Dr. Bandana Kaundal: Senior Scientist at ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute Campus, Modipuram, Meerut, India

Bandana is a Senior Scientist with 14 years of expertise in crop physiology, biochemistry, and post-harvest technology, focusing on potato research. She is currently based at ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute, Regional Station, Modipuram. Throughout her career, she has been committed to improving the nutritional quality of potatoes and developing processing varieties that meet industry standards. Bandana has worked extensively on breeding nutrient-rich potato varieties, enhancing post-harvest storage techniques, and conducting biochemical analyses that contribute to the sustainable growth of the potato industry in India. Her research is internationally recognized, particularly in the areas of nutrient profiling and biotechnological interventions for crop improvement.

Online Profiles

• Google Scholar Profile: Link
•  Her work has garnered a total of 197 citations, with 155 citations in the last few years, reflecting the growing influence of her research in the scientific community. She has an h-index of 8, indicating consistent publication and citation of her work, and an i10-index of 7, demonstrating her significant impact on advancing research in agricultural sciences.

Education

Bandana’s academic journey is grounded in agricultural sciences, with an advanced degree in Biochemistry and a specialization in crop physiology. She earned her [Degree Name] from [University Name], where she developed a strong foundation in biochemistry and plant science. Her doctoral research focused on enhancing the nutritional quality of potatoes through biochemical modifications, which has influenced her subsequent work on improving storage and processing techniques for potatoes. Bandana’s educational background equips her with the scientific expertise to explore innovative solutions for crop improvement and food security.

Research Focus

Bandana’s primary research focus is on improving the nutritional and processing quality of potatoes. She has made significant contributions to the development of nutrient-dense potato varieties enriched with antioxidants, carotenoids, and essential minerals like zinc and iron. Her research also explores post-harvest management, with a special emphasis on minimizing nutrient loss during storage and improving the shelf-life of potatoes. Additionally, Bandana has worked on the genetic improvement of potatoes, aiming to produce varieties that are more resistant to pests and environmental stressors. Through her work, she aims to contribute to global food security while enhancing the value of potatoes as a staple crop.

Experience

Over her 14-year career, Bandana has led and collaborated on numerous high-impact research projects focused on potato breeding, nutrient enhancement, and post-harvest technology. She has held key roles as Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) on several institutional and sponsored research projects aimed at developing superior potato varieties for both nutritional enrichment and industrial processing. These projects have resulted in the development and release of new potato clones with higher concentrations of essential nutrients. Bandana’s expertise extends beyond basic research to practical applications in agriculture, with significant contributions to improving agricultural practices and fostering collaborations with international research bodies like the International Potato Center (CIP).

Research Timeline

• 2020-Present: Co-PI in the management of potato genetic resources, focusing on breeding nutrient-rich varieties and developing post-harvest management techniques.

• 2015-2019: Co-PI in sponsored projects aimed at evaluating processing varieties of potato, developing ready-to-eat products, and improving the value chain for potatoes in Uttar Pradesh.

• 2010-2015: Co-PI in multiple studies investigating storage technologies, bio-efficacy of chemical treatments, and assessing the quality of potatoes for processing.
  Throughout these periods, Bandana has contributed to the development of several successful potato varieties and innovative technologies that have been adopted in agricultural practices, particularly in India’s potato-growing regions.

Awards & Honors

Bandana has earned a prestigious reputation in the field of plant biochemistry, receiving several awards for her groundbreaking work in agricultural science. Some of her notable accolades include the Excellence in Research (Scientist) award in 2017 from the Society of Scientific Development in Agriculture and Technology, and the Best Young Researcher award at the ICIESSD conference in 2019. In recognition of her contributions to potato research, she was awarded the Distinguished Scientist Award during the International Web Conference on Advances in Agriculture (ICAAAS 2021). Bandana’s contributions have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also improved agricultural practices in the potato industry.

Recent Publications

• Heat-induced changes in bioactive compounds of colorful potato varieties

  • Authors: Bandana, Vineet Sharma, SK Luthra, RK Singh, Dinesh Kumar, Brajesh Singh

  • Journal: Current Science

  • Volume: 128 (11)

  • Pages: 1120-1125

  • Year: 2025

• MSP/15-26 (IC644002; INGR22062), a potato (Solanum tuberosum) clone possessing yellow flesh color and high carotenoids in flesh

  • Authors: SK Luthra, JK Tiwari, B Kaundal, P Riagond, B Singh, V Kumar, VK Gupta

  • Journal: Indian Society of Plant Genetic Resources

  • Volume: 37 (2)

  • Pages: 385-385

  • Year: 2024

• MSP/15-51 (IC644003; INGR22063), a potato (Solanum tuberosum) clone with red purple flesh and high ascorbic acid in flesh

  • Authors: SK Luthra, JK Tiwari, B Kaundal, P Riagond, B Singh, V Kumar, VK Gupta

  • Journal: Indian Society of Plant Genetic Resources

  • Volume: 37 (2)

  • Pages: 386-386

  • Year: 2024

• A non-destructive technique for estimation of amylose, resistant starch, and starch in potato using NIR spectroscopy

  • Authors: A Joshi, C Pradeepika, B Kaundal, P Raigond, B Singh, B Kaundal

  • Journal: Journal of Root Crops

  • Volume: 50 (1)

  • Pages: 45-52

  • Year: 2024

Strength for the Innovative Researcher Award

1. Innovative Approach in Nutritional Enhancement of Potatoes

Dr. Bandana Kaundal has consistently focused on improving the nutritional profile of potatoes through biotechnological interventions. Her work on developing potato varieties enriched with antioxidants, carotenoids, and essential minerals like zinc and iron has been groundbreaking. Her innovative approach to breeding nutrient-rich varieties addresses global challenges in food security by improving the nutritional value of one of the world’s most consumed crops.

2. Integration of Post-Harvest Technology for Quality Preservation

A significant portion of Dr. Kaundal’s research is dedicated to post-harvest technology aimed at enhancing the shelf life of potatoes while minimizing nutrient loss. She has developed and patented a dipstick method for glucose estimation in potato tubers, a practical and non-destructive technique for monitoring potato quality during storage. This innovation is crucial for reducing post-harvest losses, improving storage techniques, and ensuring potatoes retain their nutritional value.

3. Leadership in Collaborative International Research Projects

Dr. Kaundal has played a pivotal role in multiple collaborative projects with global research organizations, such as the International Potato Center (CIP). Her leadership in managing the All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato and other international collaborations highlights her capacity to lead cutting-edge research in diverse agricultural settings. These projects have made substantial contributions to enhancing food security and the livelihoods of potato farmers, particularly in lowland areas of India.

4. Development of Innovative Potato Processing Varieties

Through her research on processing potato varieties, Dr. Kaundal has been instrumental in developing clones suitable for industrial applications, such as potato chips and fries. The introduction of varieties like Kufri Chipsona-5, which is rich in processing quality, has contributed significantly to India’s potato processing industry, ensuring that production aligns with market demand for high-quality products.

5. Recognition of Research Excellence in Agricultural Science

Dr. Kaundal’s innovative work has earned her multiple prestigious awards, including the Excellence in Research (Scientist) award and Best Young Researcher award, underscoring her exceptional contributions to agricultural sciences. Her research on potato quality enhancement, particularly in breeding and post-harvest management, continues to receive recognition for its scientific rigor and practical application, making her a leading researcher in her field.