Nagpur: Dr Dilip Ghosh, director of ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute (ICAR-CCRI), Nagpur, was conferred with the prestigious Vasantrao Naik Agriculture Scientist and Literary Award (2025) for his outstanding contributions to the field of agricultural science, particularly in citrus research and development. The award was presented on July 1 by state agriculture minister Manikrao Kokate, during a ceremony held at Yashwantrao Chavan Pratishthan, Mumbai, on the occasion of 112th birth anniversary of former chief minister late Vasantrao Naik. Instituted by Vasantrao Naik Agricultural Research Foundation, Mumbai, the award carries a cash prize of ₹35,000 and a commemorative memento, recognising individuals who have made significant strides in agricultural research and its dissemination.Nagpur, popularly known as the Orange City of India, is home to ICAR-CCRI, the country’s premier institute under the ministry of agriculture & farmers welfare, govt of India, dedicated to citrus research. Under the leadership of Dr Ghosh, the institute made remarkable progress in areas such as citrus cultivation technologies, production of quality planting material, integrated disease and pest management, nutrient management practices, and development of improved varieties. Recently, Dr Ghosh imported 17 exotic citrus varieties from United States department of agriculture, California, for performance evaluation and subsequent release for large-scale commercial cultivation in different agro-climatic regions of India. This initiative is going to contribute significantly to developing India’s citrus sector.A seasoned scientist with more than three decades of experience, Dr Ghosh consistently worked towards improving the livelihoods of citrus growers across the country. His research and outreach efforts significantly contributed to improving the Indian citrus industry. Dr Ghosh is widely regarded as a dedicated agricultural scientist and a true ally of the farming community. His leadership at ICAR-CCRI helped the institute to be more visible on various international scientific platforms and continues to inspire innovation and practical solutions that empower farmers and support sustainable horticulture development.
