My Distinguished Journey in Agricultural Education and Leadership at MPUAT – Dr. Ajit Kumar Karnataka

Udaipur: As the Vice-Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), I am delighted to share that under my leadership, MPUAT has transformed into a hub of innovation, sustainable development, and global recognition, leaving a lasting impact on agricultural research, education, and rural development in India.

I was born on 9th July 1959 in Almora, Uttarakhand, nestled in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas. Over four decades of service in teaching, research, and leadership have shaped my journey as an academician and administrator. Since May 2025, I have had the honor of serving as President of the Indian Agricultural Universities Association, for which I express my sincere gratitude.

On 15th October 2022, I assumed charge as Vice-Chancellor of MPUAT, Udaipur, a land inspired by the valor and sacrifice of Maharana Pratap. In addition, from February 2025, I have been entrusted with the additional responsibilities as Vice-Chancellor of Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur, and MLSU, Udaipur. Earlier, I led VCSG Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry (2019-2022) and Doon University (additional charge, 2019-2020) as Vice-Chancellor.

Awards and Honors:

I am proud to have been recognized by numerous national and international institutions. These include the Uttarakhand Government’s Best Vice-Chancellor Award – 2021, several Lifetime Achievement Awards, Dr. R. S. Paroda Award, Dr. S. L. Mishra Medal, CHAI Honorary Fellowship, Amrit Prabuddha Manishi Award, Rajasthan Krishi Ratna Award 2025, Lifetime Achievement in Agricultural Entomology, National Agricultural Innovation Ratna Award 2025, National Consumer Pride Award 2025, and many others. I credit these honors to the unwavering support of my colleagues, scientists, staff, and students at MPUAT and JNV University.

Major Achievements of MPUAT under My Leadership:

1. Innovation: 45 new patents filed, promoting creativity and entrepreneurship.

2. Collaboration: 33 MoUs signed with national and international institutions for research and knowledge exchange.

3. Green Energy Leadership: Generated solar energy savings of ₹14.6 million annually, setting a benchmark for sustainability.

4. Global Exposure: 71 students and 11 professors received training at prestigious foreign universities under ICAR initiatives.

5. Water Management: Established India’s first water cooperative society in Hinta village, a milestone in community-based resource management.

6. Millet Mission: Published Millet Coffee Table Book and The Millet Story, boosting India’s global millet movement during the UN International Year of Millets 2023.

7. Smart Villages: MPUAT earned recognition for strengthening rural livelihoods through sustainable agriculture.

8. Research and Quality: Achieved record research visibility; all Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and major labs received ISO certification, ensuring high standards in extension and research.

9. High Research Metrics: Achieved a Scopus H-Index of 83 and Google Scholar H-Index of 97, the highest ever.

10. Academic Excellence: Advanced facilities, modern laboratories, and farmer-oriented programs; received the prestigious Best University Award 2024 for exemplary participation in IIT Bombay’s geospatial initiatives.

11. National Leadership: Elected President of the Indian Agricultural Universities Association in May 2025, giving MPUAT a prominent role in shaping agricultural education and policy in India.

12. ISO Certification: All eight agricultural science centers, the Directorate of Extension Education, and multiple colleges and laboratories received ISO 9001:2015 certification.

13. National Education Policy 2020: Implemented new courses recommended by ICAR’s Sixth Dean Committee, making MPUAT the first university in India to adopt these courses from the 2024-25 academic year.

I regard these achievements as a collective victory of MPUAT during my three-year tenure. The dedicated faculty, scientists, staff, and students have propelled the university to new heights. I urge the entire MPUAT family to continue fostering innovation, academic excellence, research, and extension services, further elevating the institution’s legacy.