Dr. Ratikanta Maiti started his scientific career since 1962 till now (2017) and contributed substantially in multidisciplinary research lines both on basic and applied aspects on plants and crops and has earned international fame. Being borne in a very poor family, he struggled hard against his poverty and obstacle and achieved worldwide fame for his innovative scientific contributions owing to his strong determination, dedication and honesty. This will be a source of motivation to young generations. He published more than 450 research papers and more than 50 books on plants, crops and forest science which will give inspiration to young scientist. He received several international awards to his great satisfaction. He developed an international networker working on bioresource and interacting scientists from 22 countries globally. His purpose of writing this monograph will motivate young scientists about how to achieve success against all obstacles with strong determination and dedication. Besides this extensive review on various plants and most of the crops will help the young scientists to learn various novel simple technologies and research advances on plants and crops. He developed innovative techniques for screening crop cultivars for tolerance to salinity, drought and abiotic stresses. He developed techniques for propagation of wild chilli and cactus spp. In his opinion this will give excellent feed backs on multidisciplinary researches both on plants and crops. This will serve as classical example of excellent contribution of a dedicated scientist in multidisciplinary research lines.

An Evocative Memoir - Odyssey of A Veteran Plant Scientist is the life story of Dr. Ratikanta Maiti, who was born in a poor family in utmost poverty in a rustic village in Calcutta, rose to the height of an International Scientist. This is an insight into the life journey of Dr. Ratikanta Maiti reciting the livelihood, education, obstacles faced, contributions and achievements in scientific research in various fields to the establishment of an International network of scientists working on Bioresource and Stress management. This depicts a resume of his research results in various field of plant and crop science which will serve as a guide to students and researchers. The Evocative memoire is an inspiration to students, youngsters, scientific community, representing that firmness, commitment and hard work would get a hold of the consequence. It depicts the obstacles he encountered in his personal and professional life, which have tripled his persistence and tenacity to surge over tribulations and guide to accomplishment in long run, letting him earn an International fame. The struggles, pitfalls, agonies all along his profession encourage quite a lot of youngsters, emphasizing them not to get discouraged with obstacles encountered during life’s journey. It urges the need for conserving scientific research and development and signifies diverse area of research contributions to science.