

B-F-SC in General at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology


Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand
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About the Specialization
What is General at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology Udham Singh Nagar?
This Bachelor of Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.) program at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology focuses on holistic development in aquaculture, fisheries management, and post-harvest technology. It integrates scientific principles with practical applications essential for sustainable aquatic resource utilization in the Indian context. The program aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in India''''s vibrant and expanding fisheries sector, a crucial contributor to food security and rural livelihoods.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a 10+2 background in Science (PCB/PCM/PCA) or Agriculture, passionate about aquatic life and ecosystem management. It caters to individuals aspiring to contribute to India''''s Blue Revolution, seeking careers in aquaculture, marine biology, fish processing, or fisheries extension. It also attracts those who wish to pursue entrepreneurship in fish farming, feed production, or ornamental fish trade, aligning with national development goals.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as aquaculture farm managers, fisheries extension officers, quality control executives in seafood processing, or researchers in government and private organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.0-5.0 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 8-15+ LPA for experienced professionals in managerial or specialized roles. The program aligns with certifications required for government fisheries departments and offers a strong foundation for higher studies.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Scientific Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on core science subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics, as they form the bedrock for advanced fisheries concepts. Attend all practical sessions to develop observational and analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks (11th/12th Science), University library resources, NPTEL online courses, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid scientific base is crucial for understanding water quality, fish physiology, and disease mechanisms, vital for roles in aquaculture and research.
Develop Effective Study Habits and Time Management- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a disciplined study routine, balancing theoretical understanding with practical application. Utilize academic calendars and planners to manage assignments, exams, and practical submissions efficiently.
Tools & Resources
Digital planners (Google Calendar, Notion), University academic support services, Mentorship from senior students
Career Connection
Strong academic performance lays the groundwork for better internship opportunities and competitive entrance exams for higher studies or government jobs.
Engage in Early Skill Building and Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Participate actively in lab sessions, field visits, and departmental workshops. Pay close attention to basic aquaculture practices, limnology experiments, and identification of aquatic organisms.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, University farm facilities, Local fish farms, Relevant YouTube channels
Career Connection
Early exposure to practical skills builds confidence and forms a practical foundation for the experiential learning modules, directly benefiting farm management roles.
Intermediate Stage
Practical Application and Experiential Learning- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek out and engage in hands-on projects related to freshwater aquaculture, ornamental fish culture, and finfish breeding. Volunteer at the university''''s fisheries farms or local hatcheries during breaks.
Tools & Resources
University demonstration farms, Local private fish farms, Departmental research projects, Summer internships
Career Connection
Direct practical experience is invaluable for roles like aquaculture technicians, hatchery managers, and provides a competitive edge during placements for industry positions.
Build Industry Knowledge and Network- (Semester 3-5)
Attend fisheries seminars, webinars, and workshops organized by the department or professional bodies like the Fisheries Technocrats Forum (FTF). Network with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences (e.g., Aqua Aquaria India), Guest lectures, University career fairs
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and insights into industry trends, essential for securing good placements in both public and private sectors.
Develop Specialized Skills in Core Areas- (Semester 3-5)
Identify areas of interest such as fish nutrition, processing, or genetics and dive deeper through additional readings, online courses, or mini-projects. Prepare well for specific subjects like Fish Health Management and Fishing Gear Technology.
Tools & Resources
Specialized textbooks, Online certification courses (food safety, quality control), Departmental labs for advanced experiments
Career Connection
Specialization enhances employability for niche roles in research, product development, or quality assurance within the seafood industry in India.
Advanced Stage
Maximize Experiential Learning (ELP) and Project Work- (Semester 7-8)
Treat the ELP/Rural Fisheries Work Experience and subsequent Hands-on Training as a crucial opportunity for comprehensive skill development. Select projects aligned with career goals and contribute meaningfully.
Tools & Resources
ELP manuals, Faculty advisors, Industry mentors during in-plant training, Project management software
Career Connection
Successful completion of ELP/project work, especially with industry partners, often leads directly to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations, critical for securing jobs in the Indian fisheries sector.
