Under the Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARK) of Ministry of Human Resource Department (MHRD), Government of India, a Ph.D. student Ms Navreet Bassi from University will visit Zurich based Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Switzerland (a World’s 6th ranked institute) for three months from Feb 24 to May 24, 2020. Before proceeding to Switzerland, the student met the Vice-Chancellor along with Prof. Werner Eugster, International PI from ETH, Zurich; Dr S.S. Dhankhar and Dr Raj Singh, Indian PI and Co-PI, respectively. While welcoming Prof. Werner Eugstar in the University campus, Prof. K.P. Singh told that University has initiated the process of cooperation with prestigious academic and research Institutions over the globe to boost its academic and research pursuits. He further said that our Ph.D. student will work on Climate Smart Farming through Agro-Meteorological Techniques at Swish Federal Institute of Technology (FTH), Zurich.

Two students of the University– Kalpana Yadav (M.Sc. first year, Vegetable Science) and Parmeel of the B.Sc. Agriculture got selected under the Tokyo NODAI special student exchange programme to obtain full time scholarship of Tokyo Agricultural University, Japan. Both students were selected under an MoU between CCS HAU, Hisar and Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan for cooperation in agricultural research and education. Vice Chancellor Prof. K.P. Singh gave important tips regarding their stay abroad.

Under National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP)-Institutional Development Plan (IDP) programme, six students have been selected for two months educational training at University of Sydney, Australia. These students will get international exposure in agricultural research, mainly on molecular genetics and DNA extraction for developing disease resistance varieties. Prof. K.P. Singh blessed the students and advised them to be cautious about corona virus during their visit.

The University organized a two-day National Incubators Colloquium at the auditorium of Home Science College. Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Jai Prakash Dalal was the Chief Guest and National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management Vice-Chancellor Chindi Vasudevappa was the Guest of Honour. Chief Guest stated that the Agri Business Incubation Center started in University is playing an essential role towards starting agro based enterprises. He inaugurated visited the exhibition of startups set up by the ABIC. He said, “CCS HAU is proving to be a boon for small farmers who are unable to market their produce”. He further added that agriculture has now become technology based and it is necessary to extend benefits of technology to the youth of rural areas.

“The alumni of this institute are serving at the highest positions in various sectors all over the country, which is the matter of pride for all of us,” he added. Mr Balyan appealed to the alumni that if the University has made them a capable and successful human being, reciprocally it becomes their duty to play a direct and indirect role in its upliftment. He also shared memories of his student life. Presiding over the event, Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. K.P. Singh said that varsity has been successful in making its identity at the national level. "We are determined to make the varsity a global institution. HAU is continuously giving the students the opportunity to study and research abroad under the Dual Degree Programme, along with other leading Universities of the World". "Our University is going to be a digital partner with the University of Illinois, US, the fourth-ranked varsity in the World”, he added.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Lahaul and Spiti II at Tabo organized six, one-day farmer trainings on “INM in fruit crops”, “Training and pruning in fruit crops”, and “Celebration of world soil day” in different villages (Mane, Lari, Schieling, Lidang, Dhankhar and Nidang) of Spiti valley in which practicing farmers and farm women participated.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra -Lahaul and Spiti II at Tabo organized two, one-day rural youth trainings on, “Training and pruning in fruit crops”, and ‘Awareness about training and pruning in fruit crop” in two villages (Poh and Lara) of Spiti valley in which rural youths participated.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra also celebrated two important days i.e. World Soil Day 2019 on 5 December 2019 at village Maane and National Farmers Day 2019 on 21 December 2019 at village Shichling.

Three skill development programmes on "grafting and pruning in apple plants" were organized during March 2020 with 25 participants in each programme.

• Lara (5 to 7 March, 2020) - Male-16 female: 9.
• Hurling (9 to 11 March 2020) - Male 23 female: 2.
• Lari (12 to 14 March, 2020) - Male: 20 female: 5.

Another Skill development training programme on the job role of “Nursery worker” was conducted from 26 February 2020 which was scheduled to be completed on 21 March 2020 at KVK, Kandaghat. However due to Covid-19, the programme was postponed on 17 March 2020. During this programme, participants from the different blocks of Solan participated and learnt the different novel techniques of Nursery raising and management. Ms. Bunty Shylla, SMS (Fruit Science) coordinated the training on “Nursery Worker”.

