Himachal Pradesh Scholar Wins Best Research Presentation Award
Celebrating Academic Excellence
Mahinder Patyal
Bharmour
Ms. Arti Thakur, a remarkable student from Gadiyada village in Chamba district, has made her home state of Himachal Pradesh proud with her exceptional academic and research accomplishments. She is the daughter of Shri Sain Singh Thakur and Smt. Ichhiya Devi, currently residing in Shivnagar, Post Office Mehla, Chamba.
Currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at Assam Agricultural University (AAU) in Jorhat, Ms. Thakur recently received the Best Research Presentation Award during the 5th Biotic Science Congress and International Conference 2026, hosted at Gauhati University, Assam.
Her award-winning research investigates the polymer-digesting capabilities of Galleria mellonella (Greater Wax Moth) and examines the role of its gut-associated microbial community in plastic biodegradation. This innovative research plays a crucial role in developing sustainable bioremediation methods to address the pressing issue of global plastic pollution.
Path to Academic Success
- Completed her undergraduate degree in Biotechnology at Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Himachal Pradesh.
- Achieved the ICAR Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and earned her M.Sc. in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana.
- Received the ICAR Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) and is currently pursuing her doctoral research at AAU, focusing on the enzymes, microbes, and molecular processes involved in plastic degradation.
Gratitude for Support Ms. Thakur expressed her heartfelt thanks to her parents for their unwavering support and sacrifices, as well as to her Ph.D. supervisor, Dr. B.K. Bora, whose guidance has been vital in her journey. She highlighted that their encouragement was key to her achievements.
This accomplishment not only brings pride to Assam Agricultural University but also serves as a significant milestone for Chamba district and all of Himachal Pradesh. Ms. Thakur's success stands as a beacon of inspiration for students from rural areas, particularly young researchers and female scholars, demonstrating that hard work, dedication, quality education, and effective mentorship can lead to extraordinary achievements on both national and international stages.