Dr. Gopal Ji Trivedi, a distinguished agricultural scientist and former Vice-Chancellor of Rajendra Agriculture University in Bihar, will be honored posthumously with the Padma Shri for his remarkable contributions to agricultural extension education and farmer empowerment. The award will be presented during the first Investiture Ceremony of the Padma Awards 2026 on May 25 at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with President Droupadi Murmu officiating the ceremony.

Born on February 15, 1930, Dr. Trivedi's academic journey included degrees in Agriculture and a PhD in Agricultural Extension Education. He was instrumental in developing the Trivedi Scale, a pioneering tool for assessing the socio-economic status of rural families. His innovative approaches included the BABA system, which converted waterlogged areas into productive fish farms, and promoting litchi cultivation through partnerships between farmers and agro-industries.

Dr. Trivedi's work significantly increased maize productivity in Bihar, benefiting local farmers. His numerous accolades include the Krishi Rishi Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award from former President Pratibha Patil. He passed away on May 12, 2026, leaving a lasting legacy in agricultural education and rural development.