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B-SC-HONS-AGRICULTURE in Plant Breeding And Genetics at Assam Agricultural University
Jorhat, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is Plant Breeding and Genetics at Assam Agricultural University Jorhat?
This Plant Breeding and Genetics program at Assam Agricultural University focuses on developing advanced crop varieties with enhanced yield, disease resistance, and nutritional quality. It leverages cutting-edge genetic principles and biotechnological tools, addressing India''''s critical need for food security and agricultural sustainability through improved crops. The program aims to produce experts capable of innovating in the challenging and diverse agricultural landscape of the country.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring agricultural scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs passionate about crop improvement and genetic innovation. Fresh graduates with a strong foundation in biology and agriculture seeking entry into research and development roles in seed companies or public research institutions will benefit. It also attracts those interested in contributing to India''''s agricultural growth through scientific advancements and sustainable farming practices.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including plant breeder, geneticist, seed technologist, biotechnologist, or research associate in public and private sectors. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience in companies like Bayer, Syngenta, or ICAR institutes. Graduates are well-prepared for higher studies (M.Sc, Ph.D) and professional certifications in seed science or intellectual property rights relevant to plant varieties.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Scientific Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering core subjects like Genetics, Biochemistry, and Plant Physiology. Actively participate in practical sessions, labs, and tutorials to understand basic biological and chemical processes critical to plant breeding. Utilize online resources like Khan Academy for concepts and NCERT books for basics.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on Genetics and Biochemistry, Lab manuals, Online tutorials, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation is essential for understanding advanced breeding techniques and molecular biology, directly impacting research and development roles.
Develop Effective Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Establish a consistent study routine, review lecture notes regularly, and practice problem-solving, especially for quantitative subjects like statistics. Engage with professors during office hours for clarifications and deeper insights. Prioritize conceptual understanding over rote memorization.
Tools & Resources
Study planners, Academic journals, Mentorship from senior students
Career Connection
Efficient learning habits improve academic performance, which is crucial for securing good internships and postgraduate admissions.
Participate in Agricultural Field Activities- (Semester 1-2)
Engage in early hands-on experiences by volunteering for farm activities or campus research projects. Understand basic crop cultivation, soil management, and pest identification. Join agricultural clubs or societies to network and learn from peers.
Tools & Resources
University experimental farms, Student agricultural clubs, Field guides
Career Connection
Practical exposure builds a fundamental understanding of agricultural challenges and practices, making academic learning more relevant for future roles in agri-business or research.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Specialization-Specific Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Seek out opportunities for mini-projects or assignments focused on Plant Breeding and Genetics, such as observing crop hybridization, studying genetic variation in local crops, or analyzing yield data. Proactively approach faculty members for guidance and project ideas.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research labs, Faculty guidance, Statistical software (R, SAS) for data analysis
Career Connection
Hands-on experience in specialized projects strengthens your resume for internships and demonstrates a genuine interest in the field, crucial for roles in breeding companies.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3-5)
Attend university seminars, workshops, and guest lectures by industry experts from seed companies, biotech firms, and government research bodies. Use LinkedIn to connect with speakers and alumni working in Plant Breeding and Genetics. Participate in agri-fairs and exhibitions.
Tools & Resources
University career services, LinkedIn, Industry events (online/offline)
Career Connection
Building a professional network can lead to valuable internship offers, mentorship, and insights into current industry trends and job opportunities.
Develop Analytical and Lab Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Dedicate time to master lab techniques like DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and basic bioinformatics tools. Focus on data interpretation and critical thinking. Participate in inter-college competitions related to crop identification or genetic problem solving.
Tools & Resources
Molecular biology lab equipment, Bioinformatics software (e.g., NCBI BLAST), Research articles
Career Connection
Proficiency in lab and analytical skills is highly valued by research institutions and biotech companies for roles requiring hands-on experimentation and data analysis.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Specialization-Focused Internships- (Semester 6-8)
Secure internships with seed companies, ICAR institutes, or private agricultural research organizations specifically in Plant Breeding, Genetics, or Biotechnology departments. Focus on learning practical breeding methodologies, field trial management, or molecular marker applications.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Company career pages, Direct faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Internships provide crucial real-world experience, often leading to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations, significantly boosting employability upon graduation.
