News

The Indian Academy of Horticultural Sciences recently bestowed a Foreign Fellowship on Dr. Balakrishnan Prithiviraj.

Born on June 15th, 1967 in Tamil Nadu, Dr. Balakrishnan Prithiviraj earned his undergraduate degree in Agriculture from Annamalai University, followed by an M.Sc.(Agr) and Ph.D in Mycology and Plant Patholoy from Banaras Hindu University.  After research appointments at McGill University, Canada and Colorado State University, he joined Dalhousie University where is is currently the Associate Vice President Global Relations and professor. 

An internationally recognized scientist he has pioneered research on plant biostimulants for climate-change mitigation in horticulture.  His work has elucidated how natural biostimulants - especially those derived from marine microalgae such as Asophyllum nodosum - enhance plant tolerance to drought, salinity, freezing and termperative extremes intensifed by global climate change.

Integrating plant physiology, molecular biology and soil-microbe interactions, he has demonstrated that biostimulants improve nutrient uptake. optimize photosynthesis and enhance crop resilience while reducing reliance on synthetic agrochemicals.  These innovations have directly advanced sustainable, climate resilient horticultural systems benefitting growers worldwide. 

Dr. Prithiviraj has authored over 150 peer-reviewed publications and several patents, many of which have been successfully commercialized in partnership with industry.  His leadership in international collaboarations across the Indo-Pacific and active participation in glocal forums such as the Wolrd Congress on Plant Biostimulants reflect his commitment to sustainable horticultural advancement.

The Indian Academy of Horticultural Sciences deems it a great honour to confer the ISHA Foreign Fellowship 2025 to Dr. Balakrishnan Prithiviraj for his outstanding contribution and leadership in promoting climate-smart horticultural practices

Congratulations!