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Directorate of Research
Directorate of Research is responsible for guiding, coordinating and implementing research activities and caters extensively to the farming community of the State and Nation in synchrony with other Directorates and Institutes/Colleges of the University. Additionally, this Directorate is also responsible for formulating research policies of the University and research co-ordination with other Universities, National & International research centers and various funding agencies. The area under its jurisdiction comprises of seven districts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Led by award winning scientists and academicians, every Institute/College/School and Department is striving towards academic and research excellence. The teaching and research faculty of the University are trained in specialized areas of Agriculture, Sciences and Technology and are involved in both basic and applied research in their respective discipline.

Several National and International Research Institutions /MNCs have shown their interest in SHUATS for conducting researches in area’s of mutual interest. Many research projects have been sanctioned from different funding agencies like ICAR, CSIR, ICFRE, DBT, DST, NOVOD Board, Ministry of Rural Development/Agriculture, ISRO, UPCST and UPCAR etc. The significant research achievements of the university in the year 2018-19 is herewith summarized as following:

Crop Breeding for Food Security at SHUATS, Prayagraj:
Genetic improvement work of major food crops is an important ongoing program of the university, which has contributed to the food security programme of the state and country. The glimpses of breeding efforts are summarized here as under:

Notified Crop Varieties of SHUATS
S. No. Crop Variety Details of Notification Adaptability Characteristics
1. Wheat AAIW6 Gazette No. GoI
/VAISAKHA 5, 1936
dated April, 25, 2014)
Irrigated timely and late sown condition Maturity 115–120 days, high temperature tolerant (35-400C), yield potential- under timely sown conditions (45-50 q/ha) and under late
sown conditions (36-40 q/ha)
2. Rice SHIATS
Dhan-1
Gazette No. GoI/MAGHA 5, 1935
dated January, 25,
2014)
Rice-Wheat cropping systems Maturity-128 days yield potential is
4.4-6.5 t/ha
3. Rice SHIATS
Dhan-2
Gazette                  No.
GoI/ASHADHA        9,
1938 dated June, 30,
2016)
Rice-Wheat cropping systems Maturity- 130-132 days yield potential-
5.0-5.5 t/ha
4. Rice SHIATS
Dhan-3
Gazette                  No.
GoI/ASHADHA        9,
1938 dated June, 30,
2016)
Rice-Wheat cropping systems Maturity- 130-138 days yield potential 6.0-6.5 t/ha and iron 4.8 mg/100g of rice (normal 0.8mg/100)
5. Rice SHIATS
Dhan-4
Gazette No. GoI/ASHADHA 9,
1938 dated June, 30,
2016)
Rice-Wheat cropping systems Yield potential 5.5-5.8 t/ha, 130-135 days maturity, HRR (65%)
6. Rice SHIATS
Dhan-5
Gazette                  No.
GoI/ASHADHA        9,
1938 dated June, 30,
2016)
Rice-Wheat cropping systems Yield potential 3.8-4.0 t/ha, long slender fine grains, matures in 120- 125 days, HRR (63.50%)
7. Maize SHIATS
Makka-3
Gazette                  No.
GoI/ASHADHA        9,
1938 dated June, 30,
2016)
Rabi,             dual
purpose      (grain and fodder)
Yield potential 35-40 q/ha, stay green habit and two cobs/plant
8. Wheat AAIW9 Recommended for Notification on 5th November,         2018
(Ref.      No.      F/211 Shastri  Bhawan New
Delhi)
Irrigated          late sown condition Maturity 110 – 115 days yield
potential 36-40 q/ha
9. Wheat AAIW10 Recommended for Notification on 5th November,         2018
(Ref.      No.      F/211 Shastri  Bhawan New
Delhi)
Irrigated      timely sown condition Maturity 115-120 days with potential yield of 45-50 q/ha


Released Crop Varieties of SHUATS
S. No. Crop Variety Details of Release Adaptability Characteristics
1. Wheat AAI- W4 SVRC, Govt. of U.P. (Vide Letter       No.      PS/Krishi Anubhag-2/3838/12-2- 2014-S11/93 dated17.12.
2014)
Irrigated     timely sown condition Maturity 120–125 days, high temperature tolerant (33-350C), yield potential of 45-50 q/ha.
2. Wheat AAI- W8 SVRC, Govt. of U.P. (Vide Letter No. PS/Krishi Anubhag-2/3838/12-2- 2014-S11/93 dated17.12.
2014
Irrigated     timely sown condition Maturity 115–120 days, high temperature tolerant (35 - 400C) yield potential- under timely sown conditions
(45-50 q/ha) and under late sown conditions (38-40 q/ha).
3. Wheat AAI- W13 SVRC, Govt. of  U.P. (Vide Letter No. SF/498T/25T/SVRC/2017- 18 dated23.05.2018 Irrigated     timely sown condition Maturity 115-120 days potential of 45-50 q/ha with yield
4. Wheat AAI- W7 SVRC, Govt. of  U.P. (Vide Letter No. PS/Krishi Anubhag-2/3838/12-2- 2014-S11/93 dated17.12.
2014)
Irrigated         late sown condition Maturity 105–110 days, yield potential
36-40 q/ha
5. Maize SHIATS
Makka-2
SVRC, Govt. of  U.P. (Vide                  Letter          No.
SF/498T/25T/SVRC/2017- 18 dated 23.05.2018
Dual purpose (grain and fodder)
Yield potential 35-40 q/ha starch content 81.0 %. , stay green habit
6. Linseed SHUATS
Alsi-2
SVRC, Govt. of U.P. dated 06.10.2018 Irrigated      late sown condition Maturity 123-125 days, yield potential –
16-18 q/ha