A demonstration on High density plantation of apple was planted at HRTS& KVK, Solan by Dr D P Sharma, Principal Scientist and Head, wherein 2000 No. of imported apple plants were planted at HRTS& KVK, Solan under the period of report.

Under the guidelines of ICAR, Technology and Machinery Demonstration Kisan Mela was organized on 14 Feb 2020 by AICRP on PHET (Solan Centre) at Shamror (Dharja) Panchyat, Solan (Himachal Pradesh). About 70 farmers along with university staff participated in the mela. The farmers were demonstrated about the machineries and technologies standardized and commercialized under AICRP on PHET, like apple/ sand pear corer, ginger peeler cum polisher machine, aloe vera gel extractor, fruit cutter/ slicer, apple peeler cum corer cum slicer machine, were demonstrated to farmers. Under technologies, they were demonstrated mushroom fortified pasta; kiwi-based beverages like RTS, squash, appetizer; kiwi jam; sewiyan; ginger fortified biscuits etc. A van which in both mobile and in immobile form can be used as a refrigerated unit was developed. Farmers can store and carry their produce to the destination under refrigerated conditions.

Shri Vinod Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary (Industries), Himachal Pradesh interacted with students and budding entrepreneurs during a special session at the university. He urged the students to have confidence in their ideas and take support of government schemes for startups and promotion of business. He also visited the Incubation Centre, Residue lab and Floral craft lab of the university and interacted with incubates working on different business ideas.

Sachin Mittal, a post-graduate in Food Technology and Dr Reena Kumari, SRF in the Department of Vegetable Science from the university were among the 100 meritorious students from across the country who were selected to witness the grand Republic Day Parade 2020 from the Prime Minister’s Box at Rajpath, New Delhi. They were among the 100 meritorious students selected from across the country by the Union Ministry of Human Resource and Development, Government of India to witness the event.

State Level Officers Workshop on Package of Practice of Fruit and Ornamental Crops was held at the university in February 2020. The workshop was graced by Horticulture Minister Shri Mahender Singh Thakur and Dr Ram Lal Markanda, Minister of Agriculture, Tribal Development, Information and Technology. University scientists, line officers of the horticulture and agriculture department, attended the workshops. During the workshop, seven technical sessions on varieties recommendations in fruits and flowers, plant protection and mushroom cultivation, production technology for fruit crops, food science and technology, crop improvement were held. The participants also discussed the latest research in the field of fruits and flowers in the state. Based on the discussions, the recommendations such as the inclusion of new varieties and technology are being added in the latest package of practice for the production of fruits and flowers in the state.

The 10th Convocation of UHF, Nauni was held on 5 March 2020. The Governor of Himachal Pradesh and Chancellor of the University Shri Bandaru Dattatreya presided over the Convocation. Several dignitaries from the state and Indian Council of Agricultural Research attended the event. A total of 1104 degrees of BSc, MSc in Horticulture and Forestry, and BTech Biotechnology programmes from the College of Horticulture, College of Forestry and College of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni were awarded at the Convocation. In addition, the students of MBA and PhD programmes also received degrees. Twenty-two gold medals and 458 Certificates of Merit were also be awarded during the convocation ceremony.

Kinnaur being a dry temperate region makes an avenue fit for many phytopathogen viz., powdery mildew, rusts, scab and premature leaf fall etc., to proliferate in the district on account of improper and non- adoption of spray schedule. Hence following fungicides such as Signum (Boscalid 25.2%+ Pyraclostrobin 12.8% WG), Merivon (Fluxapyroxad 250 g/l + Pyraclostrobin 250 g/l SC), Acrisio (Metrafenone 500 g/l SC) and Sercadis Plus (Fluxapyroxad+ difenaconazole12.5% SC) were evaluated under project entitled “Fungicide Testing(UHF-002-52) at RHRTS Sharbo, KVK Kinnaur, against apple powdery mildew, premature leaf falls, Alternaria leaf spot, Scab”. Further recommendations were made before spray schedule committee for inclusion in spray schedule 2020 as follows:

• Sercadis Plus (60 g/200 l) was recommended at green tip stage for control of scab and powdery mildew.
• Signum and Acrisio at 50 g and 20 g/200 l was recommended at petal fall/pea stage for powdery mildew management.
• Merivon (20 g/200 l) was recommended at walnut stage for Alternaria and premature leaf spot management in apple.

