Shiv Kumar Shivandu | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shiv Kumar Shivandu | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Young Professional at Indian Agricultural Research Institute India

Shiv Kumar Shivandu is a dedicated PhD scholar at the ICAR-Indian Agriculture Research Institute, specializing in sustainable horticulture practices. His research focuses on plant growth regulators, micronutrient management, and climate-resilient fruit production, with notable work on enhancing flowering, fruit quality, and yield in litchi under sub-tropical conditions. Shiv’s prior studies also include optimizing pre-sowing treatments and grafting techniques in mango. His innovative approach integrates AI, IoT, and green technologies to improve agricultural practices, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability. Shiv has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, addressing key areas such as crop regulation and precision agriculture. He is an active member of professional organizations like Krishi Kumbh and AAISA and has contributed to projects like the updation of People Biodiversity Registers in Himachal Pradesh. Despite the promising impact of his work, Shiv’s research profile could benefit from increased industry collaborations and a broader publication record.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar
ORCID Profile 

Education:

Shiv Kumar Shivandu is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Fruit Science at the prestigious ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, specializing in sustainable horticulture practices. His academic journey is marked by a deep focus on plant growth regulators, micronutrient management, and climate-resilient fruit production. As a Ph.D. scholar, Shiv has dedicated significant effort to understanding the impact of various agricultural practices on fruit quality and yield, particularly in litchi cultivation under sub-tropical conditions. He has also conducted research on optimizing pre-sowing treatments and grafting techniques in mango. Shiv’s academic background is complemented by his active involvement in reviewing scientific manuscripts for reputed journals, showcasing his scholarly contribution to the field. His research endeavors reflect a commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and integrating cutting-edge technologies like AI and IoT into agriculture. Through his academic achievements, Shiv Kumar Shivandu has positioned himself as a promising young researcher in the field of fruit science.

Professional Experience:

Shiv Kumar Shivandu is a dedicated PhD scholar in the Department of Fruit Science at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, specializing in sustainable horticulture practices. With a strong academic foundation, his research focuses on enhancing fruit production through innovative techniques such as the application of plant growth regulators and micronutrient management. Shiv’s work on improving flowering, fruit quality, and yield in litchi, especially under sub-tropical conditions, has been instrumental in advancing horticultural practices. He has also explored optimizing pre-sowing treatments and grafting techniques in mango, further demonstrating his expertise in fruit science. Beyond research, Shiv has contributed to projects like the updation of People Biodiversity Registers in Himachal Pradesh and has reviewed scientific manuscripts for reputed journals. His involvement in integrating AI, IoT, and green technologies into agriculture reflects his commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning him as a promising researcher in the field of sustainable agriculture.

Research Interest:

Shiv Kumar Shivandu’s research interests are centered around sustainable horticultural practices, with a focus on enhancing fruit production under climate-resilient conditions. His primary area of expertise lies in the application of plant growth regulators and micronutrient management to improve growth, flowering, fruit quality, and yield in crops such as litchi. Shiv’s work also explores innovative techniques like pre-sowing treatments and grafting methods to optimize fruit production, particularly in mango cultivation. Additionally, his research integrates cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to promote precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices. By leveraging green technologies, Shiv aims to address challenges in climate change, resource management, and crop productivity. His work contributes to the development of strategies that ensure long-term agricultural sustainability while improving the quality and yield of horticultural crops, ultimately benefiting both farmers and the environment.

Award and Honor:

Shiv Kumar Shivandu has demonstrated exceptional dedication and innovation in the field of sustainable horticulture, earning recognition for his significant contributions to fruit science. As a PhD scholar specializing in plant growth regulators, micronutrient management, and climate-resilient fruit production, Shiv’s research has focused on enhancing fruit quality and yield in crops like litchi and mango. His work on integrating AI, IoT, and green technologies in agriculture reflects his commitment to advancing sustainability and precision agriculture. Shiv has authored several publications in peer-reviewed journals, contributing valuable insights to the field. Additionally, he has actively participated in projects such as updating the People Biodiversity Registers in Himachal Pradesh. His expertise and research have positioned him as a promising young professional in agricultural science. Shiv Kumar Shivandu’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and scientific advancement has earned him recognition and respect within the academic community, making him a notable figure in the field of agricultural research.

