The agricultural community mourns the loss of Dr. Prashantkumar Patil, Vice Chancellor of Mahatma Phule Agricultural University, Rahuri, who passed away on 29th January after a brief illness in Pune. Known for his dedication to agricultural education and research, his sudden death has deeply saddened the university and the agricultural fraternity. He is survived by his wife and two children.
A Transformational Leader in Agricultural Education
Under Dr. Patil's visionary leadership, Mahatma Phule Agricultural University recently earned an 'A' grade for excellence in education, research, and extension activities. His tenure was marked by progressive reforms, focusing on employee, faculty, and student welfare. Dr. Patil introduced key employee welfare programs, improving job security, career growth, and retirement benefits.
He also implemented policies that made professional life easier for university staff. His leadership significantly boosted research and innovation, driving projects that directly benefited the farming community and advanced agricultural science.
More than three-decades-long illustrious career
Dr. Patil’s 33-year career in agricultural research and education earned him widespread respect for his expertise and dedication. Before becoming Vice Chancellor of Mahatma Phule Agricultural University, he held key positions, including Director at the Central Cotton Research Institute (SIRCOT) in Mumbai and Head of Technology Transfer. He also briefly served as Acting Vice Chancellor at Yashwantrao Chavan Open University, Nashik, showcasing his leadership in academia.
Dr. Patil was a prolific writer and researcher, authoring four books and 199 research papers, along with 14 books on technical education. His pioneering work earned him a patent and made him a key figure in agricultural science and technology. His contributions influenced policy and shaped the future of agricultural education in India.
A Nation in Mourning Over the Loss of an Agricultural Icon.
The news of Dr. Patil's passing has left the agricultural and academic communities in mourning. His mortal remains were brought to Pune Agricultural College at 8:30 AM today for the final rites, where dignitaries, colleagues, students, and well-wishers gathered to pay their respects.
The atmosphere was filled with sorrow as notable figures, including Mr. Tushar Pawar, Vice Chairman of the Maharashtra Agricultural Education and Research Council, and Dr. Satappa Kharbade, In-charge Vice Chancellor of Mahatma Phule Agricultural University, honored his immense contributions to agricultural research and education. Former Vice Chancellors Prof. M.C. Varshney of Anand Agricultural University, Dr. Shankarrao Magar of Kamdhenu University, and Dr. Shankarrao Magar of Konkan Agricultural University also paid tribute.
University officials, including Dr. Vitthal Shirke, Director of Research, Dr. Mahanand Mane, Associate Dean of Pune Agricultural College, and Mr. Vinay Kumar Awate, Director of Agriculture Processing and Planning, joined others in saying their final goodbyes. Dr. Nitin Danvale, University Registrar, Mr. Sadashiv Patil, University Controller, and Mr. Milind Dokhe, University Engineer, also paid their respects.
Grief extended beyond university officials as professors, scientists, officers, employees, and students gathered for Dr. Patil's last rites. The 36th Maharashtra Battalion of the Rashtriya Chhatra Sena paid a ceremonial tribute to the influential scholar in agricultural education and research.
Dr. Prashantkumar Patil’s passing is a great loss to both Mahatma Phule Agricultural University and the agricultural sector. His vision and dedication to advancing research and education will continue to inspire future generations in the field.
