Agriculture is one of the most important aspects of the Indian society. Around 61.25 per cent of the 1300 million Indian citizens are directly engaged with the occupation for a living. This makes it one of the primary sectors contributing to the Indian economy.

With modern changes and the advancements in science and technology, agricultural practices have turned out to be far more specific and industry-oriented. The sole target is to enhance the agricultural output per unit area.

Even in the past, there have been several reforms with regard to it. The course of BSc Hons in Agriculture has been conceptualised to impart scientific agricultural knowledge. It covers minute details of each and every aspect of agriculture and the ways to enhance agricultural techniques.

By building up new technology to boost agriculture in the nation, it opens many career opportunities for candidates after its successful completion. Agriculture is integral to future development. Economists point out that it is four times more effective than other sectors in reducing poverty.

It can even be a gold mine for young entrepreneurs. Besides, agricultural research needs young minds to initiate innovation.

What do you study in BSc Agriculture?

BSc Hons in Agriculture involves the study of agricultural sciences and the use of modern scientific equipment and techniques in agriculture, land surveying, soil science, water resource management, animal and poultry management, basics of biotechnology, etc.

The objective of the course is to use these concepts to train students to improve agricultural productivity. A BSc in Agriculture equips students with an all-round knowledge of the sector and normally includes Agronomy, Plant Genetics, Soil Science, Entomology, Agricultural Economics, Agriculture Engineering, Agricultural Meteorology, Plant Pathology, Horticulture, and Agricultural Extension.

Eligibility and course duration:

The basic eligibility criterion for pursuing the degree of BSc Hons in Agriculture is qualifying 10+2 or an equivalent examination, with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as subjects studied at an intermediate level.

Some reputed colleges and institutes demand a minimum of 50 per cent marks in 10+2 as qualifying criterion to secure admission in this degree course. The duration of BSc Agriculture is three years, while a few colleges also run the same course for a duration of four years.

Skills required:

The candidate should have sound knowledge and a basic understanding of crops, soil types, agricultural chemicals and basic genetics. They should also have a keen and analytical mind, a high level of concentration, an aptitude for research, the ability to work as part of a team, along with abundant physical stamina to put in long hours of work and patience.

They should have good observational, communication, organisational, written and oral skills, as well as the ability to give presentations and the knowledge of common business concepts.

Good computer knowledge, which is essential to analyse data and control biological and chemical processing, is also an important skill required in the field.

Nature of work:

Agriculture is defined as the practice of cultivating land or raising stock. Agriculture courses in India are helpful in understanding these practices and applying them to tasks relevant to employment.

Agriculture professionals are known as Agriculturists or Agriculturalists. They are specialists in all areas of cultivation and raising livestock. They are also referred to as Agriculture Scientists, as agriculture, in itself, is a science.

As per their designations, they advise farmers on soil management, breeding animals, crop protection, disease, harvesting and other concerned aspects.

Apart from theoretical knowledge, the syllabus also includes research in a variety of areas that directly impact the food and agriculture industry.

Agriculture is a vast field and its subfields include horticulture, dairying and poultry farming.

Opportunities and remuneration:

At present, BSc Agriculture is one of the courses which open a gateway to limitless opportunities. One who pursues this course can work in all three sectors – Government, public and private.

Every year, many governmental institutes recruit people with a degree in BSc Agriculture. There are several banks who recruit specialist officers having the degree. The private sector, too, is an open ocean for students to get jobs for posts like Agriculture Officer, Assistant Plant Manager, etc.

The average annual income offered to them ranges between Rs 5 – 6 lakhs.

(The writer is the Chairman, MVN University)