Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU) is one of India's oldest and most prestigious institutions for agricultural studies. Originally established in 1905, it was transformed into a Central Agricultural University in 2016, named after India's first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. The university is committed to excellence in education, research, and extension activities.

Academic Programs

RPCAU offers a wide array of academic programs across various faculties:

• Undergraduate Courses: B.Sc. in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, Community Science, Agricultural Engineering, Fisheries, Biotechnology, Food Technology

• Postgraduate Courses: M.Sc. and M.Tech in 27 disciplines

• Doctoral Programs: Ph.D. in 14 disciplines

• Professional Courses: MBA in Agribusiness Management and Rural Management

The university comprises eight constituent colleges with modern infrastructure, smart classrooms, high-tech labs, hostels, sports facilities, and a central library.

Research and Innovation

RPCAU actively contributes to agricultural advancement through robust research and innovation. The university has developed several improved crop varieties and patented technologies, including:

• Self-Propelled Rotary Power Paddy Weeder

• Hand-Cranked Improved Chakki

Its research focuses include sustainable agriculture, agri-waste management, and value-added agricultural products.

Extension Services

RPCAU's Directorate of Extension, along with 18 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), plays a key role in transferring agricultural knowledge to farmers. The university conducts farmer training, on-field demonstrations, technology dissemination, and rural entrepreneurship development programs to improve productivity and livelihoods in rural India.

Leadership

• Vice-Chancellor: Dr. Punyavrat Suvimalendu Pandey – An expert in ICT in agriculture with over three decades of academic and research experience.

• Chancellor: Dr. Prem Lal Gautam – Renowned for his work in plant genetics and agricultural innovation, previously led several national agricultural organizations.

Achievements

• Ranked among the top 10 government universities in India (India Today-MDRA)

• Honored as 'University of the Year' by FICCI in 2021

• Recognized for 'Excellent Green Campus Initiative'

• Holds a strong research citation index (h-index 23 on SCOPUS)

Campus and Infrastructure

The main campus at Pusa spans over 2,000 acres and includes:

• Modern academic buildings

• Laboratories with advanced equipment

• Student hostels and faculty residences

• Experimental farms

• Sports complexes

• Wi-Fi-enabled environment

• Centralized library with e-resources