Pursue Advanced Certifications and Research- (Semester 6-8)
Consider online courses or workshops in advanced areas like genomic selection, intellectual property rights in agriculture, or specific bioinformatics tools. Engage deeply in your final year project, aiming for publishable quality research if possible. Attend and present at student conferences.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX for specialized courses, Research journals, Conference proceedings
Career Connection
Advanced certifications and research publications demonstrate expertise and commitment, making you a strong candidate for R&D roles, academic positions, or higher studies abroad.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Education- (Semester 6-8)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, preparing thoroughly for technical interviews, aptitude tests, and group discussions. For higher studies, prepare for entrance exams like ICAR-JRF/SRF or international exams (GRE/TOEFL) and refine your Statement of Purpose.
Tools & Resources
Placement coaching/workshops, Mock interviews, Previous year question papers, Career counselors
Career Connection
Strategic preparation ensures successful transition into desired career paths, whether it''''s immediate employment in top agricultural firms or admission to prestigious postgraduate programs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Higher Secondary) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics/Agriculture as per ICAR/AAU norms
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 170 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30-40%, External: 60-70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGR 101 | Fundamentals of Agronomy | Core | 4 | Agriculture and Agronomy Scope, Tillage and Crop Establishment, Planting Methods, Nutrient and Water Management, Harvesting and Yield |
| HORT 101 | Fundamentals of Horticulture | Core | 3 | Branches of Horticulture, Propagation Methods, Orchard Management, Vegetable Cultivation, Flowering and Medicinal Plants |
| LPM 101 | Fundamentals of Livestock Production Management | Core | 3 | Livestock Breeds, Nutrition and Feeding, Housing and Management, Dairy Farming Principles, Poultry Production |
| ENVS 101 | Environmental Studies and Disaster Management | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change, Disaster Preparedness, Sustainable Development |
| COM 101 | Rural Sociology and Educational Psychology | Core | 2 | Rural Social Structure, Community Development, Learning Theories, Motivation in Education, Extension Education |
| BIOCHEM 101 | Fundamentals of Biochemistry | Core | 3 | Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids, Enzymes and Metabolism, Vitamins and Hormones, Nucleic Acids, Bioenergetics |
| BBM 101 | Introductory Biology | Core | 3 | Cell Biology, Plant and Animal Kingdoms, Basic Genetics, Photosynthesis and Respiration, Microbiology Basics |
| FMB 101 | Agricultural Heritage | Core | 1 | History of Indian Agriculture, Ancient Agricultural Practices, Traditional Farming Systems, Evolution of Crops, Indigenous Knowledge |
| EXT 101 | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Core | 2 | Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Presentation Skills, Group Discussion, Time Management, Interpersonal Skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSAC 101 | Fundamentals of Soil Science | Core | 3 | Soil Formation, Soil Physical Properties, Soil Chemical Properties, Soil Biology, Soil Classification |
| PP 101 | Fundamentals of Plant Pathology | Core | 3 | History of Plant Pathology, Causes of Plant Diseases, Disease Cycles, Pathogen Classification, Disease Management Principles |
| ENT 101 | Fundamentals of Entomology | Core | 3 | Insect Morphology and Anatomy, Insect Metamorphosis, Insect Classification, Pest Ecology, Pest Management Principles |
| PPH 101 | Fundamentals of Crop Physiology | Core | 3 | Water Relations in Plants, Photosynthesis, Respiration, Plant Growth Regulators, Stress Physiology |
| AEXT 101 | Agricultural Extension Education | Core | 3 | Extension Philosophy, Extension Methods, Diffusion and Adoption, Rural Development Programs, Communication Models |
