On behalf of the ICAR–National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms (NBAIM), Mau and the Indian Phytopathological Society (IPS), New Delhi, we are delighted to invite you to participate in the National Conference & IPS Mid-Eastern Zonal Meet on Pathogens, Microbes and Plant Defense: Bridging Research and Applications (PMPD-2026); 28-29 January, 2026, at ICAR–NBAIM, Kushmaur, Maunath Bhanjan, Uttar Pradesh – 275103. This two-day event will provide a vibrant platform for scientists, academicians, students, and industry stakeholders to deliberate on recent advances in plant–microbe interactions, disease management, and translational applications of microbial research in agriculture. The scientific program will feature plenary lectures, invited talks, oral and poster presentations, and interactive sessions, focusing on: Emerging pathogens and plant defense mechanisms; Microbial ecology and functional genomics; Innovations in microbial technologies for sustainable crop protection; Translational research and applications for farmers and industries. We cordially invite you to contribute through abstract submission, research presentations, and active participation, and join us in bridging fundamental research with practical applications for sustainable agriculture. Chief Organizing Secretary Dr. Harsh Vardhan SIngh, Principal Scientist and Zonal President, IPS-MEZ
Dr. Abhijeet Singh Kashyap, Scientist and Zonal Councillor, IPS-MEZ |
|
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
The
National Conference & IPS Mid-Eastern Zonal Meet on “Pathogens, Microbes
and Plant Defense: Bridging Research and Applications (PMPD-2026)” is being organized to provide an interdisciplinary platform for plant pathologists, microbiologists, biotechnologists, agronomists, students, and industry stakeholders to exchange knowledge and foster collaborations. With the growing challenges of
emerging pathogens, climate change, and the urgent need for eco-friendly crop
protection strategies, this conference seeks to highlight the critical role of
microorganisms in plant health, disease suppression, and sustainable agriculture.The
deliberations will focus on cutting-edge research in plant–pathogen interactions,
microbial genomics, functional biology, and defense signaling pathways, while emphasizing innovations that can be translated into practical applications at the farm level. The conference will host plenary lectures, invited talks, oral and poster sessions,
and panel discussions, thereby creating opportunities for knowledge sharing and networking among diverse stakeholders. The main objectives of conference are- To deliberate on recent advances in the biology,
diversity, and management of plant pathogens. To explore the role of beneficial microbes in plant growth promotion, induced systemic resistance, and disease suppression.To bridge the gap between
fundamental research and field application through translational technologies and
innovations.To highlight the potential of microbial genomics, metabolomics, and bioinformatics in unraveling host–microbe interactions. To encourage academia–
industry partnerships for the development and commercialization of microbial technologies and bioformulations and to provide a platform for young researchers and
students to present their work, interact with experts, and build professional networks.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZERS
ICAR–National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms (NBAIM), Mau
The ICAR–National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms (NBAIM), Mau, is a premier institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, dedicated to the conservation, characterization, and sustainable utilization of agriculturally important microorganisms. Established as a national repository, the Bureau houses a vast microbial germplasm and provides cutting-edge research support in microbial ecology, genomics, and biotechnology. NBAIM plays a pivotal role in developing microbial-based technologies for crop improvement, soil health, and eco-friendly plant disease management, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural productivity and food security. (Read More...)
The Indian Phytopathological Society (IPS), New Delhi
The Indian Phytopathological Society (IPS), established in 1947, is a premier professional society dedicated to plant pathology in India. It promotes research, education, and awareness in the field of plant diseases and their management. IPS organizes annual conferences, publishes the esteemed journal "Indian Phytopathology," and facilitates collaboration among scientists, researchers, and practitioners. The society aims to address challenges in phytopathology, contribute to sustainable agriculture, and ensure food security. By fostering innovation and disseminating knowledge, IPS plays a crucial role in advancing plant health science in India and globally. The Society focuses on the field of Mycology, Plant Pathology, Bacteriology, Virology, giving a platform to the scientists working in the field of plant pathology-related research to share their research achievements. (Read More.....)
