Ludhiana: The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has earned national recognition by securing the “Third Best Centre of the Year 2025 Award” under the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology (PHET). The award was conferred during the 41st Annual Workshop of AICRP on PHET held at Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University in Vishakhapatnam. Competing against 29 centers nationwide, the PAU center was honored for its research achievements, technology development, publications, and the dissemination of post-harvest innovations.The university officials noted that the AICRP on PHET, based in the Department of Processing and Food Engineering, has maintained a consistent record of national-level performance. The center previously secured first position in 2023 and has now achieved third position consecutively in 2024 and 2025.The team recognized for these achievements includes Dr. MS Alam (Principal Scientist-cum-PI), Dr. Surekha Bhatia (Principal Biochemist), Dr. Sandhya (Principal Scientist), Dr. Manpreet Kaur Saini (Senior Entomologist), Dr. Rohit Sharma (Senior Scientist), and Dr. Gagandeep Kaur (Food Microbiologist). Led by Dr. Alam, the team has developed several application-oriented technologies, such as protocols for stevia powder and menthol crystal production, vacuum-assisted osmotic impregnation systems, and vacuum-assisted ohmic heating systems for aonla juice.Dr. TC Mittal, Head of the Department of Processing and Food Engineering, observed that these innovations highlight the center’s leadership in sustainable agro-processing solutions. He noted that the center has developed farmer-friendly and industry-oriented technologies that contribute to value addition, the reduction of post-harvest losses, and entrepreneurship development.In addition to technical development, the center has focused on capacity building through training programs for farmers, entrepreneurs, and government officials to strengthen regional agro-processing infrastructure. Dr. Mittal also highlighted the center’s strong industry linkages, citing the successful licensing of two major technologies—Pectin Extraction Technology and a Protection Kit for Stored Pulses—within a six-month period.
