PAU Professor Dr VP Sethi Honored with Prestigious Dr MS Swaminathan Award
In a significant recognition of excellence in agricultural engineering, Dr VP Sethi, professor and former head of the mechanical engineering department at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), has been conferred with the prestigious "Dr MS Swaminathan Award." This honor celebrates his outstanding achievements and exemplary contributions in the field of mechanical engineering, particularly in advancing engineering solutions for agricultural and allied sciences.
Award Ceremony at International Conference
Dr Sethi received the award at the Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI) in Shimla, as part of the 13th International Conference on "Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry and Allied Sciences for Sustainable Himalayan Ecosystem," held from March 18 to 20. The award is bestowed upon scientists who have significantly and consistently performed in bringing visible change and adding knowledge to various stakeholders, especially in agriculture.
Decades of Commendable Work and Global Recognition
Over the last more than three decades, Dr Sethi has done commendable work and contributed enormously to the next generation of scientists and researchers through high-impact publications. Notably, he authored an international book titled "Greenhouse Engineering: Software-driven Design and Modelling for Optimal Microclimate Control."
It is pertinent to mention that Dr Sethi has been listed among the elite top 2% best scientists globally by Stanford University, USA, since 2019, due to his impactful and productive research contributions with high citations. His work spans areas such as solar energy, greenhouse design, thermal modelling, micro-climate control, patented hybrid-hydroponics, and heat transfer.
Officials highlighted that Dr Sethi has published more than 100 research and review articles in national and international peer-reviewed journals. He has attended and handled several international conferences and projects as a keynote or invited speaker and consultant in countries including China, Thailand, and Dubai. Additionally, he has served as a Visiting Research Faculty at North Dakota State University, Fargo, USA, and as a Guest Faculty at the University of Guelph, Canada.
Innovative Teaching Programmes and Future Directions
As head of the mechanical engineering department, Dr Sethi introduced two new teaching programmes: a PG Diploma in Robotics and Mechatronics in Agriculture for the 2024-25 academic year and an M.Tech in Robotics and Automation for 2025-26.
PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal and other officials commended Dr Sethi for this achievement and encouraged him to continue his teaching and research activities. They emphasized the importance of developing AI-based smart and digital technologies for futuristic smart agriculture, aligning with global trends in sustainable farming practices.
This award not only highlights Dr Sethi's individual accomplishments but also underscores PAU's commitment to innovation and excellence in agricultural engineering, paving the way for advanced solutions in the sector.
