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B-SC-HONS-AGRICULTURE in Agricultural Biotechnology at Assam Agricultural University
Jorhat, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is Agricultural Biotechnology at Assam Agricultural University Jorhat?
This Agricultural Biotechnology specialization program at Assam Agricultural University focuses on applying cutting-edge biological sciences to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in India. It integrates genomics, plant tissue culture, molecular markers, and genetic engineering principles. The program aims to address critical challenges in Indian agriculture, such as crop improvement, pest and disease resistance, and climate resilience, through innovative biotechnological interventions, catering to the evolving demands of the agri-food sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring agricultural scientists and innovators seeking to leverage biotechnology for sustainable farming. It attracts fresh 10+2 graduates with a strong science background (PCB), especially those keen on research, crop improvement, or agri-biotech entrepreneurship. It''''s also suitable for individuals aspiring to contribute to India''''s food security challenges and those pursuing advanced studies or careers in agri-biotech R&D or industry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including research scientists in ICAR institutes, biotechnology firms, seed companies, or roles in quality control and product development. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience (up to 10-15+ LPA). Graduates can also pursue M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Agricultural Biotechnology, or enter government agricultural services, contributing to the nation''''s scientific and agricultural advancement.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Scientific Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus rigorously on core subjects like Genetics, Biochemistry, Plant Physiology, and Soil Science. These foundational courses are critical for understanding advanced biotechnology concepts. Actively participate in labs to grasp experimental techniques early.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Biology and Chemistry texts, NPTEL for basic science modules, AAU central library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid base ensures conceptual clarity for specialized biotech courses and higher studies, fostering strong analytical skills essential for research and development roles.
Develop Effective Study Habits & Critical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate regular study routines, prioritize understanding over rote learning, and practice critical thinking by analyzing research papers or case studies related to basic agriculture and biology. Engage with faculty during office hours for deeper insights.
Tools & Resources
Online academic journals (e.g., ScienceDirect, SpringerLink - access through AAU library portal), Open educational resources, Mind-mapping tools
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving abilities crucial for research, troubleshooting in labs, and making informed decisions in agricultural practice.
Engage in Early Skill Building- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in practical sessions for subjects like Introductory Computer Applications, Entomology, and Plant Pathology. Learn to use basic software for data analysis and familiarize yourself with laboratory safety and common biological techniques.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Office Suite, Basic statistical software (e.g., R, SAS if introduced), Lab manuals, University workshops on basic instrumentation
Career Connection
Early exposure to practical skills builds confidence, provides a competitive edge for internships, and lays the groundwork for advanced technical work in biotechnology labs.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Agricultural Biotechnology Fundamentals- (Semester 3-5)
Pay special attention to ''''Fundamentals of Agricultural Biotechnology'''' (Ag. Biotech 211) and related courses like Agricultural Microbiology. Seek to understand the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of tissue culture, genetic engineering, and molecular markers.
Tools & Resources
Recommended textbooks for molecular biology and biotechnology, Online courses (Coursera, edX) in genetics or plant biotechnology, Discussions with professors
Career Connection
Directly develops core competencies required for entry-level positions in agri-biotech research, seed companies, or plant breeding roles.
Seek Practical Exposure and Network Building- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for summer internships or short-term projects at ICAR institutes, state agricultural research stations, or local agri-biotech companies. Attend seminars, workshops, and agricultural fairs to network with professionals and gain industry insights.
Tools & Resources
AAU career services, Departmental bulletin boards, Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn), National agricultural conferences
Career Connection
Provides real-world experience, helps identify career interests, and builds professional contacts vital for future job opportunities and collaborations.
Participate in Co-curricular Activities & Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Join student clubs related to agriculture, environment, or science. Participate in agri-tech hackathons, debate competitions, or quizzes. These activities enhance teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are crucial beyond academics.
Tools & Resources
Student organizations at AAU, Inter-university competitions, Online challenge platforms like Kaggle for agri-data
Career Connection
Develops soft skills, leadership qualities, and demonstrates initiative, making you a well-rounded candidate for jobs and higher education.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Electives and Experiential Learning- (Semester 6-8)
Choose electives like ''''Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering'''' and ''''Plant Tissue Culture'''' to deepen your specialization. Maximize the learning from ''''Experiential Learning Programme (ELP)'''' modules, especially those related to bio-product production or advanced crop techniques.
