Course Structure Overview
The B.Tech Agriculture program at Shri Khushal Das University Hanumangarh is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of modern agricultural practices and technologies. The program is structured over 8 semesters, with a blend of core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory sessions. The curriculum is carefully designed to ensure that students develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in the agricultural sector.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AG101 | Introduction to Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | AG102 | Basic Biology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | AG103 | Chemistry for Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | AG104 | Mathematics for Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | AG105 | Physics for Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | AG106 | Introduction to Soil Science | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | AG107 | Field Surveying | 0-0-3-1 | - |
| 1 | AG108 | Basic Agronomy | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | AG201 | Plant Physiology | 3-0-0-3 | AG102 |
| 2 | AG202 | Soil Chemistry | 3-0-0-3 | AG103 |
| 2 | AG203 | Plant Pathology | 3-0-0-3 | AG102 |
| 2 | AG204 | Entomology | 3-0-0-3 | AG102 |
| 2 | AG205 | Genetics and Breeding | 3-0-0-3 | AG102 |
| 2 | AG206 | Environmental Science | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | AG207 | Soil Mechanics | 3-0-0-3 | AG106 |
| 2 | AG208 | Basic Irrigation | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 3 | AG301 | Biotechnology in Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | AG201, AG202 |
| 3 | AG302 | Advanced Agronomy | 3-0-0-3 | AG108 |
| 3 | AG303 | Water Resources Management | 3-0-0-3 | AG208 |
| 3 | AG304 | Agricultural Economics | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 3 | AG305 | Agro-Industry | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 3 | AG306 | Agro-ecology | 3-0-0-3 | AG206 |
| 3 | AG307 | Food Processing | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 3 | AG308 | Research Methodology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 4 | AG401 | Plant Biotechnology | 3-0-0-3 | AG301 |
| 4 | AG402 | Precision Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | AG303 |
| 4 | AG403 | Agricultural Informatics | 3-0-0-3 | AG308 |
| 4 | AG404 | Climate Change and Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | AG206 |
| 4 | AG405 | Rural Development | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 4 | AG406 | Agro-Industrial Policy | 3-0-0-3 | AG304 |
| 4 | AG407 | Advanced Soil Science | 3-0-0-3 | AG207 |
| 4 | AG408 | Entrepreneurship in Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 5 | AG501 | Advanced Crop Science | 3-0-0-3 | AG302 |
| 5 | AG502 | Genetic Engineering | 3-0-0-3 | AG301 |
| 5 | AG503 | Remote Sensing in Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | AG402 |
| 5 | AG504 | Data Analytics for Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | AG403 |
| 5 | AG505 | Sustainable Farming Systems | 3-0-0-3 | AG306 |
| 5 | AG506 | Food Security and Nutrition | 3-0-0-3 | AG307 |
| 5 | AG507 | Agro-Environmental Impact Assessment | 3-0-0-3 | AG206 |
| 5 | AG508 | Advanced Agricultural Economics | 3-0-0-3 | AG304 |
| 6 | AG601 | Advanced Biotechnology | 3-0-0-3 | AG502 |
| 6 | AG602 | Smart Farming Technologies | 3-0-0-3 | AG503 |
| 6 | AG603 | Agro-Industry Innovation | 3-0-0-3 | AG305 |
| 6 | AG604 | Climate Resilient Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | AG404 |
| 6 | AG605 | Rural Entrepreneurship | 3-0-0-3 | AG408 |
| 6 | AG606 | Advanced Soil Management | 3-0-0-3 | AG407 |
| 6 | AG607 | Global Food Systems | 3-0-0-3 | AG506 |
| 6 | AG608 | Policy Analysis in Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | AG406 |
| 7 | AG701 | Research Project I | 0-0-6-3 | - |
| 7 | AG702 | Research Project II | 0-0-6-3 | AG701 |
| 7 | AG703 | Capstone Project | 0-0-6-3 | AG702 |
| 7 | AG704 | Internship | 0-0-0-6 | - |
| 8 | AG801 | Final Year Thesis | 0-0-0-12 | AG703 |
| 8 | AG802 | Industrial Training | 0-0-0-6 | - |
| 8 | AG803 | Advanced Seminar | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 8 | AG804 | Professional Development | 3-0-0-3 | - |
Advanced Departmental Electives
Advanced departmental electives are offered in the later semesters to provide students with specialized knowledge and skills in their chosen areas of interest. These courses are designed to build upon the foundational knowledge acquired in earlier semesters and to prepare students for advanced research and industry applications.
