ICAR AIEEA PG/JRF EXAM 2025-26

Agronomy

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Importance of Agriculture in National Economy
Basic Principles of Crop Production
Cultivation of Rice, Wheat, Chickpea, Pigeon-Pea, Sugarcane, Groundnut, Rapeseed and Mustard, Potato
Major Soils of India and Role of NPK with Deficiency Symptoms
Structure and Function of Cell Organelles
Mitosis and Meiosis
Mendelian Genetics
Elementary Knowledge of Photosynthesis, Respiration, Photorespiration, and Transpiration
Structure and Functions of Carbohydrates, Proteins, Nucleic Acids, Enzymes, and Vitamins
Major Pests and Diseases of Rice, Wheat, Cotton, Chickpea, and Sugarcane and Their Management
Important Rural Development Programs in India
Organizational Setup of Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension in India
Elements of Statistics

Principles of Agronomy
Crop Ecology and Geography
Agricultural Meteorology
Agroclimatic Zones of India
Tillage, Crop Stand Establishment, and Planting Geometry
Physiological Limits of Crop Yield and Ecological Optima
Organic Farming
Precision Farming
Integrated Farming Systems
Principles of Field Experimentation
Crop Ecology and Crop Adaptation
Climate Shift and Ecological Implications
Agro-Ecological Regions in India
Geographical Distribution of Crop Plants
Greenhouse Effect
Climatic Factors and Their Effect on Plant Processes and Crop Productivity
Role of GIS and GPS in Agriculture
Weather & Climate, Earth’s Atmosphere, Solar Radiation, Atmospheric Temperature, and Global Warming
Crops and Atmospheric Humidity
Weather Forecasting

Field Crops: Origin, Distribution, Economic Importance, Soil and Climatic Requirements, Varieties, and Cultural Practices
Cereals, Pulses, Oilseeds, Fiber Crops, Sugar Crops, Fodder & Forage Crops, Medicinal & Aromatic Plants, and Commercial Crops

(By Dr. Anamika, MSc & PHD, ICAR-IARI, Agronomy Expert)

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Begin by thoroughly understanding the syllabus which includes nine major units such as general agriculture, agricultural meteorology, crop production, weed science, water and nutrient management, dryland agriculture, and sustainable land-use systems.
The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 120 minutes. A strong grip on the syllabus and smart time management are essential.

2. Build Strong Conceptual Foundations

Focus on standard recommended books as provided.
Use ICAR e-course materials and your undergraduate class notes to strengthen core concepts.
Do not rely only on rote learning; understanding principles and their practical applications is key.

3. Create a Structured Study Plan

Make a monthly and weekly timetable covering all units systematically. Start with high-weightage topics and weaker areas.
Follow a daily schedule with 3–4 hours for new topics, 1 hour for revision, and at least 30 minutes for MCQ practice.
Allocate weekends for revision and full-length tests.

4. Practice with MCQs and Previous Year Papers

Practise MCQs regularly from trusted question banks and guidebooks specifically for ICAR Agronomy.
Solve at least 5–10 previous year question papers to understand the question pattern and frequently asked topics.
Note down repeated questions and important facts for revision.

5. Take Regular Mock Tests

Mock tests simulate the exam environment and help in time management. Take at least one full mock test per week.
After every test, analyze your performance, note down mistakes, and work on weak areas.
Use OMR sheets during practice to get familiar with marking patterns.

6. Make Smart Revision Notes

Prepare concise notes for quick revision, including formulas, crop data, classification tables, and definitions.
Use flashcards or sticky notes for tricky concepts, and revise them frequently.
Ensure you revise each topic at least three times before the exam.

7. Follow Expert Suggestions

Learn from toppers’ strategies available on video platforms and in webinars. Many emphasize consistency, conceptual clarity, and MCQ mastery.
Avoid switching between too many resources; stick to selected quality materials.
Join peer groups or Telegram channels focused on Agronomy PG/JRF prep for regular motivation and updates.

8. Stay Healthy and Positive

Maintain a balanced lifestyle with sufficient sleep, light exercise, and proper meals.
Stay motivated and avoid stress by setting realistic targets and celebrating small achievements.
Avoid last-minute cramming; stay calm and confident during the final days.

Principles of Agronomy – T.Y. Reddy & G.H.S. Reddi
Modern Concepts of Agronomy by Indian Society of Agronomy
Frontiers in Agronomy for Sustainable Agriculture - The Indian Society of Agronomy
Principle of Agronomy by SR Reddy
Soil Science: An Introduction (PB) by Indian Society of Soil Science (ISSS)
Weed Science: Principles and Practices – T.K. Das
Soil Fertility and Fertilizer Use – Nelson and Tisdale
Irrigation and Water Management – A.M. Michael
Objective Agronomy – S.R. Reddy
Objective Agronomy – T. Yellamanda Reddy
Smart Agronomy – Ankita Gudge