlights of the occasion. The programme organizer, Smt. Reeta Mehta, delivered vote of thanks.
Farmers attending Crop
Seminar at KVK, Saraiya

Crop Seminar

The KVK, Saraiya organized Crop Seminar on 15 Feb. 2017 at its premises Saraiya, Muzaffarpur, in collaboration with DurDarshan, Muzaffarpur and CSISA The title of the Seminar was 'Ek mulakat krishi vaigyanikon ke sath'. The programme was inaugurated by DEE, DRPCAU, Pusa. Total 14 scientists of different KVKs and the university along with 100 farmers participated. During the seminar the farmers' problems were solved on the spot.

Dr R.S. Paroda addressing

National Conference

A national conference on 'Perspective of challenges and options in maize production and utilization was organized by the University, in collaboration with Confederation of Horticulture Associations of India, Trust for Advancement in Agricultural Sciences, Jain Irrigation Systems Limited and ASM Foundation during 3-4 Mar. 2017. Dr R.S. Paroda, former DG, ICAR & Chairman, TAAS, New Delhi inaugurated the conference. Dr R.C. Srivastava, VC, DRPCAU; Dr H. P. Singh, Chairman, CHAI; Dr G. Trivedi, Chairman, ASM foundation; Dr S. K. Varshney, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, graced the occasion. In the conference, Dr N.N. Singh, former VC, BAU, Ranchi and Dr H. S. Gupta, former Director, IARI, were honoured with CHAI Life-Time Achievement Award. Dr T. P. Singh, former Dean, PGS; and Dr P. B. Jha, former Maize Breeder, RAU were presented with CHAI Certificate of Appreciation for their contribution to maize research.

Dr R. C. Srivastava, visiting
stalls during Mushroom Field Day

Mushroom Field Day

On 4 Jan. 2017 Mushroom Field Day was organized at village Baligarh of Sitamarhi district, to promote cultivation of mushrooms among the rural folk. The village is dominated by tribal population, and the efforts of the university during the past months have shown results as a number of women have started growing mushroom and good selling it in local market. Some large-scale farmers also participated have been helping these tribal women to sell their products. Dr R. C. Srivastava, VC, graced the occasion and interacted with the mushroom growers.

Launching of boat-mounted
solar pumping system

Boat-mounted Solar Pumping System

On 10 Jan. 2017, a boatmounted solar pumping system was launched during a ceremony organized at Gorai Ghat (Pusa) of the river Burhi Gandak. The system was developed by a team of scientists led by Dr R.C. Srivastava, VC, Dr Sudhir K Jain, Dr Ravish Chandra and Dr Pramod Kumar, with objective of providing irrigation to diara and dhab lands along the river. Preliminary result is encouraging and indicates its economical feasibility.
Visit of IFPRI team
A team, consisting of Mr Jamed Falik, Ms Melissa Cooperman and Ms Vaishali Dassani, of International Food Policy Research Institute, visited the university recently in connection with a documentary and appreciated this project.

Development of Self-reliant Banana Farming Module for Bihar

Shri Radha Mohan Singh,
inspecting self-reliant
banana farming
As banana is a major fruit crop of the state, a project was undertaken by the university from its own resources to develop a self-reliant banana farming module .The objectives of the project are to standardize the processes for extraction of fibre, pulp and sap from the pseudo-stem, explore the possibilities of using some parts of the plant as a cattle feed, and to exhibit the impact of modern irrigation methods on banana production. This project may show a path to the banana-growers for a self-reliant and selfsustainable banana-farming system, which can help in the developing entrepreneurship in the agriculture sector.

Fellowship to Students

Students selected for higher studies
under BRAVE Project, with
Principal and staff members
During the calendar year 2016-17, four undergraduate students from TCA, Dholi (dist. Muzaffarpur), viz. Miss Rabina Gupta, Miss Sargam Swami, Miss Savita Kumari and Mr Vivek Dubey, got selected under Erasmus Mundus fellowship for their higher studies under BRAVE project in University of Milan (Italy) under RAWE programme of the DRPCAU for 5 months.

Technology for Management of Fusarium Wilt/Panama Wilt of Banana

Typical symptoms of Fusarium
wilt/ Panama wilt of banana
The most serious disease of banana , identified as Fusarium wilt or Panama wilt of banana, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense race I & II (FOC) , is widespread in Vaishali region. A majority of the tall varieties like Malbhog (40-80%), Kothia (10-26%) and Alpan (10-16.5) grown in the area are highly susceptible to this disease. Dr S.K. Singh, Senior Scientist (Plant Pathology) & PI, AICRP (Fruits ) , working on management of this disease for the last 8 years has finally been successful in developing management strategies against the disease. These were released during the 4th Group meeting of All-India Co-ordinated Research Project on Fruits at IIHR, Bangalore during 4-7 Jan. 2017. The technology involves the use of disease-free suckers after dipping in 0.2% carbendazim for 45 min., followed by soil drenching (0.2%) @2-3 litres /plant at 0, 2 and 4 months after planning and carbendazim injection @ 3 ml of 2% solution at 3, 5 and 7 months after planting. However, bio-control agents, i.e. Trichoderma viride (@ 10 g/sucker 3 times) used in soil has also been found effective against Panama wilt, and therefore may be included in the integrated diseases management schedule in organic system.