The exotic vegetables are becoming popular in India. Most of them were introduced from the Europe and are cool season crops. Among these, the edible-podded peas or (viz., Snow Peas and Snap Peas) are cool season crops, their production in plains is restricted to autumn and early spring only. For rest of the year the production is only possible in hilly areas of the country. The diversity in agro-climate in Himachal Pradesh offers a scope for round-the-year production of this crop. The UHF has conducted trials at different elevations in various seasons for selection of suitable production area and planting season of snow peas. The market returns of this high-quality produce fetched between Rs 200-300/kg at Azadpur Vegetable Market, New Delhi. The off-season cultivation that give produce in May-June and October-November fetched the higher process. Based on the trials, snowpeas cv. Mithi Phali has been recommended by the University for cultivation in Himachal Pradesh with following salient features:

Edible podded peas cultivar was released by PAU, Ludhiana. Tender pods are used as salad. Bears light green to green pods without parchment layer. Pods attain length and breadth of 8.39 and 1.87 cm, respectively, at harvest maturity for salad. Ready to harvest in about 134 days after sowing. Average yield under open field condition is 11.30 q/bigha (14.12 MT/ha). Suited for all the zones of Himachal Pradesh.

In an effort to provide good quality sanitizers to the employees and researchers amid the increasing demand for good quality sanitizers as a preventive measure against the spread of COVID-19, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF) developed an in-house herbal moisturizing hand sanitizer. The product was developed by the scientists of the Department of Forest Products and

Dr A. Sujatha, Programme Coordinator, NSS & Dean of Student Affairs organized “One-Day State Level Skill Development Training Programme” at College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem on 13.3.2020 on Preparation of squash Bee wax production and bye products, Plant propagation methods, Vermi-composting and Bio-Inputs- Bio Fertilizers and Bio-Pesticides with 100 NSS Volunteers from 5 Universities by involving NSS Programme Officers and faculty of College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem. Participation Certificates were issued to participants in the valedictory function.

Dr R. V. S. K. Reddy, Director of Research attended QRT-Stakeholders interface on “Strengthening Tuber Crops Research and Development” at ICAR-CTCRI, Thiruvananthapuram, wherein Dr P. Rethinam, Chairman and Members of QRT, Scientists of CTCRI, entrepreneurs and farmers also participated on 24.1.2020. Discussion was about the approaches to strengthen research as well as production and supply of quality planting material along with emphasis to be given on processing and value addition in tuber crops.

International Women’s Day was celebrated at administrative office, all constituent colleges, Research Stations and KVKs of the university on 08.3.2020. University officers along with staff and students participated in the programme. On this occasion, a training program on “Peratiloposhakalu-Poshakaviluvalthokudinaaaharam” was conducted for the women farmers, anganwadi workers and supervisors of Tadepalligudem, Nallajerla.

Three State Level Training Programmes of three-day duration on “Protected Cultivation” sponsored by MIDH were conducted at Centre of Excellence for Protected Cultivation, HRS, Venkataramannagudem from 17 to 19 February 2020, 27 to 29 February 2020 and 5 to 7 March 2020 to Horticultural Officers and farmers from various districts of Andhra Pradesh. Sri Chiranjiv Choudhary, IFS, Vice-Chancellor interacted with the trainees on 28 February 2020 and released the training manual on “Protected Cultivation” in the presence of Dr R.V.S.K. Reddy, Director of Research, Dr B.V.K. Bhagawan, Zonal Research Head, Coastal Zone-I and Scientists of HRS, V. R. Gudem.

Cashew Research Station, Bapatla organized three-day farmers’ training programme on “Advanced Cashew Production Technology” from 6.3.2020 to 8.3.2020 sponsored by Directorate of Cashew nut and Cocoa Development, Kochi, Kerala. Dr R.V.S.K. Reddy, Director of Research attended as Chief Guest and addressed the trainees on ‘Economic Importance of Cashew in India’. Different topics on Cashew Production Technology, Crop Protection and Post-Harvest Management were covered. Farmers from Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Krishna, Guntur and Prakasam districts participated.

