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B-SC-HORTICULTURE in General at Navsari Agricultural University
Navsari, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is General at Navsari Agricultural University Navsari?
This B.Sc. (Hons.) Horticulture program at Navsari Agricultural University focuses on developing skilled professionals for the vibrant Indian horticulture sector. It encompasses a holistic study of fruit science, vegetable science, floriculture, landscaping, medicinal and aromatic plants, and post-harvest technology. The program integrates modern scientific knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing sustainable practices and technological advancements crucial for India''''s diverse agro-climatic zones. It aims to address the growing demand for expertise in high-value horticultural crop production and management.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 12th-grade science graduates with a keen interest in plant sciences, agriculture, and sustainable food production. It caters to individuals aspiring for careers in orchard management, vegetable farming, floriculture businesses, and agricultural research. It also suits those interested in entrepreneurship within the horticulture value chain or pursuing higher studies in specialized horticultural fields. A passion for nature, scientific inquiry, and practical field work is highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Horticulture Officers, Farm Managers, Nursery Managers, Landscape Designers, and consultants in agribusiness. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in government sectors, private seed/fertilizer companies, food processing industries, and NGOs. The program also prepares students for competitive exams for public sector jobs and pursuing M.Sc. and Ph.D. in horticulture and allied disciplines.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Scientific Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core subjects like Genetics, Soil Science, Biochemistry, and Plant Physiology. Actively participate in laboratory sessions and field visits to connect theoretical knowledge with practical observations. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts, reinforcing foundational concepts for future specialization.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Lab Manuals, ICAR e-courses (e-Krishi Shiksha), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid grasp of scientific principles is crucial for advanced horticultural practices, disease diagnosis, nutrient management, and future research roles. It builds analytical skills valued in agri-industry and research organizations.
Develop Practical Field Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Engage proactively in all practical sessions for subjects like Plant Propagation, Agronomy, and Entomology. Seek opportunities for hands-on experience in the university''''s experimental farms and nurseries. Learn to identify plants, pests, diseases, and understand basic farm equipment operation. Document observations meticulously in practical notebooks.
Tools & Resources
University farms/nurseries, Agricultural tools, Field guides, Practical notebooks
Career Connection
Early practical exposure develops essential skills for farm management, nursery operations, and field extension work, making graduates job-ready for various roles in agricultural production and consultancy.
Enhance Communication and Soft Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize subjects like ''''Communication Skills and Personality Development'''' to improve spoken and written English, presentation abilities, and interpersonal communication. Actively participate in debates, seminars, and group discussions. Seek feedback on communication style and work on developing a confident and professional demeanor.
Tools & Resources
Communication workshops, Public speaking clubs, Language learning apps, Mock interviews
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for interacting with farmers, clients, colleagues, and employers. Strong soft skills improve networking, interview performance, and leadership potential in any professional setting.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Industry Exposure through Internships/Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek summer internships or short-term projects with horticultural farms, seed companies, food processing units, or government horticulture departments. Focus on applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, understanding market dynamics, and operational challenges. Network with industry professionals during these experiences.
Tools & Resources
Industry contacts, University placement cell, Agri-tech startups, Horticulture expos
Career Connection
Practical industry exposure provides invaluable insights, builds professional networks, and often leads directly to placement offers or strengthens the resume for future job applications and entrepreneurial ventures.
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Topics- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully choose elective courses that align with personal interests and career aspirations, whether it''''s protected cultivation, post-harvest technology, or medicinal plants. Dive deeper into these areas through additional reading, online courses, and small research projects. Seek guidance from faculty mentors on specialization pathways.
Tools & Resources
Elective course catalogs, Research papers, MOOCs (NPTEL, Coursera), Faculty advisors
Career Connection
Developing specialized knowledge makes you a sought-after expert in niche areas of horticulture, leading to more focused job roles, higher earning potential, and opportunities for advanced research or entrepreneurship.
Participate in Competitions and Outreach Programs- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in inter-university agricultural competitions, hackathons focused on agri-solutions, or university-led extension activities in rural areas. These platforms enhance problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills while exposing you to current challenges in the agricultural sector and providing real-world experience.
