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BACHELOR-OF-SCIENCE-HONS-AGRICULTURE in General at Central University of Odisha
Koraput, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is General at Central University of Odisha Koraput?
This Bachelor of Science Hons Agriculture program at Central University of Odisha focuses on holistic agricultural science, integrating fundamental principles with practical applications crucial for India''''s diverse agro-climatic conditions. The curriculum is meticulously designed to address modern agricultural challenges, emphasizing sustainable practices, food security, and rural development, equipping students with essential knowledge to contribute to the nation''''s agrarian growth.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science students passionate about agriculture, sustainable food production, and rural upliftment. It attracts aspiring farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, research enthusiasts, and those seeking careers in government agricultural departments, agricultural banking, or extension services. Candidates with a strong aptitude for biological sciences and an interest in field-based learning are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Agricultural Officers, Research Scientists (ICAR/State Agricultural Universities), Farm Managers, Agri-business Consultants, or entrepreneurs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential up to INR 10-15 lakhs or more for experienced professionals in private or public sectors. Opportunities also exist in rural development projects and agricultural finance.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Scientific Principles- (undefined)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational subjects like Soil Science, Genetics, and Plant Pathology. Utilize university library resources, online academic platforms like NPTEL for supplemental learning, and regular faculty consultation to clarify complex concepts and build a strong theoretical base for advanced topics.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses for Agriculture, University Library databases, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures a deeper understanding of advanced agricultural technologies and research, crucial for careers in agri-research, policy-making, and specialized farm management roles.
Engage Actively in Laboratory and Field Work- (undefined)
Participate enthusiastically in all practical sessions, laboratory experiments, and initial field visits. Document observations meticulously, learn to identify plants, pests, and soil types, and master basic agricultural techniques. Seek opportunities for additional practical exposure through departmental initiatives or local farm visits.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Field journals, Local farms/KVKs (Krishi Vigyan Kendras)
Career Connection
Developing hands-on skills early is vital for roles requiring practical farm management, extension services, and agricultural consultancy, improving employability in the core agricultural sector.
Develop Effective Study Habits and Peer Learning- (undefined)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, share notes, and collaboratively solve problems. Practice time management techniques and prepare for internal assessments and semester exams consistently. Participating in academic quizzes and competitions helps reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Online collaborative tools (e.g., Google Docs), Past question papers
Career Connection
Strong academic performance and collaborative skills are highly valued by recruiters for both higher studies (M.Sc/Ph.D.) and entry-level professional positions in agri-corporates.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Projects and Farm-Based Studies- (undefined)
Seek opportunities to conduct small-scale research projects, perhaps on the university''''s experimental farm or a local farmer''''s field. Focus on specific crop issues, nutrient management, or pest control methods. Document findings, analyze data, and present results to faculty for feedback and improvement.
Tools & Resources
University experimental farm, Local KVKs, Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS Basic)
Career Connection
Practical research experience enhances problem-solving abilities and analytical skills, making graduates more attractive for research positions, product development, and field extension roles.
Network with Agricultural Professionals and Farmers- (undefined)
Attend agricultural fairs, workshops, and seminars organized by ICAR institutions, state agricultural departments, or agri-businesses. Interact with local farmers, extension workers, and industry experts to gain insights into real-world challenges and opportunities in the Indian agricultural landscape.
Tools & Resources
Agri-expos/melas, ICAR institutes'''' public events, LinkedIn for professional networking
Career Connection
Building a professional network opens doors to internships, mentorship, and future job opportunities in various segments of the Indian agricultural value chain.
Engage in Skill Specialization and Certification- (undefined)
Identify areas of interest within agriculture (e.g., organic farming, precision agriculture, horticulture) and pursue online courses or certifications. Platforms like Coursera, edX, or even specific ICAR e-learning modules offer valuable specialized knowledge. This adds a competitive edge to your profile.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, ICAR e-learning portals, Local skill development centers
Career Connection
Specialized skills are highly sought after in the evolving Indian agri-tech and agri-business sectors, leading to better career prospects and higher earning potential in niche roles.
Advanced Stage
Maximize Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE)- (undefined)
Treat the RAWE and Experiential Learning Program (ELP) as a critical capstone experience. Immerse yourself completely in village life, farmer interactions, and hands-on agricultural practices. Take initiative in identifying problems, proposing solutions, and documenting every aspect for your final report and presentation.
