VOLUME 19 NO. 3
July - September 2019
 

Contents

ADVISORY BOARD

Dr A.R. Pathak,
President
Dr B.S. Dhillon,
Vice-President
Dr S.K. Patil,
Secretary-General
Prof. (Dr.) R.K. Singh,
Treasurer
Dr A.S. Nanda,
Member
Dr Ashok A. Patel,
Member
Dr C.J. Dangaria,
Member
Dr M. Premjit Singh,
Member

EDITORIAL BOARD

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

Universities

 

Dr. YASHWANT SINGH PARMAR UNIVERSITY OF HORTICULTURE AND FORESTRY, NAUNI
(HIMACHAL PRADESH)

 

Tips to Apple Growers on High-density Plantations

High density apple plantations

A field visit of farmers from various clusters under Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Development Project was held at the high-density apple plantations of the DYSPUHF. More than 100 farmers and officers of the Horticulture Department took part in the event.

 

 

Inauguration of Boy's Hostel

Dr P.S. Pandey and Dr Parvinder
Kaushal during the inauguration
of Natraj Boys hostel
Dr P. S. Pandey, Assistant Director-General, Division of Education, ICAR inaugurated the 'Natraj Boys Hostel' built at the university. The ICAR has provided 2.5 crore financial support for the construction of the hostel. He also addressed the new students during the orientation programme.

 

 

 

MoU between Dr. YSPUHF Nauni and SJVN to Train Farmers on Latest Agri-techniques

MoU signing ceremony between
UHF and SJVN
The DYSPUHF, and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Foundation have joined hands to improve the skill set of Himachal farmers. These organizations inked a Memorandum of Understanding for 1 year, under which the university will organize 32 farmers’ trainings at its main campus and different stations. The MoU was signed between Dr Rakesh Gupta, Director (Extension Education) and Shri Awadhesh Prasad, Senior Assistant General Manager (Human Resource), SJVNF in the presence of, VC. The MoU is part of SJVNs’ Corporate Social Responsibility, under which they have set themselves a target for training more than 6000 farmers in the latest farm techniques by 2022. Over the next year, the university will conduct 6 day residential skill-development programmes in farm technology for 800 farmers from different districts of the state including SJVNF’s project areas. More than 2100 farmers have already benefitted from 86 camps organized by the university under this agreement since 2016.

Faculty Training on Vegetable Production

Dr Parvinder Kaushal with
training participants
An advanced faculty training on ‘Innovative Interventions for Sustainable Vegetable Production under Changing Climate Scenario’ was held at the DYSPUHF, Nauni. The training was organized by Centre of Advanced Faculty Training in Horticulture-Vegetables, Department of Vegetable Science of the university. This year 25 scientists from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar and West Bengal took part in the training. In his address, Dr Kaushal, VC, underlined the importance of food security particularly in the context of climatic change. Dr Kaushal called upon the vegetable breeders to develop varieties that are resistant to the change in the climate.
 
 

 

GOVIND BALLABH PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, PANTNAGAR (UTTARAKHAND)

MoU with ISRO

Exchange of documents of MoU in
presence of Dr Tej Partap, VC
A historical MoU was signed between, GBPUAT, Pantnagar, and ISRO-Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun, on 24 Aug. 2019 for research and academic programmes. A high-level delegation from the latter institutions was headed by Director, Dr Prakash Chauhan. Dr J. Kumar, Dean, College of Agriculture, represented the Pantnagar University, in the presence of Dr Tej Partap, VC. Under this MoU, the post-graduate and Ph.D. students of Pantvarsity will be able to select the ISRO scientist as their research guide, and the ISRO will extend all possible research facilities. In turn, the ISRO scientists will be able to take admission in Pantvarsity as sponsored candidates.
Both the Institutions will work closely on different aspects of application of geo-spatial technology in Agriculture. The ISRO will establish a high-end field laboratory in Pantnagar for continuous observations on different processes of soil and atmospheric system. The scientists of the two institutions will initiate joint research programmes using satellite-based observations. The high-end Unmanned Air-borne Vehicle acquired by the IIRS will also be deployed for close and accurate monitoring of agricultural fields.

UV - Protective Masks

The Clothing and Textiles unit of the AICRP on Home Science developed a finish-based UV-protective mask for field-level demonstration, which focus on improving the UV-protection properties of cotton fabrics through application of herbal finish. Jamun leaf extract was applied on cotton fabric, as it was found that jamun leaf provides excellent UV-protective properties. This finished fabric was used for developing UV- protective mask. This mask would be helpful in creating safer work environment for farm women, while working in the field.

Farmers' Fair

Mrs Rekha Bhandari,
inaugurating farmers' fair.
Pantnagar University’s 106th farmers’ fair-cum-agro-industrial exhibition, was inaugurated on 27 Sep. 2019 at Pantnagar university, by a progressive farmer of Pithoragarh, Mrs Rekha Bhandari, by cutting the ribbon to declare the mela open. Dr Tej Partap, VC, along with Dr P.N. Singh, Director Extension Education; Local MLAs and Members of the Board of Management of the university. Shri Rajesh Shukla and Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, were present. After inaugurating the fair, Dr Tej Pratap took Mrs Rekha Bhandari for a round of the fair-ground
 
 
Best-Stall Trophy to
M/s A.H. Associates
by Dr Tej Partap to shown the Horticulture Exhibition and other stalls of the university besides those of the private and public sector organizations. The main inaugural ceremony of the fair was organized at Gandhi Hall of the university, where Mrs Bhandari, Dr Tej Partap, Shri Rajesh Shukla, Shri P.S. Dhami and Dr P.N. Singh addressed the farmers and other audience. The fair concluded on 30 Sep. 2019. The closing and prize-distribution ceremony was also organized in Gandhi Hall, in which another progressive farmer-Shri Narendra Singh Mehra, from Nainital district, was the chief guest. Shri Mehra and Dr Partap presented prizes to the winners of different competitions held during the fair and different categories of stalls put up in the fair. The stall of M/s A.H. Associates, Kashipur, was declared the Overall Best Stall in this concluding ceremony.
 