Tools & Resources
Advanced lab equipment training, Specialized software for genomics/bioinformatics (e.g., NCBI BLAST, R for bioinformatics), Professional certifications
Career Connection
Provides advanced theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in specific biotech areas, preparing you for specialized research roles or entrepreneurial ventures in agricultural biotechnology.
Master Project Work and Research Methodology- (Semester 8)
Dedicate significant effort to your final year ''''Project Work / Internship / Industrial Attachment''''. Choose a topic aligned with agricultural biotechnology, focusing on rigorous research methodology, data collection, analysis, and scientific writing. Present your findings effectively.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (SPSS, R, Python), Academic writing guides, Scientific publication databases, Guidance from faculty mentors
Career Connection
Develops independent research capabilities, critical for M.Sc./Ph.D. admissions and R&D roles. A strong project can be a portfolio highlight for placements.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 6-8)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell, attend campus recruitment drives, and prepare for competitive exams (ICAR-PG, NET, GATE) if pursuing higher education. Refine your resume, practice interview skills, and showcase your biotech projects.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services, Mock interview sessions, Online aptitude test platforms, Previous year question papers for competitive exams
Career Connection
Directly leads to successful placements in agri-biotech companies, government organizations, or secures admission to prestigious postgraduate programs in India and abroad.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English from a recognized Board/University. Minimum age of 16 years as on 31st August of the admission year.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F. Agron 111 | Fundamentals of Agronomy | Core | 3 | Agriculture and Agronomy, Crop classification and factors, Tillage and seedbed preparation, Crop nutrients and fertilizers, Weed management, Cropping systems |
| F. Hort 111 | Fundamentals of Horticulture | Core | 2 | Importance of horticulture, Propagation methods, Fruit and vegetable production, Ornamental gardening, Plan architecture, Horticultural zones |
| F. Soil 111 | Fundamentals of Soil Science | Core | 3 | Soil formation and components, Soil physical properties, Soil chemical properties, Soil organic matter, Soil classification, Problem soils |
| F. Ento 111 | Fundamentals of Entomology | Core | 3 | Insect morphology and anatomy, Insect classification, Insect ecology, Pest management principles, Insecticides and their use, Beneficial insects |
| F. Ag. Bot 111 | Fundamentals of Genetics | Core | 3 | Heredity and variation, Mendel''''s laws of inheritance, Gene interactions, Chromosome structure and function, Cell division (mitosis and meiosis), Linkage and crossing over |
| F. Extn 111 | Rural Sociology & Educational Psychology | Foundation | 2 | Rural society and characteristics, Social change and dynamics, Personality and its development, Learning theories, Motivation and intelligence, Group dynamics in rural context |
| Comp 111 | Introductory Computer Applications | Foundation | 2 | Computer basics and components, Operating systems, MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and email usage, Data analysis tools, Presentation skills |
| Math 111 | Elementary Mathematics | Optional | 2 | Basic algebra and trigonometry, Differentiation and integration, Statistical methods, Matrices and determinants, Linear equations, Co-ordinate geometry |
| Engg 111 | Introduction to Agricultural Engineering | Foundation | 2 | Farm power and machinery, Tillage implements, Irrigation systems, Drainage techniques, Farm structures, Post-harvest engineering |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F. Agron 121 | Agricultural Meteorology | Core | 2 | Atmosphere and its layers, Weather elements, Climate change impacts on agriculture, Agro-climatic zones of India, Weather forecasting, Climate resilient agriculture |
| F. Econ 121 | Fundamentals of Agricultural Economics | Core | 2 | Economic principles and concepts, Demand, supply and elasticity, Production economics, Market forms and efficiency, Agricultural policies, Farm management |
| F. Plant Path 121 | Fundamentals of Plant Pathology | Core | 3 | Plant diseases and their causes, Pathogens (fungi, bacteria, viruses), Disease cycle and epidemiology, Host-parasite interaction, Disease diagnosis, Principles of disease management |
| F. Plant Physiology 121 | Fundamentals of Plant Biochemistry and Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Biomolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids), Enzymes and their kinetics, Metabolic pathways (photosynthesis, respiration), Plant growth regulators, Genetic engineering principles, Biotechnological applications in agriculture |
| F. Ag. Bot 121 | Fundamentals of Plant Breeding | Core | 3 | Plant breeding objectives and methods, Selection and hybridization, Heterosis breeding, Germplasm conservation, Variety release, Seed production |
