Ishwar Prakash Sharma | Medicinal Plants | Excellence in Plant Research

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Dr. Ishwar Prakash Sharma | Medicinal Plants | Excellence in Plant Research

Patanjali Research Foundation | India

Author Profile

🌿 DR. ISHWAR PRAKASH SHARMA: PIONEERING BOTANICAL SCIENTIST & RESEARCHER 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Ishwar Prakash Sharma began his journey in the field of botanical sciences with a focus on Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF). His PhD thesis explored innovative strategies for managing Root-Knot Disease in tomatoes caused by Meloidogyne incognita, highlighting his dedication to sustainable agricultural solutions. This strong academic foundation was supported by his early teaching experiences, including positions as Assistant Professor at Surajmal Agarwal Kanya Mahavidyalaya and Dev Bhoomi Group of Institutions.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Sharma’s illustrious career spans diverse roles:

  • Scientist-C at Patanjali Herbal Research Division since 2021.
  • Past roles as Scientist-B in the same division under Patanjali Research Foundation and Divya Yog Mandir Trust.
  • Expertise in plant surveys, ethnomedicinal documentation, and the establishment of the PRFH herbarium, recognized by the New York Botanical Garden.

His professional contributions extend to lecturing and training programs, showcasing his commitment to disseminating knowledge in ethnobotany, plant taxonomy, and sustainable agriculture.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON MEDICINAL PLANTS

Dr. Sharma has spearheaded groundbreaking projects such as:

  1. Floral Diversity Exploration near Ganga River Banks for ethnobotanical purposes.
  2. Development of the World Herbal Forest Project in collaboration with Haryana Forest Department.
  3. Research on soil ecology, rhizosphere manipulation, and plant-microbe interactions for sustainable farming practices.

His editorial contributions include guest associate editorships for reputed journals and reviews of over 100 research articles, emphasizing his influence in the academic community.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Sharma’s work bridges traditional knowledge and modern scientific applications, particularly in plant conservation, agriculture biology, and ethnomedicine. His commitment to skill development programs for regional economic growth further underscores his influence beyond academia.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Sharma has published over 40 research papers, 13 book chapters, and a book. Noteworthy publications include:

  • Research on Ethnomedicinal Plants along the Ganga River (2025).
  • Studies on Rhizosphere Microbes and Soil Nutrient Properties in Himalayan regions.

His works boast a cumulative impact factor of 37.1, marking his research’s high relevance and reach.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Award from Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar for contributions to the World Herbal Forest (2018).
  • Multiple university-level accolades, including debate and sports events.
  • Recognized for pioneering efforts in plant taxonomy and conservation.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Sharma’s legacy is firmly rooted in his commitment to sustainable agricultural practices, rhizosphere biology, and traditional medicinal knowledge. His ongoing projects, publications, and mentorship aim to inspire the next generation of researchers while addressing critical global challenges in agriculture and ecology.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Ethno-Medicinal Study of Traditional Medicinal Plants Used by Tribal Communities of Uttarakhand, India
  • Authors: Balkrishna, A., Sharma, I.P., Arya, V.
  • Journal: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences India Section B – Biological Sciences
  • Year: 2024
Plants Functional Traits and Photosynthetic Efficiency for Enhancing Crop Yield
  • Authors: Prachi, K., Kanta, C., Chandra, S., Sharma, I.P.
  • Journal: Plant Functional Traits for Improving Productivity (Book Chapter)
  • Year: 2024
The Interplay Between Plant Functional Traits and Climate Change
  • Authors: Kanta, C., Kumar, A., Chauhan, A., Singh, H., Sharma, I.P.
  • Journal: Plant Functional Traits for Improving Productivity (Book Chapter)
  • Year: 2024
Editorial: Rhizosphere Manipulation for Sustainable Agriculture
  • Authors: Sharma, I.P., Giri, K., Kumar, N.
  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
  • Year: 2024
Effect of Altitudinal Variation on Soil Nutrient Properties at Various Sites in Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand
  • Authors: Balkrishna, A., Sharma, I.P., Kushwaha, A.K., Arya, V.
  • Journal: Acta Ecologica Sinica
  • Year: 2023
Biologicals and Their Plant Stress Tolerance Ability
  • Authors: Balkrishna, A., Sharma, I.P., Arya, V., Sharma, A.K.
  • Journal: Symbiosis
  • Year: 2022

