AK

ALOK KUMAR

Central Potato Research Institute, National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Banaras Hindu University, Indian Institute of Natural Resins and Gums

ORCID iD 0000-0003-3276-7460
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About

Dr. Alok Kumar, currently leading the Division of Social Sciences at ICAR–Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla, is a distinguished extension scientist with outstanding contributions to research, teaching, extension and capacity building. He has held key positions at ICAR–NAARM, ICAR–NISA, DRPCAU Pusa, BAU Sabour, and the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India. With a strong academic background comprising three Master’s degrees and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension, Dr. Kumar has significantly advanced ICT applications in agriculture. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Electronic Media & Production Centre at BAU Sabour, under whose leadership over 288 documentary films and several digital knowledge dissemination initiatives were developed, later upgraded by ICAR as a Centre for Advanced Faculty Training in ICT in Agriculture. He has contributed to national initiatives on MSP estimation, impact assessment, contract farming, and established Career & Faculty Development Centres under NAHEP. Dr. Kumar has organized around 700 capacity-building programmes, including FOCARS, MDPs. With nearly 200 publications and numerous prestigious honours, his work has made a lasting impact on agricultural research, extension, and human resource development.

Employment

  • Central Potato Research Institute Principal Scientist (Ag. Extension) & Head
    2023 - Present
  • National Academy of Agricultural Research Management Principal Scientist
    2016 - 2023
  • Indian Institute of Natural Resins and Gums Senior Scientist
    2013 - 2016
  • Bihar Agricultural University Assistant Professor-Cum-Jr. Scientist
    2007 - 2013
  • Central Board for Workers Education, Ministry of Labour & Employment, GoI Education Officer
    2004 - 2007

Education

  • Banaras Hindu University M.Sc. (Agricultural Extension)
    2001 - 2003

Projects & Funding

Projects & funding information is unavailable.

Publications (20)