Ajit Kumar Shasany appointed new V-C of Central University of Odisha in Koraput

Ajit Kumar Shasany, Director of the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has been appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Odisha, Koraput.

He will hold the post for five years or until he turns 70, whichever comes first, according to a notification issued July 2 by the Ministry of Education’s Higher Education Department.

“It is a great honor to be appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of a Central University located in the tribal heartland of Odisha. The challenges are immense, but I am determined to devote all my strength to ensure that the university reaches greater heights,” he said.

A senior scientist with extensive experience at various CSIR institutions, Dr. Shasany made notable contributions to botanical research. He was instrumental in the development of a new water lily variety at CSIR-NBRI called ‘NBRI Namoh 108’, which stands out with its 108 petals.

He also took keen interest in promoting floriculture in India, including Odisha, to increase farmers’ income through flower cultivation. Moreover, it has played an important role in reviving endangered flower species traditionally used in rituals at the 12th-century Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri.