Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU)

Overview

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU), located in Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar, is one of India’s premier institutions dedicated to agricultural education, research, and extension. Established in 1903 as the Imperial Agricultural Research Institute, it was later renamed in honor of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, in 2016. RPCAU plays a pivotal role in advancing agricultural sciences, addressing food security challenges, and improving the livelihoods of farmers.

As a Central Agricultural University, RPCAU is committed to fostering innovation in agriculture, promoting sustainable farming practices, and developing skilled professionals equipped to transform India’s agricultural sector.

Vision and Mission

Vision
To be a global leader in agricultural education, research, and innovation, addressing food security and sustainability challenges.

Mission

• To provide world-class agricultural education and training.
• To conduct innovative research for sustainable agricultural practices.
• To disseminate knowledge and technologies to improve rural livelihoods.
• To foster entrepreneurship and capacity building in agriculture and allied sectors.

Academic Programs

RPCAU offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in agriculture and allied sciences. These programs are designed to address the diverse needs of the agricultural sector.

Undergraduate Programs

1. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Agriculture
   • Focus: Crop production, soil science, and agronomy.
   • Duration: 4 years.
2. Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) in Agricultural Engineering
   • Focus: Farm machinery, irrigation systems, and renewable energy.
   • Duration: 4 years.
3. Bachelor of Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.)
   • Focus: Fisheries management, aquaculture, and marine biology.
   • Duration: 4 years.
4. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Community Science
   • Focus: Food science, nutrition, and rural development.
   • Duration: 4 years.

Postgraduate Programs

1. Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Agriculture
   • Specializations: Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Horticulture, and more.
   • Duration: 2 years.
2. Master of Technology (M.Tech.) in Agricultural Engineering
   • Specializations: Soil & Water Conservation, Farm Machinery, and Post-Harvest Technology.
   • Duration: 2 years.
3. Master of Fisheries Science (M.F.Sc.)
   • Focus: Fisheries resource management and aquaculture technology.
   • Duration: 2 years.
4. Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Agribusiness Management
   • Focus: Agricultural marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.
   • Duration: 2 years.

Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.)

RPCAU offers Ph.D. programs in various disciplines, including:

• Agricultural Sciences
• Horticulture
• Agricultural Engineering
• Fisheries Science

These programs emphasize advanced research and innovation to address agricultural challenges.

Research and Innovation

RPCAU is at the forefront of agricultural research, with several dedicated research centers and laboratories. Key research initiatives include:

Research Focus Areas

1. Sustainable Agriculture: Development of eco-friendly farming practices.
2. Climate-Resilient Crops: Breeding crops adapted to changing climate conditions.
3. Integrated Farming Systems: Enhancing farm productivity through diversification.
4. Post-Harvest Management: Reducing losses and improving food processing techniques.

Centers of Excellence

• National Seed Research Center: Focuses on seed quality and production.
• Water Management Research Unit: Develops irrigation technologies and water conservation methods.
• Fisheries Research Facility: Dedicated to advancing aquaculture and marine biology.

Extension Services

RPCAU is committed to transferring knowledge and technologies to farmers and rural communities. Its extension programs include:

• Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs): Spread across Bihar to provide on-field training and advisory services.
• Farmer Training Programs: Workshops on sustainable practices, organic farming, and pest management.
• Technology Demonstration Units: Showcasing innovations in farming techniques and machinery.

Infrastructure

Campus Highlights

• Academic Blocks: Modern classrooms and lecture halls equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
• Library: A vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources in agriculture and allied sciences.
• Research Laboratories: Advanced labs for biotechnology, soil science, and plant pathology.
• Hostels: Separate accommodations for male and female students, with modern amenities.
• Sports Facilities: Grounds for cricket, football, and indoor games.

Faculty

RPCAU boasts a team of highly qualified faculty members who bring expertise and innovation to the classroom. The faculty actively engages in research, publications, and collaborations with national and international organizations.

Collaborations

RPCAU has forged partnerships with leading agricultural institutions and organizations worldwide. These collaborations enable knowledge exchange, joint research, and student exchange programs. Key collaborators include:

• Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
• Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
• International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)
• World Bank

Career Opportunities

RPCAU graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths in agriculture and allied sectors. Popular career options include:

• Agricultural Scientists and Researchers
• Farm Managers and Agronomists
• Entrepreneurs in Agribusiness
• Policy Advisors and Consultants
• Academicians and Extension Specialists

The university’s placement cell actively supports students in securing jobs with top organizations and government bodies.

Admission Process

Eligibility Criteria

• Undergraduate Programs:
  • 10+2 with science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics) and qualifying scores in national-level entrance exams such as ICAR AIEEA.
• Postgraduate Programs:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with at least 60% marks and qualifying scores in entrance tests.
• Ph.D. Programs:
  • Master’s degree in the relevant domain and performance in entrance tests/interviews.

Application Process

1. Visit the RPCAU official website.
2. Register and complete the online application form.
3. Upload required documents and pay the application fee.
4. Appear for the entrance examination (if applicable).

Why Choose RPCAU?

• Legacy of Excellence: Over a century of contribution to agricultural education and research.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Comprehensive programs across agriculture and allied sciences.
• World-Class Facilities: Modern infrastructure and research centers.
• Community Impact: Active involvement in rural development and farmer empowerment.
• Global Outlook: Strong international collaborations and exposure.

Contact Information

Address:
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University
Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar – 848125, India

Phone: +91-6274-240226

Email: registrar@rpcau.ac.in

Website: www.rpcau.ac.in