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B-SC-HONS-AGRICULTURE in Agricultural Economics And Farm Management at Assam Agricultural University
Jorhat, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is Agricultural Economics and Farm Management at Assam Agricultural University Jorhat?
This Agricultural Economics and Farm Management program at Assam Agricultural University focuses on equipping students with crucial economic principles and management techniques applicable to the agricultural sector. It addresses the unique challenges and opportunities within the Indian agrarian landscape, emphasizing efficient resource allocation, market dynamics, and sustainable farm practices. This program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications relevant to the diverse agricultural economy of India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into agri-business, agricultural policy, rural banking, or farm advisory roles. It also suits individuals with an interest in sustainable farming, agricultural marketing, and economic analysis. Students with a background in science and a strong analytical aptitude would find this specialization particularly engaging and rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as agricultural economists, farm managers, market analysts, rural development officers, and agri-business consultants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to 8-15 LPA. The program aligns with the growing demand for skilled professionals in India''''s agricultural and food processing industries.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Economic Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on understanding core economic theories, especially microeconomics and macroeconomics concepts as applied to agriculture. Actively participate in discussions, solve numerical problems, and relate concepts to real-world agricultural scenarios in Assam and India.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Economics textbooks (Class 11 & 12), Basic economic principles books, Online platforms like Khan Academy for foundational concepts, Class notes and peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid understanding of economic principles is crucial for advanced courses in agricultural finance, marketing, and policy, laying the groundwork for roles in analysis and decision-making.
Develop Quantitative Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to courses involving statistics and basic mathematics. Practice data interpretation, statistical analysis, and problem-solving relevant to agricultural data. Use spreadsheet software like MS Excel for initial data handling and analysis exercises.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software tutorials (basic R or SPSS introductory guides), MS Excel, University library resources on quantitative methods, Practice problem sets provided in class
Career Connection
Strong quantitative skills are indispensable for market analysis, farm budgeting, and research roles in agricultural economics, making graduates highly employable across various sectors.
Engage with Agricultural Ground Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Actively seek opportunities to visit local farms, agricultural markets, and rural communities. Observe farming practices, discuss challenges with farmers, and try to connect theoretical economic concepts learned in class with practical issues on the ground in Assam.
Tools & Resources
Local farmer interactions, Field visits organized by the department, Agricultural news and documentaries focusing on Indian farming, Case studies on Indian agriculture
Career Connection
This practical exposure builds empathy and contextual understanding, which is vital for designing effective agricultural policies or advising farmers, and stands out during internships and placements.
Intermediate Stage
Master Financial and Marketing Concepts- (Semester 3-5)
Deep dive into agricultural finance, credit systems, cooperative structures, marketing channels, and price determination. Develop critical thinking for analyzing market trends, supply chains, and financial viability of agricultural projects. Participate in relevant workshops.
Tools & Resources
Case studies on agri-finance and marketing, NABARD reports, Publications from NAFED or APEDA, Business magazines focusing on agriculture, Guest lectures by industry experts
Career Connection
Expertise in these areas directly prepares students for roles in agri-banking, microfinance institutions, agricultural marketing firms, and supply chain management.
Apply Farm Management Principles- (Semester 3-5)
Work on practical exercises and projects related to farm planning, budgeting, cost analysis, and resource optimization. Utilize simulation tools or real farm data (if available) to develop efficient farm business plans. Focus on decision-making under risk and uncertainty.
Tools & Resources
Farm planning software (basic versions), Agricultural extension manuals, Local farm data (if permissible), Group projects simulating farm business scenarios
Career Connection
This hands-on experience is critical for becoming a successful farm manager, agricultural consultant, or entrepreneur, directly contributing to increased farm profitability and sustainability.