1. Emerging and Re-emerging Plant Pathogens
2. Plant–Microbe
Interactions and Defense Mechanisms
3. Beneficial
Microbes for Sustainable Agriculture
4. Genomics,
Metagenomics, and Functional Biology of Microorganisms
5. Translational
Research and Applications in Crop Protection
6. Policy,
Outreach, and Industry Partnerships
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau
IPS, New Delhi
Steering Committee
Dr. M.L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) & Director
General (ICAR) New Delhi
Dr. A.K. Singh, Vice-Chancellor, Rani Lakshmi
Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. S. C. Dubey, Vice Chancellor, Birsa Agricultural
University, Ranchi, Jharkhand
Dr. Anand Kumar Singh, Vice Chancellor, CSA
Agricultural University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Bijendra Singh, Vice Chancellor, Acharya
Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya
Prof. S.V.S. Raju, Vice Chancellor, Banda University
of Agriculture and Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Poonam Jasrotia, Assistant Director General
(PP&B), ICAR, New Delhi
Dr. Sudhansu Singh, Director-IRRI South Asia
Regional Centre
Dr. Sanjay Singh, Director General, UPCAR,
Uttar Pradesh
Dr. D.C. Pant, Ex Professor, Mycology and Plant
Pathology, IAS, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. K.P. Singh, Ex Professor (Mycology and Plant
Pathology), IAS, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. A.N. Mukhopadhyay, Former Vice Chancellor,
Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam
Dr. B.L. Jalai, Ex Director of Research, HAU,
Hisar, Haryana
Dr. C.D. Mayee, Former Chairman, ASRB, New
Delhi
Prof. H.B. Singh, Retd. Professor (Plant Pathology),
IAS, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. P.K. Chakrabarty, Former Member, ASRB,
New Delhi
Dr. D.K. Yadav, Deputy Director General (Crop
Science), ICAR, New Delhi
Dr. U.P. Singh, Director, Indian Institute of
Agricultural Sciences, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Advisory Committee
Dr. P.K. Rai, Director, ICAR-NIBSM, Raipur,
Chhattisgarh
Dr. Dinesh Singh, Head (Plant Pathology), ICAR-IISR,
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Pawan Kumar Sharma, Principal Scientist
(Plant Pathology), Crop Science Division, ICAR HQ, New Delhi
Dr. K.K. Pandey, Principal Scientist, ICAR-IIVR,
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Dharmendra Kumar, Head (Plant Pathology),
BAUT, Banda, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Krishna Kumar, Principal Scientist (Plant
Pathology) ICAR-IIPR, New Delhi
Dr. J.P. Rai, BHU-KVK, I.Ag. Sc., BHU (RGSC),
Barkachha, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh
Prof. M.R. Khan, Department of Plant Protection,
AMU, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. P.P. Jambhulkar, Head (Plant Pathology),
RLBCAU, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Dinesh Singh, Director, ICAR-IISR Lucknow,
Uttar Pradesh
Dr. K.P. Singh, Head (Plant Pathology), GBPUAT,
Pantnagar, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Kamal Khilari, Professor (Plant Pathology),
SVPUAS, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Sushil Kumar Singh, Head (Plant Pathology),
ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Ramji Singh, Professor (Plant Pathology),
SVPUAS, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Yogendra Singh, Professor (Plant Pathology),
GBPUAT, Pantnagar, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Mohamad Akaram, Head, Crop Protection, ICAR-IIPR,
Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. R.K Mishra, Principal Scientist (Plant Pathology),
ICAR-IIPR, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Organizing committee
Chairperson
Dr. A.K. Srivastava, Director, ICAR-NBAIM,
Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Chief Organizing Secretary
Dr. Harsh Vardhan Singh, Principal Scientist,
(Plant Pathology) & President IPS (Mid Eastern Zone), ICAR-NBAIM, Mau,
Uttar Pradesh
Organizing Secretary
Dr. Abhijeet Shankar Kashyap, Scientist (Sr.
