Pradhan Parth Sarthi, Climate Science, Climate Action Award

Prof. Pradhan Parth Sarthi: Coordinator, Center for Climate Change and LiFE at Department of Environmental Science, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, India

Dr. Pradhan Parth Sarthi is a distinguished Professor and Coordinator at the Centre for Climate Change and LiFE, Central University of South Bihar (CUSB), Gaya. He has previously served as the Head of the Department of Environmental Science and as Dean of multiple schools at CUSB, showcasing leadership in academia. With over three decades of experience in atmospheric sciences, geophysics, and climate change research, he has contributed to policy advisory, curriculum development, and climate-related scientific studies both nationally and internationally. He has also been instrumental in mentoring young researchers and fostering collaborations between Indian and international research institutions.

Online Profiles

Google Scholar Profile

Dr. Pradhan Parth Sarthi’s research has received significant recognition in the scientific community. According to Google Scholar, he has a total of 809 citations, with 606 citations since 2020. His research impact is reflected in an h-index of 18 (with 15 since 2020) and an i10-index of 26 (with 21 since 2020), demonstrating both the productivity and influence of his publications in the fields of climate science, atmospheric modeling, and environmental studies.

Education

He completed his Bachelor in Mathematics (1990) from H. D. Jain College, Magadh University, Ara, Bihar, laying a strong quantitative foundation. He earned his M.Sc. (Tech) in Geophysics with specialization in Meteorology in 1993, followed by a Ph.D. in Geophysics (Meteorology) in 2000, both from Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. His doctoral research focused on understanding the atmospheric surface layer along the monsoon trough, with emphasis on dry convective regions—a pioneering study in the field of monsoon dynamics and regional climate modeling.

Research Focus

Dr. Sarthi’s research primarily revolves around the Indian monsoon, climate variability, and extreme weather events. He investigates urban climate dynamics, hydrological modeling, climate data analysis, and the impacts of aerosols, cyclones, and snow cover on regional and global climate systems. His work often bridges theoretical climate modeling and practical applications for disaster management, sustainable development, and environmental policy. He is also engaged in interdisciplinary research linking atmospheric sciences, environmental science, and socio-economic aspects of climate change.

Experience

Dr. Sarthi has a rich academic and research career spanning premier institutions like IIT Delhi, TERI University, and CUSB. His positions have included Project Scientist, Associate Fellow, Professor, Department Head, and Dean. He has supervised nine Ph.D. students, numerous M.Phil and M.Tech theses, and guided postdoctoral fellows. He has developed academic curricula in climate modeling, environmental geosciences, and atmospheric sciences, and has been involved in organizing national and international conferences, workshops, and training programs.

Research Timeline & Activities

Dr. Sarthi’s research journey began with MONBLEX (1993-1998), studying the atmospheric surface layer in monsoon trough regions. Between 1998-2006, he conducted advanced spectral atmospheric general circulation modeling at IIT Delhi. During 2006-2010 at TERI University, he led projects on climate scenario generation and impact assessment. At CUSB since 2010, he has served as Principal Investigator for multiple DST, SERB, and MoES-funded projects focusing on monsoon, drought, flood modeling, urban climate studies, and environmental risk assessments. He actively collaborates with international researchers, contributing to climate prediction and adaptation strategies.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Sarthi was elected Fellow of the Indian Meteorological Society in 2024 and nominated by MoEFCC, Government of India, for IPCC AR7 WGI in November 2024. He has been recognized as a national expert for climate change programs and has served on advisory committees for governmental policy formulation. His contributions to atmospheric and climate sciences have earned him awards and recognition from multiple academic and scientific bodies, highlighting his leadership in both research and education.

Top Noted Publication

Among his notable publications is “A Study on the Effect of Eurasian Snow on the Summer Monsoon Circulation and Rainfall using a Spectral GCM,” published in the International Journal of Climatology (2006, Vol 26, Issue 8). This work investigates how snow cover in Eurasia influences Indian monsoon rainfall patterns using spectral general circulation models, providing key insights into monsoon prediction and regional climate variability. He has also authored numerous other peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals addressing urban climate, monsoon variability, and extreme weather events.

