Meet CSIR scientist Akanksha Singh who completed a rare hat-trick of science honours
The Scientist-D at the CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants has now been selected for the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) Young Scientist Award 2026 in the field of Agricultural and Plant Sciences, completing a remarkable hat-trick of prestigious honours in a single…
According to CSIR-CIMAP, the achievement reflects her growing contribution to agricultural science and sustainable crop research. Dr Singh holds a PhD in Botany and currently serves as Scientist-D in the Division of Crop Protection and Production at CSIR-CIMAP.
Her research goes far beyond conventional crop protection. According to her research profile, she studies plant-microbe interactions, biological crop protection, fungal diseases, eco-friendly disease management, fungicide development and sustainable agriculture.
What Happened
In simple terms, her work explores how beneficial microbes can naturally protect crops from harmful fungal diseases, reducing dependence on chemical pesticides while improving crop productivity. The research also aims to strengthen plant health through environmentally friendly farming practices.
The Scientist-D at the CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants has now been selected for the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) Young Scientist Award 2026 in the field of Agricultural and Plant.
Earlier in 2026, she was inducted as an Indian National Young Academy of Sciences (INYAS) Member and selected as an Indian National Science Academy (INSA) Young Associate, making her one of the few young.
She is among 16 scientists selected for the NASI Young Scientist Award 2026 across multiple disciplines.WHAT IS THE NASI YOUNG SCIENTIST AWARD?
Key Details
Founded in 1930, the National Academy of Sciences, India is one of India's oldest scientific academies.
Dr Singh will receive the award during the 96th Annual Session and Symposium of NASI, scheduled to be held at Banaras Hindu University on December 4 and 5, 2026.
Its Young Scientist Award recognises early-career researchers who have made outstanding scientific contributions and encourages them to pursue high-impact research.
Dr Singh has steadily built her career in agricultural science, and the three national honours this year mark growing recognition of her work within India's scientific community.
Why It Matters
CSIR-CIMAP is one of India's premier research institutes dedicated to medicinal and aromatic plants, with scientists working on agriculture, biotechnology and natural products.
What Reports Say
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