School of Smart Agriculture: Scope and Career Opportunities

One of the most important fields, the agricultural sector has always been regarded as the backbone of the Indian economy. Time and again, the agriculture sector has significantly contributed to the overall growth of the nation. According to the Economic Survey 2017-2018, “About 65 percent of our population still relies on agriculture for employment and livelihood. Agriculture also accounts for 8.56 % of India’s exports. Presently, about 43 % of India’s total geographical area is used for agricultural activity.” In recent times’ agriculture sector is becoming more scientific, modern and technology-oriented. Shifting farm structures, resource management strategies, evolving biotechnology strategies, changing demographics in the food production system, play an important role in the food production and management systems. Therefore, students pursuing a specialization in agriculture will open a world of possibilities.

As mentioned above, the agriculture sector has become more mechanised and considered as a lucrative profession.  A lot more emphasis is given on agricultural education, various schemes and research in the country covering topics like water conservation, land surveying amongst various others. 

Keeping this in mind, UPES Dehradun has come up with the School of Smart Agriculture with the primary goal to develop future-ready professionals in the field of technology-enabled agriculture, to promote research, innovation and entrepreneurship skills in the agriculture field to address the growing needs of the nation, to provide holistic knowledge to students through training, development, and research.

The university offers two undergraduate programs and one postgraduate program. The two undergraduate programs are B.SC Agriculture (Hons) and B.Tech Food Technology. M.SC Agronomy is a postgraduate program that UPES offers.

Careers, Scope and Job Opportunities for Agriculturists

Agriculture is one of the largest industries and is a good source of employment across the country. Students pursuing higher studies in the agriculture sector can find jobs in the private and government sectors. Job opportunities in the field of horticulture, plant, science, animal science, dairying and poultry farming, food science and soil science. The agro-industry sector, services sector, corporations, agriculture management, services sector, estate and tea gardens, agriculture engineering, and management are some of the sectors where graduates can find job opportunities.

Not only this, but even self-employment opportunities are available in the agriculture field. Setting up your own business venture like agriculture firms, agriculture products shop, agribase industry, etc.

Thus, to conclude, I would say agricultural career options are much more than farming and ranching. If you are interested in the study of crops, animals and resources that contribute to the worldwide food supply, pursuing a career in agriculture will lead to a rewarding and fulfilling career option.