Dr. Kang’s leadership was marked by a vision to transform PAU into a leading institution, not just in India, but globally.

Ludhiana: The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) community is mourning the loss of one of its most distinguished alumni and former Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Manjit Singh Kang, who passed away on May 02, 2024. Known for his groundbreaking contributions to quantitative genetics and crop improvement, Dr. Kang’s legacy is one of scientific excellence and a deep commitment to agricultural progress.

Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, the current Vice-Chancellor of PAU, expressed profound sadness over the loss. “Dr. Manjit Singh Kang was not only a revered leader and academician but also a source of inspiration for the entire PAU community. His work in quantitative genetics has paved the way for significant advancements in agricultural science, benefiting farmers and researchers alike,” he said.

Dr. Kang, born on March 3, 1948, graduated from PAU in 1968, setting the stage for his emergence as a leading authority in plant genetics. He went on to earn advanced degrees from Southern Illinois University and the University of Missouri, leading him to significant roles in American academia, including a professorship at Louisiana State University.

Despite his international success, Dr. Kang never lost touch with his roots. Dr. Gosal recalled, “What made Dr. Kang unique was his commitment to bringing global expertise back to PAU and Punjab. He frequently engaged with students and faculty, sharing his knowledge and fostering a spirit of innovation.”

Throughout his tenure as Vice-Chancellor from 2007 to 2011, Dr. Kang prioritized research and development, emphasizing collaborative projects that bridged academic and practical applications in agriculture. He was instrumental in enhancing PAU’s reputation, making it a hub for agricultural innovation. Dr. Gosal noted, “Dr. Kang’s leadership was marked by a vision to transform PAU into a leading institution, not just in India, but globally. His efforts continue to resonate in the ongoing projects and research initiatives he helped establish.”

Dr. Kang’s achievements were widely recognized. In 2018, he received the ‘Pride of Punjab’ award from the Chief Minister of Punjab, and in 2019, the Punjab Government honored him with the prestigious ‘Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Achievers Award’. His scholarly contributions included books, research papers, and editorial roles in leading academic journals. Despite his accolades, Dr. Kang remained humble, often stating that his greatest joy was seeing the success of his students and colleagues.

“His passing is a great loss to the agricultural community, not only in Punjab but across the globe,” Dr. Gosal remarked. “We will continue to honour his legacy by striving for excellence in research and education, as he always encouraged us to do.”

The PAU community, along with the broader academic and agricultural circles, will remember Dr. Manjit Singh Kang as a visionary leader, a dedicated teacher, and a compassionate human being. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the field of agricultural science, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations at PAU and beyond.

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