| F. Extn 121 | Fundamentals of Agricultural Extension Education | Core | 3 | Extension education concepts, Communication process in extension, Diffusion and adoption of innovations, Extension teaching methods, Rural development programs, Role of extension workers |
| F. Hort 121 | Fundamentals of Post Harvest Technology | Core | 2 | Post-harvest losses and their causes, Ripening and senescence, Storage methods, Processing techniques, Packaging of horticultural produce, Value addition |
| Engg 121 | Soil and Water Conservation Engineering | Core | 2 | Hydrological cycle, Soil erosion control measures, Terracing and bunding, Water harvesting structures, Drainage engineering, Watershed management |
| Stat 121 | Agricultural Statistics | Core | 2 | Data collection and tabulation, Probability and distributions, Hypothesis testing, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Regression and correlation, Experimental designs |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agron 211 | Crop Production (Kharif) | Core | 3 | Rice cultivation practices, Maize production, Pulses (Pigeonpea, Moong, Urd), Oilseeds (Soybean, Groundnut), Fiber crops (Cotton, Jute), Package of practices for Kharif crops |
| Soil 211 | Manures, Fertilizers & Soil Fertility Management | Core | 3 | Nutrient cycles in soil, Organic manures (FYM, compost), Inorganic fertilizers, Biofertilizers and their application, Integrated nutrient management, Soil testing and fertilizer recommendations |
| Hort 211 | Production Technology of Fruit Crops | Core | 3 | Mango cultivation, Banana and Citrus production, Guava and Papaya, Orchard management, Training and pruning, Rejuvenation of old orchards |
| Ag. Bot 211 | Crop Improvement-I (Kharif Crops) | Core | 3 | Breeding methods for self-pollinated crops, Breeding methods for cross-pollinated crops, Rice breeding, Maize and cotton breeding, Hybrid seed production, Soybean breeding |
| Plant Path 211 | Agricultural Microbiology | Core | 3 | Microbes in soil fertility, Nitrogen fixing bacteria, Phosphorus solubilizing microbes, Mycorrhizae, Biocontrol agents, Industrial microbiology |
| Ag. Biotech 211 | Fundamentals of Agricultural Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Plant tissue culture techniques, Genetic engineering tools and applications, Molecular markers in crop improvement, Development of transgenic crops, Bioethics in biotechnology, Intellectual Property Rights in biotechnology |
| LPM 211 | Livestock Production and Management | Core | 3 | Breeds of cattle and buffalo, Housing and feeding of livestock, Reproduction and breeding, Common diseases and their management, Poultry farming, Dairy farming |
| PPA 211 | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Foundation | 2 | Communication process and types, Public speaking skills, Group discussion and presentation, Interview techniques, Time management and goal setting, Interpersonal skills |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agron 221 | Crop Production (Rabi) | Core | 3 | Wheat cultivation, Potato and Sugarcane production, Mustard and other oilseeds, Pulses (Chickpea, Lentil), Crop rotation and cropping systems, Integrated crop management |
| Hort 221 | Production Technology of Vegetable and Flower Crops | Core | 3 | Tomato, Brinjal, Chilli cultivation, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Onion, Rose, Marigold, Gladiolus, Protected cultivation, Seed production in vegetables, Garden design |
| Ag. Bot 221 | Crop Improvement-II (Rabi Crops) | Core | 3 | Breeding of Wheat and Barley, Chickpea and Lentil breeding, Mustard and other oilseed crops, Sugarcane breeding, Mutation breeding, Resistance breeding |
| Ag. Ento 221 | Principles of Integrated Pest Management | Core | 3 | Pest surveillance and monitoring, Biological control of pests, Chemical control and safety, Cultural practices for pest management, Host plant resistance, Integrated pest management strategies |
| Plant Path 221 | Principles of Plant Disease Management | Core | 3 | Chemical control of diseases (fungicides), Biological control of plant pathogens, Cultural methods for disease reduction, Plant quarantine, Host plant resistance to diseases, Integrated disease management |
| F. Econ 221 | Agricultural Finance and Co-operation | Core | 3 | Farm credit and its sources, Types of loans and lending institutions, Financial management in agriculture, Co-operative movement in India, Risk and uncertainty in farming, Insurance in agriculture |
| Engg 221 | Farm Machinery and Power | Core | 2 | Sources of farm power, Internal combustion engines, Tractors and their maintenance, Tillage and sowing equipment, Harvesting and threshing machinery, Farm workshop practices |