World Bank Fund for Institutional Development

The University received a mega project of Rs 30 crores from the World Bank. This Institutional Development Plan, entitled ‘Improving the academic and governance system of the university for enhancing learning outcome; submitted by the university under National Agriculture Higher Education Project of the World Bank, was accepted by the ICAR and the World Bank. The World Bank sanctioned Rs 25 crores and the remaining Rs 5 crores will be contributed by the State Government. The project has three broad objectives, which include:
  1. (i)  To design and operate new academic system opportunities for students to improve their professional competence, global exposure, aptitude for innovations, employability and entrepreneurial acumen;

  2. (ii)  To design and put in place a programme for faculty improvement through international trainings, exchange programmes, collaborative initiatives for enhanced exposure, knowledge, skills, perspectives and outlook; and

  3. (iii)  To formulate and implement a programme of institutional reforms, including e-governance to improve academic, administrative and financial performance of the university.

Poshan Mela

Dr Tej Partap visiting
different stalls
Foods and Nutrition Department of College of Home Science of the university organized a nutrition fair, Poshan Mela, on 14 Sep. 2019. Dr Tej Partap inaugurated the event. In this fair vegetables and cereals of Uttarakhand were exhibited along with their plant sources and methods of their use. Diet counselling regarding obesity, anemia constipation, etc. was also done. A stall by Mahila Bal Kalyan, Udham Singh Nagar, created awareness about junk foods and malnutrition. A recipe competition was organized, in which cake, nutritious beverages, laddu and snacks for children were exhibited by the participants from Pantnagar, Jyolikote, Rudrapur and Kichha.

 

Women Trained

Trainees with their products
A training was conducted under All-India Co-ordinated Research Project on Home Science (Clothing and Textiles Unit) during 9-14 Sep. 2019 at Haldwani centre of Cheshta Kalyan Samiti. The objective of the training was product diversification through aipan designs, using block-printing technique. Total 13 women working under Cheshta Kalyan Samiti participated in this training.

KERALA UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES AND OCEAN STUDIES, KOCHI (KERALA)

Protocol for Inland Fisheries Survey under Preparation

Dr R Ramkumar, addressing
scientists along with
Dr A Ramachandran
A joint meeting of fisheries scientists of Kerala University for Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Central Marine Fisheries Research Centre, Kochi; Central Inland Fisheries Research Centre, Kochi; and the Central Aurora Fisheries Research Centre, Chennai; was in the university held on 22 Aug. 2019. It decided to formulate a protocol for the yearly assessment of Inland Fisheries in Kerala. The discussion was called by Kerala State Planning Board, considering the shortfall existing for years in the calculation in the State’s gross domestic fisheries production. Dr R. Ramachandran, VC, inaugurated the meeting, and Dr R. Ramkumar, member, Kerala State Planning Board presided. Presently, the Kerala State Department of Fisheries in association with Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute are conducting a survey every year to assess the fish catch from the sea by Kerala fishermen. But there is no scientific mechanism and fool-proof system in place to collect the quantity or type of fishes that are being caught from various inland water bodies of Kerala - which include 44 rivers, 47 dam reservoirs and many inland water bodies including backwaters. The fish and shrimp produced by the fish farmers in the State are also not accounted or assessed properly. The meeting decided to submit the draft protocol to Ministry of Fisheries, Government of Kerala, before 31 Dec. 2019 and get the approval from the State Government.

Joint Project on Visual-Problem Appraisal

Heavy monsoons during 2018 and 2019 flooded heavily and led to landslides in Kerala. Hence to contribute in problem analyzing, policy designing and open social dialogue in a context of participatory governance, a Visual Problem Appraisal project of Kerala coast was started under Kerala-Netherlands joint initiative. The KUFOS is the partner university participating in VPA project from Kerala, whereas Wageningen University and Research, Van Hall Larensten University of Applied Sciences and Delft University of Technology are the participating universities from the Netherlands. A research team comprising Dr Loes Witteveen, from Wageningen University; and Dr Jeroen Rijke representing Van Hall Larensten University of Applied Sciences, visited the KUFOS on 23 Sept. 2019, and discussed the plan of action with Dr A. Ramachandran, VC, who is one of the Investigators of the project. The research team completed filming of Kerala coast by the end of September. Visual Problem Appraisal is a film-based learning strategy, which aims to improve the problem analysis of complex issues and facilitate the development of actions. The final output of the VPA Project will be used as a learning tool for the students in the KUFOS and other partner universities from the Netherlands.
 
 

First PCR Lab of University in Malabar

Shri C. Krishnan along with
Dr A. Ramachandran
inaugurating PCR lab
To develop aquaculture in the Malabar region of Kerala State, a disease-diagnosis laboratory with the facilities for PCR-based screening of pathogens started functioning at the KUFOS Regional Centre at Payyanur in Kannur district. The farmers of the region will be immensely benefitted by thesefacility, as at present they are depending on the laboratories at Cochin and Mangalore for testing shrimp seed for the presence of viral pathogens. Shri C Krishnan, MLA, inaugurated it at a function presided over by Dr A Ramachandran, VC. After inauguration of the function, an awareness programme about sustainable Aquaculture by Dr Devika Pillai, Professor and Head Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, KUFOS was held, in which over 100 aqua-farmers participated.
 

KAMDHENU UNIVERSITY, GANDHINAGAR (GUJARAT)

Animal Husbandry Training Programme at Chorivad

Trainees
Directorate of Extension Education, KU, Gandhinagar organized “Animal Husbandry Training Programme” on 29 Aug. 2019 at Chorivad (Tahsil Idar, dist. Sabarkantha). Dr N. H. Kelawala, VC, inaugurated the programme inaugurated in the presence of Dr P.H. Vataliya, Director of Extension Education; Dr J. K. Patel, Deputy Manager, Sabar Dairy, Shri Jitendrabhai Patel, Chairman, Chorivad Milk Producers Co-operative Society, and Shri Haribhai Patel, President, Chorivad Group Co-operative Society. Total 350 dairy farmers and farm women participated in this training programme.
In the inaugural speech Dr N. H. Kelawala, said that milk is a global food. In India 7 crores families are involved in milk-production activity. Due to lack of financial support, farmers are unable to give quality fodder to their animals. Ultimately, this affects the quality of milk. Dr P.H. Vataliya, Director of Extension Education, underlined the importance of milk in human nutrition. Dr J. K. Patel advised and inspired the dairy farmers to adopt organic animal-husbandry practices.

