Honouring distinguished scientists and researchers
Prof. (Dr.) Wazir Singh Lakra is a distinguished Indian fisheries scientist renowned for his extensive contributions to aquaculture genetics, biotechnology, and aquatic biodiversity conservation. Born in Delhi on 1 July 1955, he pursued his academic training at University of Delhi and HNB Garhwal University, later earning his Ph.D. With over 35 years of experience in research, teaching, and leadership, he has held several prominent positions, including Director of the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources and Director/Vice Chancellor of the Central Institute of Fisheries Education. His work focuses on fish genetics, aquaculture improvement, and sustainable management of aquatic biodiversity. Currently associated as NABARD Chair Professor under the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, he has published over 350 research papers, authored several books, and guided numerous doctoral scholars. Recognized with multiple national and international awards, Prof. Lakra is also a fellow of several prestigious scientific academies and has played a key role in advancing fisheries science and policy in India and beyond.
Prof. B. D. Joshi is a noted Indian academic and environmental scientist with significant contributions to zoology, environmental studies, and river ecology. He has been associated with Bundelkhand University, where he served as Professor and Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences and also as Director of the Institute of Environmental Studies and Development. Prof. Joshi has played an important advisory role in national environmental initiatives; since 2015, he has been serving as advisor-cum-consultant on river dolphins and riverine ecology under the Namami Gange Programme, particularly linked to the River Ganga Shipping Programme. He has held several prominent leadership positions in scientific organizations, including President of the Zoological Society of India and Secretary of the Indian Science Congress Association, reflecting his influence in shaping zoological and environmental research in India. In addition, he has been a UGC BSR Emeritus Professor Fellow and founder of the Indian Academy of Environmental Sciences, contributing to academic publishing and environmental awareness through editorial and scholarly work. Prof. Joshi’s research interests center on aquatic ecology, biodiversity conservation, and environmental management, with particular emphasis on river systems such as the Ganga. Through his academic leadership, advisory roles, and extensive publications, he has contributed to advancing environmental policy, conservation strategies, and zoological research in India.
Prof. (Dr.) Anish Dua is a well-known Indian zoologist and fisheries scientist recognized for his contributions to aquatic ecology, fish biology, and environmental conservation. He is associated with the Guru Nanak Dev University, where he has served as Professor in the Department of Zoology and has also held important administrative roles, including Head of the Department. Prof. Dua’s research primarily focuses on freshwater ecosystems, fish diversity, conservation biology, and environmental impact assessment, particularly in relation to riverine systems of North India such as the Beas and Ravi rivers. His work has significantly contributed to understanding fish biodiversity, habitat degradation, and conservation strategies for threatened aquatic species. He has been actively involved in national conservation programs and has collaborated with government and scientific agencies on projects related to river health and biodiversity monitoring. In addition to his research, Prof. Dua has contributed extensively to academic development through teaching, supervision of postgraduate and doctoral students, and publication of numerous research papers in reputed journals. His work continues to support sustainable fisheries management and biodiversity conservation in India.
Prof. (Dr.) Neeta Sehgal is a distinguished academic specializing in fish endocrinology and reproductive physiology, currently serving as a Senior Professor in the Department of Zoology at the University of Delhi. She completed her Ph.D. in Zoology in 1990 from the same university, after earning both her M.Sc. (1982) and B.Sc. (Hons.) (1980) in Zoology from Miranda House. With a long-standing academic career, she has progressed from Lecturer (1992–2000) to Reader (2000–2008), and later to Senior Professor (2008–present). Her research focuses on the reproductive physiology of freshwater fishes, particularly murrels and catfish, where she has made significant contributions to understanding the hormonal regulation of vitellogenin and choriogenin synthesis in fish liver. She has also developed important laboratory techniques for isolating viable hepatocytes, enabling advanced in vitro studies on liver metabolism and biosynthetic processes. In addition to her academic work, she has held key administrative roles, including serving as Proctor and as the former Head of the Department of Zoology at the University of Delhi.