Identified Crop Varieties of SHUATS
S. No. Crop Variety Details of
Identification
Adaptability Characteristics
1. Linseed SHUATS Alsi-4 Identified
dated 25.09.2018
Irrigated late sown condition Maturity 125-128 days, yield potential of 14-15 q/ha
2. Wheat AAI- W15 Identified
dated 25.09.2018
Rainfed condition Maturity 105-110 days, yield Potential 20-22 q/ha
3. Wheat AAI- W21 Identified
dated 25.09.2018
Rainfed condition Life saving Irrigation (1) and
maturity (110-115 days) yield Potential 21-24 q/ha
4. Moong SHUATS Moong 12-1 Identified
dated 28.12.2015
Summer (Zaid) Maturity         75-80 days, yield
potential      10-12     q/ha,     YMV resistance
5. Chickpea SHUATS Chickpea 12-1 Identified
dated 28.08.2015
Late planting Yield     potential      20-22     q/ha,
resistant to wilt resistant, protein 24-25%. maturity 120-125 days


Crop Varieties under Registration process with Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Authority, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India:
1. SHIATS DHAN – 1: has been registered as extant plant variety and that Dr. Suresh B.G. is the true breeder thereof (or the legal representative or assignee of the true breeder) and that SHUATS is entitled to a plant variety right on the said variety, having regard to the provisions of the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmer’s Rights Act, 2001 and that there is no objection to the registration of plant variety in favour of SHUATS.
2. SHIATS DHAN -4 and SHIATS DHAN -5: Application of registration of SHUATS rice varieties has been submitted to PPV &FRA for their registration as extant notified varieties with Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India.

Most significant research outcomes/ contribution (2018-19):
Horticulture:

1. Training and awareness programmes conducted for the project entitled “Evaluation of High Yielding Varieties/Hybrids of Cucurbitaceous Vegetables for River Bed (Diara Land) Cultivation and Standardization of their Agro-Techniques” inspired the marginal and landless farmers to adopt cucurbits cultivation to improve their financial status by selling their produce and nutritional status by consuming it.
2. Through the project entitled “Formulation of Cut Flower Production Technology by Demonstration and Training Programme for SC/ST Population in Allahabad”, 400 farmers got to know about production technology of gladiolus and tuberose who adopted their cultivation due to the higher returns per unit area. Two poly houses were also established in the University under the project
3. Through the project “Refinement of Seed Production Technology of Cucurbitaceous Vegetables Crops and its Demonstration at Farmer’s Field”, farmers became aware of growing cucurbitaceous vegetables for seed production for generating additional income through seed marketing to local farmers.

Agronomy:
Research Working Group on Organic Farming (RWGOF):
In October, 2014 a Research Working Group on Organic Farming (RWGOF) was constituted, which is an InterDisciplinary Think-Tank at SHIATS. The objectives of the RWGOF include: support of research activities relevant to agricultural and rural problems to uplift socio economic status of rural sector; to promote integration of formal and non-formal researching so as to reach the key stakeholders, i.e., farmers for adoption of organic farming system. Besides, the ‘Principles & Practices of Organic Farming’, is part of the course curriculum for both UG 4 Directorate of Research and PG degree programs in the Prayagraj School of Agriculture (accredited by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi).
The SHIATS Model Organic Farm (SMOF) through an integrated farming system is depicting scope of sustainability. Certification of SMOF is being done continually on an annual basis by Lacon Quality Certification (P) Ltd. and the current year’s [7 th Year’s (2015-16)] Certificate [No. ORG/SC/1009/001070] of SHIATS Model Organic Farm is valid till May 2016.
Brainstorming workshop on Family Farming entitled, “Mainstreaming Smallholder Farmers’ Agenda in the Agricultural Education, Research and Extension Systems” was organized during August, 2014 and the proceedings of this event is also being considered for the document for lobbying a policy for strengthening smallholder farmers’ cause

Animal improvement Programme:
Genetic improvement work through selective breeding have been initiated at SHIATS for Gangatiri Cows. Twenty pure bred cows and two bullocks have been procured from Government Dairy Farm, Varanasi. The milk quantity & quality and lactation period are being recorded for further improvement.

