Prof. G.D. Sharma, Vice Chancellor of USTM, Honoured with Prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award
9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri-Bhoi — Tuesday, November 25, 2025: Distinguished scientist and academic leader Prof. G.D. Sharma, Vice Chancellor of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), has been conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Mycological Society in collaboration with the Kalimpong Research Centre and the University of Calcutta at Kalimpong.
The award was presented during the inaugural session of the National Seminar on “Harnessing Microbes for Sustainable Farming System in the Era of Climate and Pathogen Population Change,” an event of national significance that underscored the growing importance of microbial science in fostering climate-resilient agriculture.
The ceremony was graced by eminent scientists, academicians, and research leaders from across India. The award was jointly presented by Prof. D. Basu, Vice Chancellor of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya; Prof. B.N. Chakraborty, President of the Indian Mycological Society; and Prof. Usha Chakraborty, Secretary of the Society, in recognition of Prof. Sharma’s decades of transformative contributions to mycology, plant pathology, microbial ecology, and agricultural biotechnology.
Prof Sharma mentioned, “This honour is not just a personal milestone but a recognition of the collective effort of my students, collaborators, and the scientific community working tirelessly to advance microbial research”.
Prof. Sharma’s pioneering research has significantly advanced scientific understanding of fungal diversity in Northeast India, biocontrol mechanisms for plant diseases, and the role of beneficial microbes in sustainable agriculture areas that have become increasingly vital in the context of climate change and evolving pathogen challenges. His extensive body of work has enriched academic scholarship while offering practical models for farmers operating in fragile agro-climatic zones.
Commending his contributions, Prof. B.N. Chakraborty described Prof. Sharma as “a pioneer whose lifelong dedication has shaped modern plant pathology and microbial applications in Indian agriculture.” Prof. Usha Chakraborty added that the award honours “exemplary scientific rigour coupled with strong institutional leadership.”
The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya has lauded this recognition, noting that it reinforces USTM’s emerging reputation as a centre of excellence in life sciences and sustainable development research. The award adds yet another milestone to Prof. Sharma’s illustrious career and serves as an inspiration to young researchers striving to harness microbial potential for a sustainable agricultural future.
USTM continues to champion impactful research addressing regional and global challenges. The university is ranked among the top 200 universities in India by NIRF 2024 and is the only private university in Northeast India to secure an ‘A’ Grade from NAAC in its first accreditation cycle.