Tools & Resources
RAWE/ELP manuals, Field observation tools, Project report templates
Career Connection
Exceptional performance in RAWE demonstrates practical competence and leadership, making you highly desirable for field-based roles in government extension, NGOs, and corporate agriculture. It''''s a key differentiator for placements.
Prepare Rigorously for Competitive Examinations- (undefined)
Begin focused preparation for national and state-level competitive exams such as ICAR JRF/SRF, UPSC (Civil Services/Forest Service), State PSC (Agricultural Officer), NABARD, and IBPS AFO. Dedicate specific study hours, join coaching, and practice mock tests extensively.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes (online/offline), Agricultural competitive exam books
Career Connection
Success in these exams guarantees prestigious and stable career opportunities in government services and public sector banks, which are highly coveted in India.
Develop Entrepreneurial Mindset and Business Plans- (undefined)
Identify potential agri-business opportunities based on local resources and market demand during RAWE. Develop comprehensive business plans for agricultural ventures, utilizing insights from agricultural economics and marketing courses. Participate in agri-start-up competitions and seek mentorship.
Tools & Resources
Business plan templates, Startup incubation centers (if available), Government schemes for agri-startups (e.g., Agri-Udaan)
Career Connection
Cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit can lead to self-employment, job creation, and innovative solutions for the agricultural sector, contributing to rural economic development and personal financial independence.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates should have passed 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics/Agriculture from a recognized board/university with a minimum of 50% marks for General/OBC/EWS candidates and 45% marks for SC/ST/PwD candidates. Admission through CUET (UG) - 2024.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 190 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGRON 111 | Fundamentals of Agronomy | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Agriculture significance, Cropping systems, Tillage and sowing, Water management, Weed and nutrient management |
| HORT 111 | Fundamentals of Horticulture | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Horticultural branches, Fruit and vegetable crops, Flower and plantation crops, Propagation methods, Post-harvest technology |
| GPB 111 | Fundamentals of Genetics | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | History of genetics, Mendelian genetics, Gene interactions, Chromosome theory, DNA structure and function |
| SSAC 111 | Fundamentals of Soil Science | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Soil formation, Soil physical properties, Soil chemical properties, Soil organic matter, Soil classification |
| ENTO 111 | Fundamentals of Entomology | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Insect classification, Insect morphology, Insect physiology, Pest management principles, Integrated pest management |
| AEM 111 | Principles of Agricultural Economics | Core Theory | 2 | Basic economic principles, Farm management, Production economics, Market structures, Agricultural policies |
| PP 111 | Fundamentals of Plant Pathology | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Concept of plant disease, Disease symptoms and signs, Fungi, Bacteria, Viruses, Plant disease epidemiology, Principles of disease control |
| BIOCHEM 111 | Introductory Biology / Basic Agriculture | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Cell structure, Plant tissues, Photosynthesis and respiration, Plant growth hormones, Basic biochemistry |
| MATHS/STATS 111 | Basic Mathematics (Elementary and Applied) / Basic Statistics | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Algebra and Calculus, Matrices and determinants, Descriptive statistics, Probability distributions, Hypothesis testing |
| ENG 111 | Comprehension & Communication Skills in English | Core Practical | 1 | Reading comprehension, Written communication, Oral presentation skills, Vocabulary and grammar, Effective communication strategies |
| NCC/NSS/PT & Yoga 111 | NCC/NSS/PT & Yoga | Core Practical | 1 | Physical fitness, Yoga practices, Community service, Leadership development, Discipline and values |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGRON 121 | Crop Production Technology - I (Kharif Crops) | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Kharif crop cultivation, Rice, Maize, Millets, Pulses and Oilseeds, Package of practices, Nutrient and pest management |
| HORT 121 | Production Technology for Vegetables and Spices | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Vegetable cultivation, Spices production, Seed production, Protected cultivation, Integrated nutrient management |
| GPB 121 | Fundamentals of Plant Breeding | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Plant breeding objectives, Modes of reproduction, Selection methods, Hybridization techniques, Heterosis and inbreeding |
| SSAC 121 | Soil & Water Conservation Engineering | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Soil erosion types, Water erosion control, Wind erosion control, Terracing and bunding, Watershed management |
| ENTO 121 | Agricultural Microbiology | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Microbial diversity, Soil microorganisms, Plant-microbe interactions, Biofertilizers, Biopesticides |
| AEM 121 | Farm Machinery & Power | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Farm power sources, Tillage equipment, Sowing and planting machinery, Harvesting equipment, Farm machinery maintenance |
| PP 121 | Agricultural Extension Education | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Extension principles, Extension methods, Communication process, Technology transfer, Rural development programs |
| AGMET 121 | Crop Physiology | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Photosynthesis and respiration, Water relations in plants, Nutrient uptake and transport, Plant growth regulators, Stress physiology |
| COMP 121 | Agri-Informatics | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Computer fundamentals, Data management, Geospatial technologies, Remote sensing applications, Decision support systems |
| ENV SCI 121 | Environmental Studies & Disaster Management | Core Theory | 2 | Ecosystems and biodiversity, Environmental pollution, Climate change impacts, Natural disasters, Mitigation strategies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGRON 231 | Crop Production Technology - II (Rabi Crops) | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Rabi crop cultivation, Wheat, Barley, Chickpea, Lentil, Mustard, Potato, Package of practices, Integrated crop management |
| HORT 231 | Production Technology for Fruit and Plantation Crops | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Fruit crop cultivation, Plantation crops, Propagation methods, Orchard management, Pruning and training |
| GPB 231 | Breeding of Field Crops | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Breeding self-pollinated crops, Breeding cross-pollinated crops, Mutation breeding, Polyploidy breeding, Biotechnological tools in breeding |
| SSAC 231 | Manures, Fertilizers & Soil Fertility Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Essential plant nutrients, Types of fertilizers, Organic manures, Biofertilizers, Integrated nutrient management |
| ENTO 231 | Pests of Field Crops and their Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Major field crop pests, Pest identification, Economic thresholds, Chemical control, Biological and cultural control |
| AEM 231 | Agricultural Finance & Cooperation | Core Theory | 2 | Farm credit sources, Rural banking, Cooperative movement, Agricultural insurance, Risk management in agriculture |
| PP 231 | Diseases of Field Crops and their Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Major field crop diseases, Disease symptoms and etiology, Epidemiology of plant diseases, Chemical disease control, Integrated disease management |
| AGENG 231 | Renewable Energy and Green Technology | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Solar energy in agriculture, Wind energy applications, Biofuels and biomass energy, Biogas production, Energy efficiency |
| STATS 231 | Statistical Methods | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Experimental designs, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Correlation and regression, Non-parametric tests, Statistical software usage |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGRON 241 | Farming System & Sustainable Agriculture | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Farming systems concepts, Integrated farming systems, Sustainable agriculture principles, Organic farming, Conservation agriculture |
| HORT 241 | Production Technology for Ornamental Crops, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Ornamental crop cultivation, Medicinal plant production, Aromatic plant cultivation, Propagation techniques, Value addition |
| GPB 241 | Seed Production Technology | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Seed quality parameters, Seed certification, Seed treatment, Seed storage, Seed processing and marketing |
| SSAC 241 | Problematic Soils and their Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Saline and sodic soils, Acid soils, Waterlogged soils, Reclamation methods, Management strategies |
| ENTO 241 | Beneficial Insects and Pest of Horticultural Crops and their Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Pollinators and natural enemies, Pests of fruit crops, Pests of vegetable crops, Pests of ornamental crops, IPM in horticulture |
| AEM 241 | Agricultural Marketing Trade & Prices | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Agricultural marketing functions, Market structure and efficiency, Price analysis and forecasting, Supply chain management, International agricultural trade |
| PP 241 | Diseases of Horticultural Crops and their Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Diseases of fruit crops, Diseases of vegetable crops, Diseases of ornamental crops, Post-harvest diseases, Integrated disease management |
| AGRON 242 | Principles of Organic Farming | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Concepts of organic farming, Organic standards, Nutrient management in organic farms, Pest and weed management, Crop rotation |
| AEM 242 | Entrepreneurship Development and Business Communication | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Entrepreneurship concepts, Business plan formulation, Marketing strategies, Business communication skills, Project management |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGRON 351 | Rainfed Agriculture & Watershed Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Dryland agriculture principles, Drought management strategies, Soil moisture conservation, Watershed development, Runoff harvesting |
| HORT 351 | Post-harvest Management and Value Addition of Horticultural Crops | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Post-harvest losses, Ripening and storage, Packaging and handling, Processing techniques, Value-added products |
| GPB 351 | Crop Improvement - I (Kharif Crops) | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Breeding rice and maize, Breeding pulses and oilseeds, Variety development, Maintenance breeding, Selection for yield traits |