Scientific Animal Husbandry Training Programme

Dr P.H. Vataliya addressing
Directorate of Extension Education, KU, organized “Scientific Animal Husbandry Training Programme” on 30 July 2019 at Dabhoda, (Tahsil and dist. Gandhinagar), Dr N. H. Kelawala, VC, inaugurated it. Dr P. H. Vataliya, Director of Extension Education and Dr D. B. Patil, Director of Research, were as the guests of honour. More than 170 dairy farm women participated in the training programme.
In the inaugural speech Dr P. H. Vataliya delineated the benefits of training programme to farmers and the role of such training programmes in animal husbandry and women empowerment. Dr D.B. Patil, Director of Research, advised the dairy farm women and inspired them to take advantage of deworming and feeding mineral mixture to dairy animals. Dr N. H. Kelawala, VC, in his presidential address advised the dairy farm women to adopt scientific as well as organic animal-husbandry practices.
 

 

Training Programme for Dairy Farm Women

Dairy Farm Women Training
Directorate of Extension Education, of the university organized “Dairy Farm Women- Training Programme” at Ghadkan, (Tahsil Prantij, dist. Sabarkantha) on 9 Aug. 2019. Dr. N.H. Kelawala, inaugurated the programme. Shri Maheshbhai Patel, Chairman, Sabar Dairy, Dr P. H. Vataliya, Director of Extension Education; Shri Manibhai Patel, Director, Sabar Dairy, and Smt Heeraben Patel, wife of Late Shri Bhuradada, Patron of Sabar Dairy; graced the occasion. More than 320 dairy farm women participated in the training programme.

Scientific Animal Husbandry Training Programme

Dr N.H. Kelawala inaugurated
The Directorate of Extension Education, KU, organized “Scientific Animal Husbandry Training Programme” on 26 Sep. 2019 at Moti Adaraj, (Tahsil Gandhinagar). Dr N.H. Kelawala, inaugurated it. Dr P.H. Vataliya, Director of Extension Education; Shri Chamanji Thakor, Chairman, Moti Adaraj Milk Producers Co-operative Society; Shri Mohat ji Thakor, President, Ambaji Temple Trust; and Smt Gauriben Thakor, Sarpanch, Moti Adaraj graced the occasion. Total 310 dairy farmers and farm women participated in the training programme.

MAHARASHTRA ANIMAL AND FISHERY SCIENCES UNIVERSITY, NAGPUR (MAHARASHTRA)

Foundation Stone of College of Fishery Science, Morshi

Dr Paturkar, addressing
the gathering
The foundation stone of the College of Fishery Science, Morshi, (dist. Amaravati, was laid by Smt Vasudhatai Bonde, Chairman, Matoshri Triveni Bonde Sutgirani, Morshi; and Dr Ashish M. Paturkar, VC, at Upper Wardha Irrigation Colony, Morshi on 8 Sep. 2019. Shri Chandrabhan Parate, Registrar; Dr A. P. Somkuwar, Director (Instructions) and Dean (Vet. Sci.); Dr N. V. Kurkure, Director (Research); Shri D. B. Raut, Comptroller; Dr A. D. Deshmukh, Associate Dean, COFS, Nagpur and other officials from MAFSU, Nagpur; and College of Fishery Science, Nagpur were present on this occasion.

Paper Presentation by Dr S. D. Ingole

Dr S D Ingole, Professor, Department of Veterinary Physiology, Mumbai Veterinary College, Parel, Mumbai, presented a paper entitled “Evaluation of Anti-Mullerian Hormone in Heifers, Normo-ovulatory and Anovulatory Buffaloes” at the “12th World Buffalo Congress” held during 18 – 20 Sep. 2019, at Istanbul, (Turkey).
 
 

Eighth Indian Veterinary Extension Forum National Conference

Release of souvenir on the occasion of
8th IVEF National Conference
Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur organized the 8th IVEF National Conference on “Beyond Information Transfer - Revisiting Livestock Extension for Sustainability and Farmers’ Prosperity’’ during 11-13 July 2019. Dr C. D. Mayee, former Chairman, Agricultural Scientist Recruitment Board, New Delhi, inaugurated the conference in the presence of Dr A. M. Paturkar, Vice Chancellor.

State-level Workshop on "Scientific Management of Goshala"

Release of souvenir at Scientific
Goshala Management
Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, organized a State-level Workshop on “Scientific Management of Goshala” on 28 July, 2019. Shri Sudhir Mungantiwar, Minister of Finance, Planning & Forests, Maharashtra State, was the chief guest of the function, Shri Mahadev Jankar, Minister of Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Development, Maharashtra State,
was the guest of honour. (Dr) Prof. A. M. Paturkar, VC, presided over the inaugural function. Dr P. T. Jadhao, Director, Extension Education, was the convener of the programme; cheered Dr R. K. Ambadkar, Associate Dean, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur; and Dr N. M. Markandey were the organizers for the programme. Dr Sariput Landge, Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension, NVC, Nagpur was the Organizing Secretary.
Mr Sunil Mansinghka from Go-Vigyan Anusandhan Kendra, Deolapar; Dr Markandey, Dr Sahatpure; Dr Kawitkar; Dr Raghuwanshi; Dr Naraladkar; and D. Landge guided the goshala workers for improving the management of goshalas in the state. The concluding ceremony was graced by Padma Bhushan Dr Vijay P. Bhatkar, Chancellor of Nalanda University and Chairman, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan.
 

ACHARYA NARENDRA DEV UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, KUMARGANJ, AYODHYA (UTTAR PRADESH)

Training for SC/ST Women and Farmers

 

 
All-India Co-ordinated Research Project on Spices, Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture & Forestry organized three training programmes for SC/ST women and farmers on 24 May 2019, 27 Aug. 2019 and 13 Sep. 2019 at Deen Dayal Shod Sansthan, Jaiprabha Village Gonda, Main Experimental Station, Village and post Kundasar, (dist. Bahrich), respectively. Total 300 trainees participated in the trainings. Seeds of turmeric (30q, Var. NDH-1), coriander (50 kg, Var. NDCOR-2), fennel (42.50 kg, Var. NDF-1), fenugreek (23.3 kg, Var. NDM-2) and pea (50 kg, var. Narendra Sabji Matar-5) were distributed among the trainees along with the literature of extension booklet of these crops turmeric, coriander, fennel, fenugreek and pea.

