Solan: The College of Horticulture and Forestry (COHF), Thunag, took top honors at an inter-college entomology quiz held at Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry. The event, organized by the university’s Entomology Club, also featured an insect photography competition. Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel attended the event as the chief guest.
Six teams representing various colleges, including COHF Neri, the main campus colleges, and Shoolini University, competed in the event. Participants faced five rounds designed to test their knowledge of insect science, ranging from visual identification and a technical spelling bee to a rapid-fire section.
After a close contest, ‘Team Hemiptera’ from COHF Thunag secured the first position. The winning team comprised students Gourav, Fiza Bhalaik, Varsha Thakur, and Monika Raj. ‘Team Coleoptera’ from the College of Horticulture, Nauni, finished as runners-up.
The event also recognized talent behind the lens. Payal, a second-year MSc student, won first prize in the insect photography competition for her capture of insect diversity. PhD students Susmita and Varnika secured the second and third positions, respectively.
Prof. Chandel presented certificates to the winners and commended the Department of Entomology for fostering scientific curiosity among students. The event was attended by Director of Research Dr. Devina Vaidya, Dean Dr. Manish Sharma, and Department Head Dr. S.C. Verma.
