The IARI Alumni Association (IAA) proudly announces that Dr. Rajendra Singh Paroda, President of IAA and a luminary in agricultural sciences, has been honored with the ‘Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Lifetime Achievement Award’ by the National Academy of Biological Sciences (NABS). The award was conferred during the 14th NABS National Conference on Innovations in Biology and Biotechnology for Application in Agriculture and Animal Sciences for Food Security, held from January 28–29, 2025, at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University’s Agricultural College and Research Institute, Kudumiyanmalai.
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
Dr. Paroda, a Padma Bhushan recipient (1998) and former Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), has shaped India’s agricultural landscape for decades. His visionary leadership includes pivotal roles as:
- General President, Indian Science Congress Association (2000–2001)
- President, National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS, 1998–2000)
- Founding Chairman, Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences
- President of the Indian Society of Plant Genetic Resources
Global Impact and Recognition
Architect of India’s National Gene Bank, safeguarding over 250,000 germplasm accessions, Dr. Paroda’s influence extends worldwide, with gene banks at ICRISAT (India) and the Agriculture Research Institute of Kazakhstan bearing his name. His accolades include the Norman Borlaug Award (2006), presented by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, and the Prof. S. Kannaiyan Memorial Award (2012) for his contributions to medicinal plant research.
Sustaining a Vision for Food Security
A relentless advocate for agricultural sustainability, Dr. Paroda’s establishment of the National Agricultural Science Centre (NASC) in New Delhi underscores his commitment to advancing agricultural research and education. His work continues to drive innovations critical to global food security.
The IARI Alumni Association invites the global community to celebrate Dr. Paroda’s extraordinary achievements. This accolade not only honors his illustrious career but also reaffirms his enduring legacy as a cornerstone of agricultural progress.
Join us in congratulating Dr. Rajendra Singh Paroda—a true pioneer whose dedication continues to inspire generations in science and agriculture.
