SRINAGAR: In a breakthrough for sustainable horticulture and plant disease management, scientists at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) have secured a patent for a novel bioactive formulation capable of controlling apple scab, one of the most destructive diseases affecting apple orchards worldwide.
The patented technology was developed by a research team led by Dr Khalid Zaffar Masoodi, Associate Professor in the Division of Plant Biotechnology, along with his PhD scholar Madeeha Naik. The patent marks Dr Masoodi’s 13th invention to receive patent protection.
The innovation is based on extensive research into endophytic fungi isolated from indigenous Kashmiri apple cultivars, including Ambri and Maharaji. During the study, the researchers identified a highly potent fungal isolate capable of producing a novel antifungal metabolite that effectively inhibits Venturia inaequalis, the fungus responsible for apple scab.
Apple scab is a major threat to apple production globally and causes an estimated 30 to 40 per cent economic loss to growers annually, particularly in the Kashmir Valley, where horticulture is a key contributor to the economy.
The research team employed advanced analytical techniques, including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and mass spectrometry, to determine and confirm the molecular structure of the antifungal compound.
Laboratory and field evaluations demonstrated that the bioactive molecule significantly suppresses apple scab, highlighting its potential as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical fungicides.
According to the university, the patented technology has considerable commercial potential for the development of next-generation biological fungicides, which could help reduce farmers’ dependence on chemical pesticides while promoting sustainable crop protection practices.
The achievement comes under the leadership of SKUAST-K Vice-Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganie, whose administration has emphasised research-driven, farmer-centric innovations. University officials said the latest patent reflects SKUAST-K’s growing contribution to scientific innovation, intellectual property generation and sustainable agriculture.
With this addition, SKUAST-K’s total patent portfolio has reached 126, the highest among agricultural universities in the country, further strengthening its position as a leading centre for agricultural research and innovation.