Tools & Resources
Agri-fests, ICAR youth programs, NSS/NCC activities, Local farmer workshops
Career Connection
Participation demonstrates initiative, practical application of knowledge, and a commitment to the field. It enhances your profile for scholarships, higher studies, and jobs requiring field engagement and innovative thinking.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE/ELP)- (Semester 7-8)
Treat the RAWE/ELP as a capstone experience. Fully immerse yourself in village life, interact extensively with farmers, understand their problems, and propose practical solutions. Document all observations, activities, and learning systematically. Focus on developing a comprehensive understanding of rural agricultural systems and value chains.
Tools & Resources
RAWE/ELP handbooks, Village reports, Farmer interaction logs, Mentors
Career Connection
Exceptional performance in RAWE/ELP showcases practical problem-solving skills, community engagement, and readiness for field-based roles in government, NGOs, or agri-extension services. It''''s often a key discussion point in interviews.
Network and Prepare for Placements/Higher Studies- (Semester 6-8)
Actively attend career fairs, seminars, and guest lectures to network with potential employers and industry leaders. Refine your resume and cover letter, practice interview skills, and prepare for aptitude tests. For higher studies, research universities, prepare for entrance exams (e.g., ICAR-PG), and build a strong Statement of Purpose.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell, Alumni network, LinkedIn, Interview preparation platforms, Entrance exam guides
Career Connection
Strategic networking and thorough preparation significantly increase your chances of securing desired placements in reputable organizations or gaining admission to prestigious postgraduate programs in India and abroad.
Develop Entrepreneurial Mindset and Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Explore the potential for starting your own agri-business or horticultural venture. Utilize knowledge from ''''Entrepreneurship Development and Business Management'''' to develop a detailed business plan. Consider opportunities in high-value crop cultivation, nursery businesses, post-harvest processing, or agri-tech services. Seek guidance from incubators.
Tools & Resources
University incubation centers, Government schemes for agri-startups, Business plan templates, Mentors
Career Connection
An entrepreneurial mindset enables you to identify market gaps, create innovative solutions, and contribute to job creation. It opens pathways to becoming a successful agri-preneur, leveraging the vast potential of India''''s horticulture sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed H.Sc. (Science) with A or B or AB Group with 50% marks for General category and 45% for SC/ST/SEBC/EWS candidates of Gujarat State, from Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board, Gandhinagar or its equivalent and appearing in GUJCET.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 150 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-111 | Fundamentals of Horticulture | Core | 3 | Importance and branches of horticulture, Classification of horticultural crops, Plant propagation methods, Nursery management techniques, Seed dormancy and health |
| PB&G-111 | Fundamentals of Genetics | Core | 3 | History and scope of genetics, Mendelian principles of inheritance, Gene interactions and quantitative inheritance, Linkage and chromosomal aberrations, Polyploidy and its implications |
| SOIL-111 | Fundamentals of Soil Science | Core | 3 | Soil formation and composition, Physical properties of soil (texture, structure), Soil organic matter and organisms, Essential plant nutrients and cycles, Soil classification and profiles |
| CROP-111 | Fundamentals of Agronomy | Core | 3 | Introduction to agronomy and its scope, Classification of crops, Tillage and seedbed preparation, Sowing methods and stand establishment, Weed management principles, irrigation |
| ENTO-111 | Fundamentals of Entomology | Core | 3 | Insect morphology and anatomy, Insect classification and metamorphosis, Insect pests of crops, Principles of pest management, Beneficial insects and their role |
| EXT-111 | Rural Sociology and Educational Psychology | Core | 2 | Concepts of rural sociology, Social change and rural leadership, Introduction to educational psychology, Theories of learning and motivation, Group dynamics and communication |
| ENGG-111 | Geo-informatics and Nanotechnology | Core | 2 | Remote sensing and its applications, Geographic Information System (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS), Fundamentals of nanotechnology, Applications of nanotechnology in agriculture |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-121 | Plant Propagation and Nursery Management | Core | 3 | Asexual propagation techniques (cuttings, layering), Grafting and budding methods, Micropropagation principles and practices, Nursery types and structures, Propagation media and their preparation |
