Agronomist
Introduction:
Agronomy, a branch of agricultural science
is a practice that looks at agriculture from an integrated, holistic
perspective. It is the application of science and technology to agriculture to
boost the quality and yield of crops, and to solve problems with pests, weeds,
waste and resource management.
Agronomy encompasses work in the areas of
plant genetics, plant physiology, meteorology, and soil science.
Agronomists or plant scientists specialize
in producing and improving food crops while managing weeds and pests. They
develop innovative farm practices and technologies that not only improve crop
yields but also control pests and weeds and protect the environment. Their work
may involve managing crop planting and harvesting, and implementing more
efficient farming practices. Agronomists have to work on labs and on farms
regularly for checking soil samples and inventing better pesticides. They
educate the farmers about crop rotation and growing hybrid crops, recommend
usage of appropriate chemicals and fertilizers. Agronomists can specialize in
areas such as crop rotation, irrigation and drainage, plant breeding, plant
physiology, soil classification, soil fertility, weed control, and insect and
pest control.
Eligibility:
If we take the case of educational
background, an Agronomists should have a strong basic sciences and mathematics
skill. They should also have studied genetics, biochemistry, plant physiology,
entomology, soil fertility and other disciplines relevant to crops.
Professional agronomists may have bachelor's degrees, master's degrees or Ph.D
in Agronomy. Minimum requirement for an agronomist is a bachelor's degree in
agricultural science, agronomy, or a related topic.
A bachelor's degree is necessary to obtain a
rewarding and productive job. For plus two, you should select groups with
subjects like agriculture, biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, and
statistics courses, as well as broad-based general education courses, including
English and communication.
Job
prospects:
This is a promising career field as the
demand for food crops and agriculture yield will never decline as long as life
exists. Agronomists are generally employed in almost all sectors i.e in
research, production, consulting, management, business, education, government,
development, and international assistance. The work positions they are employed
range from district sales manager for seed companies, crop consultants for
independent and large companies, commodity traders, soil scientists,
environmental consultants, fertilizer and chemical salespersons, grain elevator
managers, precision agriculture specialists, agriculture loan officers,
production specialists, researchers and large farm managers.
Many agronomists are employed by seed
companies, lawn care companies. Some are employed by farm co-ops and even
agricultural banks.
Remuneration:
Pay scale in this field various with the
employer, qualification and the position of the agronomists. A beginner in the
field can expect salary range between Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 10,000. Those with 2 to
3 years of experience can get Rs. 10,000- Rs. 20,000 based on experience.
Courses:
» M.Sc. Agronomy
» Ph.D. Agronomy
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