India, with its vast agricultural heritage and diverse climatic zones, has long been a hub for agricultural education and research. To support innovation and food security, numerous prestigious institutions across Indian states offer specialized courses in agriculture and allied sciences. These colleges not only equip students with theoretical and practical knowledge but also contribute significantly to research, sustainability, and policy-making in the agricultural sector. Whether you're aspiring to study crop science, horticulture, agribusiness, soil science, or agricultural engineering, choosing the right institution is crucial.
State-Wise List of Top Agriculture Colleges in India
Delhi (Central University)
Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi – NIRF #1 in the Agriculture & Allied category.
Punjab
Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana – NIRF #3; historic role in Green Revolution.
Haryana
Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (HAU), Hisar – Asia’s largest ag‑university; NIRF #7.
Uttar Pradesh
Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi – NIRF #4.
Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly – NIRF #5.
Chandrashekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology (CAU), Kanpur – State-acclaimed institution.
Uttarakhand
Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar – NIRF #8; strong UG and PG programs.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore – NIRF #6; highly reputed in South India.
Maharashtra
Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai – Top fisheries research institute.
Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani – ICAR ‘A’ Grade.
Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth (MPKV), Pune – Well-regarded for applied agriculture.
Andhra Pradesh
Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU), Guntur – Among top SAUs in South India.
Gujarat
Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh – Excellent B.Sc. Agriculture program.
Odisha
Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar – Oldest ag‑university in the state.
West Bengal
Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur – Renowned for agronomy and horticulture.
Uttar Banga Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Cooch Behar – Key university in North Bengal.
Bihar
Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour – Recently earned NAAC Grade ‘A’.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur – Strong in agri-research and academics.
Jharkhand
Birsa Agricultural University (BAU), Ranchi – Among top 40 as per NIRF.
Kerala
Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Thrissur – Premier institute in agro-ecological farming education.
Pursuing a degree in agriculture from one of India’s top institutions opens doors to diverse career opportunities in farming technology, research, agribusiness, environmental sustainability, and government services. Each of the listed colleges offers strong academic foundations, practical exposure through experimental farms, and linkages with the industry and policy ecosystem. From IARI in Delhi to TNAU in Tamil Nadu and ANGRAU in Andhra Pradesh, these institutions are shaping the future of Indian agriculture.
Aspiring students should consider factors like course specialization, location, entrance exams, and placement opportunities while making their choice. With the right guidance and institution, students can significantly contribute to transforming Indian agriculture into a more resilient and technology-driven sector.