  • Trend analysis for rainfall in Delhi and Mumbai, India – A. Rana, C.B. Uvo, L. Bengtsson, P. Parth Sarthi, Climate Dynamics, 38(1), 45-56, 2012. Citations: 100

  • Possible future changes in cyclonic storms in the Bay of Bengal, India under warmer climate – P.P. Sarthi, A. Agrawal, A. Rana, International Journal of Climatology, 35(7), 1267-1277, 2015. Citations: 45

  • Possible future projection of Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall (ISMR) with the evaluation of model performance in Coupled Model Inter-comparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) – P.P. Sarthi, S. Ghosh, P. Kumar, Global and Planetary Change, 129, 92-106, 2015. Citations: 45

  • Assessment of potential impact of climate change on streamflow: a case study of the Brahmani River basin, India – K. Vandana, A. Islam, P.P. Sarthi, A.K. Sikka, H. Kapil, Journal of Water and Climate Change, 10(3), 624-641, 2019. Citations: 42

  • Intraseasonal variability of Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall in CMIP6 models simulation – P. Kumar, P.P. Sarthi, Theoretical & Applied Climatology, 145, 2021. Citations: 39

Strengths for the Climate Action Award

  1. Expertise in Monsoon and Rainfall Analysis – Demonstrated deep understanding of Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall through trend analysis in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, intraseasonal variability studies, and future projections using advanced climate models (CMIP5 and CMIP6). This expertise enables accurate forecasting and assessment of climate risks, crucial for planning and adaptation strategies.

  2. Cyclone and Extreme Weather Risk Assessment – Conducted comprehensive studies on the potential impact of climate change on cyclonic storms in the Bay of Bengal, providing essential insights for disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and climate-resilient infrastructure planning.

  3. Hydrological Impact Studies and Water Resource Management – Investigated the potential effects of climate change on river basins, including the Brahmani River, highlighting vulnerabilities in streamflow patterns and informing water management policies for sustainable development.

  4. Interdisciplinary and Policy-Relevant Research – Combines climatology, hydrology, and environmental sciences to deliver actionable solutions, bridging the gap between scientific research and policy implementation. Work demonstrates a strong focus on regional climate adaptation and resilience planning.

  5. Significant Scientific Recognition and Impact – A consistent record of high-impact publications, with studies cited widely (over 800 citations) across leading journals in climate science. This reflects credibility, influence, and the ability to contribute knowledge that supports climate action initiatives.

  6. Capacity for Future Climate Projections and Adaptation Planning – Proven ability to evaluate and validate climate models to predict future scenarios, assisting governments, planners, and communities in preparing for climate variability and extreme weather events.

  7. Commitment to Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience – Research outcomes provide practical guidance for mitigating climate risks, enhancing urban resilience, and promoting sustainable water and disaster management practices, directly aligning with the goals of climate action awards.

Amit Awasthi, Climate Science, Innovative Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Amit Awasthi: Associate Professor at University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, India

Dr. Amit Awasthi is a distinguished Associate Professor of Physics at the School of Advanced Science, UPES Dehradun, with over 20 years of experience in research, teaching, and academic leadership. His interdisciplinary expertise bridges Physics and Environmental Sciences, focusing on atmospheric sciences, climate change, aerosol technology, and exposure studies. He has published extensively, including 5 textbooks and more than 60 peer-reviewed research papers, accumulating around 1800 citations with an h-index of 22. Recognized internationally, he completed a prestigious two-year postdoctoral fellowship in Taiwan funded by the National Science Council. Apart from research, Dr. Awasthi plays a key role in curriculum development, university accreditation processes, and editorial duties for multiple scientific journals.

Online Profile

Google Scholar Profile

Dr. Amit Awasthi is an accomplished Associate Professor of Physics at the School of Advanced Science, UPES Dehradun, with over 20 years of expertise in research, teaching, and academic leadership. His multidisciplinary research spans atmospheric sciences, climate change, aerosol physics, and air quality monitoring. With a prolific academic output of 5 textbooks and over 60 research articles, he has amassed approximately 1900 citations, an h-index of 23, and an i10-index of 35 overall, reflecting strong scholarly impact, particularly since 2020 with over 1300 citations, an h-index of 20, and an i10-index of 34. Dr. Awasthi completed a prestigious two-year postdoctoral fellowship in Taiwan and serves as editor for several scientific journals while actively contributing to curriculum development and institutional quality enhancement.

