Rajendra Agricultural University, Bihar – A Beacon of Agricultural Education and Innovation in India
Introduction
Rajendra Agricultural University (RAU), now known as Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU), stands tall as one of India’s most renowned institutions dedicated to agricultural education and research. Located in Pusa, Samastipur district of Bihar, the university has been instrumental in shaping the agricultural sector not just in Bihar, but across India through its scientific research, high-quality education, and community-based agricultural extension programs. Named after the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the university reflects a legacy of dedication toward rural upliftment and sustainable farming practices.
1. Establishment and Historical Background
- Established: 1905 (as Agricultural Research Institute), later became Rajendra Agricultural University in 1970
- Renamed: In 2016, it was upgraded to Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU)
- Founder: Lord Curzon initiated the idea during British India, and it developed significantly post-independence
- Significance: The university was one of the earliest centers of agricultural research in India, pioneering scientific farming methods
2. Affiliations and Accreditations
- Affiliated to: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
- Status: Central Agricultural University under Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India
- Recognized by: UGC, AICTE (for applicable programs)
- NAAC Accreditation: University maintains high academic standards under continuous evaluation
3. Courses Offered
Undergraduate Programs
- B.Sc. (Hons) Agriculture
- B.Tech. (Agricultural Engineering, Biotechnology)
- B.F.Sc. (Fisheries Science)
- B.Sc. (Community Science)
Postgraduate Programs
- M.Sc. Agriculture (13 disciplines including Agronomy, Plant Pathology, Soil Science)
- M.Tech. (Agricultural Engineering)
- MBA (Agri-Business)
Doctoral Programs
- Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences, Engineering, Biotechnology, and allied fields
4. Facilities and Infrastructure
RAU offers a modern campus equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure.
Academic and Research Facilities
- Smart classrooms and digital libraries
- Well-equipped laboratories
- Experimental farms and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
- Bioinformatics and GIS Labs
- Veterinary clinics and animal husbandry units
Student Amenities
- Hostels with mess facilities
- Central library and e-resource centers
- Internet and Wi-Fi across campus
- Sports complex, gym, and health center
- Transportation services
5. Campus Location and Contact Details
- Address:
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU),
Pusa, Samastipur – 848125, Bihar, India - Contact:
- Phone: +91-6274-240226 / 240225
- Email: registrar@rpcau.ac.in
- Website: www.rpcau.ac.in
6. Academic Excellence and Achievements
The university stands out for its academic rigor and industry-relevant curriculum.
- Adoption of New Education Policy (NEP 2020) elements
- High student-faculty ratio ensuring individual attention
- National and international MOUs for collaborative programs
- Consistent performance in All India Entrance Exams (ICAR AIEEA) by students
7. Career Development and Placement Cell
RPCAU’s Career Counseling and Placement Cell ensures employability and skill development through:
- Industry-academia interaction programs
- On-campus recruitment drives by Agri-tech firms, MNCs, NGOs, and research bodies
- Soft skills and personality development workshops
- Internship opportunities at ICAR institutes and government departments
Top Recruiters:
- Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
- NABARD
- ITC Agri-business
- Bayer CropScience
- IFFCO, HUL (Rural Divisions)
- Academic fellowships (ICAR, DBT, DST)
8. Research and Development Activities
RAU is a hub for agricultural innovation and research excellence:
- Over 20+ research centers under its umbrella
- Pioneering research in crop productivity, drought resistance, and organic farming
- Research publications in high-impact journals
- Funded projects from ICAR, DBT, World Bank, and other global organizations
- Promotion of Farmer-Scientist Interface through KVKs and Agri-Clinics
Key Research Areas:
- Climate-resilient agriculture
- Genetically improved crop varieties
- Soil and water conservation
- Pest management techniques
- Agricultural economics and rural development
9. Notable Alumni
Many graduates from RAU have achieved distinction in agricultural science, policymaking, and rural development.
- Dr. R.B. Singh – Former Chairman of Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB)
- Dr. A.K. Singh – Renowned rice breeder and scientist
- Several alumni hold key positions in ICAR, State Agriculture Departments, and international agencies
10. Rankings and Recognition
- Ranked among Top Agricultural Universities in India by ICAR
- Recipient of Sardar Patel Outstanding Institution Award
- Holds several patents for innovations in farm machinery and biotechnology
- Acknowledged by NAHEP (World Bank-ICAR initiative) for promoting higher education reforms
11. Reputation and Outreach
RAU enjoys a solid reputation in academia and agriculture sectors due to:
- Consistent academic results and research output
- High employability of its graduates in both public and private sectors
- Active contribution to India’s food security and rural livelihood enhancement
- Known for community-oriented agricultural extension and training
12. Future Prospects and Expansion
RPCAU has set ambitious goals for future development:
- Expansion of faculty and international collaborations
- New programs in Agri-business, Precision Farming, and Food Technology
- Creation of Centre of Excellence in Climate Change and Sustainable Agriculture
Conclusion
Rajendra Agricultural University, now Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, is a cornerstone of agricultural education and rural development in India. With a legacy dating back over a century, RAU continues to produce visionary leaders, ground-breaking research, and community impact. Its transformation into a Central University has only strengthened its mission to drive innovation, sustainability, and prosperity in the Indian agricultural landscape.
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