Glossary to simplify agricultural biotechnology terms launched

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) advanced its academic mission with the launch of the ‘Glossary of Agricultural Biotechnology’ during the concluding session of Dr Abraham Matoc Dhal’s visit from South Sudan’s Dr John Garang Memorial University of Science and Technology. Organised at the Vice-Chancellor’s Committee Room, the event was led by Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, PAU Vice-Chancellor and attended by scientists, officers, faculty and students. Published by CABI, UK, the book is a landmark contribution co-authored by Dr Gurbachan Singh Miglani, Dr Parveen Chhuneja and Dr Gosal, capturing foundational concepts in agricultural biotechnology.

Unveiling the glossary, Dr Dhal praised the authors for their commitment to advancing education in agricultural biotechnology. He highlighted biotechnology’s growing role in tackling global food security challenges and stressed the importance of accessible, well-defined scientific knowledge. He noted the glossary would bridge the gap between complex research terms and practical applications, benefiting students, researchers and policymakers alike.

Dr Satbir Singh Gosal emphasised the book’s significance amid the evolving field of agricultural biotechnology, which integrates genetics, molecular biology, bioinformatics and artificial intelligence (AI). Containing over 16,200 carefully curated terms, the glossary would serve as an indispensable resource for academia and industry, ensuring clarity and precision in scientific communication. As an author, Dr Gosal underlined the necessity of such a resource, especially given rapid advances in genomic research and precision breeding. He said the glossary would assist students, educators and professionals across government and private sectors involved in agricultural biotechnology.

Dr Gurbachan Singh Miglani, a genetics educator, reflected on the glossary’s development, noting it was designed to fill a long-standing gap in agricultural biotechnology literature. Drawing on his extensive experience in genetics and molecular biology, he ensured the glossary offers scientifically accurate yet accessible definitions to help students and researchers navigate this complex field.

Dr Parveen Chhuneja, Director of the School of Agricultural Biotechnology at PAU and a leading molecular geneticist, highlighted the glossary’s role in promoting interdisciplinary learning. She noted agricultural biotechnology spans multiple scientific disciplines, from cytogenetics to epigenomics. By consolidating terminology across these areas, the book would enhance understanding and application of biotechnology in crop improvement and sustainable agriculture.