Ashwagosha Ganju

Dr. Ashwagosha Ganju is a snow science and avalanche expert with over 32 years of experience at the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO). He holds a PhD in Quaternary Environment Reconstruction and advanced degrees in Geology from Punjab University. As Director of SASE, he led numerous pioneering initiatives in avalanche forecasting, climate impact assessment, remote sensing, and cryospheric hazard mitigation. He spearheaded major projects like PARWAT, HIMVIVIDHITA, HIM SANDESH, and ANUMAN, and developed advanced models and training systems for snow and avalanche risk management in the Himalayas.
He has advised the Indian Army on safe troop mobility, established observatories across the Siachen region, and trained personnel in avalanche rescue and safety. Dr. Ganju has presented his work at international forums, including Switzerland, Canada, Japan, and Antarctica, and has collaborated with agencies like DST, MoES, and NASA-ISRO. His work has earned him multiple awards, including the Defence Technology Spin-Off Award and the HR Leadership Award.
A prolific researcher, Dr. Ganju has authored over 70 papers and two books, contributing significantly to the field of cold region science making him a key figure in Himalayan environment studies and disaster risk reduction.