ORISSA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE & TECHNOLOGY, BHUBANESHWAR (ODISHA)

58th Foundation Day

Dr P.K. Aggarwal with Officials
at celebration
The 58th foundation day of the OUAT, Bhubaneshwar was celebrated on 24 Aug. 2019. Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Dr Arun Kumar Sahoo; Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Fisheries & Animal Resources Development and Higher Education, Government of Odisha advised the scientists to consider about climate change, market behavior, and the incidence of new pests and diseases while developing the technologies. The guest of honour, Dr Saurabh Garg, Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha stressed upon the use of high-tech technologies for improving the farmers’ income. Dr Swapan Kumar Datta, former Deputy Director-General (Crop Science), ICAR and former Vice-Chancellor, Visva Bharati, Shanti Niketan delivered the Foundation Day lecture on “Agricultural science and policy from farmers’ perspective”. Presiding over the function, Dr Pawan Kumar Agrawal, VC, of highlighted the achievements of the university. Various agri-entrepreneurs, successful farmers, best women scientist, best extension scientist, best KVK and best graduates of the university were felicitated on the occasion.

New Crop Varieties

Maize hybrid Kalingraj (OMH 14-27) and cotton variety BS 279 were released from the university for cultivation in Odisha. The single cross-maize hybrid Kalingraj with medium-to-late maturity duration is well suited to kharif rainfed uplands. It gives average yield of 66.3-84.8 q/ha, and shows moderate resistance to Maydis leaf blight, Turcicum leaf blight, charcoal rot and cyst nematode. The cotton variety BS 279 is suitable for growing in irrigated uplands with duration of 150-160 days. Its average seed cotton yield is 2,046 kg/ha, and the variety can sustain moisture-stress conditions.

Participation of Students

Students Participation
Five student-entrepreneurs from the OUAT participated in the mentoring session and orientation session for Institution Innovation Council 2.0 organized by Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India at Guru Nanak Institute of Technology, Kolkata on 13 Aug. 2019. Four ‘Proof of Concept’ were selected for participation in the national-level contest. During the mentoring session, the students were given orientation on entrepreneurship and start-up, business idea, opportunity identification, talent management, etc. This orientation and mentoring support helped provide an opportunity for the student-entrepreneurs to develop business acumen and develop effective business model.

Students Participation in International Youth- Exchange Programme

Students in Youth-Exchange
Programme
Ms Gautami Panigrahi, a third-year student of College of Community Science of the University participated International Youth Exchange Programme in Kyrgyzstan, held during 7-14 Sep. 2019.
 
 

PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA (PUNJAB)

Annual Convocation

Dr B.S. Dhillon giving away
the awards
The annual convocation of the PAU was held on 24 July 2019. The chief guest, Shri V.P. Singh Badnore, Governor of Punjab and Chancellor of PAU, gave away 344 degrees, 70 Merit Certificates and 16 gold medals or medals and awards. He also handed 14 scientists with awards as well as citations. Addressing the students, he said, “Agriculture at the state as well as national level is facing many challenges - depletion of ground water and climatic variability being at the forefront.” He emphasized that the state has to play an enabling role, apart from designing and implementing favourable agricultural policies, in supporting technology development and dissemination, building institutions to cater to growth and creating public-funded infrastructure such as storage, markets, power, etc., Presenting the convocation report 2017-18, Padma Shri Dr Baldev Singh Dhillon, VC, threw light on the achievements of the university.

Nobel Prize Series India -2019

Nobel Prize Series India
At the initiative of Punjab Government, the university, in collaboration along with Dr Gurdev Singh Khush Foundation; National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute, Mohali; Department of Biotechnology, Government of India and the Nobel Foundation organized a ‘Nobel Prize Series India 2019’ on 12 Sep. 2019 at the university campus. Dr Juleen R. Zierath, Professor of Clinical Integrative Physiology at Karolinska Institute and also a Member of Nobel Assembly, and Prof. Serge Haroche, Nobel Prize Winner in Physics (2012) addressed the gathering. A Students Round-Table interactive session for students from various colleges of North India with one Nobel Laureate and one Moderator was also held.
 

Kisan Mela

Capt. Amarinder Singh inaugurating
Kishan Mela
The university, organized Kisan Mela during 21-22 Sept. 2019. Captain Amarinder Singh, Chief Minister of Punjab was the chief guest. He lauded the PAU for its remarkable research in the development of PV 18 and Lerma/Rojo (wheat)/ and IR 8 (rice), that heralded Green Revolution. Further, he expressed concern over the declining water table supported and promotion of crop diversification among the farmers. He advised the farmers with shrinking land holdings and depleting water resources, they shall use drip irrigation to save water, and stop burning paddy straw, but instead use Happy Seeder to manage the problem.
 

Extension of Achievements in Research and Technology to Farmers.

New Varieties developed recently by the university are in pipeline for distribution among the Punjab farmers:
BW 752 (Bread wheat)
BW 752 (bread wheat): It is suitable for cultivation in the Punjab state under late sown irrigated conditions. Its average grain yield is 48 q/ha. It is resistant to stripe rust and moderately resistant to leaf rust.
PL 891 (Barley)
PL 891 (barley): It is a food-type, hulless barley variety [it can be used for preparation of sattu, flakes, flour and dalia]. Its average grain yield is 41.9 q/ha. It is resistant to most prevalent races of stripe rust and brown rust..
 

 

Prospective Technology to Farmers.

