Inauguration of molecular laboratory in Plant Pathology department of BAU
Ranchi: Birsa Agricultural University (BAU) Vice Chancellor Dr SC Dubey on Wednesday inaugurated a well-equipped molecular laboratory in the university’s Department of Plant Pathology.
The Vice Chancellor said that the laboratory has been developed to promote hands-on training in molecular techniques related to plant pathology and facilitate precise detection and diagnosis of plant diseases. The state-of-the-art facility will strengthen molecular research, improve plant disease diagnosis and provide advanced practical training to postgraduate and PhD students, researchers and faculty members.
It is also expected to support better management and control of location-specific plant diseases affecting the region, thereby contributing to improved crop health and productivity. The facility will provide researchers and students with opportunities to undertake advanced investigations into plant pathogens and disease development. The availability of modern instruments is expected to enhance the quality of research work and encourage the publication of research findings in reputed scientific journals.
The laboratory is equipped with several advanced instruments, including a spectrophotometer, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system, gel documentation system, electrophoresis apparatus, refrigerated centrifuge, deep freezer and NanoDrop instrument. These facilities will support a range of molecular biology and plant pathology applications, including the analysis of biological samples, amplification and examination of genetic material, and the identification of disease-causing organisms.
Dr HC Lal, Head of the Department of Plant Pathology, said the laboratory would provide an important platform for advanced research and practical learning in plant disease management. The facility is expected to strengthen the department’s research capabilities and help students acquire skills in modern diagnostic techniques. The laboratory will focus on the identification and characterization of plant pathogens using molecular techniques, particularly those responsible for diseases in important agricultural and horticultural crops. These studies will help improve disease diagnosis and support the development of effective and affordable disease management practices suited to local farming conditions.
Dr Lham Dorjee, Incharge of the laboratory made a presentation on the research initiatives undertaken and said that in the long run, the laboratory aims to bring research closer to farmers by supporting more reliable disease diagnosis, reducing crop losses and promoting informed plant protection practices. It is expected to contribute to agricultural development in Jharkhand by strengthening research, building technical skills among students and generating practical solutions to farmers’ problems. Dr DK Shahi, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture welcomed and Dr MK Barnwam proposed a vote of thanks. Director Research Dr PK Singh, Dean PGS Dr Ramesh Kumar, Chairperson, Dept of GPB Dr Manigopa Chakraborty and DSW Dr BK Agrawal were also present on the occasion.