| PB&G-121 | Principles of Plant Breeding | Core | 3 | Objectives and history of plant breeding, Methods of selection and hybridization, Concept of heterosis and its exploitation, Male sterility and self-incompatibility, Mutation breeding and breeding for resistance |
| CROP-121 | Crop Production Technology-I (Field Crops) | Core | 3 | Production technology of cereals (rice, wheat), Production technology of pulses (gram, lentil), Production technology of oilseeds (mustard, groundnut), Integrated crop management practices, Harvesting and post-harvest operations |
| PATH-121 | Fundamentals of Plant Pathology | Core | 3 | Classification of plant diseases, Disease symptoms and etiology, Disease cycle and epidemiology, Host-pathogen interactions, Principles of plant disease management |
| BIO-121 | Fundamentals of Biochemistry and Plant Physiology | Core | 4 | Structure and function of biomolecules, Enzymes and their kinetics, Photosynthesis and respiration, Plant hormones and growth regulation, Stress physiology and nutrient uptake |
| PB&G-122 | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Core | 2 | Principles of effective communication, Verbal and non-verbal communication, Presentation skills and public speaking, Group discussion and interview techniques, Building a positive personality and leadership |
| ECON-121 | Fundamentals of Agricultural Economics | Core | 3 | Basic economic concepts (demand, supply), Production functions and costs, Market structures and price determination, Agricultural marketing and trade, Role of government in agriculture |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-231 | Fundamentals of Fruit Crops | Core | 3 | Classification and importance of fruit crops, Site selection and orchard layout, Training and pruning of fruit trees, Physiology of fruit growth and development, Fruit thinning and maturity indices |
| HORT-232 | Fundamentals of Vegetable Crops | Core | 3 | Classification and nutritional importance of vegetables, Seed production techniques, Cultivation practices of major vegetables, Protected cultivation of vegetables, Organic vegetable production |
| HORT-233 | Introductory Ornamental Horticulture | Core | 3 | Importance of ornamental plants, Principles of garden design and landscaping, Cultivation of annuals, perennials, and bulbs, Cacti, succulents, and indoor plants, Bonsai, terrariums, and flower arrangements |
| AGRO-231 | Principles of Organic Farming | Core | 3 | Concepts and importance of organic farming, Organic nutrient management (manures, compost), Organic pest and disease management, Weed management in organic systems, Organic certification and standards |
| PATH-231 | Principles of Integrated Pest and Disease Management | Core | 3 | Concept and components of IPM, Cultural and mechanical control methods, Biological control agents, Chemical control and judicious use of pesticides, Disease forecasting and host plant resistance |
| EXT-231 | Dimensions of Agricultural Extension | Core | 3 | Concepts and philosophy of extension education, Extension methods and communication strategies, Transfer of agricultural technologies, Role of extension in rural development, Adoption and diffusion of innovations |
| STAT-231 | Agricultural Statistics | Core | 2 | Introduction to statistical methods, Measures of central tendency and dispersion, Probability and sampling techniques, Correlation and regression analysis, Design of experiments and hypothesis testing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-241 | Cultivation of Fruit Crops-I | Core | 3 | Production technology of mango and citrus, Cultivation of banana and grape, Papaya and guava cultivation practices, Nutrient and water management for fruit crops, Pest and disease management in orchards |
| HORT-242 | Cultivation of Vegetable Crops-I | Core | 3 | Cultivation of solanaceous vegetables (tomato, brinjal), Production of chilli and capsicum, Cucurbitaceous vegetables cultivation, Leguminous vegetables (beans, peas) production, Nutrient and irrigation management for vegetables |
| HORT-243 | Commercial Floriculture | Core | 3 | Production technology of cut flowers (rose, carnation), Cultivation of gladiolus, chrysanthemum, gerbera, Loose flower production (marigold, jasmine), Harvesting, grading, and packaging of flowers, Value addition in floriculture |
| PB&G-241 | Crop Improvement (Fruit and Vegetable Crops) | Core | 3 | Breeding objectives for fruit and vegetable crops, Conventional breeding methods (selection, hybridization), Breeding for quality traits and resistance, Varietal release and seed production, Germplasm conservation and utilization |
| SOIL-241 | Manures, Fertilizers and Soil Fertility Management | Core | 3 | Classification and properties of organic manures, Types and characteristics of inorganic fertilizers, Nutrient use efficiency and loss prevention, Integrated nutrient management (INM), Soil testing and fertilizer recommendations |
