Ms. Shreya  Chauhan | Forest Ecosystem Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Himachal Pradesh, India, 173230 

Author Profile

• Scopus Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Shreya Chauhan embarked on her academic journey with a profound interest in plant-microbe interactions and forest ecology. Her early research focused on the symbiotic relationships between actinobacteria and actinorhizal plants, particularly Elaeagnus umbellata (autumn olive). This foundational work laid the groundwork for her future explorations into sustainable agroforestry practices and microbial ecology.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Chauhan’s professional career is marked by a series of significant research projects and collaborations:

• Microbial Resource Contribution: She successfully deposited the Nocardia vinacea strain EUNA at the National Centre for Microbial Resource in Pune, Maharashtra, India, which was allocated accession number MCC 4701. This contribution enriches the microbial repositories available for research and application.

• Agroforestry Optimization: Her research includes optimizing tree spacing and nutrient management for marigold cultivation under Mangifera indica-based agroforestry systems in the submontane low hill zones of the Western Himalayas. This work aims to enhance crop yields and sustainable land use practices.

• Biodiversity Assessments: Dr. Chauhan has conducted extensive studies on the ecotype diversity of Elaeagnus umbellata in Himachal Pradesh, contributing valuable insights into the genetic variability and adaptability of this species in different ecological niches.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Chauhan’s research is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach that integrates microbiology, ecology, and agroforestry:

• Actinobacteria and Plant Growth: She has explored the effects of nitrogen-fixing non-Frankia actinomycete inoculums on the growth and nodulation of Elaeagnus umbellata, demonstrating the potential of these microbes in enhancing plant health and soil fertility.

• Fruit Morphological Diversity: Her studies on Myrica esculenta have provided insights into the population characterization and fruit morphological diversity, which are crucial for conservation and utilization strategies.

• Seed Germination and Seedling Growth: Dr. Chauhan has investigated the variation in fruit characteristics, seed germination, and seedling growth of Diospyros montana in Himachal Pradesh, contributing to the understanding of species propagation and forest regeneration.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Chauhan’s contributions have been recognized through several awards:ResearchGate+1indianecologicalsociety.com+1

• Best Oral Presentation Award: She received this award at the NAU-IES-IUFRO Conference on “Tree-Based Diversified Landuse Systems Augmenting Livelihood Security and Industrial Growth,” highlighting her excellence in research communication.

• Best Oral Presentation Award: Another accolade was awarded at the Indian Ecological Society International Conference on “Transforming Agrifood Systems in the Face of Climate Changes and Energy Transitions,” acknowledging her impactful research in agroecology.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Chauhan’s work has significantly influenced sustainable forestry and agroforestry practices:naac.mituniversity.ac.in+1Bhumipublishing+1

• Enhancing Livelihoods: By optimizing agroforestry systems, her research supports the development of sustainable land-use practices that can improve the livelihoods of communities in the Western Himalayas.

• Conservation Efforts: Her biodiversity assessments contribute to the conservation of native species and the maintenance of ecological balance in forest ecosystems.

• Soil Health and Fertility: Through the study of beneficial microbes, Dr. Chauhan’s work promotes soil health, which is fundamental for sustainable agriculture and forestry.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Chauhan aims to continue her interdisciplinary research, focusing on:

• Climate Resilience: Developing agroforestry models that enhance resilience to climate change, ensuring food security and environmental sustainability.

• Microbial Innovations: Exploring novel microbial strains for their potential in improving plant growth and soil health, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

• Educational Outreach: Engaging in capacity-building initiatives to disseminate knowledge and practices derived from her research to farmers, students, and policymakers.