Srinagar, Dec 13: In a significant move, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday approved the ex-tension and reappointment of two prominent academic figures in Jammu and Kashmir—Professor Nazir Ganaie, Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST)-Kashmir, and Professor Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor of Jammu University.
As per the orders issued by the LG, Professor Nazir Ganaie’s tenure as Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Kashmir has been extended for a period of two years, effective from December 16, 2024, following the completion of his current term. Professor Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor of Jammu University, has been re-appointed for a term of three years, effective from April 5, 2025.
In a statement issued by the LG, it reads, “In exercise of the powers vested in me, under section 25 (2) of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKAUST) Act 1982, I, Manoj Sinha, Chancellor of SKAUST-Kashmir, hereby extend the tenure of Prof Nazir Ganaie for a period of two years with effect from December 16, 2024.”
Regarding the reappointment of Prof. Rai, the statement further adds, “In exercise of the powers vested in me, under section 12 (5) of The Kashmir and Jammu Universities Act, 1969, I, Manoj Sinha, Chancellor of University of Jammu, hereby re-appoint Prof. Umesh Rai as the Vice Chancellor of Uni-versity of Jammu for a term of three years with effect from April 5, 2025.”
Professor Nazir Ganaie—A Teacher & Researcher
Professor Nazir Ganaie, born in 1965, has been a key figure in the transformation of Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural sector. Under his leadership, SKUAST-Kashmir secured a prestigious Rs 30 crore World Bank ICAR project (NAHEP), advancing agricultural education and research in the region. With over 30 years of experience in teaching, research, and administration, Prof. Ganaie holds a PhD in Genetics and Breeding from the National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, and a post-doctorate from Wageningen University, Netherlands.
Professor Ganaie has been Director planning and Monitoring for about four years and he has also held a number of administrative positions at SKUAST-K earlier. He got a joint fellowship on academic leadership by IIT Roorke/ Michigan University USA in November-December 2018 and Durham International Fellowship for Research and Enterprise Durham University, UK October-December 2016.
He also got a visiting Fellowship Wisconsin State University USA in June 2012 and Erasmus Mundus Fellowship of European Union at Wageningen University Netherlands January-March 2009
As a teacher, researcher and administrator, Prof Ganaie acquired the knowledge and experiences to shape the vision of the SKUAST-K. In the capacity of Director for Strategic Planning and Monitoring, of SKUAST-K Prof Nazir has already moved three draft policies for approval. He has a number of research publications in reputed international journals.
Professor Ganaie has been a driving force behind the revitalization of Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural sector. His leadership in developing the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme has led to a new era for agriculture in the region, creating sustainable solutions to enhance productivity, economic growth, and farmer welfare. This programme has positioned Jammu and Kashmir as a model for agricultural reform in India.
Prof Ganaie’s work has significantly impacted agricultural education. He has spearheaded the launch of 55 student-led start-ups and the registration of 42 patents, setting a precedent for university-based agricultural innovation. His focus on integrating modern agricultural practices into the curriculum has led to the creation of a national model for agricultural education, ensuring that students are not only academically skilled but also capable of transforming the agricultural landscape through their entrepreneurial ventures. Prof Ganaie’s efforts are focused on making agriculture more accessible, innovative and impactful, empowering students to become leaders in the field.
Prof Umesh Rai—A Visionary of Education & Innovation
Professor Umesh Rai, the 14th Vice Chancellor of Jammu University, has been at the forefront of educational reforms since his appointment in April 2022. With over 30 years of academic and administrative experience, Professor Rai has served in several key positions, including Director of South Campus and Head of the Department of Zoology at the University of Delhi. He is credited with implementing the ‘Choice Based Credit System’ in 2015 and the Innovation Project Scheme in 2012, which encouraged students and faculty to move beyond the classroom and foster innovation.
Often referred to as the “Innovation Man” of India, Prof. Rai has transformed Jammu University into a hub of academic excellence and entrepreneurial spirit. Under his leadership, the university became one of the first in the country to implement the National Education Policy (NEP), and introduced the “Design Your Own Degree” model, which allows students to tailor their academic paths based on personal interests and career goals. Additionally, Prof. Rai spearheaded initiatives such as “College on Wheels” and the “Igniter” Youth Start-up Yatra, which empower young minds to explore entrepreneurship.
Through his visionary leadership, Prof. Rai has significantly enhanced Jammu University’s academic reputation and played a crucial role in the social and economic empowerment of the region’s youth by fostering innovation and providing resources for start-ups.
