Leadership Team
Dr. Pravin Bhagwat Cholke
Academic Advisor | Vice-Principal (Retd.) |
Ph.D. Guide (Botany & Environmental Science), M.Sc., Ph.D., M.B.S.
Dr. Pravin Bhagwat Cholke is a seasoned academic leader, researcher, and environmental biologist with more than 30 years of undergraduate teaching and 10 years of postgraduate teaching experience. He has served in key leadership roles, including Vice-Principal at PDEA’s Anantrao Pawar College, Pirangut, where he contributed significantly to academic administration, curriculum development, research enhancement, and institutional quality improvement.
As a recognized Ph.D. guide in Botany and Environmental Science at Savitribai Phule Pune University, Dr. Cholke has mentored multiple doctoral scholars—2 Ph.D. students have completed under his guidance, and 4 are currently pursuing research in advanced botanical and environmental science domains. He has also supervised 16 postgraduate research projects, strengthening hands-on scientific training for emerging researchers.
Research Expertise and Contributions
Dr. Cholke’s multidisciplinary research spans:
- Aerobiology and aero-mycological monitoring
- Seaweed biodiversity and conservation
- Algal liquid biofertilizers and bioremediation
- Biomass production and Bio-CNG applications
- Stress physiology in plants
- Environmental pollution assessment
His Ph.D. work on extramural and intramural aerobiological studies in Pimpri-Chinchwad region laid the foundation for several environmental monitoring strategies that he later expanded into funded research projects.
He has completed major and minor research projects, including:
- UGC Major Research Project on Aerobiocomponents at garbage depots and sick buildings (₹8.36 lakh)
- State-funded Major Project on seaweed biodiversity and sustainable utilization under the Maharashtra Gene Bank Project (2025–2028)
- Seven completed minor research projects and one ongoing project
- Industry-based project on biomass productivity in Napier Grass and IoT-based saffron cultivation
Dr. Cholke has published 23 research papers in national and international journals, presented numerous research papers at conferences, and received accolades such as the First Prize in Oral Presentation at a national biosciences conference.
Academic Leadership and Service
Dr. Cholke has held several critical positions contributing to academic governance, including:
- Member, Board of Studies in Botany (2005–2010), University of Pune
- Paper setter, examiner, and practical examiner for university-level examinations
- Contributor to curriculum development in Botany
Author of three academic books published by Narendra Publications:
- F.Y.B.Sc. Practical Botany (2003)
- F.Y.B.Sc. Applied Botany (2003)
- S.Y.B.Sc. Plant Physiology (2004)
He is known for his ability to integrate research with teaching, helping institutions enhance their academic quality and align with university standards.
Innovation, Incubation & NAAC Expertise
Dr. Cholke is actively involved in national-level academic quality enhancement. He has delivered highly impactful sessions on:
- NAAC accreditation and SSR development
- Innovation and incubation ecosystems
- Mapping of Programme Outcomes (PO) and Course Outcomes (CO)
He has offered expert guidance to universities and colleges across India, including:
- Ladakh University (Leh & Kargil Campuses)
- University of Rajasthan, Jaipur (Mock DVV Review)
- Fort Agnel College, Goa
- Multiple higher education institutions across Maharashtra
His expertise supports institutions in elevating accreditation scores, strengthening academic frameworks, and enhancing research culture.
Extension Activities & Community Engagement
Beyond academics, Dr. Cholke is deeply committed to community development and sustainable practices.
- He has established 24 organic farming demonstration models in collaboration with Abhinav Farmers Club.
- He participates regularly in community education programs on environmental conservation, biodiversity, and innovative farming systems.
Role in Leadership
As part of the leadership and advisory team, Dr. Pravin B. Cholke brings a powerful blend of academic leadership, environmental expertise, research excellence, and NAAC accreditation knowledge. His forward-looking approach supports institutions and organizations in achieving scientific advancement, sustainable development, and academic innovation.