ICAR-RCER Scientist Dr. Rakesh Kumar Honoured with Dr. R. C. Gautam Young Agronomist Award 2024

Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Senior Scientist at ICAR-RCER, Patna, has been honoured with the prestigious Dr. R. C. Gautam Young Agronomist Award 2024. The award was presented at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, on the occasion of the 81st birth anniversary of the late Dr. R. C. Gautam.

The award, which includes a gold medal, certificate, and memento, was conferred by Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director & Vice Chancellor, ICAR-IARI, in recognition of Dr. Kumar’s outstanding contributions to agronomic research and development.

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Kumar has made significant advancements in the fields of conservation agriculture, rice-fallow management, climate-resilient cropping systems, land degradation and restoration, jhum farming, and the promotion of millets for nutritional security. He has also spearheaded impactful initiatives aimed at developing climate-resilient model villages in the Buxar and Gaya districts of Bihar, helping farmers adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.

The award ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Dr. Anupama Singh, Dean, ICAR-IARI; the Director of the Water Technology Centre, ICAR-IARI; family members of Late Dr. R. C. Gautam; and senior professors and faculty members of IARI. The audience warmly applauded Dr. Kumar’s remarkable scientific contributions and commitment to sustainable agriculture.

"Dr. Anup Das, Director, ICAR-RCER, Patna, along with the entire institute staff, congratulates Dr. Rakesh Kumar on this well-deserved recognition and extends best wishes for his continued success," said Umesh Kumar Mishra, Member Secretary, Media, ICAR-RCER, Patna.