Abhishek Walia | Sustainable Agriculture |Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Abhishek Walia | Sustainable Agriculture |Best Researcher Award

CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur. HP | India

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We proudly nominate Dr. Abhishek Walia for the esteemed Best Researcher Award in Sustainable Agriculture. His groundbreaking work in microbiology and sustainable farming practices exemplifies innovation and dedication to advancing agricultural sciences.

  • Original research with practical applications
  • Academic leadership and mentorship
  • Recognition by peers nationally and internationally
  • Consistent publication and editorial work
  • Contribution to sustainable development goals

🎓 Education 

Dr. Abhishek Walia earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology from Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni-Solan, HP, India. His doctoral research focused on the production, purification, and characterization of cellulase-free xylanase from Cellulosimicrobium cellulans using solid-state fermentation of apple pomace, aiming to enhance pulp biobleaching processes. This work not only contributed to the field of industrial microbiology but also aligned with sustainable agricultural practices by utilizing agro-industrial waste. Dr. Walia’s academic journey is marked by a commitment to integrating microbiological research with practical applications in agriculture, emphasizing eco-friendly and sustainable solutions.

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Walia currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at the College of Basic Sciences, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, HP, India, with over five years of experience. Previously, he held the position of Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Microbiology at DAV University, Jalandhar, Punjab, for four and a half years. His professional journey also includes roles at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, and the Forensic Science Laboratory in Delhi. Throughout his career, Dr. Walia has demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching and research, guiding numerous M.Sc. students in their dissertations and contributing significantly to the field of microbiology with a focus on sustainable agricultural practices.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

  • Best Publication Award (2012): Recognized by the Society for Advancement of Human and Nature for his publication on optimizing cellulase-free xylanase production.

  • Gold Medal in Ph.D. (Microbiology): Awarded by Himotkarsh Sahitya Sanskriti Avam Jan-Kalyan Parishad, Una, for securing the top position in his doctoral program.

  • Appreciation Letter (2023): Received from the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor on University Foundation Day for outstanding contributions to the university.

  • Scholarships/Fellowships:

    • Swami Vivekanand Scholarship under the National Scholarship Scheme, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh.

    • Merit Scholarship during M.Sc. under the University Merit Scholarship Scheme.

    • INSPIRE Fellowship (JRF and SRF) from the Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India, under the Assured Opportunity for Research Career (AORC) scheme.

🌍Research skills On Agriculture

Dr. Walia’s research expertise encompasses microbial genetics, industrial and environmental microbiology, and the application of microbial processes in sustainable agriculture. His doctoral work on xylanase production from agro-industrial waste highlights his ability to integrate microbiological research with environmental sustainability. He has guided over twenty M.Sc. students, fostering a new generation of researchers in the field. Dr. Walia’s involvement in various workshops and training programs, such as those on bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques, further demonstrates his commitment to continuous learning and application of interdisciplinary approaches in research. His editorial roles in several scientific journals and active participation in reviewing research articles underscore his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting sustainable practices in agriculture.

📖Publications

Molecular characterization of gut cellulolytic bacteria isolated from different ecotypes of Brahmina coriacea (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) grubs in North‐Western Himalaya
  • Authors: Suresh Kumar Mahala, Ravinder Singh Chandel, Kuldeep Singh Verma, Karthik Ramappa, Abhishek Walia

  • Journal: Acta Zoologica

  • Year: 2025

Carbon negative biofuels: a step ahead of carbon neutrality
  • Authors: Tarun Sharma, Prakram Singh Chauhan, Maulik Patel, Akashdeep Singh, Manmeet Kaur, Garima Chauhan, Bharat Bhushan Rana, Naveen Kumar, Abhishek Walia

  • Journal: Biofuels

  • Year: 2025

The First Report on Opportunistic Human Pathogenic Bacteria Staphylococcus haemolyticus Isolated from Brahmina coriacea (Scarabaeidae: Coleoptera) in the North-Western Himalayas
  • Authors: Suresh Kumar Mahala, Karthik Ramappa, R. S. Chandel, K. S. Verma, Abhishek Walia

  • Journal: Current Biotechnology

  • Year: 2024

Biotechnology for sustainable materials: innovating today for a greener tomorrow
  • Authors: Shashi Kant Bhatia, Saurabh Bhatia, Maria Eugenia Inda-Webb, Konstantina Kourmentza, Tae Seok Moon, Vijai Singh, Vishal Ahuja, Jingbo Li, Sanjeet Mehariya, Abhishek Walia et al.

