Susmita Shukla

Title : Growing Towards a Greener Future: Plant Science Driving Sustainability

Abstract:

Creating a sustainable vision for progress in plant science is crucial for addressing the challenges our planet faces, such as food security, climate change, and environmental degradation. By focusing on sustainable practices and advancements in plant science, we can develop innovative solutions that promote a more resilient and efficient agricultural system while preserving the health of our planet. Here are key elements to consider when creating such a vision by important varying point of view. Enhancing Crop Productivity by Developing plant varieties with improved yields, disease resistance, and tolerance to environmental stressors is essential for sustainable agriculture. Emphasizing research in plant breeding, genetic engineering, and biotechnology can lead to the creation of crops that require fewer resources while producing higher yields. Sustainable Crop Protection from Reducing reliance on chemical pesticides is crucial for minimizing the negative environmental impact of agriculture. Emphasizing integrated pest management techniques, such as biological control, crop rotation, and precision agriculture, can help manage pests effectively while minimizing chemical inputs. Conservation and Restoration of Biodiversity by Preserving and restoring biodiversity is vital for maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting sustainable agriculture. Encouraging research on the conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources, as well as promoting agroforestry and native species cultivation, can enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services. Climate Change Resilience as Climate change poses significant challenges to agriculture, including extreme weather events, water scarcity, and shifting pest and disease patterns. Advancing research on climate-resilient crops, optimizing water management techniques, and adopting precision agriculture technologies can help mitigate the impact of climate change on plant productivity. Sustainable Farming Practices for Promoting sustainable farming practices, such as organic agriculture, regenerative farming, and agroecology, is essential for reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture. Encouraging the use of cover crops, crop rotation, efficient irrigation, and soil conservation techniques can enhance soil health, water quality, and ecosystem services. Digital Agriculture and Data-Driven Solutions for Harnessing the power of digital technologies, such as precision farming, remote sensing, and machine learning, can revolutionize plant science and enhance sustainability. Collecting and analyzing data on plant growth, soil health, and weather patterns can optimize resource allocation, minimize waste, and improve decision-making in agriculture. Stakeholder Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing for Collaboration among scientists, farmers, policymakers, and other stakeholders is crucial for translating research into practical solutions. Facilitating knowledge sharing, promoting interdisciplinary research, and establishing partnerships between academia, industry, and government can accelerate progress in plant science for sustainability. Education and Public Awareness in Creating awareness about the importance of sustainable plant science and its impact on global challenges is key to fostering public support and engagement. Promoting science literacy, providing accessible information, and encouraging sustainable practices at the individual level can drive positive change and support sustainable agriculture. By embracing these elements and striving for continuous innovation and collaboration, we can create a sustainable vision for progress in plant science that addresses global challenges, ensures food security, and protects the health of our planet for future generations.

Keywords: Sustainable agriculture; food security; conservation; biodiversity

Biography:

Dr. (Mrs.) Susmita Shukla is M.Sc and PhD in Biotechnology and has more than 20 years of vast experience of teaching and research in leading Universities and Institutes. She is actively involved in mentoring, guiding, supervising graduates, post graduates students and PhD scholars. Her broad research area is in vitro clonal propogation of elite medicinal and economic tree species, embryo rescue, secondary metabolite production, mass multiplication through tissue culture and transgenics. She has developed robust micropropagation protocols of some rare and endangered tree species, medicinal starch yielding, horticultural crops such as Olea europeae, Punica granatum, Stereospermum suaveolens, Sterespermum personatum, Citrus, Indigenous Musa varieties etc. and involved in establishment of in vitro regeneration via direct and indirect mediated genetic transformation Systems. She is recipient of various prestigious award as IASc-INSA-NASI fellowship, DBT travel grant Women Scientist BioCARe, Best Young Scientist Award, Scientist of the Year Award, Best Oral presentation award, Best Educator award etc. She has run successfully Projects funded by Biotech Industry and DBT(Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India). She has published research papers in reputed National and International journals. She has presented her research work in National and International conference and filed patent of commercial use. She has delivered invited speech in National and International Forum and has organized National, International seminars/conferences, Indo-African Training Program for African Professionals etc. Dr Shukla’s Lab’s focuses on production of quality planting material by altering the plant hormones for growth and developments and in development of transgenic plants specifically underlying biotic and abiotic stress tolerance.