Deemed-to-be-University

INDIAN VETERINARY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, IZATNAGAR

World Veterinary Day, 2017

As a part of World Veterinary Day celebrations-2017, a rally was organized on 28 Apr. 2017 which was flagged of by Dr R. K Singh, Director, ICAR-IVRI. As per the theme of WVD- 2017; Antimicrobial resistance-from awareness to action, the students generate awareness among the public
Dr R.K. Singh inaugurating
the session
in the nearby areas and distributed hand-bills on various aspects of animal care and health, public health and hygiene, fatal zoonot ic diseases like rabies and the consequences of AMR etc. On 29 Apr. 2017 an anti-rabies vaccination camp was inaugurated by Dr R.K. Singh, Director, at Referral Veterinary Polyclinic and Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, IVRI, Izatnagar. The faculty members and students actively participated in the vaccination camp. The pet owners attended the event with zeal and interest, and total 220 vaccinations were done. A clinical case competition was organized for the students of clinical disciplines. While addressing the gathering, Dr R.K. Singh emphasized the need and importance of accurate diagnosis and humane approach for the treatment of the animals.

In the concluding session, Prof. Ved Prakash Sharma, Head, Department of Microbiology, Rohilkhand Medical College and Hospital, Bareilly. delivered a lecture on Antimicrobial resistance and its consequences. Dr Sharma enumerated the causes of development of antibiotic resistance in the micro-organisms.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra and Division of Veterinary Public Health, ICARIVRI, also organized an awareness programme for the students of Savitri Inter College, Kargaina, (dist. Bareilly). The scientists and PG scholars of IVRI apprised the students about the importance of the animals for the society, and the contribution of the Veterinarians towards animals and human health. A drawing competition on the subject "Swachch Bharat" was also conducted for the students, wherein about 150 students participated.

Universities

ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, ANAND

Visit of State Minister of Agriculture

Shri Vaghasiya with Dr Patel
with senior staff members
Shri Vallabhbhai Vaghasiya, State Minister, (Agriculture) visited AAU, Anand on 2 Feb. 2017. He had an interaction meeting with Dr N. C. Patel, VC, all the university officers, Deans, Directors and Head of Department of AAU campus. Dr Patel, highlighted the salient achievements and activities of the university. Shri Vaghasiya discussed the challenges faced by the farmers, He also visited Sardar Patel Educational Museum, Bio-fertilizer Research Project and Tissue Culture Laboratory.

National Seminar on 'Dairy Industry and Consumer Demands

Dr Patel with dignitaries
A nat ional seminar on 'Dynamism in dairy industry and consumer demands and the 12th Alumni convention were organized jointly by SMC Col lege of Dai ry Science, its Alumni Association and Indian Dairy Association (Gujarat State chapter) during 4-5 Feb. 2017 at AAU, Anand. The programme was attended by 341 delegates from the country along with a few NRIs including dairy professionals, planners, academicians and students.
Dr Dilip Rath, Chairman, NDDB, the Chief Guest of the function, gave an overview of the present scenario of dairy sector, and remarked that India contributes to 18% of the world milk production, at the growth rate of 6.5%.
Dr. N.C. Patel, endorsed the views expressed by Dr Dilip Rath and laid stress on the need for improving the productivity, and production of clean milk, ensure safety and care about the changing consumer demands for dairy products. He appreciated Vidya dairy model for the training of dairy professionals, and suggested promotion of collaboration between industry and academic institutions.

Visit of Delegation of Copenhagen, Denmark

Dr Patel, briefing
members of delegation
Prof. Morten Pejrup, Vice Dean for Research, Faculty of Science; and Mr Erik Bisgaard Madsen, Vice Dean for Business Collaboration, from University of Copenhagen, Denmark; along with Mr Sune Kaur-Pedersen, Counsellor, Innovation & Research, Embassy of Denmark, New Delhi, visited the university, on 10 Jan. 2017. They visited Sardar Patel Agri-cultural Educational Museum, Vidya Dairy and College of FPT & BE. They had an interaction meeting with all the university officers of AAU, followed by discussion on various areas on which collaborative educational and research programmes can be taken up jointly. This visit was also in relation to the MoU to be signed between AAU and University of Copenhagen, Denmark during Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2017 at Gandhi Nagar.

Visit of USA Students

Group of USA students
The under-graduate and postgraduate students of various di s c ipl ines f rom Wor ld Learning Institute, the USA visited the university campus on 17 March 2017. They were on tour of various countries such as Tanzania, India, Italy et c . under the theme: “Rethinking food security”. They visited Educational Museum and Tissue-culture laboratory and got inspired deeply by the services rendered by agricultural universities of India, especially of Gujarat, for practical benefit of farmers and contribution towards food security.

Inauguration of Sandipani Teaching Complex and Sarojini Girls' Hostel

Shri O.P. Kohli, inaugurating
H.E. Shri. O.P. Kohli, the Governor of Gujarat and Chancellor of University, inaugurated the newly constructed buildings, Sandipani Teaching Complex and Sarojini Girls’ Hostel at College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry on 6 Jan. 2017. The dignitaries present on this occasion were: Shri Chimanbhai Sapariya, Minister of Agriculture and Energy, Gujarat State; Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE and DG, ICAR, New Delhi and Dr N. C. Patel, VC, AAU.

