Nauni Varsity Gets New DSW, Librarian and HOD Plant Pathology
2 min read
May 8, 2026
Dr. D.R. Bhardwaj has assumed charge as the Dean Students’ Welfare at Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni. Dr. Bhardwaj brings over 37 years of experience in teaching, research, administration and extension.
A specialist in Silviculture and Agroforestry, he previously served as Professor and Head of the Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry and also as University Librarian, where he worked towards strengthening digitization of library services. He has guided 59 postgraduate students and managed 19 externally funded projects focused on Himalayan agroforestry and bamboo-based systems suited to Himachal Pradesh’s agro-climatic conditions. Dr. Bhardwaj has also served on the V.P. Mohan Committee constituted by the Supreme Court of India on silvicultural felling and as an executive member of the National Bamboo Mission, Himachal Pradesh.
Dr. Satish Sharma also joined as the University Librarian. Earlier, he served as Head of the Department of Plant Pathology. With over 30 years of experience in academics, research and extension at institutions including PAU Ludhiana and ICAR-IARI, Dr. Sharma is a noted fruit pathologist specializing in the diagnosis and management of apple diseases and bacterial blight of pomegranate. Under his guidance, more than 15 students have completed postgraduate studies. As Librarian, his priorities include modernization and digitization of the library system, improving student engagement and strengthening access to e-books and other resources.
Additionally, Dr. Anil Handa has assumed charge as Head of the Department of Plant Pathology. A specialist in molecular plant virology, he has nearly 30 years of experience in teaching, research and extension. He has served as visiting professor at Mendel University, Czech Republic and the University of Warwick, United Kingdom. Dr. Handa has handled over 25 externally funded research projects supported by agencies such as the UK Government, World Bank, DRDO, DBT, DST and ICAR. He has also served as Joint Director (Training) and Professor Academic at the College of Horticulture.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel congratulated the three scientists on their new responsibilities and expressed confidence that their experience would further strengthen the university’s academic, research and student welfare activities.