| ECON-241 | Agricultural Finance and Co-operation | Core | 3 | Sources of agricultural finance (institutional, non-institutional), Role of rural credit institutions (NABARD, banks), Crop insurance schemes and risk management, Co-operative movement in agriculture, Marketing co-operatives and their functions |
| HORT-244 | Protected Cultivation | Core | 2 | Introduction to protected cultivation structures (greenhouse, polyhouse), Control of environmental factors (temperature, humidity, light), Types of growing media for protected cultivation, Suitable crops for protected cultivation, Design and construction of protected structures |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-351 | Cultivation of Fruit Crops-II | Core | 3 | Cultivation of temperate fruits (apple, pear, peach), Production technology of arid zone fruits (ber, date palm), Cultivation of minor and underutilized fruits, High-density planting systems, Physiological disorders in fruit crops |
| HORT-352 | Cultivation of Vegetable Crops-II | Core | 3 | Production of leafy vegetables (spinach, coriander), Cultivation of root and tuber crops (potato, carrot), Cole crops (cabbage, cauliflower) cultivation, Bulb crops (onion, garlic) production, Seed spices and their production |
| HORT-353 | Medicinal and Aromatic Plants | Core | 3 | Importance and classification of MAPs, Cultivation practices of major medicinal plants, Cultivation practices of major aromatic plants, Harvesting, processing, and storage of MAPs, Extraction of active principles and quality control |
| HORT-354 | Spices and Plantation Crops | Core | 3 | Importance and classification of spices, Cultivation of major spices (cardamom, pepper, ginger), Production technology of turmeric and chilli, Cultivation of plantation crops (tea, coffee, rubber), Processing and marketing of spices and plantation crops |
| HORT-355 | Post-Harvest Management of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Maturity indices and harvesting techniques, Causes and extent of post-harvest losses, Pre-cooling, cleaning, grading, and packaging, Storage methods (cold storage, controlled atmosphere), Transportation and quality maintenance |
| HORT-356 | Processing of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Principles of food preservation, Canning, drying, freezing technologies, Fermentation and pickling of fruits and vegetables, Preparation of fruit juices, squashes, syrups, Manufacture of jams, jellies, marmalades |
| PB&G-351 | Bio-Chemistry of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Primary and secondary metabolites in horticultural crops, Pigments, flavors, and aroma compounds, Role of enzymes in fruit ripening and senescence, Nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables, Biochemical changes during post-harvest |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-361 | Crop Production Technology-II (Commercial Crops) | Core | 3 | Production technology of sugarcane, Cultivation practices of cotton, Tobacco cultivation and processing, Jute production and fiber extraction, Integrated nutrient and pest management for commercial crops |
| HORT-362 | Landscaping and Urban Horticulture | Core | 3 | Principles and elements of landscape design, Design of home gardens, public parks, Urban horticulture concepts and benefits, Cultivation of indoor plants and vertical gardens, Eco-tourism and garden tourism |
| HORT-363 | Seed Production and Technology of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Principles of seed production in horticultural crops, Seed certification and quality control, Seed testing for viability and vigor, Seed processing, treatment, and storage, Hybrid seed production techniques |
| HORT-364 | Protected Cultivation of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Advanced greenhouse and polyhouse technologies, Hydroponics, aeroponics, and vertical farming, Climate control systems in protected structures, Energy management and automation, Crops suitable for high-tech protected cultivation |
| PB&G-361 | Biotechnological Approaches in Horticulture | Core | 3 | Plant tissue culture and micropropagation, Genetic engineering for crop improvement, Molecular markers in plant breeding, Gene editing techniques (CRISPR), Transgenic horticultural crops and biofortification |
| PB&G-362 | Principles of Seed Technology | Core | 3 | Seed development and germination physiology, Seed dormancy and methods of breaking dormancy, Seed viability and vigor testing, Seed processing, drying, and storage, Seed health and seed treatment |