State Level training Programmes of three-day duration on “Protected Cultivation” sponsored by MIDH were organized by the Centre of Excellence for Protected Cultivation, HRS, Venkataramannagudem from 5 to 7 March 2020 to Horticultural Officers and farmers from Kurnool, Nellore and Prakasam districts of Andhra Pradesh.

Twenty days after release of Dichochryaasturpredator in Rugose Spiraling Whitefly infested coconut gardens, 6 per cent grub, 2 per cent egg and 1 per cent pupal stage natural recovery was observed wherein no population of Dichochryaasturwas recorded prior to the release of predator. The whitefly population dwindled to low with lesser than 3 spirals/leaflet in palms due to successful establishment of predator at Chikkala village of Kalavalapallimandal in West Godavari district.

Dr B. Govinda Rajulu, Principal Scientist and Head, KVK Periyavaram delivered radio talk on ‘COVID19, lockdown 2.0, GoI and state government guidelines and farm advisory’ to farming community broadcast in Kisan Vani, All India Radio, Tirupati on 9.4.2020. Sri G. Shali Raju, Scientist (Entomology), VK, Venkataramannagudem attended "Farmers science congress” on 6 Jan 2020 at GKVK, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru along with Innovative farmer Sri Neerukonda Satyanarayana, Dommeru village, West Godavari district on the eve of 107th Indian Science Congress from 3 - 7 January 2020 at UAS, Bengaluru and presented poster and oral presentation on “Cultivation of multiple crops in organic farming” and received certificate of appreciation from D- S. Rajendra Prasad, Vice-Chancellor, UAS, Bengaluru. Ch. Ruth, Prof. (Plant Pathology), CoH, Ananatharajupeta participated in “7 International Conference on Phyto Pathology in Achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals” during 16-20 January 2020 at ICAR-IARI, Pusa, New Delhi, India and presented research work on “Effect of Integrated pest management on yield and economics of chilli Capsicum annuum L.” in Andhra Pradesh in Theme Area: 7. ‘Plant health management vis-à-vis human health’ on 18.1.2020.

Publications: Dr E. Padma, G. Ramanandam, K. Ravindra Kumar, M. Kalpana, N. B. V. Chalapathi Rao and H. P. Maheswarappa. 2019. Standardization of fertilizer requirement through fertigation for coconut under Krishna Godavari Zone of Andhra Pradesh. Indian Journal of Horticulture.Vol.76 (4) P.No.622-627.

T.S.S Chandana, M.Sc. (Pl. Path.)-I year was selected for the prestigious Hargobind Khorana Fellowship 2020 sponsored by Department of Biotechnology New Delhi, Indo-US Science and Technology Forum, by the University of Wisconsin-Madison USA under the guidance of Dr K. Sesha Kiran, Assistant Professor (Plant Pathology).

The Main Oilseeds Research Station released a new Virginia bunch groundnut variety Gujarat Groundnut 23 (GG 23) which recorded mean pod yield of 2,800 kg/ha. The yield of the variety was 13.85 and 17.17 per cent higher over the check varieties, GJG 22 (2,459 kg/ha) and GG 20 (2,390 kg/ha), respectively.

Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry in joint collaboration with Dog Care Hospital, Junagadh organized a “Dog carnival and fun show 2020” on 7 March2020. A small booklet containing comprehensive information of Indian dog breeds and pamphlets containing information for pet owners was also released. Pet owners along with their pets participated in various events like; Best of Breed, Best of Show, Prettiest Bitch, Handsome Dog, Adorable Puppy, Most appealing eyes and Best child handler. An obedience test was also performed by Shri Shivraj Jhala from Jamnagar. Around 170 pet owners registered for the event. Pet owners were also provided deworming, dog grooming, deticking, shampoo bath, counseling and technical guidance on various areas like; vaccination, nutrition and management of pet keeping.

A Farmers’ Fair was organized on 7 March 2020 at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar. The function was inaugurated by Dr Arun Kumar Sahoo, Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Fisheries & Animal Resources Development, Higher Education, Government of Odisha. Dr Pawan Kumar Agrawal, Vice-Chancellor of the University presided over the function. There was launching of OUAT Kalinga brand to provide several technologies and seeds produced by OUAT to farmers. Various farmers were felicitated for their outstanding contribution in bio-diversity conservation. A farmer-scientist interaction programme was organized during the occasion.

