Dr Nitika Sandhu, Molecular Geneticist at the School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), has been selected for the esteemed ‘Prof Sushil Kumar Innovation Award (SKIA-2025)’ instituted by the Flora Fauna Science Foundation (FFSF). The announcement follows the Jury’s recognition of her outstanding scientific contributions in the field of rice genetics and molecular breeding.
The award will be formally conferred during a special ceremony at the CSIR–National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI), Lucknow, on December 14, 2025. Dr Sandhu has been recognized for her pioneering work in advancing molecular breeding and next-generation sequencing approaches to enhance the adaptation of direct-seeded rice (DSR)– a research area critical for improving climate resilience, enhancing resource-use efficiency, and promoting sustainable rice production under water-limited conditions.
A distinguished young scientist, Dr Sandhu has previously been honored with several prestigious recognitions, including INSA Young Associate (2025), NAAS Associate (2025), SERB Women Excellence Award (2022), NASI Young Scientist Platinum Jubilee Award (2020), DBT-BioCARe Women Scientist Award (2019), UNLEASH Innovation Lab Award (2017), among others. Her accomplishments reflect her sustained scientific leadership and her commitment to developing genomics-driven solutions for the future of rice cultivation.
The Prof Sushil Kumar Innovation Award (SKIA) is a unique distinction presented to exceptional young scientists below the age of 40 in the field of agriculture. The award celebrates research that transcends conventional boundaries, drives scientific innovation, and delivers measurable benefits to society.
The PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal congratulated Dr Sandhu for bringing laurels to the university.
Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, Director of Research, also commended her achievements and encouraged her to continue contributing to the university’s excellence.
Dr Yogesh Vikal, Director, School of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Dr Parveen Chhuneja, Director, GSKIGPB&B, likewise extended their heartfelt congratulations on her remarkable accomplishment.