Dr. Punyavrat Suvimalendu Pandey, the Vice Chancellor of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, is a distinguished figure in the realm of agricultural research and education, embarked on his remarkable journey on 26th September 2022.
Born on 13th February 1964 in the village of Rahathua in Buxar, Bihar, Dr. Pandey’s journey has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for advancing agricultural knowledge.
Page Index
Early Life and Education
Dr. Pandey’s academic odyssey began at Science College, Patna, where he pursued his graduation. He continued to scale educational heights, earning his M.Sc. and Ph.D. from the prestigious ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi.
Professional Ascension
Belonging to the 1986 batch of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Dr. Pandey’s journey within the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is a testament to his commitment and expertise.
From his early role as a Scientist at the National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM), Hyderabad, to becoming the National Coordinator of the Organisation and Management Component of the National Agricultural Innovation Project (NAIP) at ICAR headquarters, New Delhi, he showcased exemplary dedication.
Contributions to Agricultural Education
Dr. Pandey’s impact on agricultural education is substantial. As the Assistant Director General at ICAR, he spearheaded policies ensuring quality education.
Notably, he played a pivotal role in planning and monitoring the central sector scheme “Strengthening and Development of Higher Agricultural Education in India.”
His contributions encompassed areas such as Library Strengthening, Niche Areas of Excellence, and Student READY programs.
Innovations and Reforms
Dr. Pandey’s leadership witnessed groundbreaking reforms and innovations in the National Agricultural Research System (NARS). From the establishment of the Supercomputing Facility of Bioinformatics Grid to initiatives like Agropedia and Consortium for e-Resources in Agriculture (CeRA), he significantly advanced ICT in agriculture.
Entrepreneurship and Agri Start-ups
During his tenure as the National Coordinator of the World Bank-sponsored National Agricultural Innovation Project (NAIP), Dr. Pandey played a pivotal role in establishing Incubation and Agri-Business Planning and Development Centers (IABPDC).
These centers became catalysts for encouraging entrepreneurship in Agricultural Universities and ICAR institutes, setting the stage for Agri Start-ups in India.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Pandey’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He is a proud recipient of the Gold Medal of IARI for his outstanding academic performance. His prolific academic career includes the publication of over 120 research papers, articles, conference proceedings, technical reports, manuals, and book chapters.
Beyond academia, Dr. Pandey has been a guiding force in various professional bodies and high-powered committees. His role as a Member of the Board of Management of numerous agricultural universities reflects his commitment to shaping the future of agricultural education in India.
Career in Agricultural Research
With over 30 years of experience in Agricultural Research and Education, Dr. Pandey’s career trajectory showcases a commitment to quality and innovation.
Starting as a Scientist at the National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM), Hyderabad, he rose through the ranks to become the National Coordinator of the Organization and Management Component of the National Agricultural Innovation Project (NAIP) at ICAR headquarters, New Delhi.
His tenure saw groundbreaking initiatives such as the establishment of the Supercomputing Facility of Bioinformatics Grid, Agropedia-Knowledge Management Platform, and Consortium for e-Resources in Agriculture (CeRA).
These endeavors transformed the landscape of agricultural research in India, emphasizing the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Leadership Roles
Dr. Pandey’s influence extends beyond his university role. He has been a member of various High-Powered Committees and Professional Bodies, contributing to institutions such as the University of Agriculture Sciences in Dharwad and Bangalore, Bihar Agriculture University in Sabour, and more.
Dr. Pandey’s leadership extended to critical roles, including serving as the National Coordinator of the World Bank-sponsored NAIP. Under his guidance, Incubation and Agri-Business Planning and Development Centers were established, fostering entrepreneurship in Agricultural Universities and ICAR institutes. These efforts laid the groundwork for the emergence of Agri Start-ups in India.
As the Assistant Director General at ICAR, Dr. Pandey played a pivotal role in shaping policies for quality capacity development in Higher Agricultural Education. His influence extended to central sector schemes, notably the “Strengthening and development of higher agricultural education in India,” where he oversaw programs like Library Strengthening, Niche Areas of Excellence, and Student READY initiatives.
Research and Development
Under Dr. Pandey’s leadership, more than 250 projects in the realms of research and development, education, innovation, and livelihood enhancement have been successfully completed, leaving an indelible mark on the agricultural landscape.
Dr. Punyavrat Suvimalendu Pandey’s journey is not merely a chronicle of personal achievements but a saga of dedication, innovation, and transformative leadership that continues to shape the future of agricultural education and research in India.
Legacy and Future Endeavors
Dr. Punyavrat Suvimalendu Pandey continues to inspire through his dedication to agricultural research, education, and innovation. His leadership has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian agriculture, and as the Vice Chancellor of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, he undoubtedly continues to steer the institution towards new heights of excellence.
In conclusion, Dr. Punyavrat Suvimalendu Pandey’s illustrious career stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of agricultural research and education. From humble beginnings in a small village in Bihar to assuming the role of Vice Chancellor at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Dr. Pandey’s journey has been marked by unwavering dedication and transformative leadership.
His pivotal roles at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the National Agricultural Innovation Project (NAIP) showcase a commitment to advancing policies and initiatives that have significantly impacted higher agricultural education in India.
Dr. Pandey’s foresight in embracing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in agriculture has led to groundbreaking innovations, including the establishment of the Supercomputing Facility of Bioinformatics Grid and the Agropedia Knowledge Management Platform.
Beyond his administrative responsibilities, Dr. Pandey has actively contributed to fostering entrepreneurship in agriculture, laying the groundwork for Agri Start-ups in the country. His numerous awards, including the prestigious Gold Medal of IARI, underscore the recognition of his outstanding academic contributions.
As a member of various high-powered committees and professional bodies, Dr. Pandey has played a crucial role in shaping the academic landscape of agricultural universities across the nation.
His legacy includes not only a vast body of published research but also a profound impact on over 250 completed projects in research, development, education, innovation, and livelihood enhancement.
Dr. Punyavrat Suvimalendu Pandey’s journey is not just a personal narrative; it is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, innovation, and visionary leadership. His influence continues to shape the future of agricultural education and research in India, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian agriculture.
Author
-
by
-