The results of recent developments in technology being published among the farmers are as follows:
  • 1. Management of termites in wheat by seed treatment with cruiser (thiamethoxam 70 WS)
  • 2. Management of spotted bollworms with chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC and pyridalyl 10 EC in okra
  • 3. Waiting period of insecticides on rapeseed-mustard grown for saag purpose, viz. thiamethoxam 25 WG-7 days, dimethoate 30 EC and chlorpyriphos 20 EC at 20 days, and quainalphos 25 EC at 30 days.
  • 4. Woven and Non-woven mulch mats from paddy straw were developed in Department of Apparel and Textile Science under the AICRP. These mulch mats helped in reducing the weed growth in papaya crop and flower crops.

The University of Cambridge, U.K. organized a workshop:

Participants at Cambridge, U.K.
"Transforming India’s Green Revolution by Research and Empowerment for Sustainable food Supplies Flagship Project 5 including Cambridge International Manufacturing Symposium at Cambridge, U.K. during 24 Sep. 2019 - 2 Oct. 2019. Dr S.K. Kapoor, School of Business Studies, Samanpreet Kaur, Soil & Water Engineering and Dr B.B. Vashisht, Soil Physicist, attended the workshop of TIGR2ESS Project at University of Cambridge, UK September 26 -30, 2019.

Information on future programmes

  • The 27th Annual Conference of Agricultural Economic Research Association was organized at the PAU, Ludhiana by Department of Economics and Sociology during 17-19 Dec. 2019.
  • The ICAR-Sponsored Winter School Training on Ecological Perspectives in Arthropod Pest Management for Sustainable Crop Production was held at the PAU from 19 Nov. 2019 to 9 Dec. 2019.
 

SARDAR KRUSHI NAGAR DANTIWADA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, DANTIWADA (GUJARAT)

Recognition to Dr Deora

Dr B. S. Deora, Ex-Principal & Dean, College of Renewable Energy & Environmental Engineering was nominated as member of the working committee constituted by the ICAR for development of the syllabus for B. Tech. (Renewable Energy Engineering), proposed to be implemented in all the CAUs/ SAUs of the country.

Excellence of ASPEE College Students in Army Attachment Camp

Mr Rabari Maheshbhai and Mr Patel Parthiv kumar students of ASPEE College of Home Science and Nutrition, attended the National-level Army Attachment camp at 8 Maratha LI 31 Infantry Brigade, Jamnagar from 9-23 July 2019. They learnt know-how of different weapons, drill, point-to-point march, first-aid, adventurous activities etc.

Visit of Dr Eaknath B. Chakurkar, visited Agronomy Instructional Farm and Agro Tech Park

 
 
Dr Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director, the ICAR’s-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, visited Agronomy Instructional Farm and Agro Tech Park of the university on 11 July, 2019. After that he visited Agro-Tech Park, where he appreciated the work on runoff water collection and their subsequent use in the field under water scarcity conditions.
 
 

Participation of Students in national NCC camp: 'Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat'

Ms Gohil Savita and Ms Joshi Deval, students of Home Science attended the National NCC camp. During 1-12 Aug. 2019 at Ahmadabad. Various activities were performed like awareness programme of the state, debates, quiz competitions, demonstrations, and cultural presentations were conducted during the camp to promote national integration among the cadets.

Gold Medal to NCC Cadets in Annual Training Camp

Gold Medal to NCC Cadets
At NCC Group Headquarter, Ahmedabad, the '7 Gujarat NCC BN', Mehsana organized Combined Annual Training Camp during 31 Aug - 9 Sep. 2019. Cadets of College of Horticulture actively participated in various activities and won 15 Gold medals. Dr A.U. Amin, Principal, College of Horticulture, conveyed his appreciation of Lt. Dr Mukesh Kumar, Associate NCC Officer and the cadets for their outstanding performance during the camp training.

SRI KARAN NARENDRA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, JOBNER (RAJASTHAN)

Second Convocation

View of the Convocation
The 2nd Convocation of the University was organized on July 10, 2019 under the chairman Dr J.P. Sharma, VC. Shri Kalyan Singh, Governor of Rajasthan, graced the occasion along with Shri Alok Beniwal, MLA, Shahpura; and member Board of Management, of the university. Total 984 Bachelor, 209 Masters and 54 Doctoral degrees were given to the students, and 31 gold medals for academic achievement.
 

UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL AND HORTICULTURAL SCIENCES, SHIVAMOGGA (KARNATAKA)

Workshop on Oil Palm

Shri Araga Jnanendra, MLA,
inaugurating workshop
A State-level Workshop on Oil palm was organized the UAHS, Shivamogga on 8 Aug. 2019 in collaboration with State Department of Horticulture, Shivamogga and Oil palm Growers Association. Shri Araga Jnanendra, MLA, Government of Karnataka, inaugurated the programme pointed out to the farmers that the oil palm will serve as an alternative crop to arecanut in future.
Dr R K Mathur, Director; and Dr B N Rao, Principal Scientist from Indian Institute of Oil Palm Research, Pedagavi; explained the scope and importance, varieties, nutrient management and other scientific cultivation methods of oil palm. Dr M K Naik, VC, in his presidential remarks, highlighted the nutritional aspects, exports potential aid and post-harvest management of oil palm. Mr. Yogesh, Deputy Director of Horticulture, Shivamogga stressed on the need of mechanization in oil palm due to scarcity of labour. Shri Ramesh Hegde, Member, Board of Management of UAHS, Shivamogga, was the chief guest. Dr B. R. Gurumurthy, Director of Research; Dr S. P. Nataraj, Director of Extension; Dr Mohan Kumar, Associate Director of Research and Head of Department, and other Officers of the university were present. More than 180 oil palm growers from 12 districts and three oil palm industrialists of Karnataka participated in the workshop.

Seminar on Integrated Pest and Disease Management in Cashew

Shri S. Kumar Bangarappa, M.L.A;
inaugurating seminar
A district-level Seminar on “Integrated Pest and Disease Management in Cashew”, sponsored by Directorate of Cashew and Cocoa Development, Cochin, (Kerala), was organized by the university on 9 Sep. 2019 at Soraba taluka of Shivamogga district, in collaboration with Shri Kshetra Darmasathala Rural Development Project B.C. Trust (Reg.),
 

 
Soraba and Department of Horticulture, Soraba. It was inaugurated by Shri S. Kumar Bangarappa, M.L.A., Soraba Assembly Constituency and Board Member, UAHS, Shivamogga. During his inaugural speech, Shri S. Kumar Bangarappa advised the farmers not to neglect the cashew crop, as cashew is a high-income generating dryland crop that requires the least management cost. Dr M. K. Naik, VC, in his presidential speech, advised the farmers to adopt high-yielding cashew varieties for better economic yield. More than 350 farmers or farm women were present during the programme and there was a farmer- scientists' interaction after the technical session.

