Alula Tafesse Shirko | Farmers | Top Researcher Award

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Dr Alula Tafesse Shirko | Farmers |  Top Researcher Award

Dean at  Wolaita Sodo AVET College,  Ethiopia

Dr. Alula Tafesse Shirko is an Assistant Professor at Wolaita Sodo University and currently serves as the Dean of Wolaita Sodo Agricultural Vocational Training College in Ethiopia. He holds a strong academic background and expertise in agricultural sciences, specializing in agricultural education and vocational training. Dr. Alula has contributed significantly to the development of agricultural training programs aimed at improving local farming practices and promoting sustainable agricultural development in the region. His leadership roles at both the university and vocational training college highlight his dedication to the advancement of agricultural education in Ethiopia.

Profile:

Education:

  • PhD in Agricultural Economics (2016-2021), Haramaya University, Ethiopia
    Dissertation: Technical Efficiency, Commercialization, and Food & Nutrition Security Impacts of Moringa in SNNP Region, Ethiopia
  • MSc in Natural Resource Economics and Policy (2010-2012), Hawassa University, Ethiopia
  • BSc in Natural Resource Economics and Management (2007-2009), Mekelle University, Ethiopia

Administrative and Academic Positions:

  • Dean, Wolaita Sodo Agricultural Vocational Training College (January 2024 – Present)
  • Head, Department of Agricultural Economics, Wolaita Sodo University (2021-2023, 2014-2016)
  • Assistant Professor, Wolaita Sodo University (2016 – 2024)
  • Lecturer, Wolaita Sodo University (2013 – 2016)
  • Lecturer, Mekelle University (2012-2013)
  • Graduate Assistant, Mekelle University (2009-2012)

Grants and Research Funding:

  • Wolaita Sodo University Research Fund: Integrated watershed management for sustainable fish production for enhanced youth job creation and food security in Wolaita Area, Ethiopia (Completed, 250,000 ETB)
  • Ethiopian Ministry of Science and Higher Education Scholarship: PhD research on Moringa commercialization, food security, and technical efficiency (Completed, 60,000 ETB)
  • SNNPR and Wolaita Sodo University Research Fund: Assessing development bottlenecks of mixed agricultural production system in Southern Ethiopia (Completed, 1.5m ETB)

Workshop and Conference Participation:

  • Presenter at Fourth Annual International Research Conference (2015, Wolaita Sodo University)
  • Curriculum reviewer at Curriculum Validation Workshop (2021, Worabe University)

Dr. Tafesse is a seasoned academic and researcher with significant contributions to agricultural economics and policy. He holds leadership roles in both academia and research, with a focus on food security, agricultural efficiency, and rural development.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Can asset accumulation weigh the welfare status of mung bean farmers in lowland areas of South Ethiopia?
    Gata, G., Kuma, B., Tafesse, A., Habte, Z. (2025). Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 19, 101611.
  • Status and determinants of multi-dimensional poverty in Wolaita Sodo Town, southern Ethiopia
    Esrael, E., Worku, A., Cucchi, C., Recha, J.W., Tafesse, A. (2025). Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 19, 101562.
  • Assessment of cumulative incidences of mung bean crop production in lowlands of south Ethiopia through multiple factor analysis
    Gata, G., Kuma, B., Tafesse, A. (2024). Heliyon, 10(10), e31012.
  • Digital tools and welfare: adoption determinants among ginger producers in Southern and Central Ethiopia
    Gizachew, F., Kuma, B., Tafesse, A., Lambamo, A. (2024). Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8, 1443775.
  • Effect of credit constraint on yield: the case of ginger producers in southern and central Ethiopia
    Tilore, F.G., Shano, B.K., Shirko, A.T., Hawitibo, A.L. (2024). Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8, 1334799.
  • Impact of credit on household food security: The case of Omo microfinance institution in southern Ethiopia
    Boltana, A., Tafesse, A., Belay, A., Recha, J.W., M.Osano, P. (2023). Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 14, 100903.
  • Determinants of Smallholder Farmers’ Income Diversification in Sodo Zuria District, Southern Ethiopia
    W/kidan, A., Tafesse, A. (2023). Advances in Agriculture, 2023, 6038569.
  • Irrigated Onion Production Efficiency in Humbo District, Southern Ethiopia
    Tafesse, A., Dema, S., Belay, A. (2023). Cogent Economics and Finance, 11(1), 2207928.
  • Determinants of maize farmers market participation in Southern Ethiopia: Emphasis on demographic, socioeconomic and institutional factors
    Tafesse, A., Gechere, G., Asale, A., Demissie, T.D., Solomon, D. (2023). Cogent Food and Agriculture, 9(1), 2191850.
  • Cassava Production Efficiency in Southern Ethiopia: The Parametric Model Analysis
    Tafesse, A., Mena, B., Belay, A., Endalamaw, T.B., Solomon, D. (2021). Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 5, 758951.

