The Higher Education Review

Agriculture serves as the backbone of the Indian economy, propelling its growth and creating a surge in demand for skilled professionals. Aspiring candidates seeking undergraduate or graduate degrees in this field have a multitude of opportunities in both the public and private sectors, tailored to their unique interests. Graduates and post-graduates can explore rewarding careers as agri-research scientists, officers, farm managers, production managers, and more.

Beyond traditional agricultural roles, students can also opt for courses preparing them for careers in education, banking, or insurance, broadening their horizons. The Indian Subcontinent boasts a flourishing agricultural market, projected to reach a remarkable value of $581 billion by 2028. The sector's expansion owes itself to shifting consumption patterns and a growing population, with agriculture significantly contributing to GDP, job creation, and revenue from exports.

Recognizing the promising prospects and expansion in agricultural education, numerous educational institutions have stepped forward to offer specialized courses in this field. Among these, Maharaja Agarsen Agriculture College Suratgarh stands out as a prestigious establishment that commenced its operations in 2013. The college is deeply committed to delivering agriculture degrees that are not only academically rigorous but also skill-oriented, catering to the professional demands of the industry.

Speaking on the matter, Vipul Gupta, Director states, “We primarily attract students from the western and northern regions of Rajasthan, but our appeal has grown, drawing students from Punjab and Haryana as well. Our comprehensive agriculture education program spans up to the 8th semester, providing students with exposure to various industries, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, ICAR, and other research stations. As a specialized agriculture college, our primary focus lies on undergraduate students, especially those from rural backgrounds.

We have fostered a culture that ensures students from diverse backgrounds, whether from metro cities or rural areas, feel equally engaged and involved in their education.” This approach ensures that every student, regardless of their background, finds a nurturing and inclusive

environment, fostering an optimal learning experience at Maharaja Agarsen Agriculture College.

Taking a Unique Approach
Maharaja Agarsen Agriculture College has a distinct focus, offering courses exclusively related to agriculture.

The college primarily centers its attention on the B.Sc. Agriculture Honours degree, which is the flagship program. With a dedicated team of highly knowledgeable professors, the institution ensures that students receive top-notch education in various subjects, including soil science, plant pathology, entomology, plant breeding and genetics, agronomy, agriculture economics, and agriculture engineering.

To facilitate an enriching learning environment, the college is well-equipped with modern amenities such as smart classrooms, an E-Library, and an extensive collection of over 15,000 books accessible to the students. Moreover, the college frequently hosts lectures and seminars delivered by renowned experts in the field, providing valuable insights and exposure to real-world experiences.

Vipul Gupta emphasizes, “Our commitment lies in delivering exceptional expertise in the field of agriculture, with a singular focus on our specialized course. The resources and facilities we offer ensure our students receive a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.”

The college's emphasis on science subjects necessitates covering a vast syllabus across 10 semesters. Practical exams are conducted each semester to ensure a comprehensive understanding of both theory and practical aspects. To stay competitive, Maharaja Agarsen Agriculture College integrates the latest syllabus and technology into its curriculum. Additionally, every batch enjoys a mandatory week-long educational trip, followed by day-long trips to nearby stations, providing valuable hands-on learning experiences.

The college takes pride in its highly qualified professors, who possess strong industry connections that greatly benefit students' placements. Graduates are well-equipped for excellent employment opportunities upon receiving their degrees. Many students secure internships in the industry during their final semester, with some even receiving job offers as BPOS graduates are highly sought after by companies. Furthermore, numerous students opt for higher studies at different colleges, excelling in their respective fields.

Under the leadership of Dr. B. L. Poonia, a highly experienced professional in the fields of agriculture, agronomy,

and agricultural economics, Maharaja Agarsen Agriculture College thrives. Dr. Poonia has dedicated his entire career to agricultural education, serving as a professor and former dean of the agriculture college in Bikaner.

During the challenging times of the Covid pandemic, Naveen Khemka, Secretary of the Organisation demonstrated exceptional dedication to society by transforming the college into a vaccination center for local communities. This selfless initiative earned recognition and awards from local administrative bodies, acknowledging the college's significant social contributions during the tough times of Covid.

”By nurturing competent individuals, the college seeks to create a workforce that can not only become successful business owners but also job creators, thereby transforming the state's economic landscape”

Future Roadmap
Maharaja Agarsen Agriculture College has consistently achieved remarkable success and remains deeply committed to its goals. The institute is actively working towards obtaining accreditation from ICAR, aiming to attract students from all corners of India to its campus.

The primary objective of these institutes is to impart quality education in the fields of agriculture and allied sciences, empowering students to pursue careers in agriculture or closely related professions. By nurturing competent individuals, the college seeks to create a workforce that can not only become successful business owners but also job creators, thereby transforming the state's economic landscape.

Furthermore, the college is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of communities residing in the vicinity. Through agricultural education, it aspires to bring about meaningful changes and improvements, contributing to the overall development and prosperity of the state and its people.

Vipul Gupta, Director
Vipul Gupta is the Director of Maharaja Agarsen Agriculture College, bringing over 12 years of invaluable experience in managing educational institutions across a diverse spectrum, including Pharmacy, Nursing, Technology, Education, and Agriculture. His educational background includes a Master's degree in Public Administration, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education Administration, and a Bachelor's degree in Media Studies. With a strong academic foundation and a wealth of experience, Vipul is dedicated to advancing education and fostering growth.