| ELP/SDC 221 | Entrepreneurship Development and Business Management | Experiential Learning / Skill Development Course | 2 | Entrepreneurship concept and process, Business plan development, Market analysis and survey, Financial management, Project formulation and evaluation, Legal aspects of business |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agron 311 | Principles of Organic Farming | Core | 3 | Organic farming concepts and principles, Nutrient management in organic farming, Pest and disease control in organic systems, Weed management strategies, Organic certification and standards, Marketing of organic produce |
| Soil 311 | Problematic Soils and their Management | Core | 3 | Saline and sodic soils, Acid soils and their amelioration, Waterlogged soils, Nutrient deficiencies in problematic soils, Reclamation technologies, Integrated management approaches |
| Hort 311 | Protected Cultivation and Secondary Agriculture | Core | 3 | Greenhouse and polyhouse cultivation, Hydroponics and aeroponics, Hi-tech horticulture, Value addition to agricultural produce, Post-harvest processing, Agro-processing industries |
| Ag. Ento 311 | Pests of Field Crops and their Management | Core | 3 | Pests of rice and wheat, Pests of sugarcane and cotton, Pests of pulses and oilseeds, Insecticides and safe use, Biological control agents, Integrated pest management strategies |
| Plant Path 311 | Diseases of Field Crops and their Management | Core | 3 | Diseases of rice and wheat, Diseases of maize and sugarcane, Diseases of groundnut and cotton, Fungicides and their application, Biocontrol agents for diseases, Integrated disease management |
| Ag. Bot 311 | Principles of Seed Technology | Core | 3 | Seed production techniques, Seed quality and its parameters, Seed testing procedures, Seed certification standards, Seed storage methods, Seed legislation and policy |
| Ag. Econ 311 | Agricultural Marketing, Trade & Prices | Core | 3 | Agricultural marketing channels, Market efficiency and interventions, Price determination theories, International trade in agriculture, WTO and agriculture, Market intelligence |
| ELP/SDC 311 | Agri-Business Management | Experiential Learning / Skill Development Course | 2 | Business planning and strategy, Market survey and analysis, Financial analysis and project appraisal, Supply chain management, Agri-startups and entrepreneurship, Marketing management |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agron 321 | Farming System, Precision Farming & Sustainable Agriculture | Core | 2 | Integrated farming systems, Crop diversification, Precision agriculture concepts, Remote sensing and GIS in agriculture, Drones and sensors in farming, Sustainable agriculture practices |
| Ag. Extn 321 | Extension Methodologies for Transfer of Agricultural Technology | Core | 2 | Extension approaches and models, Participatory extension methods, ICT in agricultural extension, Farmers'''' organizations, Impact assessment of extension programs, Rural communication strategies |
| ELP | Experiential Learning Programme | Experiential Learning Programme | 5 | Hands-on training in chosen modules, Skill development for agribusiness, Entrepreneurial skill building, Practical exposure to agricultural enterprises, Problem identification and solution development, Project report preparation |
| PP 324 | Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering | Elective | 3 | DNA replication and repair, Gene expression and regulation, Recombinant DNA technology, Gene cloning techniques, CRISPR-Cas system, Transgenic plant development |
| HORT 325 | Plant Tissue Culture | Elective | 3 | Sterilization techniques, Callus culture and regeneration, Micropropagation of plants, Haploid and dihaploid production, Protoplast isolation and fusion, Secondary metabolite production |
| Proj 321 | Project Work / Independent Study | Project | 1 | Research problem identification, Literature review, Experimental design, Data collection and analysis, Report writing, Presentation skills |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAWE 411 | Rural Agricultural Work Experience | Rural Work Experience | 16 | Village attachment and farmer interaction, Crop production activities in farmer''''s fields, Livestock management practices, Extension activities and program implementation, Rural survey and problem identification, Farm enterprise management |
| ELP 412 | Experiential Learning Programme (Module II) | Experiential Learning Programme | 4 | Advanced skill development in chosen area, Enterprise management and planning, Market linkages and value chain analysis, Business plan refinement, Practical problem-solving in agri-business, Interdisciplinary project execution |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELP 421 | Experiential Learning Programme (Module III) | Experiential Learning Programme | 10 | Specialized skill training modules, Project implementation and monitoring, Product development and innovation, Value chain analysis and improvement, Mentorship and expert guidance, Entrepreneurial venture development |
| Project 422 | Project Work / Internship / Industrial Attachment | Project / Internship | 10 | Independent research project execution, Data collection, analysis, and interpretation, Thesis writing and documentation, Scientific presentation skills, Industry exposure and professional networking, Problem-solving in real-world scenarios |
