Agriculture is the production of food and other goods by systematic
and controlled growing of plants and living organisms. Agriculture industry
plays a major role in the Indian economic scenario contributing around
20% of Gross Domestic product (GDP). Around 62% of the Indian population
depend on it for their livelihood. The field of agriculture include farm
management, horticulture, businesses and industries that manufacture agricultural
machinery, industries that buy and process farm products, banking activities
for financing and developing farms, research for improving quantity and
quality of farm products and so on. Nowadays, the state of agriculture
has improved a lot and has become highly scientific, sophisticated and
mechanized. Only a small percentage in this field are engaged in traditional
farming occupation. The vast majority work as either agricultural professionals/
scientists or in business related careers, such as marketing and merchandising.
The study of agriculture is termed as agricultural science. It is a
multidisciplinary field which consists of a variety of scientific, technical
and business subjects that promote the efficient production of quality
food on the farm and in the agricultural-food industry linked to farming.
Closely related to biological science, it uses the principles of biology,
chemistry, physics and mathematics to solve the problems related to agriculture. Agricultural
science include research and development on production techniques; improving
agricultural productivity in terms of quantity and quality; transformation
of primary products into end consumer products and prevention and correction
of adversities. Major areas of specialisation within agricultural
science are food science, plant science, soil science and animal science.
Agricultural science professionals specialize in agricultural production
and livestock. They play an important role in maintaining the nation's
food supply. Some of the major tasks performed by them involves improving
the quality and quantity of farming; improving crop yield with less labour;
conservation of soil and water; controlling pests and weeds more safely
and effectively etc. In short, Agricultural scientists engage in
research to discover and promote effective, practical pathways to sustainable
land use, food and fiber production and food harvesting.
Those who have a passion for research, development and improvement in
the existing agricultural products can opt for agricultural science as
their career. The courses offered by various agricultural universities
are designed for students interested in production agriculture, farm management
etc. which can produce trained professionals in this field. Several career
opportunities exist in different areas of agricultural production, research
and development, social services, business, education and the non-profit
sector. Even though food production is the major phase of agricultural
industry, textiles and fibers also makeup a large portion of agriculture.
