Ganesh Pawar

Key efforts and initiatives taken to accelerate genetic gain in okra:

• Predictive breeding: Played a crucial role in integration of Genomic selection in Okra breeding by supporting groundwork preparation through building training sets, testing predicted combinations to Collaboration with AGS team to improve prediction accuracy and accelerated genetic gain
• Initiated development of heterotic pools using historical as well as the latest data set available and improved germplasm management by setting rules for breeding start & test crossing
• Data driven decision: Use of Appropriate Experimental design stagewise, Data quality check & improvement through Data collection standardization protocols, HTP, optimization of datapoints, data analysis & visualization using advanced tools
• Customer Centric approach: Redefined breeding scheme with updated segmentation, trial network, Hotspot screening, revised TPP & Target markets
• Translated market insights and business strategies into projects, ensuring new product development aligns with commercial goals and future growth opportunities.
• Functional excellence: Reduction in generational intervals by shifting from pedigree to SSD, optimized resource allocation.
• Conducted annual breeding review to present progress on agreed breeding KPI & metrics.
• Expertise in tools: Data analysis & Visualization- Curly Whirly, SPOTFIRE, RPT 2.0, ASreml-R Posit for BLUP
• Database- PMD, Ezcapture, SPIRIT, STARLIMS , MINT etc.

• Collaborate closely with the Lead Breeder to manage the breeding activities in okra, spanning from the initiation of breeding to advanced-stage trialing
• Work closely with the operation teams to establish and facilitate the execution of breeding and pollination, hybrid trials, Germplasm inventory management, and provide genetic input for quality seed production
• Support in adopting new technologies and methodologies, including high-throughput phenotyping, predictive breeding, and data visualization tools, and coordinate genotyping activities
• Develop market knowledge and breeding targets while maintaining effective communication with the lead breeder and other stakeholders
• Contribute to the Okra crop strategy and product profile development

• Managed the Wheat Breeding Operational System, designed nursery and field trials, and conducted data analysis and interpretation of results for decision-making
• Conversion of CMS and Rf lines using marker-assisted backcrossing schemes
• Assisted in organizing and executing crossing blocks for parental line improvement and identification of new heterotic combinations
• Draw up the HY seed production plan for trials based on CHA/CMS, and implement it.
• Purification and multiplication of A, B, and R lines with the required quantity
• Used different tools and databases to access, store, and retrieve data, and handle seed inventories
• Actively participated in the development of the breeding strategy

Responsibilities:

• Oversee/perform sowing, plant maintenance, pollinations, phenotypic data collection, molecular marker sampling, and handling seed inventory activities
• Collect, analyze, summarize, and research data using relational tools and databases