Dr Sandeep Singh, Principal Entomologist (Fruits), Department of Fruit Science, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), has been conferred with the “Excellence in Environmental Research Award” by the Abraham Verghese Insect and Nature (AVIAN) Trust, Bengaluru, India. The award was given by Dr JP Singh, Plant Protection Advisor to Government of India and Dr CA Viraktamath, an Octogenarian Entomologist, on December 14 at Bengaluru, Karnataka, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to developing eco-friendly insect-pest management technologies and rejuvenating historical trees at Gurudwaras across the country.
The award specifically acknowledges Dr Singh’s innovative work in developing IPM modules for insect-pests of fruit crops including the PAU Fruit Fly Trap, Termite Trap, Chaffer Beetle Trap, IPM of litchi fruit borer, guava fruit borer and fruit sucking moth and other pests. Additionally, it highlights his dedicated efforts in the conservation and rejuvenation of centuries-old historical trees at various Gurudwaras in different parts of the country, promoting environmental heritage and biodiversity.
Dr HS Rattanpal, Head, Department of Fruit Science at PAU, congratulated Dr Singh, noting his history of professional achievements, which include previous national and international awards, honours, and fellowships. Dr Singh has also undertaken professional assignments in numerous countries, including the USA, Australia, Italy, China, and several nations in Southeast and South Asia.
Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU; Dr AS Dhatt, Director of Research; Dr RIS Gill, Dean, College of Horticulture and Forestry, and Dr TS Dhillon, Additional Director Extension Education and Communication Centre offered their collective congratulations to Dr Singh for this significant achievement.