Current Position of Dairy Sector and Factors Affecting Profitability of Milk Production

Dr N.C. Patel with officers
A seminar on ‘Current position of international and national dairy sector, and factors affecting profitability of milk production’ was organized by IDA (Gujarat chapter) and SMC College of Dairy Science on Saturday, 11 Mar. 2017. Total 300 benef iciar ies participated in the seminar, including farmers, technical officers, veterinary officers, scientists, academicians and entrepreneurs.
At the inaugural function, Dr JB Prajapati, Principal and Dean, SMC College of Dairy Science, AAU, Anand, Vice-Chairman of Indian Dairy Association (Gujarat state chapter) welcomed all the dignitaries and participants. Dr K. Rathnam, Managing Director, Amul Dairy, Anand, Chairman of Indian Dairy Association (Gujarat state chapter) in his speech stated that among most of the seminars this is the unique programme especially designed for farmers practising animal husbandry. Shri Ramsinh P. Parmar, Chairman, Kheda District Co- Operative Milk Producers’ Union Limited, (popularly known as Amul Dairy), was present as the Special Guest.
Mr R.S. Sodhi, Managing Director, GCMMF Ltd. Anand, was present as chief guest of the function. He enlightened certain facts and figures regarding milk production in India vis-à-vis international market. He urged the government to insert the word “Animal husbandry” along with Agriculture for the increasing income.
Dr N.C. Patel, who was also the President of the function, in his inspiring speech laid emphasis on scientific animal-feeding practices, mineral mixture and ideal animal husbandry for production of goodquality milk.

13th Convocation of AAU

Shri O.P. Kohli awarding
degrees (along with Dr T.
Mohapatra and Dr N.C. Patel)
The 13th Annual Convocation of the University, was held on 6 Jan. 2017, (Friday) at 10.45 hr at the Gymkhana ground, Sports complex, AAU, Anand. H.E. Shri O. P. Kohli, Governor of Gujarat, and the Chancellor, presided over the convocation. Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR, New Delhi, was the chief guest; while In his convocation address, he inspired the young graduates and post-graduates. Shri Chimanbhai Sapariya, Minister of Agriculture & Energy, was the guest of honour.
In this convocation, degrees were conferred to 585 students, including 399 graduates and 186 post-graduate who had completed their studies and passed their examination from various faculties. Total 88 medals and cash prizes were awarded to the achievers.

CHAUDHARY SARWAN KUMAR HIMACHAL PRADESH KRISHI VISHWAVIDYALAYA, PALAMPUR

Visit of Dr G.S. Khush

Dr G.S. Khush,
with dignitaries
Dr Gurdev Singh Khush, an internationally acclaimed farm scientist, visited CSKHPKV, Palampur during 27-31 Mar. 2017. He visited Department of Crop Improvement. He also delivered a talk on “Biotechnology for food security” and had interaction with the faculty members and students of the constituent colleges of the university.
He was of the opinion that by 2050, the food-production requirement would increase by 50% over the present levels. He pointed out that the biotechnological tools like tissue culture, molecular marker technology, application of genetic engineering and allied disciplines can help increase the production.
Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, VC, felicitated Dr Khush on behalf of the university and expressed his gratitude to him for visiting the university and interacting with scientists and students. Dr S.K. Sharma, former VC, CSKHPKV, Palampur, was guest of honour.

Workshop on "Intellectual Property Rights"


Dr Sarial with other dignitaries
An awareness workshop on "Intellectual property rights: issues and challenges" for the faculty and post - graduate students was organized jointly by the university and State Council for Science, Technology and Environment at Palampur on 16 Mar. 2017 in which 125 scient ists and students participated. Prof. A.K. Sarial, VC, while inaugurating the workshop said that the university would extend all help to the farming community to protect their intellectual property rights. They (farmers) are the ones who have since ages conserved the traditional crop varieties and helped the scientific community in developing modern crop varieties.

Training on 'Digital Exchange of Data and Information'


Dr Sarial with participants
A training programme on 'Digital exchange of data and information' under networking of multi-institutional cold-desert programme of Department of Science and Technology, Government of India was organized by the university on 9-10 Mar., 2017. Prof. A.K. Sarial, during the closing ceremony of the programme informed that the University has submitted a project worth Rs. 8 crores to the ICAR for automation of the institution to catch up with digital India campaign of the Govternment of India.

International conference on Canine and Feline Cardiology

Dr Sarial with foreign
dignitaries
An international conference on Canine and Feline Cardiology was organized at the university during 17-19 Feb. 2017 in which 50 delegates from India and abroad took part. Dr R.K. Agnihotri, Dean, Dr G.C Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in valedictory address advised the pet owners about regular monitoring of their pet animals for early diagnosis and treatment of diseases. He informed that this university offers high quality clinical care in Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, and has emerged as a centre for specialized trainings and tertiary referral facility. The renowned international experts on Veterinary cardiology, Dr Clarke E Atkins from North Carolina State University; and Dr Marissa Ames from Colorado State University, the USA, gave handson training to delegates on echo-cardiography and other diagnostic techniques.

GOVIND BALLABH PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, PANTNAGAR

Landmark Varieties

Dr J. Kumar felicitating
breeders on selection of
13 varieties
Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding in its Platinum Jubilee function held on 11 Feb. 2017 at IARI, New Delhi, selected 13 varieties of Pantvarsity, among the varieties developed before the year 1980, as ‘landmark varieties’. Total 51 varieties of all the agricultural universities were selected. These varieties not only contributed in the green revolution significantly, but also helped in providing nutritious food to the large Indian population. Among these varieties Kaylan Sona, Sonalika and UP 262 of wheat; Nagina 22 and Type 3 of rice; Pant G 114 of gram; PL 406 of lentil; Kranti of mustard; Shilajeet, Ankur and PK 472 of soybean; Pant Moong 2 of greengram; and UPAS 120 of pigeonpea are included. A function was organized in the committee room of VC in which the present breeders were honoured for the excellent work done by their predecessors.