A Regional Workshop on Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Right was organized during the occasion. This was graced by Dr Ravi Prakash, Registrar, PPV & FRA, New Delhi and other officials. Eminent scientists presented talk on importance of local land races and their conservation. An exhibition was also arranged to display modern agricultural technologies and available local land races. About 500 farmers from various parts of Odisha and West Bengal, scientists from OUAT and ICAR institutes and extension personnel participated in the programme.

It matures in 85-95 days; herbasius stemless plant with 3 to 4 flowering scapes; non lodging type; fasciculate root/ha; yield potentials 3,000-3,400 kg/ha (root); root powder content 1.15 % sapogenine and 9.2 % steroidal saponine; and resistant to fasciculated root rot.

Fruits of this variety are oblong in shape and have higher fruit weight, fresh thickness, fruit yield and total soluble sugars. Fruit weight 244 g; length 7.80 cm; width 7.40 cm; flesh thickness 1.53 cm; TSS 8.30b; number of seeds/100 g pulp 277; weight of seeds/100g pulp1.7g; yield per plant is 85-90 kg; and fruit matures in 125-130 days.

This variety is a selection from Allahabadi Safeda Seedlings. Fruits are medium to medium large with cream white, thick flesh, few seeds, acid sweet, good quality and heavy bearer, fruits are mostly round shaped. Fruit weight 282 g; length 7.50 cm; width 8.30 cm; flesh thickness 2.53 cm; TSS 9.070b; number of seeds/100 g pulp 138; weight of seeds/100g pulp 1.40g; yield/plant 88-95 kg; and fruit matures in 118-125 days.

This variety is a selection from Allahabadi Safeda Seedlings, fruits are medium to medium large with cream white, thick flesh, few seeds, acid sweet, good quality and heavy bearer, fruits are mostly round shaped. Fruit weight 301.5 g; length 7.29 cm; width 8.10 cm; flesh thickness 1.78 cm; TSS 9.020b; number of seeds/100 g pulp 142; weight of seeds/100g pulp1.77g; yield/plant 85-90 kg; and fruit matures in 120-125 days.

This variety is a selection from Allahabadi Safeda Seedlings, fruits are medium to medium large with cream white, thick flesh, few seeds, acid sweet, good quality and heavy bearer, fruits are mostly round shaped. Fruit weight 279.67 g, length 7.72 cm, width 7.14 cm, flesh thickness 1.62 cm, TSS 11.920b, Number of seeds/100 g pulp 163, weight of seeds/100g pulp1.37g and yield per plant is 85-90 kg. and Fruit matures in 120-125 days

A three-day conference on “Gene Revolution for Profitable Agriculture” was held at UAS, Dharwad in collaboration with the Foundation for Advanced training in Plant Breeding (ATPBR), Aurangabad from 8-10 January, 2020. The various issues discussed were-- recent technologies, improving marketing systems, attracting youth towards agriculture and encouraging agri-entrepreneurship to enhance crop productivity. Dr T. R. Sharma, Director, National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute, Mohali, an authority in the area of Genomics, Plant Biotechnology and Plant Disease Resistance, inaugurated the conference and delivered the Vision Lecture. Dr M. B. Chetti, Vice-Chancellor of UAS, Dharwad presided over the function. Dr K. K. Narayanan, Dr Tikoo Suren, Dr Aparna Tiwari from ATPR were present.

A Mega event Krishi Mela 2019-20 was organized under the theme of “Per Drop-More Crop” during 18-20 January 2020. The event was inaugurated on 18 January 2020 by Shri Pralhad Joshi, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines, Government of India. He appreciated the efforts of central government for implementing farmer friendly schemes like soil health card, neem coated urea, and in animal husbandry schemes like National Animal diseases control programme and Artificial insemination programme. Sri Lakshman Savadi, Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture and Transport Minister Government of Karnataka and Pro-chancellor, UAS, Dharwad; Shri C. C. Patil, Minister, Mines, Geology, Forest, Environment and Biology Government of Karnataka; Shri Suresh Angadi, Minister of Railways Government of India (Minister of State); Sri Jagadish Shettar, Large and Medium Industries and Public Enterprises Government of Karnataka Minister and Dharwad district in-charge were present during the programme. Apart from 4.25 lakh farmers and farm women, extension scientists, officers of line departments and students attended the three-day mega event.

