On March 23, 2025, Padma Shri Dr. K.L. Chadha, widely regarded as the ‘Father of the Golden Revolution in Horticulture,’ passed away at the age of 88. A towering figure in Indian agriculture, Dr. Chadha’s immense contributions transformed the country’s horticulture landscape, making India the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables globally.
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, expressed his condolences on the passing of Dr. Krishna Lal Chadha, the father of modern horticulture in India. Sharing his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), he stated, "The demise of renowned agricultural scientist Dr. Krishna Lal Chadha is an irreparable loss to the Indian agriculture and horticulture world. He not only laid the foundation of the horticulture revolution, but with his vision, he strengthened the livelihood of countless farmers and the nutritional security of the country. His incomparable contribution to the development and expansion of agriculture will always be remembered. Humble tribute!"
Dr. K.L. Chadha’s illustrious career spanned decades, during which he held several key positions that significantly shaped India's horticulture landscape. He began his journey as the Head of the Department of Agriculture at the Regional Fruit Research Station, Mashobra, and later served at the ICAR Headquarters before joining as Assistant Horticulturist at IARI in February 1963.
Throughout his career, he played several pivotal roles, including serving as Fruit Specialist at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana (1964-1969), where he contributed to advancing fruit crop research. He then worked as Senior Horticulturist at the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bangalore (1969-1972), driving innovations in horticulture practices.
From 1972 to 1980, Dr. Chadha was the Project Coordinator for major fruit crops, including mango, grape, guava, apple, stone fruits, and walnut, while also heading the Central Mango Research Station in Lucknow. His leadership continued as Director of IIHR from 1981 to 1986, where he spearheaded various research initiatives.
Dr. Chadha then became the first-ever Horticulture Commissioner of the Government of India, followed by his appointment as the first Deputy Director General (Horticulture) at ICAR Headquarters, New Delhi. In these influential roles, he played a crucial part in shaping national policies, promoting horticultural advancements, and enhancing India's global reputation in the sector.
Legacy of Innovation and Leadership
Dr. Chadha’s pioneering efforts introduced hi-tech horticulture practices and promoted new commercial crops like oil palm. His leadership influenced national policies and funding patterns, significantly boosting horticulture development under the VII to XI Five-Year Plans.
An advocate for research and innovation, Dr. Chadha published over 100 scientific papers and authored 30 books and bulletins, including the monumental ‘Advances in Horticulture’ – a 13-volume publication covering 9,410 pages. He also guided 14 postgraduate students and taught courses in viticulture and plant propagation, leaving an enduring impact on future generations of horticulturists.
International Recognition
Beyond India, Dr. Chadha extended his expertise globally, providing consultancy to 12 countries and four international organizations. He also served as Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the International Potato Centre, Lima, Peru, enhancing India's global standing in horticulture.
Honors and Awards
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Dr. Chadha received 20 prestigious awards, including: Borlaug Award, Om Prakash Bhasin Award, B.P. Pal Memorial Award, H.S.I.-Shiv Shakti Lifetime Achievement Award, D.Sc. (Honoris Causa) conferred by Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur.
A Lasting Legacy
Dr. Chadha’s tireless efforts elevated Indian horticulture to new heights, transforming it into a globally recognized sector. His dedication earned him the admiration of agricultural experts, farmers, and policymakers alike.
In the words of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, “Dr. K.L. Chadha has provided outstanding leadership to the horticultural renaissance of India – he has rendered invaluable service for which we are all very grateful.” His passing is an irreplaceable loss to the agricultural community, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of horticulturists and researchers.
भारत में आधुनिक बागवानी के जनक, प्रसिद्ध कृषि वैज्ञानिक डॉ. कृष्ण लाल चड्ढा जी का निधन भारतीय कृषि और बागवानी जगत के लिए एक अपूरणीय क्षति है।
— Shivraj Singh Chouhan (@ChouhanShivraj) March 24, 2025
उन्होंने न केवल बागवानी क्रांति की नींव रखी, बल्कि अपनी दूरदृष्टि से असंख्य किसानों की आजीविका और देश की पोषण सुरक्षा को सुदृढ़ किया।… pic.twitter.com/5j3bKCCMSJ