  • Journal: Biotechnology for Sustainable Materials

  • Year: 2024

Insights into Cow Dung-Based Bioformulations for Sustainable Plant Health and Disease Management in Organic and Natural Farming System: a Review
  • Authors: Shweta Sagar, Arjun Singh, Jyoti Bala, Rakesh Chauhan, Rameshwar Kumar, Ravi Kant Bhatia, Abhishek Walia

  • Journal: Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

  • Year: 2024

Anil Sharma | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Anil Sharma | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Sri Sri University | India

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Prof. Anil Kumar Sharma is a leading scientist with over 35 years of experience in Soil Science and Microbial Biotechnology. His research has pioneered bioinoculants technology, rhizosphere microbiology, and sustainable waste management. He has authored 117+ peer-reviewed articles, published 14 international books, and secured over ₹10 Cr in research grants. His work spans Switzerland, Germany, Finland, Denmark, Australia, and the Philippines, driving global scientific collaboration. With multiple patents and leadership roles, including Executive Registrar at Sri Sri University, he has significantly shaped agricultural microbiology. His dedication to human resource development, having mentored Ph.D., M.Sc., JRF, SRF, and international exchange students, highlights his impact. Prof. Sharma’s contributions in biotechnological innovations for soil sustainability and climate-resilient agriculture set him apart as a visionary researcher, making him an outstanding candidate for this award.

🎓 Education 

Prof. Anil Kumar Sharma has a Ph.D. in Botany (1988) with advanced training in microbial biotechnology. His postdoctoral research in the USA, Australia, France, UK, and Germany laid the foundation for his expertise in Soil Science and Plant Pathology. As a visiting scientist, he collaborated with leading research institutions worldwide. His interdisciplinary knowledge in microbial ecosystems, biocontrol agents, and waste management is pivotal to modern agriculture. With a strong academic foundation, he has played a key role in transforming soil sustainability research through microbial innovations. His global exposure and scientific excellence reflect his commitment to advancing eco-friendly agricultural solutions.

 💼  Professional Experience

  • Executive Registrar, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha
  • Professor (Since 1996), G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology
  • Director, Extension Education (2020-2023)
  • Visiting Scientist: Australia, France, UK, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Finland, Denmark
  • Reviewer: International journals & funding agencies
  • Keynote Speaker: National & international conferences
  • Technology Transfer: Bioinoculants (2)
  • Patent Holder: 2 granted, 1 filed
  • Research Collaborations: Switzerland, Germany, Finland, Denmark, Australia, Philippines

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

  • Recipient of national and international research grants (₹10 Cr+).
  • Recognized for outstanding contributions in Soil Science & Microbiology.
  • Series Editor: Springer Verlag, Taylor & Francis.
  • Published 117+ peer-reviewed scientific papers.
  • Recipient of international fellowships & awards.
  • Mentored numerous Ph.D., MSc, JRF, SRF, and international students.
  • Leader in technological innovations for biofertilizers & sustainable agriculture.

🌍Research skills On Soil Science

Prof. Sharma’s research expertise encompasses soil microbiology, bioremediation, microbial biotechnology, and plant-microbe interactions. His pioneering work in bioinoculants, rhizosphere microbiology, and waste-to-energy solutions has transformed modern agriculture. His research integrates climate-smart agriculture, precision microbiome engineering, and sustainable soil health management. He has successfully led multi-institutional and cross-border collaborations to enhance soil sustainability and microbial resilience. His work has practical applications in agriculture, environmental conservation, and industrial microbiology.

📖Publications

Impact of natural farming inputs and their microbes on the growth, yield and nutrients of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under controlled and field conditions
  • Authors: Janarjan Pandey, Ishwar Prakash Sharma, Sudha Bind, Suvigya Sharma, Anil Kumar Sharma

  • Journal: Organic Agriculture

  • Year: 2025

Effect of Crop Rotation on Bacterial Diversity and Soil Quality under Organic and Conventional Farming System
  • Authors: Megha D. Bhatt, Chandra Mohan Mehta, Deepesh Bhatt, Dhananjay Kumar Singh, Anil Kumar Sharma

  • Journal: Journal of Food Chemistry and Nanotechnology

  • Year: 2023

Impact of Seed Applied Rhizobacterial Inoculants on Growth of Wheat (Triticum aestivum) and Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata] and their Influence on Rhizospheric Microbial Diversity
  • Authors: Anand Kumar, Dinesh Chandra, Pallavi, Anil Kumar Sharma

