15/06/2026
PAU SCIENTISTS SHINES GLOBALLY
Scientists and students from the Department of Extension Education, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), participated with distinction in the International Conference on “Women and Youth for Transforming Agribusiness Ecosystems,” held at Kathmandu, Nepal from June 9-11, 2026. The conference brought together researchers, academicians, policymakers, extension professionals, development practitioners, farmers and students from different countries to deliberate on the role of women and youth in transforming agribusiness ecosystems and fostering sustainable agricultural development.
The Department made a significant academic contribution to the conference through 14 oral and poster presentations showcasing innovative research on agricultural extension, rural development, women empowerment, youth engagement, entrepreneurship, digital agriculture, and sustainable agribusiness. The presentations received wide appreciation from delegates and experts. Notably, seven presentations were adjudged as Best Paper Presentations, reflecting the high quality and relevance of the research work undertaken by the faculty and students.
Adding further laurels to the institution, one student received the “Best M.Sc. Research Scholar Award” in recognition of outstanding academic and research achievements, while another participant was honoured with the “Presidential Award” for exceptional contribution and performance during the conference.
The conference also recognized the outstanding contributions of faculty members through prestigious professional awards. Dr Karamjit Sharma, Deputy Director, KVK, Sri Muktsar Sahib and Dr Mandeep Sharma, Assistant Professor in the Department of Extension Education and Communication Management, were conferred the “Best Extension Professional Award” for their exemplary contributions to agricultural extension and rural development.
Dr Vipan Kumar Rampal, Head, Department of Extension Education, received the “Fellow Mobilization Award” in recognition of his distinguished leadership and contributions to extension education and professional development.
Dr Devinder Tiwari, Senior Extension Scientist, was honoured with the “Young Scientist Award” for his significant research contributions and innovations in agricultural extension.
Dr Lopamudra Mohapatra, Assistant Professor (Extension Education), received the “Young Woman Scientist Award” in recognition of her outstanding research accomplishments and contributions to extension education and rural transformation.
Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU; and Dr MS Bhullar, Director of Extension Education; lauded the remarkable participation and achievements of the scientists and students that had brought great recognition to the institution at the international level. “It speaks of strengthening the commitment of the Department of Extension Education towards research excellence, innovation, and the empowerment of women and youth for sustainable agribusiness development,” observed Dr Bhullar.