The national conference deliberated on innovative breeding practices for adaptation to climate change in agricultural, horticultural and forestry crops, impact of various biotic and abiotic stresses on agricultural, horticultural and forestry crops and management techniques under increased climate variability. Dr K.J. Ramesh, former Director General, India Meteorological Department, Government of India addressed the gathering after inaugurating two-day “National Conference on Climate Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Production and Nutritional Security” at UAS, Dharwad. The CD and Website on District level Agro-Meteorology were released on the occasion. More than 300 delegates across the country participated in the National Conference.

The first ever Global and Regional Alumni Meet (GRAM) was organized at UAS, Dharwad from 29 February to 1 March 2020 under the aegis of ICAR, NAHEP-Institutional Development Plan (Indian Council of Agricultural Research- National Agricultural Higher Education Project).

The lead speakers and scientists and engineers stressed on advancement to be adopted in sustaining agriculture; and best presentations received the honour. Dr Shridar, Dean (Agric. Engg.), TNAU, Coimbatore as a chief guest and Dr M. Ananthachar, former Dean, Prof. S. S. Kunte, former Dean Dr Rathnakumar and other distinguished guests were present during valedictory programme.

The inaugural session of the conference was held on 12 March 2020 at 10.00 AM in the UAS Auditorium. Dr C. R. Mehta, Director, ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal was invited to inaugurate the conference. Dr K. N. Kattimani, Vice-Chancellor, UAS Raichur presided the inaugural function, while Dr Raghu Murtugude, Professor, University of Maryland, USA and Dr Surendra Singh, Advisor, AMMA, New Delhi were invited as distinguished chief guests. Sri Trivikram Joshi, member of BoM, Dr S. K. Meti, Director of Education, Dr B. K. Desai, Director of Research and Dr B. M Chittapur, Director of Extension of UAS, Raichur were other guests of honour. Dr M. Veerangouda, Organizing Secretary and Dean (Agric Engg.), College of Agricultural Engineering, Raichur briefed about the agenda of the conference and welcomed the gathering. Dr C. R Mehta, Inaugurated the conference and delivered the talk on the importance of agricultural mechanisation in doubling farmers’ income. Dr Raghu Murtugude unveiled the Souvenir of the conference and addressed the audience. Chief guest, Sri Trivikram Joshi addressed the gathering and wished for the success of the event. Dr K. N. Kattimani, Vice-Chancellor gave presidential remarks. Dr Sharanagouda Hiregoudar, Co-organizing Secretary of the conference extended the vote of thanks.

Dr C. R. Mehta giving the keynote address on “Applications of Mechatronics in Agriculture”, highlighted various aspects of Indian Agriculture starting from land holding, population dynamics, and labour issues till farm power availability. Dr Raghu Murtugude, discussed the importance of “Monsoon variability, Trend, Extremes”. He enlightened mainly on knowhow of monsoon dynamics and factors affecting the monsoon variability. Dr B. Shridar, Dean (Agric. Engg.), AEC & RI, Coimbatore, Dr M. Anantachar, Former Dean (Agric. Engg.), College of Agricultural Engineering and Professor, NIT, Raichur, Dr P. Rathnakumar, Head, Dept. of Mechanical Engg., NIT, Raichur and Prof. S. S. Kumathe, Former Director of Instruction (Agric. Engg.), CAE, Raichur were the distinguished guests for the valedictory session. Dr M. Veerangouda, Dean (Agric. Engg) and organizing secretary of the conference presided the function.

The University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur; Applied Zoologists Research Association Bhubaneswar and Entomological Society of India jointly organized three -day International Conference on “Major Research in Zoology and Pest Control Programmes for Food Safety and Nutrition” during 12-14 January 2020 at Raichur campus. The Conference was inaugurated by Dr S. N. Puri, President, Entomological Society of India. Dr Puri in his address, urged the Government to invest in scientific research related to agriculture, its mechanization and pest control. He was critical about spending at least 30 to 40 per cent of the production cost on pest control and chemical fertilizers and hence suggested researchers to come up with viable technologies to cut this cost. The income of farmers will automatically be increased if the farmers get technological help in harvesting and pest controlling process. He also remarked currently producing 287 million tonnes of food needs to be enhanced to meet growing population.

