Ludhiana, Oct. 16 -- Agricultural scientist and horticulturist Harvinder Singh Dhaliwal on Thursday assumed charge as the 12th vice-chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), bringing nearly 31 years of experience in agricultural research, education and extension to the top post.

Born into a rural family in Mansa district, Dhaliwal has remained closely connected with Punjab's farming community. A specialist in horticulture, particularly fruit science, he has worked to improve fruit varieties and promote crop diversification.

During his career at PAU, he served as dean of the College of Agriculture from 2013 to 2017, additional director of research (horticulture) and director of extension education. As dean, he introduced five a...