Agricultural Engineering:
Activities:
1. Study of crops, cropping patterns and cultural practices in the region to assess the level of mechanization, identification of mechanization gaps and specific requirements for farm implements and machinery.
2. Identification of available designs of farm implements and machinery in consultation with Project Coordinator and Research Engineers of other Centres for adoption on the basis of identified mechanization gaps.
3. Procurement of identified equipment from other Centres including commercial designs from other regions and conduct their feasibility trials under Prototype Feasibility Testing (PFT) on farmers field. 4. Interaction with leading R&D Centres for design refinement of farm implements and machinery based on feedback from feasibility testing.
5. Popularization of farm implements under Front Line Demonstration (FLD) and machinery found successful under feasibility trials.
  Investigations under Prototype Feasibility Testing (PFT)
Under feasibility testing Air assisted boom sprayer, Happy seeder, Paddy drum seeder, Cutter bar type forage harvester (BCS) were tested for their feasibility at farmers’ field in Prayagraj region. Farmers feedback also were recorded. The feasibility trials are still continuing.
  Investigations under Front Line Demonstration (FLD)
Under front line demonstration Aero blast sprayer, Self-propelled tangential axial flow Combine Harvester, Straw Combine (CIAE design), Potato digger-cum-elevator, Laser land leveler, Inclined plate planter, Cutter bar type forage harvester (BCS), Horticultural tools were demonstrated to the farmers at their field in Prayagraj region

Machinery commercialized/popularized:
1. Self-propelled Combine Harvester (For paddy and wheat)
2. Straw Combine (To retrieve straw for cattle from combine harvested wheat field and avoid burning of crop residue in field)
3. Potato digger cum elevator
4. Horticultural tools (improved tools)
5. Farmers have procured their personal units of the above mentioned machinery and using them on their field and also in other’s farm on custom hiring basis.

Technology and Machinery Demonstration Mela, 2019: A technology demonstration exhibition was organized on 15th February, 2019 at SHUATS campus to demonstrate modern farm machinery and technology to farmers.
1. High capacity multi crop thresher
2. Tractor drawn Vertical conveying reaper
3. Semi-automatic potato planter
4. Zero-till seed drill
5. Wheel hand hoe
6. Horticulture hand tools
7. Potato digger cum elevator

Animal Energy Technology Developed, Popularized & Adopted:
1. Standardization of draft ability of bullocks. Recommended that Haryana and Local breed bullock can safely work upto 12% draft load.
2. Developed and recommended work Rest cycle for bullocks to enhance their efficiency.
3. Standardized draft ability of mules.
4. Recommended work rest cycle for mules to enhance their output.
5. More than 300 units of designed and developed Allahabad yoke have been sold to farmers.
6. The Rotary mode unit developed at this centre has been installed in villages for post-harvest work.
7. Developed implements for use with the mules by the centre for agricultural operations.

Forestry:
1. Developed low cost and innovative technologies through advance research programmes in the field of Medicinal and aromatic plants of Rauvolfia serpentina (Sarpagandha), Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Chlorophytum uberosun (Safed musli), Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh), Gymnema sylvestris (Gudmar), Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi), Aloe vera (Ghritkumari) for propagation.
2. The propagation and cultivation technique on tree borne oilseed Jatropha curcas has been standardized.
3. Large scale production of quality Jatropha curcas seedlings, methods of macro propagation, comparative study of Jatropha curcas seeds collected from different states, screening of high yielding varieties and to study the productivity patterns of Jatropha curcas in different agroforestry models has been standardized.
4. The FASAL project for forecasting of agricultural production for different crops like rice, wheat, mustard, potato has been provided to Ministry of Earth Science, Government of India for estimation of crop yield production in India.
5. The Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa, Agro-meteorological Advisory Serves (AAS) for providing regular meteorological information regarding weather forecast to farmers for protection of their crops.