Visit of CIMMYT and ICARDA Scientists

H.E. Dr Krishan Kant Paul inaugurating
Farmer's Fair
Dr Ravi P. Singh, renowned wheat breeder at International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre, Mexico, delivered an enlightening lecture on ‘Global wheat improvement: objectives and breeding strategy’ on 22 Feb. 2017. Dr Singh presented details of the wheat improvement programme being undertaken at CIMMYT and asked the scientists and students to adopt a new approach in their research programmes. They must integrate new agronomic practices with breeding programmes for developing high-yielding nutritious varieties resistant to new and common diseases and pests and also to rising temperature due to global warming. The lecture was arranged by Pantnagar Agriculture Alumni Society of College of Agriculture (in the Conference Hall). Scientists of International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Morocco, and International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT), Mexico, visited Pantvarsity on 6 Mar. 2017. They visited Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre where Dr Kevin V. Pixley and Dr Sukhvinder Singh of CIMMYT keenly observed the wheat-research programme; and Dr S.K. Agrawal and Dr Syed Ahmand Kalam of ICARDA visited pulseresearch programme. They discussed about the use of germplasm available in these international institutes. These scientists also delivered lectures in the conference hall of College of Agriculture, in which they told about the research programmes undergoing in their respective institutes for the improvement of maize, wheat and pulse crops.

New Patents

Two patents from College of Home Science were filed recently, viz. one on ‘Development of an innovative fibre', filed by Ms Tayyaba Fatima and Dr Shahnaz Jahan, and the second on 'Development of non-woven fabric by using recycled cotton and polyester fibers', filed by Ms Rachna Sharma and Dr Alka Goel.

Asset Mapping of Village Panchayats

National Remote Sensing Centre of Indian Space Research Organisation, Hyderabad, assigned a space-based Information Support for Decentralized Planning (SIS-DP) project, which was formulated by NRSC, and has been carried out in 50 selective village panchayats in partnership with College of Technology of the university. The project aims to empower Panchayati Raj Institutions and stakeholders for spatial, participatory, integrated decentralised planning in the country.
Bhuvan Panchayat Portal, a web–based single window for spatial and non-spatial data, offers enabling environment at Panchayat-level planning and governance, and aims for digital empowerment of the society to transform and reshape the economy, society and environment. The university students visited all the villages and collected data, information of more than 1,100 assets, using mobile app developed by ISRO, Government of India, under Bhuvan Asset Mapping project.

New Facility

A gamma-ray irradiation facility (GC 5000) was purchased and installed in Radiation and Isotopic Tracers Laboratory, of College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, a central facility of the university. It was purchased from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, at a cost of Rs 44 lakhs. This facility can be used in many research applications that require irradiation of materials with ionizing radiations to varying doses. This is the first such facility available in Uttarakhand.

JUNAGADH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JUNAGADH

Prime Minister Fellowship to JAU Research Scholar

Ms. Nidhi Radadiya
Prime Minister Fellowship for Doctoral Research (Agriculture) was bagged by Ms Nidhi Radadiya, Ph. D. Research Scholar (Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology) , Department of Biotechnology, JAU, Junagadh.

 

 

Award to JAU in Western Region Agricultural Fair

Western Regional Agriculture Fair was held at the University, during 18-20 Feb. 2017. A large number of farmers and scientists of Rajasthan,
Display stall of JAU at
Western Region Agricultural Fair
Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa, and two union territories attended it. Various agricultural universities displayed technologies pertaining to agriculture and allied disciplines through beautiful and effective presentation of display in the stalls. JAU bagged the third rank in the best presentation of technologies in the stall.
Distribution of certificate
Improved varieties of cereal, pulses, vegetables and oilseeds were displayed. Bio-agents ("biocontrol" and "bio fertilizer") were highlighted effectively. Farmers purchased large number of small packets of improved seeds of various vegetable crops. The certificate was received by JAU scientists Dr M. K Jadeja, Dr A. G. Pansuriya and Dr A. J. Jethva. Dr A. R Pathak, VC, and Dr A. M. Parakhia congratulated the scientists.

KERALA UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES AND OCEAN STUDIES, PANANGAD

3rd Convocation

H.E. Shri P. Sathasivam,
confering degrees to
students
164 students received their degrees. During the 3r d convocation of KUFOS held on 18 Feb. 2017. H.E. Shri P. Sathasivam, (Justice Retd.), Governor of Kerala and the Chancel lor of KUFOS, conferred the degrees to the students from Bachelors, Masters and Ph.D. programmes. Smt. J. Mercykutty Amma, Minister of Fisheries, Government of Kerala and Pro- Chancellor of KUFOS, delivered the presidential address. Prof. Dr A. Ramachandran, VC, presented the annual report and the welcome address; whereas Dr V.M. Victor George, Registrar, delivered the vote of thanks. Total 13 gold medals were given to the first rank holders

Outreach Programme

Field Aquaculture and
Processing Technologies
Directorate of Extension established under the KUFOS promotes development of fisheries by providing neces sar y informat ion, imparting training and other extension support continuously to the fisherfolk and fish farmers. Besides, dissemination of innovations in the field of aquaculture and fish-processing technologies, it also helps identify the problems of the farmers and offer solutions at the right time.
  • Pen culture harvest at Thiruthoor, Puthenvelikkara, Ernakulam, Kerala on 24 Jan., 2017.
  • Species cultured –Caranx ignobilis(Giant trevally), culture period-9 months, Average size-650gm
  • Quantity of fish harvested -250kg, Area of the pen culture unit-80m2

Campus Recruitment Training

Recruitment training
The School of Management and Entrepreneurship and Parent Teachers Association of the university jointly organized a campus recruitment training programme for the first and second year MBA students of KUFOS from 6 to 10 Feb. 2017. The programme was conducted by a team from Tr iumphant Institute of Management Education, Pvt Ltd, Ernakulam. The programme was funded by PTA of KUFOS. Around 60 students participated in this training programme. The programme comprised quantitative aptitude, basic English, reasoning ability, etc. On the last day the institute arranged a test, covering all the topics taught during the programme. In addition, in the forenoon session the TIME conducted a mock group discussion and interview.

