PRESS RELEASE

Lifetime Achievement Award Conferred on Prof. G.D. Sharma, VC OF USTM

9th Mile, Khanapara Ri-Bhoi - Monday, November 24, 2025:  Distinguished scientist, Prof. G.D. Sharma, Vice Chancellor of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), was honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award Jointly Organized by  Regional Research Station (Hill Zone), UBKV, Kalimpong  and Indian Mycological Society (IMS), Kolkata  in collaboration with Kalimpong Science Centre, Kalimpong, West Bengal.

The award was presented during the inaugural session of the National Seminar on “Harnessing Microbes for Sustainable Farming System in the Era of Climate and Pathogen Population Change,” a timely event addressing the critical role of microbial science in climate-resilient agriculture."  

Speaking at the ceremony, Prof G D Sharma said, "The time has come to reimagine agriculture not as an extractive activity, but as a regenerative partnership with nature. The smallest organisms — the microbes beneath our feet — hold the keys to a more sustainable and secure food future."  Encouraging the future of farming, he highlighted that this lay not in machines or chemicals but in the microbial intelligence of the soil.

The ceremony took place in the presence of a distinguished gathering of scientists, academicians, and directors of premier research institutes from across India. 

Prof. D. Basu, Vice Chancellor of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Prof. B.N. Chakraborty, President of the Indian Mycological Society, and Prof. Usha Chakraborty, Secretary of the Society, jointly handed over the award to Prof. Sharma, recognizing his decades-long contributions to mycology, plant pathology, microbial ecology, and agricultural biotechnology.

Prof. Sharma’s research has significantly advanced the understanding of fungal diversity in Northeast India, biocontrol of plant diseases, and the role of beneficial microbes in sustainable agriculture—areas of critical importance amid climate change and evolving pathogen dynamics. His work has not only enriched academic literature but also provided practical solutions for farmers in challenging agro-climatic regions.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. B.N. Chakraborty hailed Prof. Sharma as “a pioneer whose lifelong dedication has shaped modern plant pathology and microbial applications in Indian agriculture.” Prof. Usha Chakraborty added that the award celebrates “exemplary scientific rigor coupled with institutional leadership.”

The national seminar itself focused on innovative microbial strategies to enhance crop resilience, soil health, and food security under changing climate and pathogen scenarios—themes that resonate deeply with Prof. Sharma’s research trajectory.

The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya congratulated its Vice Chancellor, stating that the recognition underscores USTM’s growing stature as a hub of cutting-edge research in life sciences and sustainable development.

This Lifetime Achievement Award adds another feather to Prof. G.D. Sharma’s illustrious career, inspiring the next generation of researchers to harness microbial potential for a sustainable agricultural future.

USTM promotes cutting-edge research that addresses regional and global challenges, a university ranked among the top 200 universities in India by NIRF 2024 and the only private university in Northeast India to receive an ‘A’ Grade from NAAC in its first cycle.