Born on 15th July 1968 in Bagur village, Hassan district, Dr. Basavaraju has devoted over 30 years to teaching, research, extension, and administration. A distinguished alumnus of UAS Bangalore, he completed his B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., and PG Diploma in Agricultural Sciences, earning the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Gold Medal for academic excellence.
He has served as Head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kandali, and Head of Crop Protection Division, College of Agriculture, Hassan, before assuming his current role as Dean (Agri.). His teaching career includes guiding 8 postgraduate students, three of whom won gold medals, and serving as examiner for multiple universities.
In research, Dr. Basavaraju has focused on insect pests of redgram, sunflower, potato, coconut, safflower, and arecanut, releasing 12 pest management technologies for farmers. His extension work spans over 700 guest lectures, farmer trainings in beekeeping and eco friendly pest management, and leadership in projects like SMART Grama and Integrated Farming Systems.
With 30 research papers, 260 popular articles, 42 radio talks, and 70 TV programs, he has made agricultural science widely accessible. Honored as Best Scientist and Best Extension Worker, his career reflects a lifelong commitment to sustainable farming and farmer empowerment.