Department of Botany Organizes University Extension Lecture #G20

Aligarh : The Department of Botany, AMU organized a University Extension Lecture on June 12, as part of the Y20 initiative by the Government of India. The event aimed to commemorate India’s G20 Presidency and celebrate the Department’s centenary year. With the theme “Food and Nutrition Security through Sustainable Intensification and Millets,” the lecture garnered interest of faculty members, research scholars, and students across various disciplines, including life sciences, agriculture, and social sciences.

The Speaker on the ocassion , Prof. PV.Vara Prasad, a distinguished Professor from Kansas State University, USA, delved into crucial aspects concerning food and nutrition security, emphasizing sustainable intensification and the role of millets. He addressed pressing issues, including the yield gap, post-harvest losses, and the challenges posed by climate change. Prof. Prasad highlighted the potential of millets to withstand heat and drought stress, their adaptability to diverse environmental conditions, low water requirements, and high nutritional content. These characteristics position millets as an ideal choice for sustainable agriculture.

Ms. Arya Jha, Secretary Communications of Y20 India, provided insights into the Y20 program under India’s G20 Presidency. He said that, Y20 serves as an official platform for youth from G20 member countries to engage in dialogue, exchange ideas, and address global issues collectively.

Prof. Mohammad Afzal, the Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, recited stanzas from a poem, underscoring the practical applications and societal impact of research endeavors that directly benefit the common people.

Prof. M. Badaruzzaman Siddiqui, the Chairperson of the Department and Coordinator of the event, highlighted the department’s century-long history and significant achievements.

The lecture commenced with a welcome note from Dr. Rose Rizvi, the program’s convener and Dr. MU Naeem proposed the vote of thanks.

The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Tariq Aftab in collaboration with Y20 India, which encourages youth as future leaders to raise awareness, negotiate, and reach consensus.