Focused Placement and Career Preparation- (Semester 7-8)
Actively participate in campus placements, prepare a strong resume highlighting practical skills and project work, and practice interview skills. Explore government job opportunities (e.g., State Fisheries Department exams, AFO in banks).
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, Career counseling, Mock interview sessions, Online job portals (Naukri.com, Indeed), Government job portals
Career Connection
Strategic preparation directly impacts securing entry-level positions in relevant organizations or gaining admission to competitive postgraduate programs in India.
Cultivate Entrepreneurial Mindset and Leadership- (Semester 6-8)
Explore business opportunities in fisheries, develop a basic business plan for a venture (e.g., aqua-feed unit, ornamental fish farm, value-added products), and take initiative in group projects.
Tools & Resources
Entrepreneurship development cells (if available), Government schemes for agri-entrepreneurs (e.g., PMMSY), Mentorship from successful fisheries entrepreneurs
Career Connection
Developing an entrepreneurial outlook prepares graduates for self-employment, starting their own ventures, and contributing to the growth of India''''s fisheries economy, creating job opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB) / Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics (PCM) / Physics, Chemistry, Agriculture (PCA) / Intermediate in Agriculture. Minimum 16 years of age as on 31st August 2024. Admission through GBPUAT Entrance Exam or CUET (UG).
Duration: 8 semesters (4 years)
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FISH 101 | Introductory Fisheries Science | Core | 3 | Global & Indian fisheries, Aquaculture scope, Capture fisheries, Post-harvest processing, Extension & Research |
| AEX 101 | Rural Sociology & Educational Psychology | Core | 2 | Rural sociology, Social groups & change, Educational psychology, Learning theories, Personality development |
| AEC 101 | Principles of Economics | Core | 2 | Economic principles, Demand-supply, Production, Market structures, National income, Agricultural economics |
| AGM 101 | Introductory Meteorology & Climate Change | Core | 2 | Earth''''s atmosphere, Weather & climate, Climate change impacts, Adaptation strategies |
| STA 101 | Principles of Statistics | Core | 2 | Data analysis, Central tendency & dispersion, Probability, Correlation & regression, Hypothesis testing |
| BOT 101 | Basic Botany | Core | 2 | Plant cell & tissues, Morphology & physiology, Genetics, Plant diversity |
| CHM 101 | Basic Chemistry | Core | 2 | Atomic structure, Chemical bonding, Acids/bases, Organic chemistry, Water chemistry |
| ENG 101 | English Language Skills | Core | 2 | Grammar & comprehension, Essay writing, Public speaking, Presentation skills |
| PHY 101 | Basic Physics | Core | 2 | Mechanics, Heat & Light, Electricity, Basic instrumentation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FISH 102 | Limnology | Core | 3 | Lentic/Lotic ecosystems, Water properties (physical, chemical, biological), Plankton, Benthos, Macrophytes |
| FISH 103 | Finfish Aquaculture | Core | 3 | Aquaculture principles, Site & pond construction, Carp culture, Catfishes & Tilapia, Polyculture |
| AGB 101 | Agri-Business Management | Core | 2 | Business environment, Planning & organization, Marketing, Financial management, Entrepreneurship |
| BIO 101 | General Microbiology | Core | 2 | Microbial classification, Morphology & growth, Sterilization, Pathogens, Beneficial microbes |
| ENM 101 | Environmental Science | Core | 2 | Ecosystems & biodiversity, Air & water pollution, Waste management, Environmental legislation |
| EXT 101 | Extension Education | Core | 2 | Extension concepts, Teaching methods, Communication, Program planning, Adoption of innovations |
| MAT 101 | Basic Mathematics | Core | 2 | Algebra & Trigonometry, Calculus (differentiation, integration), Vectors & Matrices |
| PPA 101 | Aquatic Pollution | Core | 2 | Pollutant types & sources, Effects on aquatic life, Biomagnification, Monitoring & control |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FISH 201 | Freshwater Aquaculture | Core | 3 | Culture systems (pond, cage, raceway), Intensive culture, Fish feed formulation, Disease management |
| FISH 202 | Ornamental Fish Culture & Breeding | Core | 2 | Ornamental fish ID, Culture techniques, Breeding, Packaging & transport, Aquarium management |
| FISH 203 | Water Quality Management | Core | 2 | Water quality parameters, Analysis methods, Management strategies, Filtration & aeration |
| FISH 204 | Fish Nutrition & Feed Technology | Core | 3 | Nutritional requirements, Feed ingredients, Feed formulation, Processing & storage |
| ENG 201 | Technical Writing & Communication Skills | Core | 2 | Report writing, Scientific communication, Data presentation, Oral communication, Interviews |
| SST 201 | Soil & Water Conservation Engineering | Core | 2 | Soil erosion, Conservation practices, Hydrological cycle, Water harvesting, Farm ponds |
| ZOO 201 | General Zoology | Core | 2 | Animal classification, Major phyla, Comparative anatomy, Physiology, Reproductive biology |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FISH 205 | Finfish Breeding & Hatchery Management | Core | 3 | Reproductive biology, Induced breeding, Hatchery design, Larval rearing, Seed production |
| FISH 206 | Inland Capture Fisheries | Core | 3 | Inland water bodies (reservoirs, rivers, lakes), Fishing gears, Resource management, Conservation |
| FISH 207 | Fish Health Management | Core | 3 | Fish diseases (bacterial, viral, parasitic), Diagnosis & prevention, Treatment, Immunology |
| FISH 208 | Aquatic Ecology & Biodiversity | Core | 2 | Aquatic ecosystems, Population dynamics, Biodiversity assessment, Conservation |
| AEX 201 | Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 2 | Entrepreneurial traits, Business plan, Project formulation, Financial institutions |
| AEC 201 | Fisheries Economics & Marketing | Core | 3 | Fisheries economics, Demand-supply, Production economics, Marketing channels, Pricing |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FISH 301 | Coastal Aquaculture & Mariculture | Core | 3 | Coastal aquaculture, Mariculture (shrimp, finfish, mollusc), Hatchery & grow-out, Site selection |
| FISH 302 | Fish Genetics & Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Fish genetics, Selective breeding, Gene manipulation, Cryopreservation, Molecular markers |
| FISH 303 | Aquatic Animal Physiology | Core | 3 | Osmoregulation, Respiration & circulation, Digestion & excretion, Endocrinology, Stress physiology |
| FISH 304 | Fishing Gear Technology | Core | 2 | Fishing gears classification, Design & materials, Construction & operation, Selectivity |
| FISH 305 | Navigation & Seamanship | Core | 2 | Basic navigation, Charts & compass, GPS, Boat handling, Safety at sea, Regulations |
| FISH 306 | Refrigeration & Cold Chain Management | Core | 2 | Refrigeration principles, Cold storage & freezing, Cold chain logistics, Quality control |
| FISH 307 | Fish Processing Technology | Core | 3 | Post-harvest changes, Handling & preservation, Drying, smoking, salting, canning, Value addition |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FISH 308 | Prawn & Crab Culture | Core | 3 | Prawn & crab species, Breeding & hatchery, Grow-out techniques, Disease management |
| FISH 309 | Fish Population Dynamics & Stock Assessment | Core | 3 | Population parameters, Growth & mortality, Stock assessment methods, Management |
| FISH 310 | Marine Fisheries | Core | 3 | Marine fishing grounds, Resources & methods, By-catch, Management, EEZ |
| FISH 311 | Fisheries Management | Core | 3 | Fisheries management principles, Policies & regulations, Co-management, Socio-economics |
| FISH 312 | Aquatic Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Genetic engineering, Disease diagnostics, Bioremediation, Probiotics, Vaccines |
| FISH 313 | Extension Methods & Communication Skills | Core | 2 | Extension approaches, Participatory methods, Communication strategies, ICT in extension |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FISH 401 | ELP (Experiential Learning Programme) / Rural Fisheries Work Experience | Project/Practical | 20 | Hatchery & seed production, Aquaculture farm operations, Fish processing & quality control, Fisheries extension & management, Field exposure & skill development |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FISH 402 | Hands-on Training / Skill Development / Project / In-plant Training | Project/Practical | 20 | Advanced fish breeding techniques, Modern fishing methods, Aquarium fabrication & maintenance, Aquafeed production, Industry internship & project work |




