Dr. Vitthal Kauthale
Chief Thematic Programme Executive
(Farm Research & Seed Programme)
BAIF Development Research Foundation, Pune, India
Email: vitthal.kauthale@baif.org.in
Mobile: +91 9960536631
Work Experience: 32 years with BAIF Development Research Foundation, a civil society organisation dedicated to rural livelihood and climate action in 16 states of India since last 57 years.
Academic Qualifications: PhD in Agricultural Development; M.Sc. Agriculture (Seed Technology); B.Sc. Agriculture
Key Responsibilities, Expertise and Achievements: Leads the Agriculture Division at BAIF Central Research Station, Urulikanchan, Pune. Implementing various agricultural research programmes with focus on crop diversification, agrobiodiversity conservation, climate-smart and sustainable agriculture, forage resource development, columnar mini apple development, promotion of Spineless Cactus for fodder, food, fuel, fertilizer and fashion (vegan leather), agrivoltaics for energy and food and seed production.
He has led the All India Coordinated Research Project on Forage Crops and Utilization, Community-based agrobiodiversity conservation, Management and Revival of diverse local resources, Maharashtra Network of Technology and Innovation Hubs for Rural Areas, Standardization of propagation and production technology of Cactus (Opuntia ficus indica) and technology transfer for livelihood development in arid and semi-arid regions, Nature Positive Solutions for shifting agri-food systems to more resilient and sustainable pathways and climate-resilient feed and fodder research under ECLIPSE. Facilitates and monitors research activities related to crop-based livelihood.
He has shared his experiences in international conferences and field visits to Jordan, Tanzania and Israel and has participated in series of talk shows on Television and Radio networks.
Publications: 58 research papers published in International and National journals; 41 popular articles; 11 booklets, training manuals, brochures, e-learning modules and technical bulletins.
Memberships: Research Guide for PhD at Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune; Expert Member – Technical Committee of Bureau of Indian Standards, Government of India; Expert Member of the Working Group for Spineless Cactus Cultivation, Government of India.