MAHARASHTRA ANIMAL AND FISHERY SCIENCES UNIVERSITY, NAGPUR

Poultry Training Programmes

Demonstration during poultry training
Poultry Training and Demonstration centre of Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur organized Poultry training programmes during 2-6 Jan. 2016 and 23-27 Jan. 2016. The RKVY Project Incharge, Dr Mukund Kadam, briefed about the training programme and the activity to be conducted under it. During the training programme demonstrations were organized on brooding management, vaccination, debeaking, incubation etc. Farmers were guided by experts on poultry management, nutrition, diseases, marketing, government schemes and banking etc. A total of 129 trainees participated in these poultry training programmes.

Small Animal Laparoscopy Training

Expert, delivering lecture
on Small Animal Laparoscopy
Small Animal Laparoscopy Training programme was organized at Bombay Veterinary College during 6 - 8 Feb. 2017 by Department of Surgery and Radiology for Li ves toc k Development Officers and Field Veterinarians. It was attended by 15 participants. This programme was organized under the guidance of Dr A. M. Paturkar, Associate Dean, Bombay Veterinary College.

Training Programme on Evaluation of Dose-Selection Process

Expert, guiding on
Evaluation of dose selection
process
A training programme on 'Evaluation of dose-selection process: particularly estimation of MTD for 26 weeks Tgras H2 Mouse carcinogenicity studies, was organized at Bombay Veterinary College, Mumbai by Department of Veterinary Pathology on 31 Jan. 2017. Dr Madhav Paranjape, Director, Bio-Rel iance, Pathology Services was the guest of the training programme. Total of 30 participants attended it.

Paediatric Bronchoscopy

Prof. A. K. Misra
addressing participants
A workshop on Paediatric Bronchoscopy was organized jointly by Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur and Paediatric Intensive Care Chapter, Nagpur on 6 Jan. 2017. Prof. A. K. Misra, VC, Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur, inaugurated it. Dr Satish Deopujari, was the chairman. Prof. Misra in his inaugural address emphasized on collaborative research between the Veterinarian and Human Paediatricians for the betterment of the science, which is changing day by day. Dr Satish Deopujari appreciated the facilities available at Veterinary College Hospital and promised to undertake collaborative research works.

Clinical Case Conference

Release of compendium by dignitaries
A Clinical Case Conference on “Domestic, pets and wild animal practices” for students and field veterinarians was organized on 20 Jan. 2017 by Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Post-graduate Institute of Veterinary and Animal Science, Akola. Dr Raviprakash Dani , VC, DPDKV, Akola; the chief guest of inaugural function inaugurated the conference. Prof. A.K. Misra, VC, MAFSU, Nagpur, was the chairman. Dr N.P. Dakshinkar, Director of Instructions and Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, MAFSU, Nagpur; and Dr P. S. Chavan, Regional Joint Commissioner of Animal Husbandry, Amaravati, region were present as guests of honour. Dr H. S. Birade, Associate Dean, PGIVAS, Akola; and Dr Siddiqui M.F.M.F., Organizing Secretary, Clinical case conference, were present during the inaugural programme.

Total 192 students and field veterinarians, and 23 pharmaceutical firms, and the private and government agency representatives participated in the conference. Total 4 technical sessions were held viz., Veterinary Clinical Medicine, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Veterinary Surgery and Field Veterinarians. Dr Abdul Samad, Dr G. S. Khandekar, Dr S. H. Dalvi and Dr Mahesh Rangnekar presented lead papers as an expert speakers.

Technology and Machinery Workshop

Demonstration during 'Technology
and machinery workshop'
A Technology and Machinery work shop for farmers, entrepreneurs and butchers was organized by Department of Veterinary Public Health, Bombay Veterinary College, on 9 Feb. 2017. Total 60 persons participated in the programme. Leaflets about hygienic meat production and slaughter-house waste utilization were also distributed. This programme was organized under the guidance of Dr P. L. Dhande, Associate Dean, Bombay Veterinary College along with Dr A. S. Ranade, Associate Dean, K.N.P. Shirwal; Dr R. J. Zende, Professor, Department of Veterinary Public Health; Dr V. M. Vaidya and Dr R. N. Waghmare.

Workshop on National Capacity Building

Prof. Misra, felicitating
Dr Ashok Kumar
A National Capacity Building Work shop on 'Recent diagnostic tools for 'hydatidosis, cysticercosis and trichinellosis’ under ICAR Research Project “Outreach programme on zoonotic diseases” was organized by Department of Veterinary Publ ic Heal th, Bombay Veterinary College, Mumbai during 5 - 7 Jan. 2017. The Chairman was Prof. A. K. Misra, VC, the chief guest was Dr Ashok Kumar, ADG (Animal Health) ICAR; and guest of honor was Dr B. P. Mishra, Joint Director (Research) and Project Co-ordinator (OPZD), IVRI. Total 14 scientists of OPZD Project across India attended the workshop.