Education

Dr. Awasthi completed his Ph.D. in Physics in 2011 from Thapar University, Patiala, where he conducted pioneering research on human respiratory functions impacted by crop residue burning, integrating physics and environmental health. Prior to this, he obtained his M.Sc. in Physics with a 72.26% score from Punjabi University, Patiala in 2006 and his B.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with 76.29% from Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla in 2004. His strong foundational education laid the groundwork for his multidisciplinary research trajectory.

Research Focus

His core research focuses on atmospheric and environmental sciences, with specialization in aerosol physics, aerosol technology, air quality monitoring, and exposure assessment related to health impacts. He investigates climate change phenomena and extreme weather events using both experimental and computational methods. Dr. Awasthi has significant expertise in deploying and developing scientific instruments such as spectrophotometers, spirometers, high volume samplers with gaseous attachments, cascade impactors, and pulse oximeters for precise environmental measurements.

Experience

Dr. Awasthi has demonstrated a consistent career trajectory from Junior Research Fellowships to senior academic positions. Starting in 2006 as a Junior Research Fellow on a DST-sponsored project, he progressed to Project Assistant at NPL New Delhi and earned a two-year international postdoctoral fellowship at NCTU Taiwan. Returning to India, he has served as Assistant Professor at reputed institutions such as GTB Dasuya and SLIET Sangrur before joining UPES Dehradun in 2016. At UPES, he advanced from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor, actively engaging in teaching diverse physics courses, mentoring students, securing and managing research projects, and contributing to institutional quality enhancement.

Research Timeline & Activities

  • 2006–2010: Junior Research Fellow, DST sponsored project at Thapar University, Patiala

  • 2010–2011: Project Assistant Level III at National Physical Laboratory (NPL), New Delhi

  • 2011–2013: Postdoctoral Fellow at National Chiao Tung University (NCTU), Taiwan; research on aerosol measurement and technology development

  • 2013–2016: Assistant Professor roles at GTB Dasuya (Panjab University affiliated) and Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology (SLIET), Punjab

  • 2016–Present: Faculty at UPES, Dehradun, progressing from Assistant Professor (Senior Grade) to Associate Professor, leading research projects including government-funded water quality and air pollution studies
    Dr. Awasthi has also guest-edited special issues in reputed journals and organized academic workshops, emphasizing the practical applications of aerosol and environmental science research.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Awasthi’s achievements have been recognized with numerous awards, including:

  • International Fellowship from the National Science Council, Taiwan (2011-2013), extended for outstanding performance

  • Best Oral Presentation Award at the 10th Environmental Protection and Nanotechnology Conference, Taiwan (2013) for work on nanoparticle size distribution measurement

  • Consolation prize for poster presentation at the International Conference on Environmental Health and Technology, IIT Kanpur (2010)

  • Junior Research Fellowship awarded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) India (2006-2010)
    His work has also been cited in prominent environmental health publications, highlighting its impact on policy and research.

Top Noted Publication

Tandon, A., Awasthi, A., & Pattnayak, K. C. (2025). “Efficacy of machine learning in simulating precipitation and its extremes over the capital cities in North Indian states.” Scientific Reports, 15(1), 10345. This paper showcases advanced application of AI techniques in climate science, demonstrating Dr. Awasthi’s integration of computational tools with environmental research. His Google Scholar profile provides a comprehensive list of publications and citation metrics.

Gugamsetty, B., Wei, H., Liu, C. N., Awasthi, A., Hsu, S. C., Tsai, C. J., Roam, G. D., et al. (2012). Source Characterization and Apportionment of PM10, PM2.5 and PM0.1 by Using Positive Matrix Factorization. Aerosol and Air Quality Research, 12(4), 476-491.
Citations: 283

Mittal, S. K., Singh, N., Agarwal, R., Awasthi, A., Gupta, P. K. (2009). Ambient air quality during wheat and rice crop stubble burning episodes in Patiala. Atmospheric Environment, 43(2), 238-244.
Citations: 235