| STAT 101 | Elementary Mathematics and Statistics | Core | 3 | Basic Algebra and Calculus, Measures of Central Tendency, Probability, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression |
| AEC 101 | Principles of Agricultural Economics | Core | 2 | Demand and Supply, Production Economics, Market Structures, Farm Management, Agricultural Policy |
| SSAC 102 | Agricultural Chemistry | Core | 3 | Inorganic Chemistry Basics, Organic Chemistry Basics, Soil Colloids, Nutrient Cycling, Pesticide Chemistry |
| GPB 101 | Fundamentals of Genetics | Core | 3 | Mendelian Genetics, Chromosome Theory of Inheritance, Gene Interactions, DNA Structure and Replication, Genetic Code and Protein Synthesis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGR 201 | Crop Production Technology - I (Kharif Crops) | Core | 3 | Rice Cultivation, Maize Production, Pulses (Soybean, Pigeonpea), Oilseeds (Groundnut, Sesamum), Fiber Crops (Cotton) |
| HORT 201 | Production Technology for Fruit and Plantation Crops | Core | 3 | Mango, Banana, Citrus Cultivation, Grape Production, Tea, Coffee, Rubber, Nutrient Management in Orchards, Post-harvest of Fruit Crops |
| PP 201 | Diseases of Field and Horticultural Crops and their Management | Core | 3 | Cereal Diseases, Pulse and Oilseed Diseases, Vegetable Diseases, Fruit Crop Diseases, Integrated Disease Management |
| ENT 201 | Pests of Field and Horticultural Crops and their Management | Core | 3 | Insect Pests of Cereals, Pests of Pulses and Oilseeds, Vegetable Pests, Fruit Pests, Integrated Pest Management |
| AENG 201 | Farm Machinery and Power | Core | 2 | Farm Mechanization, Tractors and Engines, Tillage Implements, Sowing and Planting Equipment, Harvesting Machinery |
| GPB 201 | Fundamentals of Plant Breeding | Core | 3 | History of Plant Breeding, Modes of Reproduction, Plant Genetic Resources, Selection Methods, Hybridization Techniques |
| SSAC 201 | Manures, Fertilizers and Soil Fertility Management | Core | 3 | Essential Plant Nutrients, Organic Manures, Chemical Fertilizers, Biofertilizers, Integrated Nutrient Management |
| PPH 201 | Weed Management | Core | 3 | Weed Biology and Ecology, Crop-Weed Competition, Herbicides and their Classification, Integrated Weed Management, Weed Control Methods |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGR 202 | Crop Production Technology - II (Rabi Crops) | Core | 3 | Wheat Cultivation, Barley Production, Chickpea and Lentil, Mustard and Linseed, Sugarcane Production |
| HORT 202 | Production Technology for Vegetable and Spice Crops | Core | 3 | Tomato, Potato, Onion, Cole Crops (Cabbage, Cauliflower), Chilli, Ginger, Turmeric, Integrated Nutrient Management, Protected Cultivation |
| AENG 202 | Principles of Food Science and Nutrition | Core | 3 | Food Components, Food Processing Principles, Food Preservation, Nutritional Requirements, Balanced Diet and Malnutrition |
| GPB 202 | Principles of Seed Technology | Core | 3 | Seed Development and Maturation, Seed Testing and Quality Control, Seed Production Techniques, Seed Storage and Certification, Seed Health and Dormancy |
| SSAC 202 | Problematic Soils and their Management | Core | 3 | Acid Soils, Saline and Alkali Soils, Waterlogged Soils, Degraded Lands, Reclamation Methods |
| AEC 201 | Agricultural Marketing, Trade and Prices | Core | 3 | Market Structure and Function, Marketing Channels, Agricultural Price Policy, Cooperative Marketing, International Trade |
| AEXT 201 | Entrepreneurship Development and Business Communication | Core | 3 | Entrepreneurial Opportunities, Business Plan Development, Funding and Schemes, Verbal and Written Communication, Negotiation Skills |
| GPB 203 | Crop Improvement - I | Core | 3 | Breeding Self-Pollinated Crops, Breeding Cross-Pollinated Crops, Heterosis and Hybrid Breeding, Mutation Breeding, Polyploidy Breeding |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGR 301 | Rainfed and Dryland Agriculture | Core | 3 | Characteristics of Dryland Farming, Water Harvesting Techniques, Contingency Crop Planning, Drought Management Strategies, Agroforestry Systems |