  • Journal: Agricultural Research

  • Year: 2022

Effect of Rhizophagus intraradices on growth and physiological performance of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.) under drought stress
  • Authors: Jaagriti P. Tyagi, Neeraj Shrivastava, Anil Kumar Sharma, Ajit Kumar Varma, Ramesh Namdeo Pudake

  • Journal: Plant Science Today

  • Year: 2021

 

Gibbon Innocent Tirivanhu Masukwedza | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gibbon Innocent Tirivanhu Masukwedza | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Sussex, United Kingdom

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Gibbon Innocent Tirivanhu Masukwedza is a distinguished climate scientist specializing in subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) prediction and climate variability. His research enhances the predictability of dry spells in Southern Africa, contributing to agricultural resilience. With expertise in statistical modeling, geospatial data analysis, and high-performance computing, he plays a pivotal role in impact-based forecasting (IbF) and climate-informed decision-making. His work significantly advances early warning systems, drought risk management, and the application of ENSO signals in agriculture. His interdisciplinary collaborations integrate climate science with policy and practice, strengthening food security and climate adaptation strategies worldwide.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Masukwedza holds a PhD in Climate Science, with a focus on subseasonal-to-seasonal prediction and climate variability. He has conducted pioneering research on dry spell predictability, large-scale agrometeorologically relevant dry spells (LARDS), and the influence of atmospheric teleconnections. His doctoral work has been instrumental in refining climate forecasting methodologies, improving their application in drought mitigation and food security. His academic training includes advanced courses in geospatial analysis, climate modeling, and impact-based forecasting. He actively collaborates with meteorological agencies, agricultural experts, and policymakers, ensuring his research has practical implications in real-world climate adaptation and resilience-building efforts.

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Masukwedza is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Sussex. His research focuses on the CLARITY project, funded by UK Aid and co-funded by IDRC Canada, where he enhances subseasonal-to-seasonal prediction frameworks. He has worked extensively on NASA-funded projects, integrating climate modeling with decision-making for agricultural sustainability. His contributions to impact-based forecasting (IbF) include improving drought early warning systems and developing predictive tools for extreme weather events. He collaborates with international research teams, contributing to cutting-edge advancements in climate risk assessment, atmospheric dynamics, and statistical downscaling techniques.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Masukwedza has been recognized globally for his contributions to climate science. He has received accolades for his research on extreme weather events and their impact on agriculture, including best paper awards at climate science conferences. His work has been acknowledged in international climate adaptation programs, emphasizing his expertise in subseasonal-to-seasonal prediction. He has been invited as a keynote speaker at multiple international climate forums and serves as a peer reviewer for high-impact scientific journals. His research has influenced policy frameworks for climate risk mitigation and agricultural resilience across Southern Africa and beyond.

🌍Research skills On Crop Science

Dr. Masukwedza is proficient in climate data analysis, subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) prediction, and geospatial modeling. He specializes in impact-based forecasting (IbF) and the assessment of large-scale agrometeorological dry spells. His expertise includes statistical modeling, bias correction techniques, and machine learning applications in climate science. He actively contributes to interdisciplinary collaborations, integrating meteorological data with agricultural risk management strategies. His research on ENSO’s influence on climate variability enhances drought mitigation approaches, strengthening food security and resilience in vulnerable regions. His technical proficiency and scientific insights drive advancements in climate prediction and decision-support systems.

📖Publications

Storylines of Unprecedented Extremes in the Southeast United States. Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society (2025)
Characteristics and atmospheric drivers of large-scale agrometeorological dry spells in subseasonal-to-seasonal timescales over Zimbabwe (2025).
Assessing the extended-range forecast skill of extreme agrometeorological dry spells over Southern Africa (2025).
Subseasonal predictability of weekly rainfall and rainy season onset over East Africa (2025).
 Detectable use of ENSO information on crop production in Southern Africa. Climate Services (2024).
Potential for surprising heat and drought events in wheat-producing regions of USA and China. npj Climate and Atmospheric Science (2023).
A Regime Perspective on the North Atlantic Eddy-Driven Jet Response to Sudden Stratospheric Warmings. Journal of Climate (2020).
Operational Regional Flash Flood Guidance System: A case study of Zimbabwe. World Meteorological Organization Special Issue on Water (2018).

