The Indian Micro-Fertilizers Manufacturers Association (IMMA), in collaboration with ITM Skills University, Kharghar, successfully hosted its inaugural Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Research Colloquium, bringing together the brightest young talent in agricultural research, industry leaders, and academia. The event provided a platform for researchers to present their scientific breakthroughs in just three minutes, demonstrating clarity, innovation, and real-world applicability.
The colloquium featured 17 research teams from 12 leading agricultural universities and ICAR institutions, organized into six thematic sections: Residue-Free Farming, Sustainable Agriculture & Soil Health, Biostimulants & Nano-Fertilizers, Manufacturing Innovations in Nutrients, Climate Resilience through Nutrition Management, and Digital Tools in Nutrient Application. This thematic approach highlighted how modern science can tackle pressing challenges in Indian agriculture.
A distinguished jury of nine experts from ICAR, AgriInnovate, Ruia College, Kumaraguru Institutions, and other premier universities evaluated the presentations based on novelty, impact, and scalability. Simultaneously, senior R&D leaders from IMMA member companies assessed the commercial viability of the research projects.
Award-Winning Innovations
- 1st Prize: Synthesis and Evaluation of Biogenic Nano Potassic Fertilizer to Improve Potassium Use Efficiency in Maize (Zea mays L.) – Rafiqi Mohammed Abdul Rahman, TNAU
- 2nd Prize: Development of a Novel Biofertilizer Formulation Using Crushed Rice Straw as a Substrate – Shiv Charan Kumar, Alok Kumar Srivastava, Hillol Chakdar, ICAR-NBAIM
- Joint 3rd Prize:
- Bacillus spizizenii Driven Biostimulation for Nematode-Fungus Management in Castor – Sk. Menaaz Fathima et al., PJTSAU & IIOR, Hyderabad
- Nano-Biofertilizers for Improved Nutrient Absorption and Combatting Biotic Stress – Sunita Fernandes & Priyanka Sharma, MIT ADT University, Pune
Leadership Perspective
Speaking at the event, Dr. Rahul Mirchandani, President, IMMA, said:
“The 3MT Colloquium is a pioneering initiative that bridges the gap between academic research and industry adoption. By condensing complex research into concise three-minute presentations, we ensure clarity, engagement, and a direct connection between science and farmer outcomes.”
He added, “With 17 research teams, 12 universities, nine jury members, and top R&D leaders participating, this event has set a benchmark for transforming academic excellence into practical, industry-ready solutions.”
The 3MT Colloquium reflects IMMA’s commitment to fostering innovation, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and strengthening collaboration between researchers, industry, and farmers.
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