UAS-B launches new UG programs in natural agriculture, forestry and biotechnology

Subsistence farming is a must and many students and faculty members from across the state have submitted their proposals to start this course, says SV Suresha, Vice Chancellor, UAS-B. | Photo credit: FILE PHOTO

The Bangalore University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS-B) has launched a new undergraduate program, BSc in Natural Agriculture, for the academic year 2026-27 for the first time in the state.

In addition, it has launched two other programmes, including a BSc in Forestry and a BSc in Biotechnology.

Speaking to The Hindu, SV Suresha, Vice-Chancellor, UAS-B, said, “Natural agriculture is a must for every class and many students and faculty members from across the state have submitted their proposals to start this course. We have also done our research on job prospects and analyzed that many start-ups and corporates who are currently studying on the farms we offer to graduates are studying natural programmes. a combination of conventional and natural agriculture.”

Professor Suresha said: “On the other hand, various research studies conducted by universities have shown how pesticide use poses significant disease risks to humans, agricultural workers and the environment. It is associated with developmental delays in children and neurological damage across different age groups. In addition, it kills bees and ladybugs, which reduces pollination, causes soil and water contamination where the natural role of the farm plays an important role.”

Prof. Suresha also said that initially the intake of students is limited to only 60 students for all the three programmes.

“As for BSc in Forestry, only two institutions in Karnataka have UG, PG and PhD programs in forestry. These include the College of Forestry at Ponnampet, Kodagu, affiliated to the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the College of Forestry at Sirsi, affiliated to UAS, Dharwad and includes this course for most students at U Silvgal Benture. Agro Forestry and other concepts that teach students to combine crop cultivation, livestock and timber production Students aspiring for Indian Forest Service (IFS) usually prefer this programme,” he said, adding that students from Kolar, Mandya, Ramanagara, Chickballapur, Doddaballapur will benefit from it.

Published – 31 May 2026 22:40 IST