8th Convocation

Dignitaries at the Convocation dias
The eighth convocation of the university, for conferment of degrees on successful candidates of the examinations held in the academic years 2014-15 and 2015-16 was organized on 9 Mar. 2017. H.E. Shri C. Vidyasagar Rao, Governor of Maharashtra and Chancellor MAFSU, Nagpur, presided the Convocation. Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra; Shri Mahadeoraoji Jankarji, Minister of Animal Husbandry and Pro-Chancellor of MAFSU; Shri Chandrashekhar Bawankuleji, District Guardrian Minister, were the guests of honour. Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, DG, ICAR and Secretary, DARE, delivered the convocation address.

Total 815 degrees were awarded, including 648 candidates from Veterinary Science, 103 from Dairy Technology, and 64 from Fishery Science,

In Veterinary Science – The degrees were awarded in 400 B.V. Sc & AH, 237 in M.V. Sc, and 11 PhDs.

In Dairy Technology – There were 103 B. Tech. degrees whereas;

In Fishery Sciences - There were 64 B.F. Sc degrees.

Honourary D.Sc. being conferred
to Shri Mohan Bhagwat
MAFSU on Thursday conferred its first honorary doctorate of Science (DSc) degree to Shri Mohan Bhagwat, RSS chief, for his' outstanding' contribution towards gaushalas, conservation of indigenous cow-breeds and organic farming.

Total 815 degrees were conferred during the convocation in the field of Veterinary, Dairy Technology and Fishery Science Faculty for graduates, post-graduates and Ph.D. students. The university also awarded gold and silver medals to the students for their meritorious performances. Total 64 medals including 48 gold and 16 silver medals were awarded for outstanding academic performance at B.V.Sc. & A.H., M.V.Sc., B.F.Sc and B.Tech. degree programmes.

Workshop of AICRP-PHET

Release of booklets in 32nd
Workshop of AICRP-PHET at Ludhiana
The 32nd workshop of AICRPPHET on "Detection of, S.aureus Salmonella spp. and Shiga toxin-producing E.coli, using Loop-mediated isothermal amplification in animal-origin foods" was held on 7-9 Mar. 2017 at CIPHET, Ludhiana by Department of Veterinary Public Health, Bombay Veterinary College, Parel, Mumbai under the ICAR sponsored research project entitled All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Post-harvest and Engineering Technology. On this occasion, the booklets were released on “Preservation and handling techniques from porcine skin for production of biological bandages". The dignitaries who graced the occasion were Dr B.S. Dhillon, VC, PAU, Ludhiana; Dr K. Alagusundaram, DDG (Process Engineering), ICAR, New Delhi; Dr S.N. Jha, ADG (PE), ICAR, New Delhi; and Dr R.K. Gupta, Director, CIPHET, Ludhiana. Dr R.J. Zende, PI & Professor; and Dr Deepak Kshirsagar, Scientist, participated and presented the Annual progress report of the AICRP on PHET, besides three newly proposed research projects. The workshop was attended by 30 centres of AICRP on PHET.

ORISSA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, BHUBANESWAR

Appreciation Certificate to University

Agricultural Education Division of the ICAR issued Certificate of Appreciation to OUAT on 27 Jan. 2017 for commendable contribution towards strengthening and sustainable implementation of e-Granth programme, with digitization of more than 700 PG & Ph. D. theses in the Central Library of OUAT with technical support of NIC.

36th Convocation

H.E. Dr S. C. Jamir
at 36th Convocation
36th Convocation of OUAT was held on 13 Feb. 2017. H.E. the Governor of Odisha & Chancellor, OUAT presided over the convocation. Dr Matthew K. Morell, DG & CEO, International Rice Research Institute, the Philippines, delivered the convocation address as the chief guest.

Excellence in JRF

Shri Radha Mohan Singh,
presenting award to the
Vice-Chancellor
The university ranked 2nd in the admission-preference category - "Horticulture and Forestry" in the ICAR's - Junior Research Fellowship Examination, 2016 at national level among 73 agricultural universities of the country. Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, presented the award, and received by Prof. S. Pasupalak, VC, on 14 Feb. 2017 at New Delhi.

PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA

Release of Book on Climate Change

Shri Radha Mohan Singh
releasing book
Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Wel fare, released book on 'Climate change and agriculture' during the Annual Conference of Vice Chancellors of Agricultural Universities and Directors of ICAR institutes, held at ICAR, New Delhi on 14 Feb. 2017. This book is written by Dr L.K. Dhaliwal, Director, School of Climate Change and Agricultural Meteorology; Dr P.K. Kingra, Professor of Agricultural Meteorology; and Dr J.S. Dhiman, former Additional Director of Research (Natural Resource and Plant Health Management). It is published by the University, Ludhiana.

Other dignitaries present on the occasion included Shri P. Rupala, State Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, and Dr T. Mohapatra, DG, ICAR & Secretary, DARE.

Visit of VC of Cambridge University

Prof. L. Borysiewicz with
Dr B.S. Dhillon
Prof. Leszek Borysiewicz, VC of University of Cambridge, and a renowned British immunologist, along with Dr Howard Griffiths, Professor of Plant Ecology, along with their team visited the university on 23 Feb., to explore the areas of mutual interest and collaboration.

Prof. Borysiewicz applauded the lead role played by the PAU in ushering the green revolution in the country. While discussing the global problem of food security and sustainable development, He remarked that major responsibility lies in the hands of reputed institutes to forge ties globally and work together for improving the livelihood and nutritional status of the farming community as well as the general population. "Towards this end, we need to make sure that agriculture as a subject should not become redundant in the age of computer software and programming”, he added. Prof. Howard Griffiths shared that the university of Cambridge would soon come up with a Crop Science Centre on its premises, with a vision to address the challenges in agriculture. He stated that another vision of the Cambridge University is to start the route to the second green revolution in India and design it in accordance with the different agroclimatic zones of the country.

Dr B.S. Dhillon, VC, in his concluding remarks stated that the areas of input use efficiency, sustainability, nutrition, post-harvest losses in fruits, biotechnology and nanotechnology are the main focus in exploring the scope for future collaborations between the two universities.

New Varieties

Basmati rice

Punjab Basmati 4: It is highyielding, semi-dwarf (96 cm) and lodging tolerant variety. It possesses extra-long slender grains, with excellent cooking and eating qualities. Grains became almost double upon cooking and are non-sticky. It matures in 146 days after seeding. Its average paddy yield is 17.0 q/acre.

Punjab Basmati 5: It is a semi- dwarf (112 cm) variety. It possesses excellent cooking and eating quality characteristics. Grains are extralong, slender, highly aromatic, non- sticky which became almost double upon cooking. It matures in 137 days after seeding. Its average paddy yield is 15.0 q/acre.

Sugarcane

Sugarcane CoPb 92
CoPb 92 (Early maturing): It has been identified for commercial release in NWZ (Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh) of the country by CVRC during 2016. Its overall cane yield is 335 q/acre compared with that of CoJ 85 (311.6 q/acre) and CoJ 64 (274.8 q/acre) checks. CoPb 92 matures in November and is better in quality than both the checks. It is moderately resistant to red rot and has better tolerance to borer complex compared with the checks.

Sugarcane CoPb 93
CoPb 93 (Midlate maturing) : Its overall mean cane yield is 390 q/acre compared with 332.4 q/acre of CoJ 88, and 350.8 q/acre of Co 238. It matures in January. It is moderately resistant to prevalent pathotypes of red rot. It is less susceptible to borer complex compared with the check.

Sugarcane CoPb 94
CoPb 94 (Midlate maturing): Its overall mean cane yield is 400 q/acre compared with 358 q/acre of Co 238. It is moderately resistant to red rot disease and has less incidence of borer complex than the checks.

Farm Machinery

PAU straw cutter-cum-spreader: It has been developed by modification in existing stubble shaver. It can be used for chopping and simultaneous spreading of left-over
straw (loose and standing stubbles) after paddy harvesting with combine harvester. This enhances the efficiency of PAU happy seeder by 20%.


Portable Maize-Grain Dryer: It has been developed in collaboration with M/s Nu Tech. Dairy Engineers, Ambala. This 3 ton capacity, portable type maize dryer is capable of drying the grain efficiently by reducing the moisture at the rate of 1.1-1.5% per hour, without affecting the germination of maize grains or seeds. This dryer is portable but can also be fixed at one location.

TAMIL NADU FISHERIES UNIVERSITY, NAGAPATTINAM

Meeting of Extension Education Council

Experts on discussion
The third Extension Education Council meeting of TNFU was held at Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri on 16 Mar. 2017. The Chairman was Dr K. Rathnakumar, Registrar and Acting-VC, TNFU. All the Deans and Directors, Chairs of schools, Heads of out-stations and nominated faculty members of TNFU attended the meeting. Dr K. Vasanthakumar, former Registrar, Annamalai University, Parangipettai; Dr D. Thiyagarajan, former Director of Extension Education, TANUVAS, Chennai (external experts); Mr Sivaganam, Mr Rajaraman (farmer invitees) and Mr Thiruvalarselvan (nominated member of the council) also attended the meeting.

Digitalization of Transactions in Fish Market at Kombuthurai Village

VISAKA campaign
The NSS unit of the Fisheries College and Research Institute , Thoothukudi organized an awareness programme on "Digitalization of transactions in fish market" at Kombuthurai village, a fishing hamlet near Kayalpattinam, (dist. Thoothukudi of Tamil Nadu) on 6 Jan. 2017. The programme was organized under the "VISAKA" campaign implemented by Government of India from 12 Dec. 2016 to 12 Jan. 2017. The fish market of Kombuthurai village was identified to transform it into a digital market place and train the fishermen with digital payment systems.

The NSS volunteers of this college imparted practical knowledge on the Digital Transaction System available with different banks in India. Mobile applications such as ‘BHIM’ introduced by the Prime Minister of India, State Bank Anywhere, Paytm, CANMOBILE, U-Mobile, IndPay and other digital banking aids such as ATM, POS etc. were demonstrated to the fishermen, fish vendors and agents.

UTTRAKHAND UNIVERSITY OF HORTICULTURE AND FORESTRY, BHARSAR

Achievements in Research and Technology

At Research and Extension Centre, Kanatal, Tehri Garhwal, 12 varieties of apple, viz. Oregon Spur, Tydeman’s Early Worecestor, Vance Delicious, Golden Delicious, Royal Delicious, Red Chief Spur, Boris, Red Delicious, Scarlet Gala, Silver Spur and Fenny, were introduced under the project "Centre of Excellence for Temperate Fruit Crops".

A nursery of Aromatic and Medicinal Plants was developed at College of Forestry, Ranichauri, in which mass propagation of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and oregano (Origanum vulgare) is done and the buy-back agreement is made with M/s Flex Food Ltd, Dehra Dun. About 60,000 plants of rosemary and 30,000 plants of oregano are developed through stem cuttings.

