Introduction
The appointment of Dr. M. V. Dhananjay as the new Vice Chancellor of Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences (KSNUAHS), Shivamogga, marks a significant milestone in the university’s journey of growth and excellence. With nearly three decades of experience in agricultural education, horticultural research, and academic administration, Dr. Dhananjay’s leadership is expected to usher in a new era of innovation in education, research, and farmer-centric development
Dr. Dhananjay's Extensive Experience
Dr. M. V. Dhananjay currently serves as the Principal Scientist in the Division of Plant Breeding at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR), Bengaluru. With around 30 years of dedicated service in horticultural research and plant breeding, he has earned recognition as an accomplished scientist, researcher, and academic administrator.
Remarkable Contributions to the Horticulture Sector
Dr. Dhananjay’s research achievements have made a lasting impact on India’s agriculture and horticulture sectors.
Key Achievements
- Developed Arka Shreyas, India’s first bottle gourd variety resistant to stem rot disease.
- Developed Arka Savi, a high-yielding rose variety.
- Introduced Arka Parimal, a specialized rose variety suitable for rose tea production.
- Developed a total of 18 new horticultural crop varieties.
- Successfully implemented research projects worth over ₹29 crore.
- Published more than 100 research papers in reputed journals
These accomplishments reflect his invaluable contribution to agricultural education, scientific research, and the advancement of horticultural sciences in India
Leadership in Agricultural Innovation and Administration
Dr. Dhananjay has also served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Government of India’s BEST-HORT Technology Business Incubator, where he mentored and supported over 100 agricultural startups and innovations.
As the Nodal Officer of the Vegetable Seed Unit, he played a key role in modernizing seed production and distribution through initiatives such as:
- Development of an online seed portal.
- Introduction of seed vending machines.
- Modernization of the public seed distribution system.
These initiatives have significantly improved farmers’ access to quality seeds and modern agricultural technologies.
National Awards and Recognition
Dr. Dhananjay’s outstanding contributions have been recognized with several prestigious national awards, including:
- Dr. M. H. Marigowda National Endowment Award (2022–23)
- Dr. Kallayya Krishnamurthy National Award (2023–24)
In addition, he has been nominated six times by the Governor to serve on expert committees responsible for evaluating honorary doctorate recommendations from various universities, reflecting his academic excellence and professional credibility.
Strengthening KSNUAHS Through Academic Excellence
The appointment of Dr. Dhananjay as the new Vice Chancellor of Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences (KSNUAHS) is expected to bring fresh momentum to the university’s academic, research, and extension activities.
Under his leadership, the university is anticipated to:
- Strengthen the quality of agricultural education.
- Promote innovation in modern agricultural technologies.
- Expand farmer-oriented research and extension programs.
- Create international research opportunities for students.
- Enhance the university’s reputation at both the state and national levels.
Welcoming Dr. M. V. Dhananjay to KSNUAHS
The appointment of Dr. M. V. Dhananjay as the Vice Chancellor of KSNUAHS marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the university. His scientific expertise, administrative leadership, and deep understanding of agriculture and horticulture will greatly benefit students, researchers, and the farming community alike.
The entire KSNUAHS family extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. M. V. Dhananjay. With his visionary leadership, the university is poised to achieve new milestones in agricultural education, research, innovation, and sustainable rural development.
