Ex-PAU VC Dr Baldev Singh Dhillon appointed NAAS vice-president for 3-year term

Dr Baldev Singh Dhillon, former Vice-Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and a Padma Shri awardee, has been invited to serve as the vice-president of National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) for a three-year term. This recognition by NAAS acknowledges his rich experience and significant contributions to the field of agriculture and allied enterprises.

During his decade-long tenure as PAU Vice-Chancellor from July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2021, Dr Dhillon led the university to great heights through his meticulous planning, able administration, and intellectual integrity. His achievements brought him dignity among the scientific community in India and abroad.

Dr Dhillon is a renowned figure in plant breeding and genetic resources, having served at prestigious institutions in India and abroad, including PAU, GNDU, ICAR, Germany, and Mexico. He developed 16 maize varieties/hybrids, including ‘Paras’, the first single cross hybrid in India (1995). Under his leadership, PAU received “Sardar Patel Outstanding ICAR Institution Award (2012-17)” and secured top rankings in ICAR and NIRF among Indian agricultural universities.

Dr Dhillon has received numerous awards, scholarships, and fellowships. He is a Fellow of several academies and has served as president and secretary of various societies and journals. His work in natural resource conservation, integrated nutrient management (INM), integrated pest management (IPM), food processing, and agricultural biotechnology has earned him state-wide recognition.

Expressing gratitude to NAAS, Dr Dhillon attributed this honour to his teammates at PAU, ICAR, and agricultural institutions abroad. Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of PAU, and others extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr Dhillon on achieving this significant milestone.