Dr. Padmaja Ravula, Principal Scientist at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), has been recognized with the prestigious “Inspiring the Next Generation Award” by the World Food Prize Foundation.
The award was conferred during the Dialogue Next India event, held from September 8–9, 2025, in New Delhi. Julie Borlaug, granddaughter of Nobel Laureate Dr. Norman Borlaug, presented the honor to Dr. Ravula in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the Foundation’s youth programs and her long-standing mentorship of young scientists at ICRISAT, Hyderabad.
Leadership in Gender and Youth Programs
A sociologist by training, Dr. Ravula leads ICRISAT’s Gender and Youth Program and plays a pivotal role in the CGIAR Initiative on Gender Equality. Her efforts focus on creating opportunities for young professionals and women in agriculture, ensuring that inclusivity and empowerment remain central to agricultural development.
She also spearheads the Dryland Academy, which delivers training and capacity-building programs across the agri-food sector, equipping future leaders with skills to address the pressing challenges of farming in semi-arid regions.
Nurturing Future Scientists
One of Dr. Ravula’s most impactful contributions has been her leadership in implementing the World Food Prize Foundation’s Borlaug-Ruan International Internship Program at ICRISAT. Since 2010, the institute has hosted 15 Borlaug interns, providing them with hands-on research opportunities and exposure to agricultural innovation in challenging dryland environments.
Through her guidance, many of these young scholars have gone on to build impactful careers in agricultural science and development, carrying forward the legacy of Dr. Norman Borlaug’s vision of a hunger-free world.
A Recognition of Mentorship and Vision
The “Inspiring the Next Generation Award” celebrates individuals who not only contribute to agricultural research but also dedicate themselves to nurturing future leaders. Dr. Ravula’s recognition underscores her dual commitment to scientific excellence and human development.
Her work is helping to ensure that the next generation of agricultural scientists, innovators, and policymakers is better equipped to confront global food security challenges—particularly in vulnerable semi-arid regions.
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