Dr. Bhupender Kumar born on 27th December, 1981 in H.P. had received his B.Sc. Ag. degree from CSKHPKV Palampur, H.P, and P.G. & Ph.D. in Genetics from ICAR-IARI, New Delhi. Presently, he is working as a Scientist, Sr. scale in the Division of Crop improvement at ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), Ludhiana, Punjab (Posted at its Delhi office). He is intensely working on basic and applied science of improving maize for high yielding. 

As first developer, he has released ten single cross hybrids of maize through CVRC, and registered two germplasm lines as genetic stock at NBPGR. Of ten hybrids, one was dedicated to nation by our Hon’ble Prime Minister as bio-fortified hybrid. Further, out of ten hybrids, six have been commercialized by signing more than 16 MoUs with different private seed companies. Among ten, 03 hybrids together have registered highest DAC breeder seeds demand (33.5 % share of the total indent) in the country for year 2021. Since released, most of these hybrids (07) have entered in seeds chain. He is associated in development and release of two more QPM hybrids and germplasm lines registration.

He has studied inheritance patterns, developed RILs mapping populations and association mapping panel, as well as identified resistant sources and mapped QTLs for important disease(s) resistance and popping traits in maize. He has also identified suitable selection indices for selection of drought tolerant maize, and standardised rapid method of screening maize for drought tolerance. 

As a collaborator, he has contributed in standardising protocol for callus induction and regeneration using mature seeds derived nodal ex-plants, identification of mega-environments for baby corn evaluation in India and studying G × E × M interaction in conservation agriculture.

Dr. Kumar has published over 45 peer-reviewed research papers and review articles in NAAS rating of up to 12.55, 10 book chapters, 08 technical bulletins/Newsletter, 12 popular articles, and edited 11 annual reports and one book. He has received several awards including NAAS Associateship, DST early career research award, ICAR-IIMR Best scientist recognition, Dr. N. N. Singh young scientist award of MTAI,  Prof. Mahatim Singh memorial award of SAWBAR, Young Scientist Award of SSDAT, and Appreciation certificates from ICAR-IIMR, Ludhiana. He had visited Mexico and Thailand countries and received DST travel grant for presenting his research findings at abroad.