 

Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar | Sustainable Agriculture and Innovation | Best Researcher Award

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Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar | Sustainable Agriculture and Innovation | Best Researcher Award

Dr Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, India

Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar is a distinguished researcher in agricultural chemicals, holding a Ph.D. from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, where he was a Gold Medalist. Currently, he serves as a Senior Scientist at ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute. Awarded the Young Researcher Award in 2022, he has significantly advanced ecosystem health assessment, focusing on microplastics and nutrient formulations. Dr. Sarkar holds patents for innovative superabsorbents and slow-release nanoformulations and has commercialized the “CIFRI ARGCURE” antiparasitic formulation. His impactful research and dedication to addressing environmental challenges make him a leading candidate for the Best Researcher Award. 🌱🏆🔬🌊

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Educational qualifications

Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar has a solid educational foundation in agricultural sciences. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Hons.) from Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswa Vidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal, in 2007. He then pursued his Master of Science in Agricultural Chemicals at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi, graduating in 2009. Dr. Sarkar continued his academic journey at the same institution, where he completed his Ph.D. in Agricultural Chemicals in 2013, earning the prestigious Gold Medal for his outstanding performance. His education equips him with essential knowledge for impactful research in agricultural chemistry. 🎓🌱🏆

Employment Record

Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar has an extensive employment record in research and teaching within esteemed agricultural institutions. He is currently serving as a Senior Scientist at the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI) in Barrackpore, Kolkata, since January 21, 2021. Prior to this, he held the position of Senior Scientist at ICAR-CIFRI from July 1, 2017, to January 21, 2021. Dr. Sarkar also contributed to the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi, where he worked as a Scientist from January 23, 2012, to July 1, 2017, focusing on research and teaching activities. His career reflects a strong commitment to advancing agricultural research. 🌾🔬📚

Recognition and Awards

Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar has received numerous accolades for his contributions to agricultural science. He was honored with the Young Researcher Award for 2022 by the Indian Society of Analytical Scientists on October 26, 2023, and the Vigyan Sera Pratibha Award during the Vigyan Utsav on December 4, 2022. Additionally, he received the Best Oral Presentation award at the 1st Indian Fisheries Outlook in March 2022 and was named Scientist of the Year 2021 by ICAR-CIFRI. His recognition also includes the prestigious ICAR-Jawaharlal Nehru Award for his doctoral research in 2013. His work continues to inspire innovation in agriculture. 🏆🌱🔬✨

Projects

Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar has significantly contributed to various in-house and externally funded projects focused on agricultural innovation and ecosystem health. He played an associate role in several initiatives, including the development of novel agrochemical formulations (2012-2014) and precision farming techniques (2014-2017). Currently, he leads projects on monitoring heavy metals in inland water bodies and remediation techniques for polluted wetlands (2020-present). Externally, he has worked on significant projects, including enhancing phosphorus availability in alfisols and assessing microbial biodiversity in the River Ganga. His leadership in developing biosensors for detecting fish pathogens underscores his commitment to sustainable agriculture. 🌿💧🔬✨

Research Focus

Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar’s research focuses on environmental chemistry, specifically the assessment and management of pollutants in aquatic ecosystems. His studies examine the spatial distribution of micro and mesoplastics in river sediments, highlighting their role as vectors for heavy metals in wastewater treatment systems. He explores innovative solutions like biosensors and bioremediation techniques for the detection and removal of hazardous compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Additionally, Dr. Sarkar investigates the antifungal properties of natural compounds and the efficiency of water treatment processes, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental health. 🌊🔬♻️✨

Publication Top Notes

Conclusion

Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Sarkar stands out as a leading researcher through his robust educational background, significant awards, and impactful contributions to agricultural chemistry and ecosystem health. His work not only addresses pressing environmental challenges but also leads to practical innovations that benefit society. Therefore, he is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