Network with Agri-Industry Professionals- (Semester 3-5)
Attend webinars, seminars, and conferences related to agricultural economics and agri-business. Connect with faculty members, alumni, and industry professionals. Seek mentorship opportunities to understand career paths and gain insights into the sector.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Professional agricultural associations (e.g., Indian Society of Agricultural Economics), Career fairs, Department-organized industry interaction events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, industry insights, and future job prospects, providing a significant advantage in the competitive job market and professional growth.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Experiential Learning Projects- (Semester 7)
Fully immerse in the Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) or Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) modules, especially those focused on Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Marketing, or Farm Planning. Treat these as real-world internships, aiming to create tangible outputs like business plans or market reports.
Tools & Resources
ELP/RAWE coordinators, Industry mentors, Project management tools, Market research databases (if available), Presentation software for project defense
Career Connection
These practical projects are excellent resume builders, demonstrating practical skills and problem-solving abilities directly relevant to industry roles and highly valued by employers.
Develop Advanced Analytical & Policy Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Focus on understanding agricultural policy analysis, development economics, and international agricultural trade. Engage in research projects, literature reviews, and policy debates. Strengthen data analysis skills using advanced statistical software for economic modeling.
Tools & Resources
Research papers, Government policy documents (e.g., NITI Aayog, Ministry of Agriculture), Statistical software (R, Python, Stata), Research methodology books, Academic journals
Career Connection
These skills are crucial for roles in government policy analysis, agricultural research institutions, international development organizations, and think tanks, influencing agricultural sector decisions.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 7-8)
Start preparing for competitive exams (e.g., JRF, banking exams for agricultural officers) or entrance exams for Master''''s programs. Refine resume/CV, practice interview skills, and participate in mock placement drives. Identify target companies or universities.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services, Online aptitude test platforms, Interview preparation guides, Professional development workshops, Alumni success stories and testimonials
Career Connection
Strategic preparation ensures graduates are well-equipped to secure desirable jobs in leading agri-companies, government agencies, or pursue advanced academic degrees, accelerating career growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 or equivalent examination in Science with Physics, Chemistry, Biology / Agriculture or equivalent. Minimum 50% aggregate marks for General category (40% for SC/ST/PPH). Age between 16 and 21 years as on 1st July of the admission year.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEC 101 | Introductory Agricultural Economics | Core | 2 | Definition and scope of agricultural economics, Basic economic concepts: scarcity, choice, opportunity cost, Demand, supply and market equilibrium, Production functions and cost concepts, Market structures and price determination, Economic development and Indian agriculture |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEC 201 | Agricultural Finance and Cooperation | Core | 3 | Agricultural credit needs and sources, Institutional financing agencies, Microfinance and rural banking, Cooperative movement and structure, Role of NABARD and crop insurance, Financial statements and analysis |
| AEC 202 | Agricultural Marketing, Trade & Prices | Core | 3 | Marketing concepts and functions, Market structure and efficiency, Demand-supply analysis in marketing, Price determination and forecasting, Agricultural policies related to marketing, International trade in agriculture and WTO |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEC 203 | Farm Management, Production & Resource Economics | Core | 3 | Farm planning and budgeting, Production economics and resource allocation, Farm business analysis and efficiency, Risk and uncertainty in agriculture, Linear programming in farm decision making, Cost of cultivation and farm profitability |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEC 301 | Agribusiness Management | Core | 3 | Agribusiness environment and scope, Business planning and project formulation, Financial management in agribusiness, Marketing strategies for agri-products, Supply chain management in agriculture, Entrepreneurship development |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEC 302 | Agricultural Policy & Development | Core | 2 | Agricultural policy analysis and formulation, Economic reforms and their impact on agriculture, Public distribution system and food security, Rural development programs and their evaluation, Land reforms and their implications, Agricultural subsidies and incentives |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEC 401 | Experiential Learning Module – Agricultural Business Management | Elective / Experiential Learning | 5 | Business plan development for agri-ventures, Market survey and demand assessment, Financial analysis and project appraisal, Supply chain optimization strategies, Enterprise management and operations, Report writing and presentation skills |
