HARRISBURG, Ark. (Diya TV) — Kaushik Luthra, an Indian-origin researcher with deep roots in agricultural engineering, has joined the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. He will serve as an assistant professor of post-harvest grain processing at the Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center in Harrisburg.

Luthra’s main mission is to help Arkansas farmers improve profitability through smarter post-harvest crop management. His work will focus on improving grain quality, boosting efficiency, and ensuring safety throughout the supply chain.

Luthra is eager to make a real impact on Arkansas agriculture. “I’m excited to give back to this amazing community through research and extension,” he told the University of Arkansas. “I’m fully committed to making a lasting, positive difference.”

He plans to work directly with farmers, grain elevators, mills, and processors. His goal is to help them solve common post-harvest challenges such as grain spoilage, inefficient storage, and handling practices. These improvements can lead to higher crop value and better returns for producers.

Luthra’s appointment comes at a crucial time. According to the latest Arkansas Farm Income Outlook, rice cash receipts in the state are expected to drop by 8 percent in 2025. That’s a big concern for Arkansas, the nation’s top rice-producing state.

Luthra aims to address this challenge head-on. By introducing best practices in post-harvest grain management, he hopes to reduce losses and improve shelf life. He also wants to empower stakeholders to optimize their profits.

“I want to empower stakeholders to optimize profitability,” Luthra said. He also plans to partner with extension agents across the state to spread awareness of modern, science-based methods in post-harvest grain processing.

With more than five years of experience in the field, Luthra brings solid knowledge and hands-on skills. He specializes in drying, handling, storage, and processing of grains, particularly rice. These practices are essential for preserving grain quality from farm to market.

Luthra previously served as a postdoctoral fellow in the Arkansas Rice Processing Program. He has worked on key research projects focused on improving rice quality during drying and storage. His efforts helped identify techniques that extend shelf life while maintaining nutritional and cooking quality.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in India. He later completed his master’s and Ph.D. in biological and agricultural engineering at the University of Arkansas.

University leaders are confident in Luthra’s ability to serve the state’s agriculture sector. Terry Howell Jr., head of the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, praised Luthra for his work ethic and leadership.

“Dr. Luthra has become a trusted authority in post-harvest technologies, especially in rice,” Howell said. “He is motivated to serve the stakeholders across the state, and he is poised to have a great career.”

Post-harvest grain management is a critical link in the food supply chain. Poor handling and storage can lead to major losses. Experts estimate that post-harvest losses in grains can range from 10 to 30 percent globally.

Luthra’s work is expected to drive down these losses in Arkansas. His research will focus on practical solutions that can be adopted by farmers and processors alike. By improving post-harvest methods, he hopes to make Arkansas agriculture more resilient and more profitable.

As rice farmers face tighter margins and shifting markets, experts like Luthra will play a key role in shaping a more secure future for the industry.