Katakam Rupini Krishna, a PhD student in nematology at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), has been awarded the Best Oral Presentation at the 2nd International Agriculture Conference on Natural Farming Innovations held from November 3-5, 2024, at Hansraj College, University of Delhi. The award was based on her thesis work conducted at Kerala Agricultural University's Vellayani campus, focusing on the biomanagement of the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) and wilt fungus (Fusarium oxysporum) disease complex in vegetable cowpea.
Guided by Dr. Nisha Assistant Professor, Department of Nematology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, The research of Ms Rupini Krishna has been recognized for its contribution to agriculture, aligning with the conference theme of enhancing soil health and seed quality through natural farming innovations, AI, and drone technology. The conference, jointly organized by prestigious institutions including ICAR-IARI, the Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding, and Gujarat Natural Farming Science University, highlighted her work as an exemplary study advancing eco-friendly pest and disease management in agriculture.