Scale) (Plant Pathology) & Councillor IPS (Mid Eastern Zone), ICAR-NBAIM, Mau,
Uttar Pradesh
Convenor
Dr. Nazia Manzar, Scientist (Sr. Scale) (Plant
Pathology), ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Udai B. Singh, Senior Scientist (Plant Pathology),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Members
Dr. Mageshwaran V., Senior Scientist (Microbiology),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Hillol Chakdar, Senior Scientist (Microbiology),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Kumar M., Senior Scientist (Biotechnology),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Pramod K. Sahu, Senior Scientist (Microbiology),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Deepak, Senior Scientist (Bioinformatics),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Shobit Thapa, Scientist (Microbiology),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Jyotsana Tilgam, Scientist (Biotechnology),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Jyoti Prakash Singh, Scientist (Biochemistry),
ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Mr. Manish Roy, ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar
Pradesh
Mr. Anchal Srivastava, ICAR-NBAIM, Mau,
Uttar Pradesh
Mr. Amit Rai, ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar
Pradesh
Mr. Ashutosh Rai, ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar
Pradesh
Mr. Alok Kumar Dubey, ICAR-NBAIM, Mau,
Uttar Pradesh
Mr. Chetan, ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar Pradesh
Mrs. Shabana, ICAR-NBAIM, Mau, Uttar
Pradesh
Member from other Institute
Dr. Mukesh Srivastava, Professor & Head
(Plant Pathology), CSAUA&T, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. A.K. Singh, Professor (Plant Pathology),
CSAUA&T, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. S.N. Singh, Professor (Plant Pathology),
CSAUA&T, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Sushil Kumar Singh, Professor & Head
(Plant Pathology), NDUAT, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Jai Prakash Singh, Professor (Plant Pathology),
NDUAT, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. H.K. Singh, Associate Professor (Plant Pathology),
NDUAT, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Prashant Mishra, Professor & Head (Plant
Pathology), SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Gopal Singh, Professor (Plant Pathology),
SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Dharmendra Kumar, Professor (Plant Pathology),
BUAT, Banda, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. H.S. Negi, Associate Professor (Plant Pathology),
BUAT, Banda, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. P.P. Jambhulkar, Professor & Head (Plant
Pathology), RLBCAU, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Meenakshi Arya, Scientist (Sr. Scale) (Plant
Pathology), RLBCAU, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
Prof. Abhilasha Amita Lal, Professor (Plant Pathology),
SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Sunil Zacharia, In-Charge (Plant Pathology),
SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. J. S. Chauhan, Professor (Plant Pathology),
SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. R.K. Tiwari, Associate Professor, Integral
University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. A. Ahmad, Assistant Professor, Integral
University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. K.P. Singh, Professor & Head (Plant
Pathology), GBPUAT, Pantnagar, Uttar Pradesh
Dr. Yogendra Singh, Professor (Plant Pathology),
GBPUAT, Pantnagar, Uttar Pradesh
PRESENTATIONS
The
scientific program of the conference has been designed to provide a balanced mix
of expert lectures, research presentations, and interactive discussions across all
themes
Plenary
Lectures: Nationally
recognized eminent scientists/academician will be invited to deliver special lectures
on the frontier research and technologies related to agricultural stress management.
Plenary lectures will be of 30 minutes duration.
Lead
Talk: Researchers/faculty/scientist
will be identified by technical committees to give lead lectures which will throw
insight into the various themes of the conference. Each lecture will be of 15 minutes
followed by discussion.
Oral
Presentation: Delegates
with excellent research will be chosen to deliver talk on their subject area in
each theme with a duration of 10 minutes with discussion.
Poster
Presentation: All delegates
will have the opportunity to present their research papers through poster presentations.
Materials for affixing the posters will be provided by the organizers. Posters should
measure 4 feet (L) x 3 feet (W) and use standard font sizes appropriate for posters.
Registration Login Abstract Submission
REGISTRATION FEE
The conference will be open for registered delegates. The details of the registration fee are given below.
|
Type |
Registration
Fee |
Total |
|
Scientist/Faculty/Govt.
Officials/IPS Members |
INR 3000.00 |
INR 3540.00 |
|
Scientist/Faculty/Govt.
Officials/Non-Members |
INR
4000.00 |
INR
4720.00 |
|
Research Scholar |
INR 1500.00 |
INR 1770.00 |
|
Corporate |
INR
7000.00 |
INR
8260.00 |
BANK DETAILS FOR RTGS/ONLINE TRANSFER
All the payment shall be made through online transfer
Name of the Account Holder | : | Indian Phytopathological Society |
Name of the Bank and Branch | : | CANARA Bank, Pusa Campus, IARI, New Delhi 110012 |
Account Type | : | 90292010005900 |
Account Number | : | CNRB0019029 |
RTGS/NEFT/IFS Code | : | 110025041 |
CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
Abstracts of unpublished research work (up to 250 words) are invited for oral and poster presentations under the themes of the conference. The abstract should include title, author(s) name(s), affiliation(s), and corresponding author’s email ID. The name of the presenting author must be underlined, and their email ID clearly mentioned. Formatting Guidelines: File format: MS Word (.doc/.docx), Font: Times New Roman, Font size: 12 pt, Line spacing: 1.5. Abstract length: Maximum 250 words, Submission Process: All abstracts, along with keynote and lead papers, should be submitted preferably as email attachments to: IPSMEZ2025@gmail.com, Important Dates: Last date for abstract submission: 5 January 2026; Notification of acceptance: 10 January 2026. We encourage young researchers, students, and faculty to actively contribute and showcase their innovative research at the conference.
