Dr. Sheetal Thapar, Professor of Journalism at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, is the Nodal Officer, Content Operations, in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, and heads the Department of Agricultural Journalism, Languages, and Culture. Beginning her journey at PAU in 1998, she rose to the rank of Professor in 2013. An alumna of St. Bede’s College, Shimla, she holds a Master’s in Journalism from PAU and a PhD from Himachal Pradesh University.

A meritorious scholar throughout her academic life, she earned distinction in Class X, a merit position in Graduation, and an academic roll of honour in Post Graduation. She was named ‘Ambassador of Culture and Goodwill to North Florida’ by Rotary International in 2000 and honoured as a Woman Achiever by the Ludhiana administration in 2025.

With over 27 years of teaching experience, Dr. Thapar has mentored 22 postgraduate research scholars and led an ICSSR-funded project on digital media use among Punjab’s farmers. She has authored eight books, 22 research papers, and numerous popular articles, contributing richly to the field of agricultural journalism.

Her teaching repertoire includes print and online journalism, corporate communication, development communication, media laws, and communication theories. A skilled editor, she has played a pivotal role in enhancing PAU’s publications and nurturing young writers.

Dr. Thapar is a dedicated communicator and educator who actively contributes to agricultural extension and media ethics. Her passion for responsible journalism and commitment to academic excellence continue to shape future media professionals with insight and integrity.