National Animal Disease Control Programme

National Animal Disease
Control Programme
This programme was organized by the ICAR's KVK, Hiriyur on 11 Sep. 2019 for eradicating the Foot-and-Mouth disease and Brucellosis in the livestock. Smt. Poornima Srinivas, MLA, Hiriyur, inaugurated the programme and advised the farmers to take up timely measures to protect the animals from this disease. The programme was started by vaccinating 21 cows and doing artificial insemination to 2 cows.

Sports and Cultural Achievements

Sports and Cultural achievements
The students of UAHS, Shivamogga won the II prize (Runners) in State-level (Golden Jubilee) Swarna Mahotsav Youth festival, which was organized at NSS sports complex, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Science, Bengaluru during 10 Sep. 2019 – 14 Sep. 2019 wherein 22 universities participated. They also bagged Overall Champions pro (I Place) with a cash prize of Rs. 20000 in State-level Golden Jubilee Cultural Integration Youth festival, organized by Youth Empowerment and Sports Department, Government of Karnataka, at Gandhi Bhavan, Bengaluru held on 23 Sep. 2019 on the eve of Golden Jubilee celebration of NSS. The UAHS also bagged III place in the NSS exhibition, among participating 22 universities.

Seventh Foundation Day Celebration

Dr V. Prakash, inaugurating VII
Foundation day celebration
The Seventh foundation day of the university was celebrated on 21 Sep. 2019. Dr V. Prakash, Former Director, CFTRI, Mysore, inaugurated the programme. Dr Prakash spoke about the importance of available diversity in Western Ghats and the need for its conservation and scientific utilization.
The university honored Dr G. M. Devagiri, Professor, College of Forestry, Ponnampet; Dr H. Ravindra, Professor and Principal Investigator, AICRP (Nematodes); Dr Naveen, Scientist, KVK, Brahmavar; Dr G. N. Hosagoudar, Assistant Professor and FS, AHRS, Ponnampete with Best Teacher award, Best Researcher award, Best Extension Scientist award and Best Farm Superintendent award, respectively. Certificate of Merit for Externally-Funded Project was awarded to Dr S. Gangaprasad, Professor, CoA, Shivamogga and Dr Suresh D. Ekbote, Professor, College of Horticulture, Hiriyur. Best Service Personnel Awards were given to Mr Manikanta, Superintendent, ZAHRS, Mudigere; Mr B. S. Kumar, Senior Assistant, AHRS, Bavikere; Mr Mahesh, Senior Field Assistant, ZAHRS, Shivamogga; and Mr Jaru Poojary, ZAHRS, Brahmavar. The university also felicitated, Dr Vidyashree, Jawaharlal Nehru Best Ph. D. thesis Awardee.
The university also honored Miss Shwetha, College of Forestry, Ponnampete, who visited China under “Youth Exchange Programme-2019” and also participated in national-level Republic Day parade at New Delhi; and Miss Namitha who participated in national level Republic Day parade at New Delhi and Miss Madhurya and Mr Siddharth, who participated in the state level Republic Day parade at Bengaluru.
During this occasion, Diploma (Agric.) students were given oath and certificates by Miss Stella D’Souza, VC and Mr Niranjana, M. V. who were felicitated with certificates and cash prizes for scoring first and second highest, respectively in Diploma (Agric.). Dr M. K. Naik, VC, delivered presidential remarks.
 
 

UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES, DHARWAD (KARNATAKA)

MoU with IIT, Dharwad and CSIR’s Fourth Paradigm Institute, Bengaluru

 
 
The UAS, Dharwad signed two Memoranda of Understanding independently with two institutions, viz., Indian Institute Technology, Dharwad and CSIR’s Fourth Paradigm Institute, Bengaluru on 13 Aug. 2019 at its campus, Dharwad.
 

33rd Foundation Day Celebration

Farm Innovation for Improving Living Standard of Farming:

Dr A. K. Misra, Chairman,
ASRB, New Delhi and Dr M. B.
Chetti, VC, inaugurating the
33rd Foundation day
Dr A. K. Misra, Chairman, Agril. Scientists Recruitment Board, New Delhi, speaking as chief guest on the occasion of 33rd Foundation Day of UAS, Dharwad, said: ‘The Farm innovations should aim at improving the life farming community’. He further opined that, the university has earned good name by having strong bond with the farmers, developing enough technologies for their welfare.
Dr M. B. Chetti, VC, remembered the contributions of the former Vice-Chancellors, and honoured Dr S. A. Patil, Dr J. H. Kulkarni and Dr A. K. Misra by presenting the momentoes. In Karnataka the UAS, Dharwad ranks first among the farm universities. It has been accredited as grade “A” university by the ICAR, New Delhi. The students of the university have received maximum number of Junior Research Fellowships to pursue their higher studies. He further highlighted the development works that have taken place during the last 1 year in their university after he assumed the charge of Vice-Chancellor’s post. He gave the information that university has taken a decision to increase the All India Study tour stipend to the SC/ST students to Rs 20,000, encourage the scientists who publish quality research papers in reputed journals having more than NAAS rating of more than 6. This University has been selected for prestigious project on Institutional Development Plan of World Bank, under which 120 under-graduate students and 50 Faculty members will be trained in the reputed Foreign Universities on Entrepreneurship development. Three of our Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Dharwad, Vijayapur–I and Haveri) have been placed in A category considering their yeoman’s service to the farming community. Another chief guest of the occasion, Shri Shashimouli Kulkarni, Member, Board of Management, UAS, Dharwad requested the university to come out with research that can make small and marginal farmers lead happy life through good returns from the farming. On this occasion, the scientists with outstanding achievements in research, and extension as well as the supporting staff were honoured by giving cash prizes and citations. The students of Krishinagar school who achieved laurels at the national level were also felicitated.

