By Andi Anderson
Two PhD students from Somaiya Vidyavihar University in India are visiting Michigan State University (MSU) to explore agronomy and soil science research.
Isha Popat and Krush Shah arrived in early February and are being hosted by Lisa Tiemann, a professor at MSU who also serves as an adjunct faculty member at their home university.
Their visit is part of a knowledge exchange program supported by funding from their institution, which does not currently offer agricultural research opportunities. Both students are engaging in projects that align with their country’s growing interest in improving soil health and sustainable farming practices.
Somaiya Vidyavihar University is located in a sugar cane-growing region of India. Local farmers there are keen to enhance soil productivity by returning carbon to the soil. During their time in the U.S., Isha and Krush are learning about advanced methods and practices in soil management and agronomy.
Krush Shah is focusing on how drought and heavy rainfall affect nitrogen fixation in corn fields, a critical aspect of crop growth. Isha Popat is working closely with Lisa Tiemann on a USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) recommendation, which aims to promote soil conservation and healthy agricultural systems.
The students will remain at MSU until early June, after which they will return to India with Lisa Tiemann to continue their work and apply their learning back home.
“India is working toward becoming completely self-sufficient in agriculture and food production by its 100th anniversary of independence in 2047,” said Lisa Tiemann. “This exchange is valuable because we can all learn from each other’s methods and perspectives.”
Their visit strengthens global collaboration in agriculture and supports India’s long-term goal of sustainable farming and food security.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, General