Asim Abbasi | Entomology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Asim Abbasi | Entomology | Best Researcher Award

Department of Entomology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan

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🌟INTRODUCTION

Dr. Asim Abbasi, a distinguished entomologist, specializes in the intersection of agriculture and entomology. His extensive research, particularly in the management of insect pests and plant protection, has made significant contributions to sustainable agricultural practices. With a career spanning multiple prestigious institutions in both Pakistan and the USA, Dr. Abbasi’s work continues to impact the field of entomology and agricultural sciences.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Born on June 20, 1987, in Pakistan, Dr. Abbasi’s journey in entomology began at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences (Entomology). His fascination with insects led him to pursue a Master’s and later a Ph.D. in Agriculture (Entomology) at the same institution. His doctoral dissertation, “Silicon-based induced resistance and its integration with new chemistry insecticides in cotton against Bemisia tabaci,” was supervised by leading experts in the field.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Abbasi has held various roles across prominent research and teaching institutions, contributing to both the academic and practical aspects of entomology. He served as a Research Assistant at the University of Arizona, Tucson, where he focused on the quantification of silicon in cotton plants and its effect on whitefly behavior. He also worked as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, guiding master’s students and aiding in manuscript writing and statistical data analysis.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Entomology

Dr. Abbasi’s research primarily revolves around pest management, sustainable agriculture, and the integration of biotechnological methods in crop protection. He has conducted groundbreaking work on the biocontrol potential of Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus thuringiensis against crop-damaging pests like Chilo partellus. Additionally, his investigations into the use of nanobiostimulants and CRISPR/Cas technologies are pushing the boundaries of genetic improvement in crops to withstand biotic stress.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Abbasi’s work has made an indelible mark on both agricultural practices and entomology. His publications and research contributions are utilized worldwide in pest management strategies, biofortification techniques, and climate-resilient farming systems. By bridging the gap between science and practical application, his influence extends beyond academia, impacting real-world agricultural solutions.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

With numerous publications in high-impact journals and book chapters, Dr. Abbasi has earned recognition for his expertise in sustainable pest control, climate resilience in crops, and insect biodiversity. His work continues to inform global agricultural strategies, as evidenced by his collaborations with scholars across the globe.

  • Abbasi, A., Hina, A., Zafar, S., Arshad, M.U., & Abdelsalam, N.R. (2024). “Nanobiostimulants for Enhancing Plant Stress Tolerance,” Springer.
  • Abbasi, A., Hina, A., Qayyum, M.A., & Wakil, W. (2023). “Entomopathogenic Fungi: Prospects and Challenges,” Springer.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Research Excellence Award, University of Agriculture Faisalabad
  • Award for Best PhD Dissertation, University of Agriculture Faisalabad
  • International Scholar Award, University of Arizona
  • Outstanding Researcher Award in Entomology

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking forward, Dr. Abbasi is committed to expanding his research into new frontiers of agricultural biotechnology and crop resilience. As a leader in his field, his legacy will be defined by his contributions to sustainable agricultural practices and his role in shaping the future of crop protection and entomology research.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Abbasi continues to lead innovative research in agricultural entomology, focusing on eco-friendly pest management and plant protection strategies. His efforts aim to contribute to the global fight against food insecurity and climate change through science-driven solutions in agriculture.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Comparison of Pheromone Lures and Sticky Pad Color for Capturing Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
  • Authors: Sadique, M., Ishtiaq, M., Qayyum, M.A., Akram, M.I., Rebouh, N.Y.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2025
Assessment of Different Conventional and Biofortified Wheat Genotypes Based on Biology and Damage Pattern of Rhyzopertha dominica and Trogoderma granarium
  • Authors: Yousuf, H.M.B., Yasin, M., Khan, M.A., Rebouh, N.Y., Ali, H.M.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2025
Evaluating the Influence of Different Artificial Diets on Apis mellifera L. Using Health Biomarkers and Performance Metrics
  • Authors: Islam, S.U., Aqueel, M.A., Yousuf, M.U., Parvaiz, A., Rebouh, N.Y.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2024
Effect of Co-Diet Supplementation on Biodegradation of Polyethylene by Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
  • Authors: Mahfooz, A., Yasin, M., Qayyum, M.A., Aqueel, M.A., Subhan, M.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2024
Use of Periplaneta americana as a Soybean Meal Substitute: A Step towards Sustainable Transformative Poultry Feeds
  • Authors: Mustafa, F., Sajjad, A., Tahir, R., Avila-Quezada, G.D., Abd_Allah, E.F.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2024