| SSAC 351 | Agricultural Chemicals | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Pesticides and herbicides, Fungicides and insecticides, Adjuvants and surfactants, Pesticide compatibility, Application methods |
| ENTO 351 | Management of Beneficial Insects | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Apiculture and sericulture, Lac culture, Biological control agents, Mass rearing techniques, Conservation of beneficial insects |
| AEM 351 | Agricultural Projects Analysis and Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Project formulation, Project appraisal, Project implementation, Monitoring and evaluation, Network analysis (PERT/CPM) |
| PP 351 | Introductory Agroforestry | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Agroforestry systems, Components and benefits, Silvopastoral systems, Agri-silviculture, Alley cropping |
| AEM 352 | Farm Management, Production & Resource Economics | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Production functions, Cost analysis, Risk and uncertainty, Resource allocation, Farm planning and budgeting |
| LPM 351 | Diseases of Field Crops and their Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Major field crop diseases, Disease symptoms and etiology, Epidemiology of plant diseases, Chemical disease control, Integrated disease management |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGRON 361 | Principles of Seed Technology | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Seed quality components, Seed testing procedures, Seed dormancy and viability, Seed vigor, Seed legislation |
| HORT 361 | Landscaping and Commercial Floriculture | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Landscape design principles, Garden types, Commercial floriculture, Cut flower production, Nursery management |
| GPB 361 | Crop Improvement - II (Rabi Crops) | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Breeding wheat and barley, Breeding pulses and oilseeds, Resistance breeding, Quality breeding, Variety release and notification |
| SSAC 361 | Biofertilizers & Biopesticides | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Microbial inoculants, Rhizobium, Azotobacter, PSB, Mycorrhiza, Biocontrol agents, Production and application |
| ENTO 361 | Pesticide Residues & Environmental Pollution | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Pesticide residues in food, Bioaccumulation and biomagnification, Toxicity of pesticides, Environmental pollution, Pesticide safety and regulation |
| AEM 361 | Agricultural Policy and Development | Core Theory | 2 | Agricultural policies in India, Food security and WTO, Subsidies and support prices, Rural development strategies, Impact of Green Revolution |
| PP 361 | Mushroom Cultivation and Post-harvest Technology | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Mushroom types and identification, Cultivation practices, Spawn production, Harvesting and storage, Processing and marketing |
| AGENG 361 | Protected Cultivation and Secondary Agriculture | Core Theory + Practical | 2 | Greenhouses and polytunnels, Hydroponics and aeroponics, Environmental control, Value addition in secondary agriculture, Processing agricultural produce |
| VETSC 361 | Livestock & Poultry Production Management | Core Theory + Practical | 3 | Breeds of livestock and poultry, Housing and feeding management, Breeding practices, Health care and disease prevention, Dairy and poultry farming |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAWE & ELP 471 | Rural Agricultural Work Experience & Experiential Learning | Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) | 20 | Village attachment program, Crop production practices, Plant protection strategies, Soil health management, Extension activities and farmer interaction |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAWE & ELP 481 | Rural Agricultural Work Experience & Experiential Learning | Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) | 20 | Advanced crop production, Agri-business and marketing, Animal husbandry practices, Project report writing, Presentation and communication skills |
Semester electives
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGRON 401 | Commercial Crop Production | Elective Theory + Practical | 2 | High-value commercial crops, Advanced cultivation techniques, Market demands, Quality production, Export potential |
| HORT 401 | Mushroom Cultivation | Elective Theory + Practical | 2 | Specific mushroom types, Spawn production technology, Substrate preparation, Cultivation methods, Pest and disease management |
| GPB 401 | Hybrid Seed Production | Elective Theory + Practical | 2 | Hybridization techniques, Male sterility systems, Self-incompatibility, Crossing schemes, Hybrid seed processing |
| SSAC 401 | Organic Farming and Certification | Elective Theory + Practical | 2 | Organic farming standards, Certification agencies, Inspection and documentation, Quality assurance, Marketing organic products |
| ENTO 401 | Insect Bio-control Agents Production Technology | Elective Theory + Practical | 2 | Biocontrol agents, Parasitoids and predators, Entomopathogens, Mass rearing techniques, Field release strategies |
| AEM 401 | Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) | Elective Theory + Practical | 2 | Patents and copyrights, Trademarks and geographical indications, Plant variety protection, Farmer''''s rights, IPR in agriculture |
| PP 401 | Biopesticides and Bioagents | Elective Theory + Practical | 2 | Microbial pesticides, Botanical pesticides, Viral pesticides, Production and formulation, Application of bioagents |
| AGENG 401 | Protected Cultivation | Elective Theory + Practical | 2 | Greenhouse design, Environmental control, Irrigation systems, Crop selection for protected cultivation, Pest management in controlled environments |