Home Science:
1. Micronutrient rich products were prepared by incorporating indigenous foods namely spinach (Spinacia oleracea), Fenugreek leaves (Trigonella foenumgraecum), dill leaves (Anethum graveolens) Pearl millet, (Pennisetum glaucum) Maize, (Zea Mays) and Chickpea (Cicer arietinum). Four food products i.e., Khichdi, Paushtik paratha, Ladoo, Mathari were prepared. Children were provided with these micronutrient rich ladoo as a supplement for the period of six months. At the end of the study it was observed that there was a significant rise in hemoglobin level in experimental group. Rural women are unaware about the various health risks and micronutrient deficiencies disorders prevalent among them. They also do not know about nutritionally importance of indigenous foods to combat with these deficiencies and health risks.
2. Apart from this low Glycemic Index (G.I.) Herbal Foods (Noodles, Bread,Chapati,Pizza Base) for Diabetics, low cost nutritious weaning foods ,low fat and calcium rich foods (Bread, Chappati, Phara, Missi Roti Idli, Dalia) protein rich snacks, Antioxidant Rich Beverages (Pineapple Juice), micronutrients rich food products (Biscutis, Laddo, Shakarpara, Sev, Chakli, and Thekava), malted extruded food products (Namkeen Sev, Chakli, Seviyan and Kachri), Value Added Products (Cookies, Muffins, and Idli), Iron rich Nutri flour based products (Laddoo, mathri, cookies and khakhra) and Antioxidant Rich products (Nutriprash and Nutrimasala candy)were also developed to enhance the nutritional status of the population.
3. A woman friendly adjustable Wheel Hoe Weeder and a revolving Peedi for weeding of rose flowers have been developed under DST funded project on “Ergonomic Assessment of Farm Tools and Machineries used by Farm Women for Intensive and Viable Agriculture” The same Pedi has also found very useful by the women for wheat harvesting.
4. In the Project titled ‘Household Food Insecurity, Food Practices and Health Risks among Indian Women’ in small pilot studies on iron deficiency anaemia and Health and Hygiene practices during menstruation were completed among rural women aged between 18-25 years in Prayagraj District. The research outcomes 6 Directorate of Research were summarized as, prevalence of anaemia among woman population was very high (70%). The high prevalence of anaemia may be due to the poor nutritional status of the women as most of the anaemic respondents were underweight (58.33%). The data revealed that there is a close and positive relation between the nutritional status and deficiency disorders like anaemia. Around 90% respondents were not aware about menstruation prior to the Menarche and overall 96% rural women used old cloths as menstrual absorbent while 8% respondents re-use the menstrual absorbent. Almost 74% participants choose roadside burning or disposal for the absorbent.
5. A Project titled ‘Strategic approaches for value addition and promotion of underutilized vegetable crops for combating iron deficiency in Prayagraj district’ came out with the findings that nutritional status of 200 women living below poverty line were selected randomly from Budava, Khatangiya, Bagbana and Dabhaon villages of Trans Yamuna area of Prayagraj. On the basis of the study it was found that among all respondents of selected villages of Prayagraj, 26 percent were underweight, prevalence rate of anemia, among the selected respondents was found 64.5 percent, average nutrient intake of the respondent found to be more in calcium, fat and vitamin C than the recommended RDA, whereas, energy, protein, iron and vitamin A were found to be less than recommended RDA.
6. Fibers were extracted from Banana plant (Musa paradisiaca) stem using two methods ie., hand scrapping and mechanical extraction using fibers separator machine called “Raspador. Physical and chemical properties of extracted fibers were examined and analyzed. Various products for textiles and non-textiles application such as flowers, handbag, badge, table mat, scroll wall hanging, flower vase were also prepared from extracted fibers.
7. Various sources of plants including Mikania micrantha, Yongchak (Perkia roxburgii) and Khe-U (Melanohorrea usitata) were used for the extraction of natural dyes for colouration of textiles. Recipes for each dye were standardized by optimizing various dyeing variables for dyeing of silk fabrics. Colour fastness of dyed fabrics were examined and shade cards were developed using various natural and synthetic mordents. Value added products were prepared using standardized recipes.
8. Functional garments with self-help features were developed for physically challenged children. Garments were given to the children for wear trials and all the developed garments were highly appreciated by the parents and caretakers.
9. Weeding of rose fields was very tedious and drudgery prone exerting more pressure on thighs, ankles knees, back and shoulders. Designing of new tools and Devices was done by developing Wheel hoe weeder and revolving peedhi to reduce the drudgery of rose weeding activity.
10. The Intervention package (Booklet on adolescence, HIV/AIDS, Family planning methods, reproductive health and folder on puberty changes in girls and boys) developed to improve adolescent girls’ knowledge, practices and behavior regarding reproductive health in two different cultural settings i.e. Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya.
11. ICT material (video) was developed on Vermi composting, Goods and Services Tax (GST), Bee-Keeping Techniques and Mushroom Cultivation by the students of department of Extension Education and Communication Management. The effectiveness of the videos has been assessed by the staff, students and farmers. These videos are a major aid that can help the target group by providing necessary information about the vermicomposting, Goods and Services Tax (GST), bee keeping technique and mushroom cultivation.