In the kharif season of 2019, first a BT cotton hybrid NHH 44 developed through MoU between VNMKV, Parbhani and Mahabeej was distributed to farmers in Marathwada. The farmers responded enthusiastically to this hybrid and hybrid gave good yield to the farmers. Similarly, there is a growing demand for new high yielding Bt hybrid developed by the university.

All India Coordinated Research Project on Post-harvest Engineering and Technology (AICRP on PHET) Solan, was adjudged as the 2nd Best Centre for the Year 2019-20 among 31 AICRP Centres all over the country by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The award was given during the 35th Annual Workshop of AICRP on PHET held at JNKVV Jabalpur w.e.f. 22 to 25 January 2020. The Research Engineers and Scientists of 31 AICRP on PHET centres all over the country participated in the workshop and presented their progress report. Dr Devina Vaidya, Dr Manisha Kaushal and Mr Anil Gupta from the Solan Centre also presented their progress report, new project proposals and machineries/process protocols developed by the centre during the meet. The work presented was evaluated by Dr S.N. Jha ADG (Agricultural Engineering), Dr S.K. Tyagi, Project Coordinator AICRP on PHET, Dr S.M. Ilyas (Former Director, NAARM), Dr B.S. Bisht (Former Director, CIPHET, and Ludhiana) and Dr Anwar Alam (Ex Vice-Chancellor, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology) as experts in the field of PHET. On the basis of Outstanding Contribution in Development of Technologies, patents filed and NAAS rated publications in national and International Publications in Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, the Solan Centre among 31 different centers was adjudged as the BEST CENTRE for the Year 2019-20.

A seven-day training programme on fabrication of solar drier developed by the Department of Environmental Science was organized under Entrepreneurship Development Programme for SC Beneficiaries w.e.f. February 18-24, 2020. The training was participated by twenty carpenters of Himachal Pradesh. They were trained to construct Solar Drier at their own and earn their livelihood. The farmers may use these driers to dry the crop products and keep the natural properties intact.

One-day workshop on “Issues and Challenges of Municipal Solid Waste Management in HP” was organised at College of Forestry, sponsored by HP State Council of Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE) Shimla on 28.02.2020. In this workshop 25 participants comprising officials from MC Solan, Member of PRIs, residents of Solan town and other stakeholders took part. It was pointed out by all the participants that still awreness regarding segregation and safe disposal of the waste is needed to enhance the capacity of collection of waste and biorecycling of biodegradable waste.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Datia was conferred with Dhanuka Innovative Agriculture Award-2018 for their contribution for rainwater conservation and efficient use at New Delhi on 9th Jan. 2020.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jhabua was honoured with Best Krishi Vigyan Kendra by Dhanuka Innovative Agriculture Award 2018 at New Delhi on 9th Jan. 2020.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jhabua was honoured with Best Krishi Vigyan Kendra by Dhanuka Innovative Agriculture Award 2018 at New Delhi on 9th Jan. 2020.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jhabua conferred with National Best Poultry Extension Award by Agriculture Today Group on 14th Feb. 2020 at Delhi.

Dr S. P. Singh, Head, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Morena was honored by Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Rural Development and Panchayatiraj, Government of India, for his contribution among the farmers community of Morena District at the Fasal Vichar Gosthi organized by KRIBHICO on Feb. 2020.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Morena was conferred with Best Krishi Vigyan Kendra Award 2020 in Outlook Agriculture Conclave and Swaraj Anand 2020 by Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare and Rural Development and Panchayatiraj, Government of India on 24th Feb. 2020.

Achieved Gold medal in high jump in National level Agriuni sports organized by Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University. Tirupati during from 1-5 March 2020.

Achieved Best Content Award in National level Debate Competition organized by G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar during 22-23 Feb, 2020.

(Bhartiya) in Agrifest 2020 organized by Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur, during 8-12 Feb, 2020.

The Athletes of the University outshined by bagging 3 Gold Medals and 2 Bronze Medals at XX ICAR All India Agri-Universities Sports and Games Meet held from 1 -5 March 2020 at Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, Andra Pradesh State.