Awasthi, A., Agarwal, R., Mittal, S. K., Singh, N., Singh, K., Gupta, P. K. (2011). Study of size and mass distribution of particulate matter due to crop residue burning with seasonal variation in rural area of Punjab, India. Journal of Environmental Monitoring, 13(4), 1073-1081.
Citations: 175

Awasthi, A., Singh, N., Mittal, S., Gupta, P. K., Agarwal, R. (2010). Effects of agriculture crop residue burning on children and young on pulmonary function tests (PFTs) in North West India. Science of the Total Environment, 408(20), 4440-4445.
Citations: 133

Yadav, B. B. N., Rajendra, K., Awasthi, A., Singh, C. (2023). Systematic exploration of heat wave impact on mortality and urban heat island: A review from 2000 to 2022. Urban Climate, 51.
Citations: 116

Strengths for Innovative Researcher Award

  1. Interdisciplinary Expertise in Physics and Environmental Sciences
    Dr. Awasthi’s unique integration of physics principles with environmental and atmospheric sciences enables innovative approaches to addressing complex issues such as air pollution, aerosol behavior, and climate change. His research bridges theoretical physics and practical environmental applications, demonstrating a cutting-edge interdisciplinary methodology.

  2. Pioneering Work in Aerosol Technology and Exposure Studies
    With extensive work on aerosol physics, measurement techniques, and health impact assessments, Dr. Awasthi has contributed novel instrumentation development and precise data analysis methods. His projects on crop residue burning and particulate matter have direct implications for public health and environmental policy.

  3. Significant Scholarly Impact and Leadership in Research
    Publishing over 60 peer-reviewed papers and 5 textbooks, accumulating nearly 2000 citations and a strong h-index, Dr. Awasthi’s research is widely recognized and highly influential. His leadership as a guest editor and involvement in special issues reflects his role in shaping emerging trends in environmental sciences.

  4. International Research Collaboration and Fellowship
    Awarded a prestigious two-year postdoctoral fellowship by Taiwan’s National Science Council, Dr. Awasthi demonstrated outstanding international research capabilities. This fellowship enabled advanced exposure to global scientific standards and innovative aerosol measurement technologies.

  5. Active Role in Academic Development and Scientific Community Engagement
    Beyond research, Dr. Awasthi excels in mentoring students, developing curricula, and managing quality assurance processes within academia. His editorial work, conference organization, and community outreach show his commitment to advancing both science and education.

Mamata Ngangom, Climate Science, Best Innovator Award

Assoc. Prof. Mamata Ngangom: Associate Professor at Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan, India

Title/Designation: Assoc. Prof
Name: Mamata Ngangom
Current Role/Designation: Associate Professor
Organization/Institution: Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan, India
Subject Track: Climate Science
Key Areas of Expertise: Quaternary Geology and Paleoclimatic Studies
Award Category: Best Innovator Award

Dr. Ngangom Mamata Devi is an Associate Professor in Geology at the School of Earth Sciences, Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan, India. She has over 15 years of experience in research and teaching, specializing in Quaternary geology, paleoclimatic reconstructions, morphotectonics, and sedimentology. Her work integrates field-based investigations, laboratory analyses, and geospatial techniques to study climate-tectonic interactions, landform evolution, and environmental change. Dr. Devi is known for combining traditional geological methods with remote sensing and GIS to address contemporary and historical geoscientific challenges.

Online Profiles

Scopus Profile

  • Total Documents: 11

  • Citations: 127 (from 86 citing documents)

  • h-index: 5

Education

She earned her B.Sc. Honours in Geology with 1st Rank from D.M. College of Science, Manipur University (2007), followed by an M.Sc. in Geology from Panjab University (2009). Dr. Devi completed her Ph.D. at K.S.K.V. Kachchh University, Gujarat (2013) with a thesis entitled “Late Quaternary Landform Evolution: Role of Climate and Tectonics in the Great Rann of Kachchh, Western India”, which explored sedimentation patterns, tectonic processes, and paleoclimatic changes in arid environments. She also qualified the prestigious CSIR NET examination, securing Rank 29 in 2011.

