Arun Kumar | Horticulture | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Arun Kumar | Horticulture | Young Scientist Award

Lovely Professional University | India

Arun Kumar is a motivated PhD Scholar in Horticulture (Fruit Science) with a strong academic foundation in agriculture, having completed B.Sc. (Hons) Agriculture from Maharishi Markandeshwar University and M.Sc. Horticulture (Fruit Science) from Lovely Professional University, where he is currently pursuing doctoral research. His scholarly contributions include multiple research and review publications in reputed journals, book chapters with international publishers, and editorial work on academic books in horticultural sciences. He has authored patents focusing on eco-friendly and sustainable agricultural innovations and holds copyrights on advanced coating technologies for fruits. His research interests encompass postharvest management, precision horticulture, nanotechnology applications in fruit science, AI-based yield estimation, and sustainable agricultural practices. Arun Kumar has actively participated in national and international conferences, specialized training programs, and MOOCs on artificial intelligence in agriculture, climate-smart technologies, and agricultural extension. His academic record reflects impactful publications with significant citation counts, numerous indexed documents, and a growing h-index that underlines his scientific relevance. He has been recognized with awards such as the Best Researcher Award and Emerging Scientist Award, highlighting his dedication and innovation in horticultural sciences. With a blend of research excellence, innovative thinking, and passion for sustainable agriculture, he is committed to advancing horticultural research for global food security and sustainability.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

“Enhancing fruit quality and extending shelf life of Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk.) with edible coatings”

“Exploring the impact of Agrovoltaics on horticultural crop yields and environmental stress mitigation: A comprehensive review”

“Generative AI in innovative and eco-friendly packaging solutions”

“Nanoemulsion Coatings with Encapsulating Clove Essential Oil for Shelf-Life Enhancement of Guava”

“Comparison of different models for the estimation of genetic parameters of wool traits in intercross sheep”

Suryakanta Khandai | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Suryakanta Khandai | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

International Rice Research Institute | India

Dr. Suryakanta Khandai is a Senior Associate Scientist at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), South Asia Regional Centre, specializing in mechanization and postharvest research with over a decade of professional experience in agricultural engineering. He holds a Ph.D. in Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, preceded by M.Tech. and B.Tech. degrees in Agricultural Engineering, and has significantly contributed to sustainable intensification, mechanization strategies, and postharvest technology innovations. His research interests include farm mechanization, residue management, climate-smart agriculture, postharvest systems, and value-chain development. He has authored more than 35 research papers, several books, book chapters, and training modules, with over 650 citations, an H-index of 6, and an i10-index of 3, reflecting his scholarly impact. Dr. Khandai has been instrumental in developing farm implements, IT-based tools, and business models such as Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs) that enhance farmer access to mechanization. He has collaborated in projects supported by World Bank, USAID, and ICAR, strengthening agricultural productivity and farmer resilience across South Asia. His contributions have been recognized with the Scientist of the Year Award and Young Scientist Award. He remains committed to advancing sustainable agricultural transformation through innovative mechanization and postharvest solutions.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publication

“A critical review on rice cultivation and mechanization level in Indian perspective”