Dr. Bijendra Singh was born on 01st July, 1960, hails from rural background of District-Mau, Uttar Pradesh. He joined as ARS Scientist of 1986 batch, presently serving as Vice Chancellor, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Ayodhya, (joined on 26th March, 2020) and Director General, U.P. Council of Agricultural Research, Lucknow (Additional Charge). He started his career as scientist (Horticulture) at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Barapani, Meghalaya (1986-1992); and served at several important positions as Scientist (1992-1998); Senior Scientist (1998-2006); Principal Scientist (2006-2009); Head, Department of Crop Improvement (2009-2010); Project Coordinator, All India Coordinated research Project on Vegetable Crops (2010-2014); Director (2014-2019) at ICAR-IIVR, Varanasi. Dr. Singh, possess versatile experience in area of research, education, extension, administration, coordination and management while serving under different capacities for last 33 years. He obtained his Ph. D., M. Sc. (Ag.) in the discipline of Horticulture and B. Sc. (Ag.) degree from Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. His specialization on vegetable crops paved him path to develop 54 varieties/hybrids including 15 in Okra (10 OP varieties and 05 hybrids), 07 in Vegetable Pea, 04 each in Radish and Sponge Gourd , 03 each in Cauliflower, Basella and Bottle Gourd, 02 each in Chenopodium, Tomato, Chilli and 01 each in Amaranthus, Pointed Gourd, Bitter Gourd, Brinjal, Cucumber, Pumpkin, Ash Gourd, Carrot and Ridge Gourd for cultivation, where he was either the Principal Breeder or an associate. Of these, 24 varieties/hybrids were identified and released for cultivation at National level and 30 at the State level in the state of UP. Among the varieties, okra variety, Kashi Pragati (VRO-6) possess desirable trait like YVMV resistance, resulting in its spread all over the country covering about 13-14% of total vegetable areas. Another okra variety, Kashi Vibhuti, the first bushy type, is being widely used as a parent in hybrid development programmes. Kashi Nandini, a short duration and heat-tolerant pea variety has been widely adopted by the growers under rice-wheat cropping system. Kashi Kranti (okra) and Kashi Surbhi (ash gourd) varieties have better quality attributes for export and processing industries, respectively. Besides these, other varieties are also famous for high yield potential and resistant capacity. He is credited with publication of more than 218 research papers in national and international reputed journals, 11 books, 43 technical bulletins, 23 manuals, several book chapters and popular articles. He also guided 3 Ph.D. students and 14 M. Sc. students to carry out the outstanding research in the field of vegetable science.

Dr. Singh developed DUS testing guidelines for 10 vegetable crops and registered 9 unique genetic stocks with NBPGR. Further, while working in NEH region he developed 27 vegetable production technologies for that region. As a project coordinator of AICRP (Veg. Crops) he handled the largest network (35 crops) across a chain of 36 regular centres, 18 voluntary centres and 50 public/private sector seed companies. Extensive involvement in research management led to the release of 69 varieties/hybrids in 18 vegetables along with 89 production technologies and 76 protection technologies. He contributed immensely in capacity building for farmers and other stake holders too.

Presently, Dr. Singh is president of U.P. Academy of Agricultural Sciences (UPAAS) and Vice President of Indian Society of Vegetable Science (ISVS). He is Fellow of National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), Horticultural Society of India, Indian Society of Vegetable Science, Confederation of Horticulture Association of India, Society for Recent Development in Agriculture and Hi-tech Horticulture Society.

He is recipient of many prestigious awards like, Outstanding Multidisciplinary Team Research Award of ICAR for Biennium 2003-04, Vigyan Ratan Award 2014-15 for outstanding contribution in Vegetable science by Govt. of U.P. Kalayya Krishnamurthy National Award 2016-17 for Outstanding Contribution in Agriculture Research by University of Agriculture Sciences, Bengaluru; Dr Kirti Singh Gold Medal Award in 2012 by Horticultural Society of India, Dr Biswajit Choudhary Memorial Award for outstanding scientist-2014 by Indian Society of Vegetable Science; Dr Punjab Singh Vishistha Krishi Vaigyanik Puraskar-2014 by UPCAR, Lucknow; Dr Kirti Singh Lifetime Achievement Award-2017 by ISVS; Award Certificate of Recognition -2017 by PPV&FRA, New Delhi and Distinguished Service Award-2012 by Bioved Research Society, Allahabad.