Food and Dairy Technology:
1. Food contributing significantly in addressing health elements and reducing risk of diseases. In this direction a technology was developed for producing rasgulla from buffalo milk Channa. Fortification with non-Dairy ingredients like cereals, Flavoured milk and drinks and Fruit flavoured Dahi have been developed to increase the palatability of milk and milk products and to enhance its nutritional value. The following products were successfully developed.
2. Herbal ghee, Probiotic Dahi, Ice cream, Low fat low calories sugar free products, Low cholesterol food, Filled milk products and Herbal Paneer

Molecular Biology and Cellular Engineering:
1. The Department of Molecular and Cellular Engineering has organized two International Conferences. The University co-organized the first World Congress with international collaboration with University of Missouri, USA on Green Nanotechnology and Sustainable Agriculture. The second International Conference was on Advancing Frontiers in Biotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture and Health.
2. The “Green Nanotechnology and Agri-Nanotechnology Lab” coordinated by Dr. Jishnu Naskar, Associate Professor, has been continuously working towards improving health care and pharmaceuticals products through Nanotechnology to ensure better living of the people and of the society. Novel nano-medicine formulations have been prepared which can be used to increase the shelf-life, shelf- stability and high carrier capacity of the drug. Completely “green” methods have been employed to make nano-formulations which are environment friendly, biocompatible and cost effective. Dr. J. Naskar and his research group are using nanotechnology to extract proteins, phytochemicals and antioxidants which have medicinal value.
3. NCBI has accorded Accession Numbers to five by r RNA genes of different Bacillus strains, screened at SHUATS Laboratory.

Microbiology and Fermentation Technology:
1. Novel antimicrobial compounds from medicinal plants with potent antimicrobial activity against multidrug resistant bacterial pathogens were isolated, identified and characterized.
2. As a part of MoU signed with an ayurvedic industry, conditions for improved ethanolic production of ayurvedic products (Panchasav, Saptarishta and Dashalmulkwath) successfully optimized.
3. Novel fungal plant pathogenic species isolated from soil deposited in the department culture repository.

Biochemistry and Biochemical Engineering:
1. Salmonella typhimurium (ppia, ppib and epic) gene deleted strain were found to be highly sensitive to heat and oxidative stress and macrophage survival.
2. Purified and characterized enzymes viz. amylase, cellulase, lipase and phytase for their industrial applications.
3. Selected medicinal plants were screened for pharmcotherapeutic molecules in management of debilitating diseases like diabetes, arthritis and cancer in animal models.
4. To study was conducted on complex biochemical mechanisms of oxidative stress in plants purified and characterized superoxide dismutase and catalase.

Computational Biology and Bioinformatics:
1. Drug targets and paralogous enzymes in were identified in Streptococcus pyogenes SF370 through pathway analysis. DNA polymerase III subunit beta and dihydropteroate synthase are novel drug targets and thus can be used to design potential inhibitors against S. pyogenes infection. 3-D structure of dihydropteroate synthase was modelled and validated, that can be used for virtual screening and interaction study of potential inhibitors with the target enzyme.
2. Comparative analysis of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase in plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) was performed. The sequence and phylogenetic analysis of ACCD producing PGPR species represents the common conserved domain belonging to the tryptophan synthase beta subunit-like PLP-dependent enzymes superfamily and closely related to each other. This analysis represents the evolutionary conservation and same biochemical function of ACCD producing plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria
3. Developed one databases: Malaria DB: www.e-bioinformatics.net/db/malariadb.

Biological Sciences:
1. Isolation and characterization of six Alternaria solani from early blight diseased tomato leaves
2. Identification of some PGPR strains to potentially control early blight of tomato in eco-friendly way
3. Successful Rehabilitation of waste land in Meja Tehsil of Prayagraj district through Pangamia pinnata plantation
4. Application of ZnO nanoparticles for improving the thermal stability of crude cellulase obtained from Aspergillus fumigatus AA001 Cellulases are the enzyme responsible for the hydrolysis of cellulosic biomass. In this study thermal and pH stability of crude cellulase has been investigated in the presence of ZnO nanoparticles. We synthesized zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle by sol-gel method and characterized through various techniques including, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible spectroscope (UV-Vis), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and high resolution scanning electron microscope (HR-TEM). The crude thermo-stable cellulase has been obtained from the Aspergillus fumigatus AA001 and treated with ZnO nanoparticle which shows thermal stability at 65oC up to 10 h. These findings may be promising in the area of biofuels production.

Forensic Science:
1. Developed regression equation for determination of stature of Sikh males by footprint measurement.
2. Developed new solvent system for separation of seminal proteins.
3. Developed technique for detection of alteration in digital images.
4. Developed protocol for extraction & identification of diatoms from cloth of drowned victims for site characterization.
5. Developed classifying features of Footprints for individualization of new born babies.

Computer Science & Information Technology:
1. Developed Smart Home Solution for Dementia Effected Elderly Population
2. Domain based Opinion Lexicon Generation for Sentiment Analysis of the Academic Resources
3. Greaves: A Smart Houseplant Watering and Monitoring System, developed at SHIATS.