 

Zezethu Mnqeta | Invasive Plant Species | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Zezethu Mnqeta | Invasive Plant Species | Young Scientist Award

University of Limpopo | South Africa

✨Suitable for  Young Scientist Award

Zezethu Mnqeta is a suitable candidate for the Young Scientist Award, especially if the award focuses on contributions to environmental sustainability, biological control, and early-career scientific impact. Highlighting her leadership in establishing collaborative research nodes and her teaching excellence would bolster her nomination.

Author Profile

✨ZEZETHU MNQETA: CHAMPION OF BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AND EDUCATION 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Zezethu Mnqeta, born on 12 October 1989 in South Africa, began her academic journey with an innate passion for the natural world. Fluent in English, isiXhosa, and isiZulu, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Botany and Zoology at the University of Fort Hare in 2010. Her honors research focused on the ecological impact of invasive species, a theme that laid the foundation for her career. She later obtained her MSc and PhD in Entomology from Rhodes University, delving into biological control mechanisms to combat invasive cacti in South Africa.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Zezethu has held impactful roles in academia, including her current position as a Temporary Senior Lecturer in Plant Protection at the University of Limpopo. She has previously served as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at Rhodes University’s Centre for Biological Control (CBC). Her teaching, research, and supervisory responsibilities reflect her dedication to shaping the next generation of scientists. Beyond academia, she has collaborated with stakeholders to address ecological challenges through biological control of invasive plants.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Invasive Plant Species

Zezethu’s work focuses on the environmental impacts and management of invasive alien plants through biological control methods. Her groundbreaking research includes:

  • Studying the interactions between biological control agents.
  • Assessing the impact and safety of biocontrol agents on invasive alien cacti.
  • Collaborating on the establishment of a cactus biological control node in Limpopo Province.

Her commitment to community engagement and environmental education demonstrates her dedication to translating research into action.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Zezethu has influenced the field of plant entomology and biological control through her publications, symposia presentations, and collaborative projects. She actively mentors students at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, fostering a new generation of scientists. Her work has been showcased at international forums, highlighting South Africa’s efforts in combating invasive species.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Zezethu has published several papers in prestigious academic journals, focusing on entomology, pest management, and the impact of biological control agents. She has also presented her research at national and international conferences, showcasing her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Zezethu has been recognized for her contributions with various certifications and accolades, including:

  • DST-NRF Internship Programme Certificate of Completion
  • Responsible Use of Pesticides Certificate
  • Biological Control Short Course Certificate
  • International Training Programme on Pesticide Management

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Zezethu Mnqeta continues to pave the way for sustainable solutions in pest management. Her vision includes establishing a cactus biological control node in Limpopo Province, furthering collaboration with research institutions, and mentoring future scientists in her field.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Zezethu Mnqeta exemplifies dedication to environmental sustainability, academic excellence, and impactful education. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in making meaningful contributions to science and society.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

  • “Biological control against Opuntia aurantiaca Lindley (Cactaceae) and the perceptions of land-users in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa”
    Authors: Mnqeta, Z., Paterson, I.D.
    Journal: Biocontrol Science and Technology
    Year: 2024
  • “Could alien invasive species be a solution to postharvest losses of fresh produce?”
    Authors: Mditshwa, A., Mnqeta, Z., Mahlambi, P.N., Khaliq, G.
    Journal: Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems
    Year: 2023
  • “Biological Control of Invasive Climbing Plants in South Africa”
    Authors: King, A.M., Paterson, I.D., Simelane, D.O., Mawela, K.V., Mnqeta, Z.
    Journal: African Entomology
    Year: 2021
  • “Biological Control of Cactaceae in South Africa”
    Authors: Paterson, I.D., Klein, H., Muskett, P.C., Mnqeta, Z., Venter, N.
    Journal: African Entomology
    Year: 2021
  • “Interactions between two biological control agents and their target weed: a beetle, a bug and a cactus weed”
    Authors: Mnqeta, Z., Paterson, I.D.
    Journal: Biocontrol Science and Technology
    Year: 2019