 

Aboubacar Diallo | Agri Awards | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Aboubacar Diallo | Agri Awards | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Aboubacar Diallo, AfricaRice, Mali

Aboubacar Diallo is a Malian researcher and consultant specializing in Climate Information Services (CIS). He is currently affiliated with the AICCRA project at AfricaRice in Mali, where he plays a key role in supporting climate-smart agriculture and advancing agricultural research. With extensive experience in agronomy, natural resource management, and climate resilience, Aboubacar has been instrumental in coordinating and implementing various research projects across Mali. His expertise includes data analysis, research proposal development, and impact assessments, particularly in the agricultural sector. Aboubacar is proficient in using tools such as SPSS, STATA, and QGIS for analyzing socio-economic data. He has also served as a technical officer and consultant on several studies related to cotton production, food security, and local governance in Mali.

Publication profile

Scopus

🎓 Academic Qualifications:

Aboubacar Diallo is a highly skilled researcher with extensive academic and professional experience in agronomy, natural resource management, and climate services. He has contributed to numerous research projects and consultations in Mali, focusing on agriculture, food security, and climate-smart practices.

💼 Professional Experience:

  • Coordinator & Technical Officer: Cashew Project (PAFAM), Mali (2020–2022)
    • Managed project activities, supported technical teams, and provided training.
  • Senior Researcher/Consultant: Agronomic Research Center (CRRA), Mali (2018–2020)
    • Developed research proposals and analyzed agricultural data.
  • Consultant/Associate Researcher: Numerous research projects on cotton quality, local governance, and food security (2015–2023).

🧠 Key Skills:

  • Expertise in research proposal writing, impact assessment, and data analysis (socio-economic and econometrics).
  • Proficient in software such as SPSS, STATA, QGIS, and KoboCollector for research and data processing.

🌱 Recent Consultations:

  • Better Cotton’s Climate-smart Agricultural Practices: Mali (2022–2023)
  • Cotton Quality Study: CMDT-Mali (2020)
  • Local Governance and Democracy Study: NIMD, Mali (2019)

🏆 Trainings & Certifications:

  • Workshop on Leadership Essentials (2018)
  • Borlaug Higher Education Conference on Agricultural Impact (2017)
  • Intensive English Training: University of Ghana (2016)

Publication Top Notes:

  • A gendered analysis of farmers’ access to and willingness to pay for climate information services: Evidence from rice farmers in Mali
  • Correction to: Climate change adaptation strategies, productivity and sustainable food security in southern Mali (Climatic Change, (2020), 159, 3, (309-327), 10.1007/s10584-020-02684-8)
  • Local knowledge of Saba senegalensis fruits against malnutrition in Mali
  • Climate change adaptation strategies, productivity and sustainable food security in southern Mali

Franciely da Silva Ponce | Agronomic | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr Franciely  da Silva Ponce |  Agronomic |  Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr at  Universidade Paranaense,  Brazil

Franciely da Silva Ponce is a full professor in the Agronomic Engineering course at Paranaense University (UNIPAR) and a faculty member of the Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology Applied to Agriculture. She holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy (Horticulture) from São Paulo State University (UNESP), where her research focused on the integrated management of Lepidoptera pests in brassicas using Trichogramma pretiosum. Franciely completed her Master’s degree in Environment and Agricultural Production Systems at the State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), focusing on the environmental and economic aspects of cabbage cultivation. Her undergraduate degree in Agronomy was also obtained from UNEMAT, where she researched the propagation of Byrsonima cydoniifolia. She has additional training in plant biochemistry and cultural management. Her research interests include tropical horticulture, vegetable production, pest management, and integrated pest management. Franciely has been involved in various research and extension activities, including technology transfer in vegetable production and teaching at multiple institutions.