 

Shakil Ahmad | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shakil Ahmad | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Hainan Normal University | China

Author Profile

🌱 SHAKIL AHMAD: PIONEER IN AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Shakil Ahmad was born on March 15, 1992, in Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. His academic journey began at the University of Agriculture, Peshawar, where he earned a B.Sc. Hons in Plant Protection in 2014. Continuing his dedication to agricultural sciences, he pursued an M.S. Hons in Plant Protection, graduating in 2016. In 2021, he achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a Ph.D. in Agricultural Biotechnology (Plant Protection) from Hainan University, China.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Shakil Ahmad’s career is marked by significant research and teaching roles. He has served as:

  • Research Fellow (2024): Wake Forest University, USA.
  • Research Associate (2023–2024): Hainan Normal University, China.
  • Post-Doctoral Researcher (2021–2023): School of Plant Protection, Hainan University, China.
  • Lecturer (2020–2024): School of Foreign Languages, Hainan University, China.

His expertise spans diverse areas like RNA Interference, Genetically Engineered Pest Control, and Insect Physiology.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PLANT PATHALOGY

Shakil Ahmad’s research primarily focuses on:

  • RNA Interference (RNAi): Exploring innovative pest control strategies.
  • Insecticide Resistance: Addressing critical challenges in crop protection.
  • Fruit Fly Management: Developing effective ecological and genetic methods.
  • Molecular Mechanisms of Insect Development: Understanding physiological pathways.

His work blends cutting-edge molecular biology with practical pest management solutions, significantly impacting sustainable agriculture.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Through his extensive research, Shakil Ahmad has contributed to reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides, promoting environmentally sustainable pest control solutions. His work on melon fly developmental disruption using RNAi and comparative transcriptomics has been lauded globally.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Shakil Ahmad has authored 14 high-impact publications, including:

  1. Double-Stranded RNA Degrading Nuclease and RNAi Efficiency (Journal of Pest Science, IF 5.742).
  2. Knockdown of Ecdysone Receptor in Melon Fly (Insect Molecular Biology, IF 2.65).
  3. Comparative Transcriptomics of Irradiated Melon Fly (Frontiers in Physiology, IF 4.75).

His work boasts an impressive citation count, reflecting his influence in agricultural biotechnology.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Hainan National Natural Science Foundation Youth Fund Project (322QN254): Project Lead.
  • Reviewer for prestigious journals like Pest Management Science and Frontier in Microbiology.
  • Member of the Entomological Society of America (2021).

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Shakil Ahmad stands at the forefront of agricultural biotechnology, championing sustainable solutions to global agricultural challenges. With his innovative research and commitment to teaching, he is paving the way for a future where agriculture thrives alongside environmental conservation.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

“Isolation and characterization of Bacillus sp. HSY32 and its toxin gene for potential biological control of plant parasitic nematode”
  • Authors: Yan, P., Ahmad, S., Xu, Z., Kashyap, A.S., Zhang, W.
  • Journal: Chemical and Biological Technologies in Agriculture
  • Year: 2024
“Comparative transcriptomics of the irradiated melon fly (Zeugodacus cucurbitae) reveal key developmental genes”
  • Authors: Ahmad, S., Jamil, M., Jaworski, C.C., Luo, Y.
  • Journal: Frontiers in Physiology
  • Year: 2023
“Preparation, biocontrol activity and growth promotion of biofertilizer containing Streptomyces aureoverticillatus HN6”
  • Authors: Wang, T., Ahmad, S., Yang, L., Wang, L., Luo, Y.
  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
  • Year: 2022
“Double-stranded RNA degrading nuclease affects RNAi efficiency in the melon fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae”
  • Authors: Ahmad, S., Jamil, M., Jaworski, C.C., Luo, Y.
  • Journal: Journal of Pest Science
  • Year: 2024

“Knockdown of the ecdysone receptor disrupts development and causes mortality in the melon fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae”

  • Authors: Ahmad, S., Jamil, M., Jaworski, C.C., Lyu, B., Luo, Y.
  • Journal: Insect Molecular Biology
  • Year: 2023
“Bioaccumulation and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metal(loid)s in Different Fish Species of Hainan Island, China”
  • Authors: Ahmad, T., Gul, S., Khan, M.A., Ahmad, A., Ahmad, S.
  • Journal: Thalassas
  • Year: 2022