National Research Centre on seed spices

Dr. S. N. Saxena is the Principal Scientist at the National Research Centre on Seed Spices, Ajmer. With a Ph.D. in plant physiology, he has vast experience of more than 21 years in research, teaching, and research infrastructure development. As a part of ICAR-NRCSS since 2007, he has worked rigorously in improving the research on seed spices by initiating work on the basic aspect of crop improvement, stress physiology, biotechnology, etc. He has played a key role in developing & strengthening infrastructure facilities for research at this institute. He has published more than 100 research papers nationally as well as internationally. His knowledge & excellence in the research domain remains unmatched.

What are the key factors that have kept you connected with the education sector?

“Being a part of the research domain directly connects us to the education field”

Research and education are complementary to each other. Both sectors are perpetual. We cannot separate them. Students are the raw material for any research organization. We have a duty to shape them.

Being the principal scientist at NRCSS, what is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

“Providing positive encouragement & support to achieve goals” 

As a senior level scientist in any organization where we have to guide a team of other scientists, my philosophy of leadership is to be optimistic. My leadership style will be a solution provider encouraging reciprocal trust with good interpersonal relations. 

The education systems in India and other foreign countries are structured very differently. In your experience, what can an inbound student gain from studying/researching here in your institute?

“Excellent research facilities & an opportunity to work on economically important projects”

Our institute is doing research on realistic problems in seed spice production technology in a systematic manner. Students researching at our institute will have an opportunity to work on economically important crops. The infrastructure of research facilities is better than any other institute with a number of scientific expertise available here.

Check National Research Centre on seed spices Courses & Fees

What do you think should be the NRCSS’s top priority over the next 10 years?

“Helping the farmer groups with the latest advancements for improved agriculture practices”

NRCSS top priority is to enhance seed spice area and production by introducing the latest farmers-friendly technologies and maintaining India’s prime position in seed spice production and export. 

What has been your vision for the institute & how has it evolved over time?

“To develop a well structured & exclusive research institute”

When I joined this institute, it was in the establishment phase. Seed spices are a group within spices (Cumin, coriander, fennel, fenugreek, ajwain, dill, kalongi, anise, caraway and celery). Most of the seed spices produced in Rajasthan, Gujarat and adjoining regions. These crops, though important but remained neglected. Working on these crops provides a virgin field to work upon. NRCSS is the only national institute working upon seed spice crops. We are among those scientists who are involved in shaping the institute as per its mandates and no doubt we are succeeding in this.

What would you like people to know about your institute & its strengths?

“A Strongly dedicated education institute dedicated to seed spice crops under agricultural research”

People should know that there is an exclusive research institute dedicated to seed spice crops under the ages of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi. Dedicated scientists and technical persons from different disciplines are the highlighting features of this institute.

Any suggestions you would like to give to the current youth and the aspiring students?

“Involvement in the agricultural research domain to assist our country’s farmer in these crucial times”

There is a vast potential in the field of agricultural research. Shrinking natural resources are continuously posing great challenges for sustainable agriculture production to feed the growing world population. Become a part of the Agriculture research infrastructure one can have better opportunity in career but also provide satisfaction of working for the farming community of the country.

Click National Research Centre on seed spices Faculty

How do you tend to establish a healthy relation and environment in your institute?

“Creating an atmosphere of absolute faith & dedication amongst the pupils”

I would like to work by creating a climate of reciprocal trust, fearless loyalty towards doing what’s right for the organization and stakeholders.