Patent by Center for Transgenic Studies:
Title: A Process to Express Fully Glycosylated Recombinant Glycoproteins from CHO-KI cells
Patent Number: 288169 dated 09.10.2017
Application Number: 996/DEL/2010
The patent has been granted for the term of 20 years from the 26.04.2010 in accordance with the provision of the Patent Act, 1970.

Farmers Varieties Registration
A sincere efforts has been made to fill the farmers facilities application form of their verities collected. For there registration with PPV & FRA as under section 39 (1) iii all together 200 varieties have been identified and are being multiplied in the form of a ‘Crop Diversity Garden’ at SHUATS, Prayagraj in Kharif, 2017 for increasing the seed and depositing, it to the PPV & FRA. Complete filled application forms of 200 farmers varieties have been sent to the office of Registrar General, PPV & FRA, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare for their registration as farmers varieties.

Establishment of Gangapar Community Seed Bank
Many farmers of Vindhyan zone are still grows their traditional varieties. Some of the farmers have developed their own millet and vegetable varieties through long selection process spanning many generations and they have no idea about the registration of their developed varieties. Therefore, an urgent need was felt to systematically document, index, catalogue and conserve these traditional farmers varieties as well as their registration to PPV & FRA.

Keeping the above facts in mind and to put in place farmer varieties and land races under one roof for its better scientific management, its in-house utilization by farmers, researchers and scientists in the state of Uttar Pradesh and to maintain/conserve the germplasm diversity of the same in its native state and to assess, quantify, characterize the genetic diversity of the farmers varieties, their registration with PPV FRA, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India, Under the guidance of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences (SHUATS) Prayagraj a “Gangapar Community Seed Bank” has been established in Village Ramaipur, Block Bahadurpur, District Prayagraj in the residence of Mr. Umesh Patel, a progressive farmer.

It is to be remembered that SHUATS, Prayagraj in its 107 years history has innovated and invented many agricultural technologies, high yielding seeds/varieties and imparted knowledge to farming community. Under the guidance and stewardship of Most. Rev. Prof. Rajendra B. Lal, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor this university has attained new heights. In this direction Gangapar Community Seed Bank is a commendable achievement.

Crop Diversity Exhibition organized at SHUATS, Prayagraj
Under the sponsorship of Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers Right Authority (PPV &FRA), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India a research project on collection, documentation and conservation of traditional farmers’ varieties is being run at SHUATS, Prayagraj. To showcase the traditional farmers’ varieties and demonstrate the available crop genetic diversity a ‘Crop Diversity Exhibition’ was jointly organized by Directorate of Research, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding and Department of Horticulture on September, 15, 2017 at SHUATS, Prayagraj. A Poster / Model Competition was also organized to encourage research scholars and farmers, who participated through exhibition of poster, live model, paintings, banners, live crop exhibits etc. This exhibition was inaugurated by Dr. R.C. Agarwal, Registrar General, PPV & FRA Authority, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. Dr. Shailesh Marker, Director Research, SHUATS informed that, under the guidance of Most. Rev. Prof. Rajendra B. Lal, Vice-Chancellor, SHUATS more than 400 traditional/desi farmers varieties have been collected and preserved in ‘University Seed Bank’.

Research Publications of SHUATS published in Peer Reviewed National and International Journals (2017 & 2018):
S. No. Name of the College/Faculty Total Number of Research Publications in the
year 2017
Total Number of Research Publications in the
year 2018
Total of 2 Years
1. Naini Agricultural Institute 271 228 499
2. College of Forestry 48 57 105
3. Ethelind College of Home Science 41 54 95
4. Vaugh Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Technology 36 22 58
5. Warner College of Dairy Technology 24 21 45
6. Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering 102 85 187
7. Shepherd Institute of Engineering & Technology 108 90 198
8. Faculty of Science 68 87 155
9. Joseph Institute of Business Studies 20 18 38
10. Chitambar School of Humanities & Social Sciences 05 05 10
11. Shalom Institute of Health & Allied Sciences 75 80 155
12. Faculty of Theology 11 02 13
13. College of Education 10 11 21
Total 819 760 1579


Details of Ph.D. Awarded at SHUATS:
Following scholars successfully completed their Ph.D. degree from SHUATS.
S. No. Name of Institute No. of Ph.D. Awarded
1. Naini Agricultural Institute 39
2. College of Forestry 07
3. Ethelind College of Home Science 05
4. Vaugh Institute of Agricultural Engineering & Technology 16
5. Warner College of Food Technology 15
6. Jacob Institute of Biotechnology & Bioengineering 25
7. Shepherd Institute of Engineering & Technology 20
8. Faculty of Science 13
9. Joseph Institute of Business Studies 09
10. Gospel & Plough Institute of Theology 01
11. College of Education 06
12. Chitambar School of Humanities & Social Sciences 06
13. Shalom Institute of Health & Allied Sciences 07
Total 169