Profile:

Academic Background:

🎓 PhD in Agronomy (Horticulture)
São Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil
Title: Integrated Management of Lepidoptera Pests in Brassicas Using Trichogramma pretiosum Riley
Year: 2021

🎓 Master’s in Environment and Agricultural Production Systems
State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Brazil
Title: Environmental, Productive and Profitability Analysis of Cabbage Cultivation
Year: 2018

🎓 Degree in Agronomy
Mato Grosso State University (UNEMAT), Brazil
Title: Feasibility of Using Cuttings and Indolbutyric Acid in the Propagation of Murici
Year: 2015

Current Positions:

👩‍🏫 Full Professor
Paranaense University (UNIPAR), Brazil

  • Agronomic Engineering Course
  • Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology Applied to Agriculture

Research Interests:

🌿 Tropical Horticulture

  • Horticulture and Society
  • Management and Production of Vegetable Species
  • Integrated Pest Management
  • Protected Cultivation
  • Non-Conventional Vegetables
  • Post-Harvest Vegetables
  • Cost and Profitability of Vegetable Production

Professional Experience:

  • Scholarship Holder, Research Fellow
    Mato Grosso State University (UNEMAT)

    • Vegetable Cultivation in Protected Environments
  • Guest Professor
    Mato Grosso State University (UNEMAT)

    • Production and Quality of Vegetables (Master’s course)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Melon Cultivation Under Agrotextile Increases Production and Reduces Phytosanitary Products
  • Profitability and Efficiency of Conduction Systems and Optimal Tomato Density for Fresh Consumption
  • Desafios e Perspectivas do Manejo da Traça-do-Tomateiro
  • Do the Training System and Spacing Affect the Productivity and Quality of Tomato Plants?
  • Adubação Silicatada na Produtividade e Respostas Fisiológicas das Plantas
  • Effect of Polycarbonate and Agricultural Film on Production and Biochemical Compounds of Tomato Fruits
  • Produtividade, Custo e Rentabilidade de Couve Produzida Sob Túnel Baixo
  • Does the Physiological Trade-Off Between Reproduction and Defense Affect the Physiological and Biochemical Parameters of Tomato Plants Infested with Bemisia tabaci MED and MEAM1?
  • Dispersão de Trichogramma pretiosum Riley (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) em Cultivos de Couve e Repolho
  • Teores de Macro e Micronutrientes em Plantas de Jambu Cultivadas em Ambiente Protegido
  • Controle Cultural de Nematoides em Alface, Utilizando Cobertura de Solo e Consórcio com Cravo-de-Defunto
  • Curva de Absorção de Água em Sementes de Sete Cascas em Função do Tamanho
  • Produção e Qualidade de Melão Amarelo Submetido a Diferentes Sistemas de Plantio
  • Viabilidade Agroeconômica do Cultivo de Híbridos Tomateiro de Hábito Determinado no Período de Safra e Entressafra na Região Central Matogrossense
  • Viabilidade do Uso de Estacas e Ácido Indolbutírico na Propagação de Murici (Byrsonima cydoniifolia A. Juss.)
  • Produção de Cultivares de Almeirão Sob Diferentes Telados e Campo Aberto em Clima Tropical
  • Curva de Absorção de Nutrientes em Jambu (Spilanthes oleracea L.), Cultivado em Sistema Hidropônico
  • Índices Morfofisiológicos de Alface Produzidas em Diferentes Substratos Sob Ambiente Protegido

 

Geena Prasad | Precision Agriculture | Women Researcher Award

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Dr Geena Prasad | Precision Agriculture |  Women Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at  Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham,  India

Dr. Geena Prasad Assistant Professor (Senior Grade), Amrita School of Engineering, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri Campus, Kollam, Kerala, India.

Profile:

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering
    Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri Campus.
  • M.Tech in Technology Management
    University of Kerala (First Class with Distinction).
  • B.E. in Environmental Engineering
    P.E.S College of Engineering Mandya, Mysore University (First Class with Distinction).

Research Interests:

  • Water and wastewater treatment
  • Solid waste management
  • Phytoremediation of heavy metals & Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
  • Bioremediation
  • Physico-chemical analysis of soil, water, and air
  • Geographical Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing

Experience:

  • Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amrita University)
    February 2011 – Present
    Assistant Professor (Senior Grade), Department of Mechanical Engineering.
    Responsibilities include teaching M.Tech, B.Tech, and M.Sc classes, managing lab sessions, preparing course materials, guiding projects, and coordinating green initiatives on campus.
  • Centre for Environment and Development (CED)
    February 2010 – February 2011
    Environmental Engineer.
    Prepared environmental sustainability reports and manuals for solid waste management, developed strategies for wastewater and solid waste management.
  • Project Implementation Unit, Kerala Sustainable Urban Development Project (KSUDP)
    July 2007 – February 2010
    Technical Officer (Environment).
    Worked on detailed project reports, designed leachate treatment plants, prepared bid documents, and coordinated various environmental initiatives.
  • Tokyo Engineering Consultants (TEC)
    December 2003 – March 2005
    Junior Engineer.
    Designed and supervised water supply schemes and environmental impact assessments for urban and rural areas.
  • Centre for Earth Science Studies (CESS)
    April 2003 – September 2003
    Project Fellow.
    Conducted data collection and environmental impact assessments for industrial projects.
  • Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre (AIMS)
    October 2001 – February 2003
    Environmental Engineer.
    Designed and implemented water and effluent treatment plants, supervised plant operations, and managed biomedical waste.

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 208
  • Citations Since 2019: 207
  • h-index: 8
  • h-index Since 2019: 8
  • i10-index: 6
  • i10-index Since 2019: 6

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Spatio-temporal analysis of land use/land cover changes in an ecologically fragile area—Alappuzha District, Southern Kerala, India”
    • G Prasad, MV Ramesh
    • Journal: Natural Resources Research
    • Volume: 28
    • Pages: 31-42
    • Citations: 75
    • Year: 2019
  • “Delineation of ground water potential zones using GIS and remote sensing–A case study from midland region of Vamanapuram river basin, Kerala, India”
    • G Prasad, SE John
    • Journal: AIP Conference Proceedings
    • Volume: 1952 (1)
    • Citations: 17
    • Year: 2018
  • “Intelligent energy meter with home automation”
    • RT Mathew, S Thattat, KV Anirudh, VPK Adithya, G Prasad
    • Conference: 2018 3rd International Conference for Convergence in Technology (I2CT)
    • Pages: 1-4
    • Citations: 14
    • Year: 2018
  • “Land use pattern as an indicator of sustainability: a case study”
    • G Prasad, R Rajesh, K Arun
    • Conference: 10th Annual International Conference on Industrial Engineering and …
    • Citations: 13
    • Year: 2020
  • “Assessment of drinking water quality on public health at Alappuzha district, southern Kerala, India”
    • G Prasad, AS Reshma, MV Ramesh
    • Journal: Materials Today: Proceedings
    • Volume: 46
    • Pages: 3030-3036
    • Citations: 11
    • Year: 2021
  • “Analysis of air pollution in three cities of Kerala by using air quality index”
    • SN Jyothi, K Kartha, A Mohan, J Pai, G Prasad
    • Journal: Journal of Physics: Conference Series
    • Volume: 1362 (1)
    • Article: 012110
    • Citations: 11
    • Year: 2019
  • “An overview of natural organic matter”
    • G Prasad, JY Kentilitisca, MV Ramesh, N Suresh
    • Conference: ICDSMLA 2019: Proceedings of the 1st International Conference on Data …
    • Citations: 9
    • Year: 2020
  • “Automated gas pollution detection system”
    • S Ajith, B Harivishnu, TK Vinesh, S Sooraj, G Prasad
    • Conference: 2017 2nd International Conference for Convergence in Technology (I2CT)
    • Pages: 483-486
    • Citations: 9
    • Year: 2017
  • “Geogenic and anthropogenic contamination of groundwater in a fragile eco-friendly region of southern Kerala, India”
    • G Prasad, H Mamane, MV Ramesh
    • Institution: Estonian University of Life Sciences
    • Citations: 8
    • Year: 2022
  • “Portable and efficient graphene-oxide based multistage filtration unit for water purification”
    • P Akshay, S Shreekanth, R Rajesh, G Prasad
    • Journal: Materials Today: Proceedings
    • Volume: 26
    • Pages: 2344-2350
    • Citations: 7
    • Year: 2020
  • “Trace metal analysis of pre-flood and post-flood drinking water at Alappuzha District, Southern Kerala, India”
    • G Prasad, GM Thomas, MV Ramesh
    • Journal: Materials Today: Proceedings
    • Volume: 46
    • Pages: 2911-2918
    • Citations: 6
    • Year: 2021
  • “Understanding the impact of microplastic contamination on soil quality and eco-toxicological risks in horticulture: A comprehensive review”
    • NP Gayathri, G Prasad, V Prabhakaran, V Priya
    • Journal: Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering
    • Volume: 9
    • Article: 100633
    • Citations: 5
    • Year: 2024