Dr. Dhananjay Kumar Upadhyay is an accomplished agricultural scientist currently serving as Assistant Professor at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology (ANDUAT), Kumarganj, Ayodhya, since 22 September 2023. He is actively involved in teaching, research, and academic development in the field of Genetics and Plant Breeding, with a strong emphasis on vegetable crops and climate-resilient agriculture. He has also been a Merit Scholarship holder during his Ph.D. (Agriculture) from ANDUAT, reflecting his consistent academic excellence.

Research Contributions & Publications

Dr. Upadhyay has made significant research contributions with:

• 27 peer-reviewed research publications

• 32 popular science articles for farmer and stakeholder outreach
  His research addresses critical issues in vegetable breeding, biodiversity conservation, sustainable horticulture, and climate-smart agricultural technologies, bridging laboratory research with field-level applications.

Books & Scholarly Authorship

He is the author/co-author of 5 books and 7 book chapters, published by reputed national publishers. Notable works include:

• Principles of Vegetable Breeding (Practical Manual) (2024)

• Compendium of Vegetable and Spice Varieties from NDUA&T

• Advance Production Technology of Potato

• Contributions to edited volumes on biodiversity, tribal horticulture, spice crops, and leguminous crop breeding

His writings are widely used by students, researchers, and extension professionals.

Awards, Honors & Recognitions

Dr. Upadhyay has received multiple national-level awards, including:

• Young Scientist Awards from reputed scientific and professional bodies (2014, 2018, 2019)

• Best Poster Presentation Awards at national symposia and conferences (2014, 2017, 2024)
  These honors recognize his innovation, research excellence, and impactful scientific communication.

Innovation, Patent & Copyright

• Granted Patent (2024): Automated Fruit Harvesting Drone Using Artificial Intelligence — demonstrating interdisciplinary innovation integrating AI with agriculture.

• Registered Copyright for Principles of Vegetable Breeding (Practical Manual) — acknowledging original academic contribution.

Academic Leadership & Outreach

Beyond research, Dr. Upadhyay actively contributes to:

• Capacity building of students and young researchers

• Promotion of farmer-centric technologies

• Dissemination of scientific knowledge through extension literature and conferences

Eligibility for Best Scientist of the Year

Dr. Dhananjay Kumar Upadhyay is highly eligible for the Best Scientist of the Year – Scientific Laurels award due to his outstanding and sustained contributions to agricultural science. His profile demonstrates an exceptional balance of academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, and societal relevance. With a strong publication record, prestigious awards, authored books, a granted patent in AI-based agricultural technology, and active engagement in climate-smart and sustainable agriculture, he exemplifies the core values of scientific leadership and innovation. His work has significantly contributed to advancing vegetable breeding, horticultural sciences, and technology-driven agriculture, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.