Research Fellowships availed by PG and PhD Scholars of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Prayagraj:
S. No. Name of Funding agency No. of Fellowships Granted
1. ICAR JRF-SRF Research Fellowship 97
2. DST JRF-SRF Research Fellowship 19
3. Maulana Azad National JRF-SRF Research Fellowship 14
4. Rajiv Gandhi National JRF-SRF Research Fellowship 26
5. UGC JRF-SRF Research Fellowship 78
6. Other JRF-SRF Research Fellowship 10
7. Ad-hoc Project Fellowships 18
  Total 262


On-going Research Projects of SHUATS:
Presently 45 research projects are running in the university, summary of which are as follows:
S. No. Funding Agencies No.
1.  ICAR, New Delhi 01
2. DST, New Delhi 03
3. DBT, New Delhi 01
4. ICFRE, Dehradun 01
5.  ISRO, Hyderabad 01
6. India Meteorological Dept., Govt. of India, New Delhi 02
7. UPCAR, Lucknow 01
8. UPCST, Lucknow 05
9. PPV&FRA, New Delhi 01
10. Science & Engineering Research Board, New Delhi 01
11. ATARI, Kanpur 01
12. State Govt. Project 01
13. University Research Program 02
14. Short term ad-hoc trials
a) AICRP Funded Research Trials
07
15. Research Trials
a)Government
b) Corporate
06 04
16. Corporate Partnerships 03
17. Government Schemes 01
     
  Total 42
     


In-house Research Projects (IPRs)
1. IRPs will be formulated through consultative process. Preliminary proposals giving brief information on concept, idea, proposed activity etc., may also be submitted to Directorate of Research. These preliminary proposals could be further refined through mutual discussions, expert advice etc.
2. IRPs, of three to five years duration may be prepared, focusing thrust area of research defined by State and Nation.
3. IRPs will be cleared by the Directorate of Research only on the basis of merit and defined need of the State and the Nation.
4. IRPs will be developed by the Research Teams of the faculty members of the Department as per the format of UGC, DST, DBT, CSIR, ICAR, ICFRE, PCI, DNES, STARD, INSA, NAAS, AICTE etc.
5. The IRPs will be headed by a Principal Investigator and Co-Principal Investigators will be appointed by Head of the Department (as per seniority and relevant experience).

List of Sanctioned In-house Research Project (2018)
S. No. Name of the College/Institute/School/Faculty No. of In-house Research Projects
1. Naini Agricultural Institute 05
2. College of Forestry 06
3. Ethelind College of Home Science 06
4. Warner College of Dairy Technology 03
5. Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering 06
6. Shepherd Institute of Engineering & Technology 14
7. Faculty of Science 12
8. Joseph Institute of Business Studies 01
9. School of Film & Mass Communication 02
10. Chitambar School of Humanities & Social Sciences 05
11. Gospel and Plough Institute of Theology 02
12. Shalom Institute of Health & Allied Sciences 03
  Total 65


Research Advisory Committee Meeting:
By the grace of ‘Lord Almighty’ and blessings of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, 3rd Research advisory Committee Meeting of SHUATS held on August, 9, 2017. In which, Dr. Shailesh Marker, Director Research presented the significant research outcomes/technologies developed/innovations, applicable for patent filing etc. In addition, changing climatic scenario, sustainability issues, emerging challenges of farming community and their realignment with our research priorities & priorities of funding agencies were also discussed. Valuable inputs and vision from scientific fraternity received through this meeting has been noted. He also gave details about Ph.D. completed, Fellowships availed by the scholars, research publications published by the faculty members in various peer reviewed scientific journals, future thrust areas and research priorities of the University.

Annual Review Meeting of Research Projects of SHUATS:
Director Research along with Director, IPC and Deans reviewed the physical and financial progress of various on-going research projects of SHUATS on 19th and 20th February, 2018. Wherein, Principal Investigators (P.I) and scientist in-charge presented details of their respective projects through PPT.

Memorandum of Understanding (National)
Directorate of Research has signed 44 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with various National Institutions/ Universities/Research organization in order to strengthen the research activities of the university.