About the ICAR–National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms (NBAIM), Mau
The ICAR–National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms (NBAIM), Mau, is a premier institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, dedicated to the conservation, characterization, and sustainable utilization of agriculturally important microorganisms. Established as a national repository, the Bureau houses a vast microbial germplasm and provides cutting-edge research support in microbial ecology, genomics, and biotechnology. NBAIM plays a pivotal role in developing microbial-based technologies for crop improvement, soil health, and eco-friendly plant disease management, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural productivity and food security. (Read More...)
HOW TO REACH UNIVERSITY?
By Road: Mau is well connected by a network of national and state highways. Regular UPSRTC and private buses connect Mau with major cities like Varanasi (120 km), Gorakhpur (95 km), Azamgarh (55 km), Lucknow (325 km), and Patna (220 km). Taxis and shared vehicles are also available for convenient road travel.
By Rail: Mau Junction (MAU) is well connected by rail to major cities such as Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Delhi, and Kolkata. Regular trains are available from these cities, making it a convenient travel option.
By Air: The nearest airport is Varanasi (Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport), about 120 km from Mau, with regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities.
Another nearby option is Gorakhpur Airport, located about 95 km from Mau. From both airports, taxis and buses are available for onward travel to Mau.
WEATHER IN Mau
The weather in Mau during November is generally pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 28°C. Light woolens are recommended for mornings and evenings.
About Mau
Mau (Maunath Bhanjan), located in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich cultural heritage and textile industries, especially handloom weaving. It is also emerging as a hub for agricultural and microbial research, with the ICAR–National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms (NBAIM) playing a pivotal role in advancing microbial sciences for sustainable agriculture.
Nearby Visiting Sites
Delegates may explore nearby places of cultural and spiritual significance:
SPONSORSHIP
|
Type |
Amount |
Facilities |
|
Platinum |
Rs. 3,00,000/- &
above |
|
|
Diamond |
Rs. 2,50,000/- |
|
|
Gold |
Rs. 1,50,000/- |
|
|
Silver |
Rs. 1,00,000/- |
|
|
Bronze |
Rs. 50,000/- |
|
If you are already registered Click Here
Prof. M.J. Narasimhan Merit Academic Award (IPS) – Zonal Level Contest for selection to National level contest
The contest for Prof. M.J. Narsimhan Academic Merit Award is open to all members of IPS under 35 years of age. The Mid-Eastern Zone will organize a contest among the zonal members during the Zonal Chapter's Meeting for preliminary selection of contestants. Only two names will be recommended by Zonal President/councillor for the final contest to be held during IPS Annual Meeting and International/National Conference.
The contestants must furnish the following certificate:
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN It is to be certified that the paper entitled “...................................” presented for Prof. M.J. Narasimhan Merit Academic Award Contest for the year (2025) pertains to the major work done by the candidate ............................................................... (Name of the candidate). It is further certified that the work has not been published and presented for any other award till date and contestant is below the age of 35 years and is a member of the society. Signature of the student Guide/Advisor of the student |
The following are the rules and regulations for the awards
The Society will publish the paper of awardee in Indian Phytopathology. The award recipient must submit full-length paper (as per IPS guidelines) for its publication in the journal Indian Phytopathology. There is no restriction of the age of co-author, if any.
APS-IPS TRAVEL SPONSORSHIP FOR PH.D. STUDENTS
American Phytopathological Society has offered the travel award to a Ph.D. student, who is member of IPS. Competitions among Ph.D. students in IPS-Mid-Eastern region will be held during the IPS Mid-Eestern Zonal symposium. Ph.D. students (MEZ) are invited to participate in this contest in single or joint authorship. The purpose of the award is to encourage plant pathology students pursuing a doctoral degree in India and who are members of IPS to attend the APS annual meeting or APS sanctioned meeting if deemed appropriate by the Indian Phytopathological Society and APS Foundation Board.
Guidelines
BEST ORAL / POSTER PRESENTATION AWARDS
All the Oral and Poster presentations will be evaluated by jury and best presentations from each theme will be awarded.
