Vikram Mahipatrao Gholve, a distinguished Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth (VNMKV), Parbhani, is a renowned expert in biological disease management. His research focuses on microbial consortia and the management of fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases affecting various crops. With an impressive academic portfolio that includes 57 research papers, two authored books, three book chapters, one edited book, numerous academic manuals, and several prestigious awards, Dr. Gholve has significantly advanced the field of plant pathology. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the ICRISAT-funded Harvest-Plus Project, which aimed to enhance sorghum production, and contributed to the development and release of five prominent sorghum varieties with state, zonal, and national relevance.
Pawar Ganesh Shahaji is a Ph.D. scholar in Plant Pathology at Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth (VNMKV), Parbhani, with a Master's degree in Agriculture. He has served as a Subject Matter Specialist at ICAR-KVK, Assistant Professor at Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, and as a Research Assistant in the Post Entry Quarantine project. Pawar has authored 21 research papers, 4 book chapters, and one edited book. His research focuses on crop diseases, pest management, and bio-agent efficacy, earning him three Best Presentation Awards at international conferences. He actively participates in field trials, diagnostic visits (17), and farmer training programs (16) as guest speaker and radio talks (03).