Hemiptera Wins Inter-College Entomology Quiz

The Entomology Club of the Department of Entomology, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, organized an Inter-college Entomology Quiz Competition and Insect Photography Competition, bringing together students from constituent colleges and universities. The event was graced by Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel.
The programme aimed to foster scientific curiosity and strengthen core knowledge of insect science among the participating students. Six teams representing COHF Thunag, COHF Neri, College of Horticulture Nauni, College of Forestry Nauni and Shoolini University competed in the quiz. A panel of expert judges evaluated the participants across five challenging rounds—Multiple Choice Questions, Visual and Audio Identification, technical Spelling Bee and a rapid-fire round.
After a close contest, Team Hemiptera from COHF Thunag—comprising Gourav, Fiza Bhalaik, Varsha Thakur and Monika Raj—secured the first position. Team Coleoptera from COH Nauni (Simran, Akhil, Lakshay, and Apoorva) finished as runners-up. The Vice Chancellor appreciated the enthusiasm and sportsmanship displayed by all teams.
The results of the Insect/Entomology Photography Competition were also announced during the programme. Payal (MSc 2nd year, Entomology) won the first prize for her exceptional capture depicting insect diversity. Susmita (PhD 3rd year, Entomology) secured the second position, while Varnika (PhD 2nd year, Statistics) received the third prize for her creatively composed submission. The competition emphasized the importance of visual documentation in understanding insect behaviour and ecology.
In the valedictory session, Prof. Chandel presented certificates and awards to the winners and participants. He commended the Department of Entomology and the organizing committee for promoting academic excellence and reinforcing the university’s commitment to scientific inquiry and collaborative learning.
Other dignitaries present included Director of Research Dr. Devina Vaidya, Librarian Dr. D.R. Bhardwaj, Dean, College of Horticulture Dr. Manish Sharma and Dr. S.C. Verma, Head, Department of Entomology. Faculty members and students from various departments attended the event, lending support and encouragement to the participants.