is the Vice-Chancellor of Maharana Pratap Horticultural University (MHU), Karnal, appointed in February 2024. He is a renowned expert in horticulture and agriculture with over 36 years of experience in research, education, and extension. Previously, he served as the Agriculture and Horticulture Commissioner in the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, leading initiatives in crop diversification, policy planning, and sustainable farming.

• Current Role: Vice-Chancellor, Maharana Pratap Horticultural University (MHU), Karnal, Haryana.
• Expertise: Over 36 years of experience in agriculture and horticulture, specializing in R&D, policy planning, and administration.
• Previous Leadership: Served as Agriculture & Horticulture Commissioner, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Assistant Director General (ADG) at ICAR.
• Achievements: Played a key role in achieving record food grain and horticulture production, and strengthened India’s position in pulses production.
• Academic Contributions: Published over 240 research papers, books, and manuals, and is editor-in-chief for two research journals.
• International Recognition: Represented India in 12+ international programs and has contributed to FAO CODEX standards for various crops.
• Awards: Recipient of 9 awards and 6 fellowships for contributions to horticulture.