Awards and Honors received by Faculty members of SHUATS:
1. Prof. P. W. Ramteke has been facilitated by Fellow Award of National Environmental Science Academy.
2. Prof. (Dr.) Suresh Babu Guttala, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding was honoured with Dr. Dhu MauryaVishisht Krishi Vaigyanik Puraskar for his contribution to crop improvement of Rice. He has developed high yielding rice varieties, which has been notified by Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India.
3. Prof. (Dr.) Shailesh Marker, Director Research, SHUATS, Prayagraj has been honoured with Prof. M.S. Swaminathan Award for his contribution in the area of crop improvement by Society for Plant Research, Meerut
4. Prof. (Dr.) Shailesh Marker, Director Research, SHUATS, Prayagraj has been honoured with Dr. Akhtar Hussain Vishisht Krishi Vaigyanik Puraskar for his contribution in the area of Agriculture and Allied Subjects. He has developed high yielding Maize and Linseed varieties, of which Maize varieties has been Notified by Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India.
5. Prof. (Dr.) Mohd. Imtiyaz, Chairman, DIET, SHUATS, received Fellow Awards in the field of Agricultural Engineering and Technology respectively by Uttar Pradesh Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lucknow.
6. Prof. Pramod W. Ramteke, was elected FELLOW of International Society for Environmental Botanists – 2018.
7. Dr. Dipak Bose, received fellowship award in International Conference at Banaras Hindu University 2018.
8. Dr. Sameer Daniel, received Innovative Faculty award 2018
9. Dr. Ram Chandra, received Agriculturist Achievement Medal -2018 National Seminar on Sustainability of agriculture in Changing Climate Scenario organized by Department of Botany, University of Allahabad on 21-22 April, 2018.
10. Dr. O. P. Verma, received Certificate of Excellence, Education Expo held at Kolkata by EET CRS Research Wing for Excellence in Professional Education & Industry 23rd July 2017.
11. Dr. Poonam Singh, received Outstanding Achievement Award -2017 by Science & Tech Society for Integrated Rural Improvement, Thorrur, Warangal, Telangana 9-10th September 2017.  Dr. Gurudayal Ram, received Excellence in Teaching Award-2017 by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Technology and Sciences, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir on 12th-13th September, 2017.
12. Dr. P.A. Jain, received Young Teacher Award and Distinguished Achievement Award– 2017 by Science & Tech Society for Integrated Rural Improvement, Thorrur, Warangal, Telangana
13. Dr. S. S. Singh, received Distinguished Service Award-2018 by On the occasion of one week national workshop on “Recent Technologies for Food Security and Rural Development on 19-25 Feb, 2018 at Kulbhaskar Ashram P.G. College, Prayagraj, U.P., under the auspices of Society of Biological Sciences and Rural Development, Prayagraj, U.P.
14. Dr. S. S. Singh received Best Active Teacher Award, 2018, On the occasion of Student Fairwell cultural activity on February, 2018 at Central Canteen Hall, SHUATS, Prayagraj, U.P., under the auspices of Cultural Club, SHUATS, Prayagraj, U.P.
15. Dr. Rekha Rani, received Best paper award-Indian food industry magazine-2018) Paper: Foodomics: A New Analytical Tool at IFCON- 2018, CFTRI-Mysore, Karnataka, Dec-2017, Awarded in 2018 (IFON-2018).
16. Dr Rekha Rani received First oral presentation award-2018, Storage stability of sorghum based smoothie at International Conference on Emerging issues in Agricultural, Environmental and Applied Sciences for sustainable Development (EIAEASSD-2018), 27-29 November, SHUATS, Prayagraj. India.
17. Dr. Amita Verma, received travel grant by European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO), Switzerland present paper in ESMO-ASIA 2017 conference, 17-19 Nov, 2017 in Singapore.
18. Dr. Tarence Thomas, received Mahima Agricultural Excellence Scientist Award -2017, International conference on agricultural, allied sciences and biotechnology for sustainability of agriculture, nutrition and food security held on 25th – 26th November, 2017 at BHU, Varanasi
19. Dr. Amita Verma, received travel grant by American Chemical Society (ACS), USA to present paper in Pittcon Conference, Feb26-March1, Florida, USA.
20. Dr. Vikas Kumar, attended 38th Annual Meeting of the Korean Society of Nephrology, held from 17-20 May 2018 at Seoul, South Korea.

Other Activities:
In addition to this, Director Research represented SHUATS before, Agriculture Production Commissioner, Principal Secretary, Agriculture Education and Research, Director Agriculture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, Additional Commissioner (Crop) Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, Director General, Uttar Pradesh Council of Agricultural Research (UPCAR), Lucknow, Various Nodal Agencies of Indian Council of Agriculture Research, (ICAR), Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), State Varietal Release Committee (SVRC), Task force Committee on behalf of University.

New Research Initiatives of SHUATS:
1. Inclusion of SHUATS varieties in State Seed Rolling Plan of the state
2. Initiation of Vegetable Breeding Program at SHUATS
3. Initiate Research on Water Budgeting
4. Center of Excellence on Small Farm Implements 
5. Nodal Center for Farmers Varieties of Uttar Pradesh
6. Formation of multi-disciplinary research working group that conducts/monitors and make recommendations on the optimal use and management of natural resources.

Prof. (Dr.) Shailesh Marker), Director Research