Research Focus

Her research focuses on the interplay between climate, tectonics, and landscape evolution during the Late Quaternary period. She employs sedimentology, geomorphology, remote sensing, and GIS to reconstruct past environments, understand hydrological and ecological changes, and assess impacts on human settlements. Dr. Devi also extends her research to planetary geology, analyzing noble gas isotopes in HED and Martian meteorites to gain insights into extraterrestrial processes.

Experience

Dr. Devi began her career as a Junior and Senior Research Fellow at KSKV Kachchh University, followed by teaching assignments as a Teaching Assistant and Adhyapak Sahayek. Since 2013, she has been a faculty member at Banasthali Vidyapith, serving as Assistant Professor and now Associate Professor. She has supervised numerous M.Sc. and Ph.D. students, led field and laboratory studies, and actively participated in workshops, faculty development programs, and academic committees. She has also played a key role in organizing national and international conferences, webinars, and outreach programs for students and professionals.

Research Timeline & Activities

Dr. Devi’s research timeline includes major projects such as the SERB-funded study on the Late Quaternary sedimentation and paleoclimate of the Great Rann of Kachchh (2013–2017). She has presented over 25 papers in national and international conferences, participated in specialized field workshops, and engaged in interdisciplinary collaborations. She has also organized multiple departmental and institutional events, including fests, drawing and model competitions, and international webinars on geology and environmental science.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Devi received 1st Rank in B.Sc. Geology Honours (2007), qualified CSIR NET (Rank 29, 2011), and was awarded the Young Scientist Grant by SERB, India. She is a Life Member of the Geological Society of India and recognized for her contributions in Quaternary geology, climate-tectonic studies, and planetary science. Her work has been widely cited and has influenced studies in sedimentology, paleoenvironment reconstruction, and geomorphology.

Top Noted Publications

  • Chauhan, P., Ngangom, M., Thakkar, M.G. (2025). Drought Assessment Using Remote Sensing Techniques in the Great Rann of Kachchh and Adjoining Areas of Thar Desert. Journal of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing. DOI: 10.1007/s12524-024-02014-w

  • Ngangom, M. (2024). NDVI-Based Vegetation Dynamics on Coastal Dunes Responses to Climatic Change in Western Kachchh, India. GIS Science Journal.

  • Ngangom, M. (2023). Understanding Vesta from HED Meteorites: The Noble Gas Perspective. Journal of Indian Geophysical Union.

  • Jaiswal, S., Mahajan, R.R., Ngangom, M. (2022). Neon in Interior of the Asteroid Vesta and Comparison with the Terrestrial Planets. Journal of Asian Earth Sciences: X. DOI: 10.1016/j.jaesx.2022.100084

  • Ngangom, M. (2021). Heavy Noble Gas in Eucrites and Diogenites: An Attempt to Understand the Trapped Components. 52nd Lunar and Planetary Science Conference.

Strengths for Best Innovator Award

  1. Pioneering Research in Quaternary Geology & Paleoclimate
    Dr. Devi has significantly advanced understanding of Late Quaternary landform evolution, sedimentation patterns, and climate-tectonic interactions in arid regions like the Great Rann of Kachchh. Her work integrates field studies, laboratory analyses, and geospatial technologies to produce actionable insights for environmental and geological research.

  2. Expertise in Remote Sensing & GIS Applications
    She effectively leverages NDVI analysis, GIS modeling, and satellite imagery to assess vegetation dynamics, drought patterns, and hydrological changes. This interdisciplinary skill allows her to translate complex geoscientific data into practical solutions for climate and environmental monitoring.

  3. Contributions to Planetary Geology & Noble Gas Research
    Extending beyond Earth sciences, Dr. Devi has analyzed noble gas isotopes in HED and Martian meteorites to understand planetary interiors and cosmic processes. This demonstrates her innovative approach in combining terrestrial geology with planetary science.

  4. Proven Academic Leadership & Mentorship
    Over 15 years, she has guided numerous M.Sc. and Ph.D. students, led field and lab research projects, and organized workshops, conferences, and webinars. Her mentorship and leadership foster innovation and collaboration among students and early-career researchers.

  5. Recognition & Impact
    Dr. Devi’s work has been widely cited, and she has received notable awards including the Young Scientist Grant from SERB, India. She is a Life Member of the Geological Society of India, reflecting her sustained contribution to advancing geology and environmental sciences.