Prof. KC Bansal, a prominent Indian scientist, has been elected as a Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) for the advancement of science in developing countries. The fellowship, effective from January 1, 2025, recognizes Prof. Bansal's outstanding contributions to science and its promotion in the developing world.
This achievement highlights a rare distinction, as only a select few Indian agricultural scientists, approximately seven so far, have been inducted as TWAS Fellows. The induction ceremony for newly elected members will take place during the next TWAS General Conference.
Prof. Bansal, a former Director of the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), has significantly contributed to plant biotechnology and genetic research. His pioneering work includes developing transgenic crops with enhanced drought and salt stress tolerance. Notably, his lab cloned the first ABA receptor gene OsPYL10 from an Indian drought-tolerant rice landrace, a milestone in crop stress-resilience research.
In his illustrious career, Prof. Bansal spearheaded the evaluation of 22,000 wheat germplasm accessions at the Indian National Genebank, identifying critical trait-specific reference sets. He also led the National Transgenic Crop Network, advancing India’s capabilities in crop improvement.
Prof. Bansal has held key positions, including Vice-Chair for Asia in the United Nations' Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (2013-2015). He is a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, such as the Indian Science Congress Award, Haryana Vigyan Ratna, and Rafi Ahmad Kidwai Award.
Prof. Bansal's academic credentials are equally impressive. He earned his doctorate with a Gold Medal from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) and conducted advanced research at Harvard University under Prof. Lawrence Bogorad. He has published over 150 papers in high-impact journals, including Nature Biotechnology and PNAS.
Currently, Prof. Bansal serves as Secretary of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Global Plant Council. His election to TWAS underscores his remarkable contributions to agricultural science and his commitment to addressing global food security challenges.