Plant Biotechnology
This course focuses on the application of molecular biology techniques to improve plant varieties and develop sustainable agricultural practices. Students will study genetic engineering, molecular markers, bioinformatics, and biotechnology applications in agriculture. The course emphasizes hands-on laboratory work and research projects that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. The learning objectives include understanding the principles of genetic modification, developing skills in molecular biology techniques, and exploring the ethical and regulatory aspects of biotechnology in agriculture.
Precision Agriculture
This course introduces students to the use of modern technologies such as GPS, remote sensing, drones, and data analytics to optimize farming practices. Students will learn about precision farming systems, agricultural robotics, sensor technology, and digital agriculture. The course includes laboratory sessions and field visits to practical applications of precision agriculture. The learning objectives include understanding the principles of precision farming, developing skills in data analysis and interpretation, and applying technology to improve agricultural efficiency and sustainability.
Agricultural Informatics
This course integrates information technology with agricultural practices to improve decision-making and efficiency. Students will study data analytics, agricultural databases, information systems, and digital agriculture. The course emphasizes the development of skills in data management, analysis, and visualization. The learning objectives include understanding the role of information technology in agriculture, developing skills in database management, and applying data analytics to agricultural problems.
Climate Change and Agriculture
This course addresses the impact of climate change on agriculture and the development of adaptive strategies. Students will explore climate modeling, environmental impact assessment, carbon sequestration, and climate resilience. The course includes case studies and fieldwork to understand the practical implications of climate change on agricultural systems. The learning objectives include understanding the relationship between climate change and agriculture, developing skills in environmental impact assessment, and designing climate-resilient farming systems.
Rural Development
This course emphasizes the role of agriculture in rural development and community empowerment. Students will study rural sociology, community development, participatory approaches, and social entrepreneurship. The course includes field visits and community engagement projects to understand the practical aspects of rural development. The learning objectives include understanding the role of agriculture in rural development, developing skills in community engagement, and designing sustainable development initiatives.
Agro-Environmental Impact Assessment
This course focuses on the environmental impact of agricultural practices and the development of sustainable management strategies. Students will study environmental science, impact assessment methodologies, and sustainable agriculture practices. The course includes laboratory sessions and fieldwork to assess environmental impacts and develop mitigation strategies. The learning objectives include understanding the environmental impact of agriculture, developing skills in impact assessment, and designing sustainable management practices.
Advanced Agricultural Economics
This course provides an in-depth analysis of the economic aspects of agriculture and the development of effective policies. Students will study agricultural markets, farm economics, policy analysis, and rural development. The course includes case studies and policy analysis projects to understand the economic implications of agricultural practices. The learning objectives include understanding the economic principles of agriculture, developing skills in policy analysis, and designing effective economic policies for sustainable agriculture.
Global Food Systems
This course explores the complexities of global food systems and the challenges of ensuring food security. Students will study food production, distribution, nutrition, and sustainability. The course includes case studies and international comparisons to understand global food challenges. The learning objectives include understanding the global food system, developing skills in food security analysis, and designing sustainable food systems.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
Our department's philosophy on project-based learning is centered on the belief that hands-on experience and practical application are essential for developing competent and innovative professionals. The program emphasizes experiential learning through a structured approach that integrates theory with practice, encouraging students to solve real-world problems in agriculture. This approach is designed to develop critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills, which are essential for success in the modern agricultural sector.
Mini-Projects
Mini-projects are undertaken in the third and fourth semesters to provide students with early exposure to research and practical applications. These projects are typically small-scale, focused on specific problems or topics within the field of agriculture. Students work in small teams under the guidance of faculty mentors to develop solutions to real-world challenges. The projects are evaluated based on their feasibility, innovation, and contribution to the field of agriculture. The learning objectives include developing research skills, understanding the process of scientific inquiry, and applying theoretical knowledge to practical problems.
Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project
The final-year thesis or capstone project is the culmination of the student's academic journey, where they undertake an in-depth research project or comprehensive application of their knowledge. This project is typically developed in collaboration with industry partners or research institutions and addresses a significant challenge in modern agriculture. Students work under the guidance of experienced faculty mentors and are supported by the university's research infrastructure. The project is evaluated based on its originality, depth of research, technical rigor, and potential impact. The learning objectives include developing advanced research skills, demonstrating expertise in a specialized area, and contributing to the body of knowledge in agriculture.
Project Selection and Mentorship
Students are encouraged to select projects that align with their interests and career aspirations. The project selection process involves a detailed discussion with faculty mentors who provide guidance on the feasibility and relevance of proposed projects. Students are matched with mentors based on their expertise and the alignment of the project with the mentor's research interests. The mentorship process includes regular meetings, feedback sessions, and support throughout the project development phase. The goal is to ensure that students receive personalized attention and guidance to develop high-quality projects that meet academic and industry standards.