Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (UBKV) is a state agricultural university located in Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India. It offers various undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. programs in agriculture and related fields. Below is an overview of the Ph.D. admission process, recommended books, job opportunities, and merit-based selection criteria at UBKV:
Eligibility Criteria:
Candidates must have a Master’s degree in Agriculture or a related field with a minimum of 60% marks (or equivalent CGPA).
Relaxation in marks is provided for reserved categories as per government norms.
Admission Process:
Admission is based on merit and performance in an entrance examination conducted by the university.
Candidates may also need to appear for an interview or counseling round.
NET/GATE/SLET-qualified candidates may be given preference or exemption from the entrance exam.
Application Process:
Applications are invited through official notifications on the university website.
Candidates must fill out the online application form and pay the required fee.
Required documents (mark sheets, certificates, etc.) must be submitted during the application process.
Research Areas:
UBKV offers Ph.D. programs in various disciplines such as Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Pathology, Soil Science, Agricultural Engineering, and more.
The books for Ph.D. studies depend on the specific research area. However, some general reference books for agricultural research include:
Fundamentals of Agriculture by Arun Katyayan
Introduction to Agronomy by C. D. Mayee and P. L. Mali
Soil Science by D. K. Das
Plant Pathology by G. N. Agrios
Principles of Horticulture by C. R. Adams and K. M. Bamford
Agricultural Economics by S. Subba Reddy
Research Methodology by C. R. Kothari
A Ph.D. from UBKV opens up various career opportunities in the field of agriculture and allied sectors:
Academic Careers:
Professor/Assistant Professor in agricultural universities and colleges.
Research scientist in universities or research institutions.
Research and Development:
Opportunities in ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research), and other research organizations.
Work in agricultural research institutes like IARI, CRRI, etc.
Government Jobs:
Agricultural Officer, Horticulture Officer, or Scientist in state and central government departments.
Jobs in organizations like NABARD, FCI, and state agricultural departments.
Private Sector:
Roles in agribusiness companies, seed production firms, and agrochemical industries.
Opportunities in agricultural consultancy and extension services.
Entrepreneurship:
Start-ups in agri-tech, organic farming, or food processing.
Entrance Exam:
The university conducts an entrance test to shortlist candidates for the Ph.D. program.
The exam typically covers subjects related to agriculture, research methodology, and general aptitude.
Academic Performance:
Marks obtained in the Master’s degree are considered for merit-based selection.
Interview/Counseling:
Shortlisted candidates are called for an interview or counseling session to assess their research aptitude and suitability for the program.
Reservation Policy:
The university follows the reservation policy of the Government of West Bengal for SC, ST, OBC, and other categories.
Stay updated with the official UBKV website for admission notifications.
Prepare thoroughly for the entrance exam by revising core agricultural subjects.
Develop a strong research proposal aligned with your area of interest.
Network with faculty members and researchers in your field for guidance.