TMU College of Agriculture Secures Prestigious CSTUP Research Grants Worth Nearly ₹30 Lakh
Moradabad, August 30, 2025: The College of Agriculture Sciences (COAS), Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), Moradabad, has achieved a significant milestone with two of its faculty members securing research grants worth nearly ₹30 lakh from the Council of Science & Technology, Uttar Pradesh (CSTUP).
The awarded projects recognise TMU’s growing contribution to sustainable agriculture and its commitment to eco-friendly farming practices.
Pioneering Research in Mushroom Cultivation and Waste Recycling
The first sanctioned project, led by Dr Amit Kumar Maurya, Assistant Professor (Plant Pathology), is titled:
“Unveiling different agricultural waste and supplements for the cultivation of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus florida) and recycling of spent compost” (Project ID: 5617).
With a funding of ₹15.36 lakh over three years, the project focuses on:
- Utilising agricultural residues such as straw, husks, and organic by-products as low-cost substrates for mushroom cultivation.
- Recycling spent compost as soil amendments to improve fertility while reducing waste.
- Supporting a Junior Research Assistant (₹9.36 lakh allocation) and covering consumables and contingencies (₹6 lakh).
This innovative research not only promotes waste-to-wealth solutions but also empowers farmers with sustainable and profitable methods for cultivating mushrooms.
Advancing Ecologically Intensive Agriculture with Biological Solutions
The second project, awarded to Dr. Ashutosh Awasthi, Associate Professor (Biotechnology), focuses on “Developing biological solutions for managing plant health and productivity under Ecologically Intensive Agriculture” (Project ID: 4625).
Sanctioned for ₹14.36 lakh over three years, the project highlights:
- Designing and deploying biological agents as sustainable alternatives to harmful agrochemicals.
- Improving soil health, crop resilience, and long-term sustainability.
- Funding support for a Research Assistant (₹9.36 lakh) and allocation for chemicals, consumables, and travel contingencies (₹5 lakh).
This project aims to create an eco-friendly farming ecosystem aligned with India’s sustainability goals.
Institutional Pride and Recognition
Dr P.K. Jain, Dean, College of Agriculture Sciences, TMU, congratulated both researchers, stating:
“These projects are proof that TMU is committed to developing scientific solutions that directly benefit society. While one project creates wealth from waste through mushroom cultivation, the other emphasises ecological health and biological innovations. Together, they symbolise our commitment to sustainable and resilient agriculture.”
Broader Implications for Students, Farmers, and Society
- Student Opportunities: Graduate and postgraduate students will gain hands-on experience in sustainable farming research, preparing them for leadership in agriculture.
- Farmer Benefits: Waste-based mushroom cultivation provides farmers with additional income streams and enhances food security.
- Environmental Impact: Biological alternatives reduce dependence on harmful chemicals, protecting ecosystems and human health.
Conclusion
The twin successes of Dr. Maurya and Dr. Awasthi mark a proud achievement for TMU, reinforcing its position as a centre of excellence in agricultural research. By addressing critical challenges such as waste recycling and ecological intensification, TMU continues to blend science, sustainability, and societal well-being in its research vision.