MoU with SDM, Dharwad

MoU signing by Dr M.B. Chetti
The UAS, Dharwad signed an MoU with SDM College of Engineering and Technology, Dharwad on 25 July 2019 to facilitate research, training and other extension activities between the two institutions. Dr M.B. Chetti, VC, expressed that, the current era in research with interdisciplinary approach would lead to the development of viable technologies and there is dire need for mechanization and ICT application in Agriculture. Dr S.B. Vanakudre, Principal, SDM College of Engineering and Technology, Dharwad, opined that in the light of Israel model of agriculture, a lot of research on mechanization in agriculture is the need of the hour.

World Bank-aided Institutional Development Plan

Dr M.B. Chetti and Dr R.C.
Aggarwal, inaugurating IDP
Dr R.C. Agarwal, National Director, NAHEP, New-Delhi launched a World Bank-funded project under National Agricultural Higher Education Project- Institutional Development Plan of the ICAR, New Delhi titled “Augmenting quality and relevance of higher agricultural education through improving learning outcome and entrepreneurship development” on 19 Aug. 2019.
 

 
In the inaugural address, Dr Agrawal released the detailed project report and congratulated the university, for having bagged the prestigious 2 year project with an outlay of Rs 24.67 crores. He also gave a detailed account of the activities of NAHEP in developing world-class universities in the country. Dr P. Ramasundaram, National Co-ordinator, NAHEP, New Delhi, released the brochure on IDP, and appreciated the university for getting the IDP among the 75 agricultural universities in the country.
Dr M.B. Chetti, VC, in his presidential remarks, thanked the NAHEP-ICAR for sanctioning the project to the UAS, Dharwad, and gave the highlights of the project, including exposure of faculty members and undergraduate students to foreign countries, facilitating the students to take up start-ups, entrepreneurships and industry-ready commercial agriculture. Dr P.U. Krishnaraj, Project Co-ordinator, IDP, welcomed the guests and gave a brief account on the IDP project of the UAS, Dharwad.
 

UAS, Dharwad Tops in KSURF

Institutional audits, assessment, accreditation, ratings and rankings have become the cornerstone of academic rigor and quality the worldwide. The UAS Dharwad was adjudged as 5-star institution with a score of 882 out of 1000 (Cumulative Grade Point Average of 4.64) in the category of Specialist University on the basis of comprehensive performance metrics, as set out in the Karnataka State Universities Rating Framework, on 30 Mar. 2019. This university stood as the top most universities among all the four categories of universities based on score and CGPA.
The Karnataka State Higher Education Council, Department of Higher Education, Government of Karnataka and the Research and Analytics Division of the Indian Centre for Academic Ranking and Excellence have jointly presented the 2018-19 report of Karnataka State Universities Rating Framework, a comprehensive, unbiased, transparent and an independent third-party assessment of all the state, private and deemed universities in Karnataka.
Dr Ashwath Narayan, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Higher Education, Government of Karnataka, presented the award in a grand function on 17 Sep. 2019 at hotel Le-Meridien, Bengaluru.
 

Awards

 

GOVIND BALLABH PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, PANTNAGAR (UTTARAKHAND)

First Rank Among SAUs in India

Shri Narendra Singh Tomar,
handing over Best University Award
to Dr Tej Pratap
The university was ranked as the Best State Agricultural University among all the 67 State Agricultural universities of India in the ranking of ICAR. Dr Tej Partap, VC, was presented the award by Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Agricultural Minister, during a function held on the occasion of 91st Foundation Day of the ICAR, when the Union Ministers of State, Shri Parshottam Rupala and Shri Kailash Choudhary, were also present at NASC Complex Pusa, New Delhi, on 16 July 2019. The university was also ranked overall third amongst all the ICAR institutions, including deemed-to-be universities, in this ranking of the ICAR.
 

National Award to Community Radio Service

Shri Prakash Javadekar, presenting
the award to Dr Shivendra Kashyap
The Community Radio Service of the University, Janvani, got National Community Radio Award for its on-Community Engagement and Empowerment. Shri Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, and Shri Amit Khare, Secretary in the ministry presented the award. Dr S.K. Kashyap, Joint Director of CRS & Professor and Head, Department of Agricultural Communication, received the award during the seventh National Community Radio Sammelan, held at Dr B.R. Ambedkar Bhawan, New Delhi during 26–27 Aug. 2019. The function was organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.

Award to Scientists

Dr J.P. Jaiswal receiving the
award from Dr Trilochan Mahapatra
Dr Jai Prakash Jaiswal, Professor and In-charge, Wheat and Barley Programme, of the University was honoured with prestigious Padma Shri Dr M.V. Rao Memorial Award-2019 on 26 Aug. 2019 during 58th All-India Wheat and Barley Research Workers’ Meet at IARI, Regional Centre, Indore. Dr Trilochan Mahapatra, Director-General, ICAR, New Delhi, honoured him for his outstanding contributions in the field of Wheat Breeding. Besides, Certificate of Land-Mark Variety was given to Dr P.K. Shrotria, Senior Sorghum Breeder, by Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding for the development of sorghum hybrid CSH 24 MF.
Dr Shefali Massey, receiving
Women Scientists Award
Dr Shefali Massey, Assistant Professor, College of Home Science, received Women Scientist Award in the 4th International Conference on 'Innovative approaches in applied sciences and technologies', held at Mahsa University, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) during 25-29 June 2019. She presented her research paper entitled, 'Comfort-related properties of organic cotton fabric finished with herbal oils'.
 

MAHARASHTRA ANIMAL AND FISHERY SCIENCES UNIVERSITY, NAGPUR (MAHARASHTRA)

Upgraded Rank to MAFSU in ICAR Agricultural University Ranking

The Division of Agricultural Education, of Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi published the list of rankings of Agricultural Universities in India, where MAFSU, Nagpur ranked 28th in all 60 Agricultural universities across India. Among State Agricultural Universities in Maharashtra, MAFSU stands second.

