School of Basic Sciences and Social Sciences

The School of Basic and Social Sciences serves as a center for interdisciplinary research in Agronomy, Soil Microbiology, Plant Physiology, Plant Biochemistry, and Agricultural Extension, with a focus on agricultural biotechnology. The school is led by Dr. Sujit K. Bishi, a plant biochemist, alongside faculty members including Dr. Madan Kumar (Plant Physiology), Dr. Jayanta Layek and Dr. Kartik Sharma (Agronomy), Dr. Nikhil K.C. (Animal Biochemistry), Dr. Ekta Narwal (Microbiology), and Dr. Sujay B. Kademani (Agricultural Extension).

Since its establishment, the school has made significant strides in key research areas, including:

• Evaluation of genotypes for bioactive compounds and tissue culture techniques for improved propagation.
• One Health initiatives, focusing on zoonotic pathogens and neurodegenerative disorders.
• Climate-smart agricultural models, such as integrated, organic, and natural farming systems tailored to the Chotanagpur region.
• Soil health enhancement, through the identification and isolation of beneficial microorganisms for carbon sequestration.
• Development of crop cafeteria and climate-smart farming models, exploring crop diversification strategies for sustainable year-round food production and nutritional security.

In addition to research, the school is actively engaged in academic programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. levels. It also conducts capacity-building programs for farmers and promotes agricultural entrepreneurship development, contributing to the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices.

Ongoing Research Projects