On January 4, the Asia and Pacific Seed Association (APSA) welcomed its newest member, Shivendra Bajaj, as the association’s technical advisor, shared a release.
With over 20 years of industry experience, Bajaj headed the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII) and the Alliance for AgriInnovation (AAI) prior to joining APSA. At FSII and AAI, he was responsible for daily engagement with key stakeholders, such as India’s Central and State government’s high-level decision makers. Bajaj advocated for the acceptance of seed and biotechnology positive policies, innovation, cutting-edge technologies and breeding applications that would benefit not only farmers, but the greater agriculture sector as well.
Bajaj has been represented at a multitude of international forums, providing him a depth of experience in global coordination and systems in relation to phytosanitary process improvement, in addition to access and benefit sharing for food and agriculture
“Having worked closely with Shivendra on a number of key initiatives over the years, we are very fortunate to have him join our team in this capacity,” commented Kanokwan Chodchoey, APSA executive director. “Technical affairs is core to APSA’s activities as a regional seed association, and Shivendra’s background, expertise and experience will no doubt be a great asset in our efforts to enhance and improve stakeholder engagement and member services in general.”
As technical advisor, Bajaj will represent the association at international meetings that relate to technical subjects. He will also liason with APSA’s three Standing Committees (SCs) and two Special Interest Groups (SIGs) to spearhead technical program initiatives. Bajaj will offer technical guidance for activities related to policy advocacy, such as the creation and drafting of position papers as he sees through all stages of the development of projects proposed by the committees.
“It is a privilege to be associated with APSA,” commented Bajaj on his new position. “Not only does this role allow me to relocate to New Zealand, but also provides me the opportunity to continue contributing in the areas of IP, plant genetic resources and plant breeding innovation, and thus further enhance APSA’s reputation as a leading seed industry organization.”
