Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh – Cultivating Knowledge, Innovation and Rural Transformation
Introduction: Pioneering Agricultural Excellence in India
Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU), located in Andhra Pradesh, stands as a prestigious institution dedicated to the advancement of agricultural education, research, and extension services. Named after the legendary freedom fighter and agrarian reformer Acharya N. G. Ranga, the university reflects his legacy by striving to empower rural communities and modernize Indian agriculture. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and community development, ANGRAU has played a vital role in enhancing food security, environmental conservation, and rural livelihoods across Andhra Pradesh and beyond.
Through its multidisciplinary programs, state-of-the-art research, and strong linkage with farmers, the university continues to be a national leader in agricultural education and development.
1. Establishment and History
- Established: 12 June 1964 (as Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University – APAU)
- Renamed: Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University on 7 November 1996
- Named After: Acharya N. G. Ranga, noted Parliamentarian, Gandhian, and champion of farmers’ rights
- Headquarters: Lam, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh
Historical Highlights:
- Created under the Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University Act of 1963
- Modelled after the Land Grant College system of the USA
- Took over the colleges and research stations of the Departments of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries
ANGRAU is deeply rooted in Andhra Pradesh’s agricultural development history and continues to bridge traditional farming practices with modern science and technology.
2. Affiliations and Recognitions
Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University holds affiliations and recognitions from:
- University Grants Commission (UGC)
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
- National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP)
- Collaborations with international agricultural research institutions like IRRI, CIMMYT, ICRISAT
The university is also a member of national and international networks, contributing to policy development, agribusiness, and innovation in education.
3. Courses Offered
ANGRAU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, diploma, and certificate programs in agriculture and allied sciences.
A. Undergraduate Programs:
- B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture
- B.Tech. (Agricultural Engineering)
- B.Sc. (Hons.) Community Science
- B.Tech. (Food Technology)
- B.Sc. (Hons.) Horticulture
- B.Sc. (Hons.) Agricultural Marketing & Co-operation
B. Postgraduate Programs (M.Sc./M.Tech):
- Agronomy
- Soil Science
- Plant Pathology
- Genetics & Plant Breeding
- Agricultural Economics
- Entomology
- Horticulture
- Agricultural Engineering
- Community Science
- Extension Education
C. Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.):
- Agronomy
- Genetics and Plant Breeding
- Soil Science
- Entomology
- Agricultural Extension
- Home Science
D. Diploma and Certificate Programs:
- Diploma in Agriculture (2 years)
- Diploma in Organic Farming
- Vocational Training Programs for Rural Youth
- Certificate Courses in Plant Protection, Watershed Management
4. Academic Excellence and Teaching Methodology
ANGRAU emphasizes experiential learning, hands-on training, and problem-solving pedagogy to produce skilled professionals equipped to tackle modern agricultural challenges.
Key Academic Highlights:
- Experiential Learning Modules (ELP) for final-year UG students
- RAWE (Rural Agricultural Work Experience) and In-Plant Training
- Integration of ICT tools in classrooms
- Emphasis on entrepreneurship and agribusiness education
- Continuous curriculum updates in line with ICAR and NEP 2020
ANGRAU’s academic model ensures that graduates are job-ready, industry-aware, and socially responsible.
5. Research and Extension Services
ANGRAU is a research powerhouse driving sustainable agricultural innovation, crop development, and rural outreach.
Key Research Focus Areas:
- Climate-resilient agriculture
- Organic farming and agroecology
- High-yield and disease-resistant crop varieties
- Water-use efficiency and drip irrigation
- Food processing and storage technology
- Soil health management
Research Infrastructure:
- Over 40 Research Stations across Andhra Pradesh
- Zonal Agricultural Research Stations (ZARS)
- Partnerships with ICRISAT, IRRI, CIMMYT, and CSIR labs
- Annual research publications and technology dissemination bulletins
Extension Activities:
- Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) for direct farmer engagement
- Farmer Training Programs (FTPs), workshops, field days
- Mobile Soil Testing Labs and advisory services
- eSagu and m-Kisan platforms for digital agricultural advisories
- Adarsha Rythu Scheme and model village programs
6. Campus Facilities and Student Life
The university’s main campus at Lam, Guntur, and its constituent colleges and research centers offer excellent academic and residential facilities.
Campus Infrastructure:
- Smart classrooms and lecture halls
- Wi-Fi enabled campus
- State-of-the-art laboratories for biotech, soil science, pathology
- Central Library with access to e-journals and AGRIS databases
- Research farms, horticulture plots, and greenhouses
- Separate hostels for boys and girls with modern amenities
- Sports complex, gymnasiums, auditoriums, and cultural centers
- Health care center, bank, canteen, and transport facilities
Student Development:
- National Service Scheme (NSS) and cultural clubs
- Agri-Innovation & Incubation Centers
- Student Welfare and Counseling Cell
- Gender sensitization and anti-ragging committees
7. Career Development and Placement Cell
ANGRAU has a dedicated Career Development and Placement Cell (CDPC) that focuses on enhancing employability and supporting entrepreneurship.
Placement and Career Support:
- Regular campus recruitment drives
- Soft skill, personality development, and interview training
- Linkages with agri-business companies, banks, NGOs, and government agencies
- Support for competitive exam coaching (ICAR-JRF, UPSC, APPSC)
- Promotion of agripreneurship and incubation of start-ups
Top Recruiters:
- ITC Agribusiness Division
- Coromandel International
- Rallis India
- Bayer CropScience
- NABARD and regional rural banks
- Government Departments of Agriculture and Horticulture
8. Address and Contact Details
Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU)
Administrative Office, Lam, Guntur – 522034
Andhra Pradesh, India
- Phone: +91-863-2347102
- Email: angrauonline@gmail.com
- Website: https://angrau.ac.in
9. Notable Alumni
ANGRAU has a proud legacy of producing agricultural scientists, policy-makers, technocrats, and entrepreneurs.
Distinguished Alumni Include:
- Dr. A. Padmasingh Isaac – Chairman, Aachi Group
- Dr. D. Rama Rao – Former Director, NAARM
- Many officers in Indian Forest Service (IFS), Agricultural Officers, and ICAR scientists
- Successful agripreneurs and start-up founders across India
10. Rankings, Reputation, and Recognition
Reputation:
- Among the top agricultural universities in India
- Highly regarded for its extension services and rural outreach
- First choice for students aspiring for ICAR-accredited UG/PG programs in Andhra Pradesh
Rankings and Accolades:
- Consistently ranked in Top 15 ICAR-Agricultural Universities
- Winner of Best KVK Awards from ICAR
- NAHEP-IDP funded institution for academic innovation
- Recognized for contributions to climate-resilient agriculture and food security
Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Agricultural Future
Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) is a symbol of agricultural transformation and rural empowerment in India. With its deep commitment to teaching, research, and extension, the university continues to uplift farming communities, empower youth, and drive innovations that matter.
In a time when agriculture needs sustainable solutions, skilled professionals, and forward-thinking policies, ANGRAU is leading the way—nurturing minds, cultivating progress, and growing a greener future for India.
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