'CLFMAU Award' to Col. (Prof.) A.M. Paturkar

Prof. A. M. Paturkar,
receiving CLFMA Award
Col. (Prof.) A. M. Paturkar, VC, received ‘CLFMA Award’ considering his excellence of service in the field of Livestock Sector. The award was conferred on the occasion of 52nd Annual General Meeting and 61st National Symposium-2019, held during 22-23 Aug. 2019 at New Delhi.
 

 

PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, LUDHIANA (PUNJAB)

Honour to Dr Praveen Chhuneja

Dr Parveen Chhuneja, receiving
"Panjabrao Deshmukh Outstanding Woman
Scientist Award"
Dr Parveen Chhuneja, Director, School of Agricultural Bio-technology, was conferred the national-level “Panjabrao Dekhmukh Outstanding Woman Scientist Award”, by ICAR for her excellent scientific contributions to Agricultural Bio-technology. This award was handed over to her at the ICAR Foundation Day, 16 July 2019 during the award ceremony held at New Delhi.

Appreciation award for a project

PAU conferred the Appreciation
award
The All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Fodder Crops and Utilization in Forage and Millet Section, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, PAU, was conferred the Appreciation Award during the Annual Group Meet, held at Central Agricultural University, Imphal, (Manipur).

ORISHA UNIVERISTY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, BHUBANESHWAR (ODISHA)

Award to KVK, Angul

Mr Narendra Singh Tomar,
giving away the award
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Angul under the OUAT, Bhubaneshwar, was awarded Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Rashtriya Krishi Vigyan Protsahan Puraskar-2018 for Zone V (ICAR-ATARI, Kolkata) of the ICAR. Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India presented the award to Dr P.K. Agrawal, VC, and Dr Bineeta Satapathy, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK, Angul. It was given on the occasion of 91st ICAR Foundation Day at New Delhi on the presence of Shri Parshottam Rupala and Shri Kailash Choudhary, Ministers of State (Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare) and Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, DG, ICAR & Secretary DARE, was also present on this occasion.
 
 

SARDAR KRUSHINAGAR DANTIWADA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, SARDAR KRUSHINAGAR (GUJARAT)

"Achiever’s Veterinarian Award"

Prof. Veer Singh, honored with
“Achiever’s Veterinarian Award”
Prof. Veer Singh, Professor & Head, Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar was honored with “Achiever’s Veterinarian Award” for Visionary Leadership in Veterinary Profession, Organized by Indian Veterinary Association in ‘International Conference on Emerging Challenges to Veterinary Profession’. It was held at NASC Complex, New Delhi during July 26-27 July 2019. He had presented a lead paper on ‘Contemporary issues in veterinary profession for augmenting animal health; and also chaired a session: - 'Challenges to Veterinary Profession'.

New Vice-Chancellor

Dr YASHWANT SINGH PARMAR UNIVERSITY OF HORTICULTURE AND FORESTRY, NAUNI (HIMACHAL PRADESH)

New Vice Chancellor for Dr YSPUHF, Nauni

Dr Parvinder Kaushal
Dr Parvinder Kaushal joined as the Vice-Chancellor of University in July 2019. Earlier he was the Vice-Chancellor of Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi. Dr Kaushal completed his M.Sc. (Forestry) from there. He received doctorate in Forestry from University of Nancy (France). He was actively involved in teaching, research, extension and administration for the past 35 years. Dr Parvinder Kaushal served as Member of various important committees including Regional Deans’ Committee for South Asia-2009; Member of National Core Group, ICAR to review and restructure the PG course curricula in Agricultural Sciences; Convener of Broad Subject-Matter Area Committee in Forestry (ICAR) 2007; Member of Quinquennial Review Team (ICAR) for Indian Institute of Natural Resins and Gums during 2001-2007; Member of Peer Review Team (ICAR Accreditation Board) for accreditation of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Srinagar (2008); and Member, constituted by Indian Council of Agricultural Research for ICAR-Central Agro-Forestry Research Institute Jhansi (U.P) (2015-17). Dr Kaushal has served as Deputy Leader of International Union of Forest Research Organizations; Research Group on ‘Forest Stand Establishment Operations and Techniques’ (2000-05); he had been Chairman of International Union of Forest Research Organizations, Working Party on Plantations Establishment (1990-2000).

 

SRI KARAN NARENDRA AGRICULTURE UNIVERSITY, JOBNER (RAJASTHAN)

New Vice Chancellor for SKNAU, Jobner

Prof. J.S. Sandhu
Prof. J.S. Sandhu, joined as the Vice-Chancellor on 27 Sep. 2019. He was born in 1 Aug. 1955 at Sriganga Nagar (Rajasthan). Dr Sandhu did his graduation from University of Rajasthan, Jaipur in 1978 and completed M.Sc. in 1982 and Ph.D. in 1985 in Plant Breeding from GBPUAT, Pantnagar.
Dr Sandhu served as Vice-Chancellor, NDUAT, Ayodhya, the apex Agricultural Research Organization, ICAR, New Delhi as DDG (Crop Science) and ADG (Seeds). He also served as Agricultural Commissioner, Government of India. Prof. Sandhu started his research career from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, as a Research Fellow in July 1985 and worked there in various capacities as Assistant Plant Breeder, Pulse Breeder and Senior Pulse Breeder-cum-Incharge, Pulses Section, and Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics. His dedication and hard work earned him credit of 23 varieties of different pulse crops which he developed. He published 234 research articles in scientific journals of national and international repute. Prof. Sandhu was President, Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding, President & Vice-President, Indian Society of Pulses Research and Development, Vice-President, Indian Society of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi; and Chairman, Editorial board, Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences. He has been Chairman, Central Sub-Committee for Crop Standards, Notification and Release of Varieties for Agricultural Crops and Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee.
Dr Sandhu was awarded Fellowship by National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, New Delhi, Indian Society of Pulses Research and Development, Kanpur; Honorary Fellow of Indian Society of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi. Dr Sandhu is duly recognized for contributions with awards and honors by the various other organizations like CGIAR's King Baudouin Award-2002, and ICRISAT’s DOREEN MASHLER-2002, PAU Team Award as national collaborator of ICRISAT, Plaque for best Research Worker, and with a certificate for outstanding contribution in Research and Development by PAU, Ludhiana; as well as with ISPRD Recognition Award by Indian Society of Pulses Research and Development, Kanpur.