Dr Ashiho A Mao has been appointed as the new vice chancellor of Martin Luther Christian University. He was formally introduced and welcomed by the Chancellor, Dr Glenn C Kharkongor, at the handing over ceremony yesterday.

Dr Mao has over three decades of experience in research, higher education, and scientific leadership. A PhD in agricultural botany from the University of Reading, UK, Dr. Mao served as national Director of the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) from 2019 to 2025, where he led landmark national projects, including the completion of the 32 volume Flora of India book series and the launch of the Indian Virtual Herbarium, an initiative highlighted in the Prime Minister’s Mann Ki Baat. He has published 172 research papers, authored or edited 46 books and monographs, and identified 19 new plant species including orchids and rhododendrons.

He has represented India at international biodiversity conventions such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES). He has earned many national and international honours, including the Vishwambhar Puri Medal, the Arthur Hoosier Award, the Schlich Prize, and the Harshberger Medal for his pioneering work in ethnobotany and conservation. He is a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, past president of the Ethnobotany Society of India, and editor of the Journal of the Botanical Survey of India.

The outgoing vice chancellor, Prof T K Kharbamon reflected on her journey with MLCU and expressed gratitude for the support of the university community. MLCU expresses its appreciation to Prof T K Kharbamon for her leadership and dedication during her tenure.