| HORT 301 | Production Technology of Flowers and Landscaping | Core | 3 | Commercial Flower Crops, Protected Floriculture, Landscape Design Principles, Arboretum and Gardens, Value Addition in Flowers |
| GPB 301 | Crop Improvement - II (Advanced Breeding) | Core | 3 | Resistance Breeding, Quality Breeding, Ideotype Breeding, Distant Hybridization, Cell and Tissue Culture in Breeding |
| BIOTECH 301 | Molecular Biology and Biotechnological Tools | Core | 3 | Gene Expression Regulation, Recombinant DNA Technology, PCR and Gel Electrophoresis, Genetic Engineering, Transgenic Plants and their Applications |
| SSAC 301 | Microbiology and Soil Biofertilizers | Core | 3 | Soil Microorganisms, Nitrogen Fixation, Phosphate Solubilization, Biocontrol Agents, Mass Production of Biofertilizers |
| AEC 302 | Agricultural Finance and Cooperation | Core | 3 | Sources of Agricultural Finance, Credit Institutions, Crop Insurance, Cooperative Movement, Microfinance in Agriculture |
| AENG 301 | Irrigation and Water Management | Core | 3 | Water Resources, Irrigation Methods, Water Use Efficiency, Drainage Systems, Water Quality Management |
| AGRO-FORESTRY | Agro-forestry Systems | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Agro-forestry Components, Silvopastoral Systems, Agrisilvicultural Systems, Trees in Farming, Economic Benefits of Agro-forestry |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGR 302 | Organic Farming | Core | 3 | Principles of Organic Farming, Organic Manure Production, Crop Rotation in Organic Farming, Pest and Disease Management, Certification and Marketing |
| GPB 302 | Quantitative Genetics and Biometrical Techniques | Core | 3 | Inheritance of Quantitative Traits, Components of Genetic Variance, Heritability and Genetic Advance, Biometrical Models, Statistical Softwares in Breeding |
| BIOTECH 302 | Plant Tissue Culture and Genetic Engineering | Core | 3 | Cell and Organ Culture, Micropropagation, Somatic Hybridization, Protoplast Culture, Application of Transgenics |
| AGR 303 | Precision Agriculture | Core | 3 | GPS and GIS in Agriculture, Remote Sensing Applications, Variable Rate Technology, Soil Mapping, Crop Monitoring |
| AEXT 302 | Rural Development Programs | Core | 3 | Poverty Alleviation Programs, Employment Generation Schemes, Women Empowerment Initiatives, Microfinance and SHGs, Evaluation of Rural Programs |
| HORT 302 | Post-harvest Management of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Ripening and Senescence, Storage Technologies, Packaging of Fruits and Vegetables, Value Addition, Cold Chain Management |
| GPB 303 | Intellectual Property Rights and Plant Variety Protection | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Types of IPR, Patents and Trademarks, Plant Breeders'''' Rights, PPV&FRA Act, Biodiversity Convention |
| GPB 304 | Marker-Assisted Selection | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Molecular Markers, Linkage Mapping, Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL), Genomic Selection, Applications in Crop Breeding |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAWE 401 | Rural Awareness Work Experience (RAWE) / Experiential Learning Program (ELP) | Experiential Learning | 20 | Village Attachment, Crop Production Module, Plant Protection Module, Seed Production and Processing, Agri-Extension Activities |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELP 402 | Experiential Learning Program (Module specific to Plant Breeding and Genetics) | Experiential Learning / Project | 10 | Advanced Seed Technology Production, Molecular Plant Breeding Lab Techniques, Crop Variety Development Project, Field Trials and Data Analysis, Breeding Program Design |
| AGR 401 | Project Work / Internship | Project | 6 | Research Proposal Development, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Industry Exposure |
| AGR 402 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Core | 1 | Overall Agricultural Knowledge, Specialization Concepts, Current Agricultural Affairs, Research Aptitude, Problem-Solving Skills |
| AGR 403 | Seminar | Core | 1 | Scientific Literature Review, Presentation Skills, Critical Analysis, Discussion Facilitation, Emerging Topics in Agriculture |