| ECON-361 | Entrepreneurship Development and Business Management | Core | 3 | Concept of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial skills, Business planning and project formulation, Financial management and sources of funding, Marketing strategies for horticultural products, SWOT analysis and risk management in agri-business |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-471 | Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) & Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) | RAWE/ELP | 20 | Integrated farming systems and crop production, Extension activities and farmer interactions, Horticultural entrepreneurship and marketing, Hands-on experience in farm operations, Exposure to agro-industry and allied sectors |
Semester courses
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-E1 | Commercial Production of Pomegranate and other arid zone fruits | Elective | 2 | Pomegranate cultivation techniques, Production of arid zone fruits like Ber, Date palm, Soil and climate requirements, Pest and disease management, Post-harvest handling |
| HORT-E2 | Commercial Production of Papaya and Banana | Elective | 2 | Papaya cultivation for commercial purposes, Banana production methods, Varieties and planting techniques, Nutrient and water management, Disease and pest control |
| HORT-E3 | Precision Farming in Horticulture | Elective | 2 | Introduction to precision farming, Remote sensing and GIS applications, Variable rate technology, Precision irrigation and nutrient management, Decision support systems |
| HORT-E4 | Protected Cultivation of High Value Vegetables | Elective | 2 | Greenhouse design and environmental control, Hydroponic systems for vegetables, Cultivation of exotic vegetables, Pest and disease management in protected structures, Economics of protected vegetable production |
| HORT-E5 | Hi-Tech Nursery Management | Elective | 2 | Modern nursery infrastructure, Mist propagation and fogging systems, Plug tray production of seedlings, Rooting hormones and growth regulators, Quality control in nursery plants |
| HORT-E6 | Value Addition in Fruits | Elective | 2 | Principles of fruit processing, Making juices, squashes, and concentrates, Preparation of jams, jellies, and marmalades, Fruit candy, preserve, and dehydrated products, Quality standards and food safety |
| HORT-E7 | Quality Control of Horticultural Produce | Elective | 2 | Importance of quality in horticulture, Quality parameters for fruits and vegetables, Grading, sorting, and packaging standards, Food safety regulations (FSSAI), Post-harvest quality evaluation |
| HORT-E8 | Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (Advanced) | Elective | 2 | Advanced cultivation techniques for MAPs, Extraction and analysis of active principles, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), Intellectual Property Rights for MAPs, Marketing and export potential |
| HORT-E9 | Processing and Value addition of Vegetables | Elective | 2 | Methods of vegetable preservation, Canning, drying, and freezing of vegetables, Preparation of pickles and chutneys, Dehydrated vegetable products, Quality aspects and packaging |
| HORT-E10 | Production Technology of Seed Spices | Elective | 2 | Cultivation practices of major seed spices (cumin, coriander), Fennel, fenugreek, and dill production, Nutrient and water management for seed spices, Pest and disease control, Harvesting, processing, and storage |
| HORT-E11 | Production Technology of Flower Crops | Elective | 2 | Commercial cultivation of high-value cut flowers, Loose flower production technologies, Potted plants and foliage production, Flower forcing and post-harvest care, Marketing and export of flower crops |
| HORT-E12 | Production of Bio-agents and Bio-pesticides | Elective | 2 | Importance of biological control, Mass multiplication of beneficial insects, Production of microbial bio-pesticides, Quality control and application methods, Integrated pest management using bio-agents |
| HORT-E13 | Organic Horticulture | Elective | 2 | Principles and standards of organic horticulture, Organic nutrient sources and soil building, Organic pest and disease management strategies, Weed control in organic systems, Organic certification and marketing |
| HORT-E14 | Integrated Farming System | Elective | 2 | Concept and importance of IFS, Components of integrated farming systems, Crop-livestock integration, Agro-forestry and aquaculture components, Resource recycling and waste utilization |
| HORT-E15 | Modern Tools in Plant Disease Diagnosis | Elective | 2 | Molecular diagnostics for plant pathogens, ELISA and PCR-based detection methods, Microscopic and serological techniques, Bioinformatics in disease diagnosis, Remote sensing for disease detection |
| HORT-E16 | Horticultural Engineering | Elective | 2 | Farm machinery for horticultural operations, Irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler), Protected cultivation structures design, Post-harvest equipment and machinery, Energy management in horticulture |
| HORT-E17 | Farm Management and Marketing | Elective | 2 | Principles of farm management, Farm planning and budgeting, Marketing channels for horticultural produce, Price analysis and market intelligence, Agri-business models and entrepreneurship |