Conclusion:

Shiv Kumar Shivandu is a promising young researcher with a strong focus on sustainable horticulture, particularly in the areas of plant growth regulators, micronutrient management, and climate-resilient fruit production. His research on enhancing flowering, fruit quality, and yield in litchi, along with his work on optimizing grafting techniques in mango, demonstrates his dedication to improving agricultural practices. His contributions to integrating AI, IoT, and green technologies into agriculture further highlight his innovative approach. While his research output is commendable, expanding his involvement in consultancy projects, increasing collaborations with other institutions, and further enhancing his publication and patent portfolio would strengthen his profile. Nevertheless, Shiv’s work has significant potential to advance sustainable agricultural practices, and his commitment to innovation makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions are impactful, and with continued growth in his professional journey, he is poised for even greater success in the field.

Publications Top Noted:

Title: Integrating artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) for enhanced crop monitoring and management in precision agriculture
Authors: Kushagra Sharma, Shiv Kumar Shivandu
Year: 2024

 

Tingting Wu | Horticulture science | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr Tingting Wu |  Horticulture science |  Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at  Mie University,  Japan

Dr. Tingting Wu is an accomplished academic with over 8 years of R&D experience in plant factories, hydroponics, and environmental control systems. Her research focuses on sustainable agriculture, smart farming technologies, and renewable energy integration in protected horticulture. Notable projects include the “ai tomato” initiative by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture and the JST Co-Creation Platform Development Project.

Profile:

🏫 Academic and Professional Background:

Dr. Tingting Wu is an Assistant Professor at Mie University, Japan, specializing in plant factories, hydroponics, and environmental control systems. With over 8 years of R&D experience, she combines academic expertise with practical innovations to advance sustainable agriculture. 🌍

🔬 Research and Innovations:

  • 🌿 Developed hydroponic systems using tomato plant residues.
  • 🌞 Innovated environmental control solutions for semi-closed agricultural production.
  • 🤝 Collaborated on projects like the “ai tomato” initiative (MAFF, Japan) and the JST Co-Creation Platform Development Project.

📚 Academic Contributions:

  • Published 2 indexed journal articles (SCI, Scopus).
  • Active member of professional societies, including:
    • Japan Society for Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Agrochemistry.
    • Japanese Society of Agricultural Machinery and Food Engineers.

🌟 Areas of Expertise:

  • Sustainable agriculture
  • Smart farming technologies
  • Renewable energy integration in horticulture

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Research on Hydroponic Cultivation Substrates Made from Rice Straw
    T. Wu, X. Wang, T. Inada
    Sustainability, 17(2), 772, 2025.
  2. Development and Characterization of Biodegradable, Binderless Fiberboards from Eggplant Straw Fibers
    H. Fan, X. Wang, T. Wu, J. Sun, J. Liu
    Materials, 18(1), 37, 2024.
  3. Production of Biodegradable Board and Its Mechanical Properties Using Corn Straw
    T. Wu (呉婷婷)
    Mie University (三重大学).

 

Veena Devi | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Dr Veena Devi |  Horticulture |  Best Researcher Award

senior research fellow at  ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, PAU Campus, Ludhiana, India

Dr. Veena Devi is a Senior Research Fellow at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research in Ludhiana, Punjab. With a strong background in agricultural research, she contributes significantly to maize research and development. Her work focuses on enhancing maize productivity and sustainability, addressing challenges in crop management, and improving genetic diversity.

Profile:

Education:

Ph.D. in Biochemistry
Department of Biochemistry, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
January 2018 – June 2022

  • Major: Biochemistry with specialization in Plants
  • Minor: Agricultural Biotechnology

M.Sc. in Biochemistry
Department of Biochemistry, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
July 2015 – November 2017

  • Major: Biochemistry with specialization in Plants
  • Minor: Agricultural Biotechnology

B.Sc. (Medical)
Government College for Girls, Ludhiana, India
July 2013 – April 2015

  • Subjects: English, Punjabi, Zoology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, E.V.S.

Professional Experience:

Senior Research Fellow
ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, PAU Campus, Ludhiana, India
March 2024 – Present

  • Project: Maize Research for Sustainable Ethanol Production in India

Young Professional-II
ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, PAU Campus, Ludhiana, India
April 2022 – March 2024

  • Conducted laboratory evaluation of biochemical parameters of maize kernels including protein, starch, tryptophan, lysine, methionine, oil, and various other compounds.
  • Managed field observations on maize growth and development.
  • Focused on enhancing bioethanol production from maize.

