Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University, Hyderabad: Advancing Agricultural Excellence in India
Introduction
India’s agricultural success is rooted not only in its vast farming traditions but also in the institutions that cultivate agricultural education, research, and innovation. One such landmark institution is Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU), based in Hyderabad, Telangana. Named after the legendary freedom fighter and agrarian leader Acharya N.G. Ranga, the university is a pioneer in agricultural education and research in India.
Established with the mission of transforming Indian agriculture through science, technology, and extension activities, ANGRAU has consistently contributed to the growth of the farming community and agricultural productivity in the country. This comprehensive article explores the university’s journey, academic landscape, research initiatives, campus life, and more.
1. Establishment and Historical Background
Founding and Vision
- Established: 12 June 1964, initially as Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU).
- Renamed: In 1996, it was renamed Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University to honor the contributions of Acharya N.G. Ranga—an advocate for farmers’ rights and agricultural reforms.
- Founder: Government of Andhra Pradesh, under the guidance of Dr. P.V. Narasimha Rao, then Chief Minister of the state.
Milestones in Development
- First agricultural university in South India.
- Implemented the triple mandate of teaching, research, and extension, modeled after land-grant universities in the USA.
- Played a pivotal role in the Green Revolution in Andhra Pradesh through education and seed development programs.
2. Affiliations and Recognitions
- Affiliated with:
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
- University Grants Commission (UGC)
- Recognized by:
- Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India
- National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP)
- Collaborates with international and national institutions such as:
- IRRI, CIMMYT, IARI, and various Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
3. Academic Programs and Courses Offered
Undergraduate Programs (B.Sc./B.Tech)
- B.Sc. (Hons) Agriculture
- B.Sc. (Hons) Community Science
- B.Tech (Food Technology)
- B.Tech (Agricultural Engineering)
Postgraduate Programs (M.Sc./M.Tech)
- M.Sc. Agriculture (13 disciplines including Agronomy, Soil Science, Entomology, Genetics)
- M.Tech in Agricultural Engineering (Soil & Water Conservation, Farm Machinery)
- M.Sc. in Community Science
Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.)
- Offered in key disciplines such as:
- Agronomy
- Horticulture
- Plant Breeding and Genetics
- Agricultural Economics
- Agricultural Extension
- Agricultural Engineering
4. Campus Infrastructure and Facilities
ANGRAU has its headquarters in Lam, Guntur, and previously functioned from Hyderabad before the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The university has several constituent colleges, research stations, and KVKs.
Main Campuses:
- College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar (Hyderabad)
- Agricultural College, Bapatla
- S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati
- Agricultural College, Naira
Facilities Include:
- Modern classrooms and auditoriums
- Well-equipped laboratories for soil, crop, and plant analysis
- Libraries with access to e-journals and agricultural databases
- Student hostels, sports facilities, and canteens
- Experimental farms for hands-on training
- Advanced greenhouses and crop diagnostic labs
5. Research Activities
Research Priorities:
- Crop improvement and hybrid seed development
- Integrated pest and nutrient management
- Climate-resilient agriculture
- Precision farming and agri-tech
- Post-harvest technology and food processing
Research Centres and Facilities:
- Regional Agricultural Research Stations (RARS) in Lam, Tirupati, and Anakapalle
- Agricultural Research Stations (ARS) across various agro-climatic zones
- Collaboration with ICRISAT, CIMMYT, and CSIR institutes
Notable Research Contributions:
- Development of high-yielding rice, groundnut, and cotton varieties
- Promotion of organic and natural farming techniques
- Implementation of ICT tools for agricultural extension
6. Extension and Outreach Programs
Extension is a core component of ANGRAU’s mandate. The university works extensively through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across Andhra Pradesh to bridge the gap between lab and land.
Key Extension Activities:
- Farmer field schools and demonstration programs
- Mobile soil testing labs and agri-advisory services
- On-farm trials and farmer-scientist interactions
- Dissemination of climate-smart agriculture practices
7. Career Development and Placement Cell
ANGRAU has a dedicated Placement and Training Cell to help students prepare for careers in:
- Government services (Agriculture Extension Officer, Assistant Director of Agriculture, etc.)
- Private agri-business and food processing companies
- NGOs and rural development organizations
- Research fellowships (ICAR, CSIR, DBT)
- Higher education in India and abroad
Services Offered:
- Career counseling sessions
- Resume building and interview preparation
- On-campus and off-campus recruitment drives
- Internships with agricultural companies and research institutes
8. Notable Alumni
Over the decades, ANGRAU has produced numerous alumni who have contributed significantly in areas like policy, administration, entrepreneurship, and research.
Prominent Alumni:
- Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy – Former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh
- Dr. C. D. Mayee – Former Chairman, ASRB (ICAR)
- Dr. B. Venkateswarlu – Former Vice Chancellor, ANGRAU
- Successful agri-entrepreneurs in seed production, organic farming, and agri-tech
9. Rankings and Reputation
- Recognized among the top agricultural universities in India by ICAR.
- Routinely ranked high for research output, extension services, and academic quality.
- Received funding and excellence status under NAHEP and World Bank projects.
- Internationally cited for work in agronomy, pest management, and food technology.
10. Address and Contact Details
Head Office (Post Bifurcation):
Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU)
Administrative Office, Lam, Guntur – 522034,
Andhra Pradesh, India
📞 Phone: +91-863-2347102 / 2347103
📧 Email: angrauonline@gmail.com
🌐 Website: http://www.angrau.ac.in
Conclusion
Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University continues to uphold its commitment to agricultural innovation, farmer empowerment, and scientific excellence. With its strong foundation in research, skilled faculty, and a focus on practical learning, ANGRAU remains a pillar in India’s agricultural education system.
For students looking to pursue careers in agriculture, food technology, agribusiness, or research, ANGRAU provides the ideal platform backed by legacy, innovation, and impact.
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