Contribution of Individual Scientists

The germplasm UUHF/ACM/Garlic-11-1 of Greater Head Garlic (INGR16035) was developed by Mr A.C. Mishra and Mr Matthew Prasad of the VCSG UUHF. It was registered by Plant Germplasm Registration Committee of the ICAR. The germplasm of Greater Head Garlic (Allium ampeloprasum var. ampeloprasum L.) consist of long, dark green, broad and leathery leaves, bigger size of bulbs (weighing 70-75 g) composed of 10-12 cloves (6-8 g each). The yield of bulb is 250.32 q/ha, with comparatively high TSS (41.9%). It is tolerant to foliar diseases like purple blotch and downey mildew. The germplasm INGR16035 produces 36 % higher bulb yield than Allium sativum cultivars, which has the potential to serve as commercial crop in Western Himalaya. The propagation of Greater Head Garlic in the nursery beds can be done by planting micro-cloves. The micro-cloves are produced at the terminal umbel, which consists of a large number (150-175) of micro-cloves.

Awards

DR RAJENDRA PRASAD CENTRAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, PUSA

Honour to Dr R.C. Srivastava

Dr R. C. Srivastava
The Life-time Achievement Award was conferred to Dr R. C. Srivastava, VC, during International Seminar on Agriculture and Food for Inclusive Growth and Development at CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow on 14 Jan. 2017 for his outstanding contribution to agriculture and allied sciences

Dr S. K. Singh, receiving award
Dr A.K. Singh, Deputy Director General (Horticultural Sciences and Agriculture Extension Education), ICAR, New Delhi, presented award to Dr S.K. Singh, Senior Scientist (Plant Pathology) & PI, AICRP on Fruits, for presentation on national scenario of banana and papaya diseases, and Best Presentat ion Award to DRPCAU, Pusa. It was done at group meeting of All India Cordinated Research Project on fruits (of ICAR) held during 4-7 Jan., 2017 at IIHR, Bangalore for banana, papaya, guava, mango, grapes, jackfruits, and sapota reports on various aspects like genetic resource/crop improvement, production technology, and plant protection.

ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, ANAND

Best Extension Scientists Award

Dr J.B. Patel receiving award
Dr. J B Patel, Associate Professor, Department of Extension Education, B. A. College of Agriculture, AAU, Anand has been awarded as the Best Extension Scientist Award cons ider ing his valuable contribution in the field of extension education, extension research and extension services for the overall development of farming community and extension discipline. He was awarded during National Seminar on 'Extension Plus’ held at Sardarkrushinagar by Society of Extension Education Gujarat (SEEG) in collaboration with Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University during 21-22 Apr. 2017.

Uttam Stall Puraskar

AAU staff receiving Uttam
stall puraskar
Anand Agricultural University participated in Krishi Unnati Mela- 2017, held at IARI, New Delhi during 15 - 17 March 2017, to communicate and demonstrate the agricultural technologies to the end- users at national level. Dr Arun Patel (Director Extension Education, AAU, Anand), Prof. P. C. Patel (Assistant Prof., DEE, AAU, Anand) and Prof. M. B. Zala (Assistant Res. Sci., ARS, AAU, Sansoli) represented the university in this programme. On the basis of realistic scientific information; novel crop production, agro and food-processing- based technologies displayed as well as interaction between scientists and visitors, Uttam Stall Puraskar was awarded to AAU in the plenary session of the programme.

GOVIND BALLABH PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, PANTNAGAR

Position in JRF

Shri Radha Mohan Singh
presenting plaque to Dr J. Kumar
The students of Pantnagar University secured second position in JRF, All India Entrance Examination of Agriculture (AIEEA-2016), conducted by ICAR, New Delhi. The students of Pantvarsity secured 19 JRFs under Veterinary and Fisheries Sciences category and Engineering and Technology category, thus enabling Pantvarsity to get second position in both the categories on All-India basis. Dr J. Kumar, VC, received the award on behalf of the university at the Annual Vice-Chancellors' Conference of Agriculture Universities held on 14 Feb. 2017 at NASC Complex, Pusa, New Delhi. Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister of Agriculture, presented him the award.

Best University of Uttarakhand

Dr K. K. Paul presenting
Governer's trophy to Dr J. Kumar
Pantnagar university was declared the best university of Uttarakhand. H.E. Dr. K.K. Paul, Governor of Uttarakhand, announced the prize during a meeting of vicechancellors of all universities of Uttarakhand held on 20 Mar. 2017 at Raj Bhwan, Dehra Dun. He bestowed the honour upon Dr J. Kumar, VC of Pantvarsity, by giving Governor’s trophy, a citation and Rs 2 lakhs. In fact, this prize was started by the Governor of Uttarakhand from the year 2015-16, and Pantvarsity has received best university award since then in both the years.

PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA

Young Scientist Award

Awards to Young scientists
Dr Suruchi Jindal, Research Associate at PAU, Ludhiana bagged “Young Scientist Award” in agriculture during the 20t h Punjab Science Congress, organized by Punjab Academy of Sciences at IET, Bhaddal.

Dr Jindal is working with Dr Parveen Chhuneja, Director, School of Agricultural Biotechnology, PAU. Dr Jindal has also been awarded a research project worth Rs 35 lakhs for early-career women scientists under BIO-CARE (Biotechnology Career Advancement and Re-orientation Programme) programme of Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India.

Overall Trophy in Agri fest

Youth Festival participants
of PAU
The PAU won Overall Trophy of 17t h Al l India- Inter - Agricultural Universities Youth Festival 2016-17, organized by the ICAR, New Delhi at Rajasthan University of Veter inar y and Animal Sciences, Bikaner (Rajasthan) during 22 -25 Feb. 2017. The PAU students participated in 17 event pertaining to Literary, Fine Arts, Music and Theatre and won Gold Medal in Debate; Silver Medal in One-Act Play and Elocution; Bronze Medal in Mime, Rangoli, Collage; and 4th Position in Spot painting and Patriotic Group Song.