Lucknow: Dr Akanksha Singh, Scientist-D at the CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), has been selected for the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) Young Scientist Award 2026 in Agricultural and Plant Sciences.
The recognition completes a remarkable hat-trick for the young researcher, who has received three major national honours in 2026.
Three national honours in one year
Earlier this year, Dr Singh was inducted as a member of the Indian National Young Academy of Sciences (INYAS) and selected as an Indian National Science Academy (INSA) Young Associate.
Receiving all three recognitions in the same year places her among a select group of young researchers to achieve the distinction.
According to CSIR-CIMAP, the honours reflect growing recognition of her contribution to agricultural science and sustainable crop research.
Research focused on sustainable farming
Dr Singh holds a PhD in Botany and works in the Division of Crop Protection and Production at CSIR-CIMAP.
Her research focuses on plant-microbe interactions, biological crop protection, fungal diseases, eco-friendly disease management, fungicide development and sustainable agriculture.
Her work explores how beneficial microbes can help protect crops from harmful fungal diseases, potentially reducing dependence on chemical pesticides while supporting crop productivity and plant health.
NASI award recognises young scientists
Dr Singh is among 16 scientists selected for the NASI Young Scientist Award 2026 across different disciplines.
Founded in 1930, NASI is one of India’s oldest scientific academies. Its Young Scientist Award recognises early-career researchers for significant scientific contributions.
Dr Singh will receive the award during the 96th Annual Session and Symposium of NASI, scheduled at Banaras Hindu University on December 4 and 5, 2026.
Her achievement highlights the growing contribution of young Indian researchers working towards practical and sustainable solutions to agricultural challenges.