Technical Expertise:

  • Biochemical and Molecular Techniques:
    • Molecule and enzyme extraction, purification, concentration, and activity estimation.
    • DNA and RNA extraction, cDNA construction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, SDS, and native PAGE.
  • Field Trial Management:
    • Crossing, phenotypic screening, and data collection.
  • Bioinformatics:
    • Primer designing, gene mining, GWAS, meta-QTL analysis, comparative genomics.
    • Proficient in R programming, CPCS1, SPSS, Statistix 10 software.
  • Ethanol Production:
    • Basic knowledge of ethanol production, purification, estimation, and bacterial culture.
  • Instrument Handling:
    • Ultra-centrifuge, cooling centrifuge, UV-visible spectrophotometer, compound microscope, hot plate, incubator, water bath, pH meter, vortex, magnetic stirrer, distillation unit, electrophoresis apparatus, Kjel Tech apparatus, BOD incubator, NIR analyzer, nanodrop, PCR, RT-PCR, HPLC, UPLC, oil extractor, freeze drier, concentrator.

Research Focus: Horticulture

Dr. Veena Devi is a Senior Research Fellow at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research in Ludhiana, Punjab. She holds a Ph.D. with a research focus on horticulture, particularly in the areas of crop improvement, sustainable horticultural practices, and enhancing the genetic diversity of horticultural crops. Her contributions aim to advance the field of horticulture through innovative research and practical applications, improving crop yield and quality.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Enhancing Germination and Growth in Wild Okra Genotypes through Gibberellic Acid Priming
    Kamboj, A., Sangha, M.K., Devi, V., Pathak, M., Singla, D.
    Scientia Horticulturae, 2024, 334, 113332
  • Beyond Colors: The Health Benefits of Maize Anthocyanins
    Bhushan, B., Kumar, S., Kaur, C., Chandran, D., Kumar, M.
    Applied Food Research, 2024, 4(1), 100399
    Citations: 2
  • Unraveling the Role of δ-Zeins in Methionine Bio-fortification of Maize
    Devi, V., Sethi, M., Singh, A., Chaudhary, D.P.
    Cereal Chemistry, 2024, 101(3), pp. 583–593
  • Elucidation of Zein Isoforms Associated with High Protein Quality Traits for Targeted Improvement in Maize-Based Nutrition
    Sethi, M., Singh, A., Garg, M., Gupta, M., Chaudhary, D.P.
    Cereal Chemistry, 2024, 101(2), pp. 418–430
  • Status of Soluble Sugars and the Related Enzymes of Momordica charantia L. Seedlings in Response to Low Temperature Stress
    Devi, V., Kaur Sangha, M., Pathak, M., Kumar, P., Pal, M.
    European Journal of Horticultural Science, 2023, 88(6)
  • Corrigendum: Unraveling the Genetic Framework Associated with Grain Quality and Yield-Related Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.)
    Sethi, M., Saini, D.K., Devi, V., Singh, A., Chaudhary, D.P.
    Frontiers in Genetics, 2023, 14, 1343846
    Citations: 1
  • Genetic and Molecular Understanding for the Development of Methionine-Rich Maize: A Holistic Approach
    Devi, V., Bhushan, B., Gupta, M., Rakshit, S., Chaudhary, D.P.
    Frontiers in Plant Science, 2023, 14, 1249230
    Citations: 1
  • Unraveling the Genetic Framework Associated with Grain Quality and Yield-Related Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.)
    Sethi, M., Saini, D.K., Devi, V., Singh, A., Chaudhary, D.P.
    Frontiers in Genetics, 2023, 14, 1248697
    Citations: 2
  • A Rapid Single Kernel Screening Method for Preliminary Estimation of Amylose in Maize
    Dhir, A., Kaur, C., Devi, V., Rakshit, S., Chaudhary, D.P.
    Food Analytical Methods, 2022, 15(8), pp. 2163–2171
    Citations: 5
  • Optimization of Protein Quality Assay in Normal, Opaque-2, and Quality Protein Maize
    Kaur, C., Singh, A., Sethi, M., Bhushan, B., Rakshit, S.
    Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2022, 6, 743019
    Citations: 6