Best Books for ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027

Choosing the right books is one of the most important steps in preparing for the ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 examination. Since the syllabus covers Genetics, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Seed Science, Plant Physiology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, and General Agriculture, candidates should focus on standard textbooks that build strong conceptual understanding and are widely recommended by subject experts.

Genetics

Principles of Genetics – Gardner, Simmons & Snustad

This is one of the most trusted books for Genetics preparation. It covers Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, gene interaction, linkage, population genetics, and quantitative genetics in a clear and comprehensive manner.

Plant Breeding

Principles of Plant Breeding – R.W. Allard

A classic reference book covering the theoretical foundations of plant breeding, selection methods, population improvement, and breeding strategies.

Plant Breeding: Principles and Methods – B.D. Singh

One of the most popular books among ICAR aspirants. It provides detailed coverage of breeding methods, hybridization, heterosis, mutation breeding, and modern breeding approaches.

Plant Pathology

Plant Pathology – George N. Agrios

Considered the standard international textbook for plant pathology. It covers disease development, host-pathogen interactions, epidemiology, and disease management.

Introductory Plant Pathology – R.S. Singh

A highly useful book for understanding fundamental concepts, important diseases, and disease management practices relevant to agricultural examinations.

Seed Science and Technology

Seed Technology – R.L. Agarwal

An excellent resource for understanding seed production, processing, storage, certification, and quality control.

Principles of Seed Technology – P.K. Agrawal

Widely recommended for competitive examinations due to its systematic coverage of seed science concepts and seed testing procedures.

Plant Physiology

Plant Physiology – Taiz and Zeiger

A globally recognized textbook that explains physiological processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, mineral nutrition, growth regulation, and stress physiology.

Fundamentals of Plant Physiology – V.K. Jain

A student-friendly book that covers essential plant physiology topics frequently asked in agricultural entrance examinations.

Agricultural Biotechnology

Introduction to Agricultural Biotechnology – R.P. Dubey

A useful book for understanding recombinant DNA technology, molecular markers, genetic engineering, tissue culture, and other biotechnology applications in agriculture.

Agricultural Microbiology

Microbiology – Pelczar, Chan and Krieg

One of the most comprehensive microbiology textbooks covering microbial classification, growth, metabolism, genetics, and agricultural applications of microorganisms.

Biochemistry

Lehninger's Principles of Biochemistry – Nelson and Cox

An authoritative reference for understanding biomolecules, enzymes, metabolism, molecular biology, and biochemical pathways.

Plant Genetic Resources

Plant Genetic Resources: Principles and Management – R.S. Rana and R.K. Tyagi

An important book covering germplasm conservation, genetic diversity, gene banks, and plant genetic resource management.

General Agriculture

Briefbook of Agriculture – R.S. Maitry

A concise and exam-oriented book that helps revise important agricultural concepts from multiple disciplines.

Agriculture Simplified for JRF Exam – S. Patel

A useful resource for quick revision and practice of agriculture-related topics relevant to ICAR PG JRF examinations.

Recommended Strategy

Candidates should not attempt to study every book cover to cover. For effective preparation, focus primarily on B.D. Singh for Plant Breeding, Gardner for Genetics, Agrios for Plant Pathology, Taiz and Zeiger for Plant Physiology, and standard notes for revision. Combine these resources with previous year question papers, mock tests, and regular revision to maximize your score in the ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 examination.

Subject-wise Important Topics for ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027

Genetics

• Cell Structure and Cell Organelles
• Mitosis and Meiosis
• Mendelian Genetics
• Chromosome Structure and Organization
• DNA, RNA and Genetic Material
• DNA Replication, Transcription and Translation
• Genetic Code and Protein Synthesis
• Mutation and Chromosomal Aberrations
• Cytoplasmic Inheritance
• Sex Determination Mechanisms
• Linkage and Crossing Over
• Gene Mapping
• Population Genetics
• Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium
• Quantitative Genetics

Plant Breeding

• Principles and Objectives of Plant Breeding
• Modes of Reproduction in Crop Plants
• Plant Introduction and Acclimatization
• Selection Methods
• Hybridization and Heterosis
• Backcross Breeding
• Recurrent Selection
• Mutation Breeding
• Polyploidy Breeding
• Wide and Distant Hybridization
• Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS)
• Molecular Breeding
• Breeding for Disease and Pest Resistance
• Breeding for Abiotic Stress Tolerance
• Variety Release and Notification
• PPV&FR Act
• Ideotype Breeding
• Quality Trait Improvement

Seed Science

• Seed Structure and Development
• Seed Maturation and Viability
• Seed Germination
• Seed Dormancy
• Seed Testing Techniques
• Seed Purity and Moisture Testing
• Seed Certification
• Seed Standards
• Classes of Seed
• Seed Production Technology
• Hybrid Seed Production
• Seed Processing
• Seed Drying and Storage
• Seed Deterioration and Longevity
• Seed Act and Seed Control Order
• Seed Marketing and Quality Control

Agricultural Microbiology

• Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Microorganisms
• Bacteria, Fungi, Viruses and Mycoplasma
• Sterilization and Disinfection
• Microbial Growth and Nutrition
• Biological Nitrogen Fixation
• Biofertilizers
• Microbial Interactions
• Symbiosis and Antagonism
• Nutrient Cycling
• Composting and Biogas Production
• Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR)
• Rhizosphere Microbiology
• Industrial Applications of Microorganisms
• Agricultural Microbial Biotechnology

Plant Pathology

• History and Scope of Plant Pathology
• Koch's Postulates
• Plant Disease Symptoms and Signs
• Fungal Diseases of Crops
• Bacterial Diseases of Crops
• Viral Diseases of Crops
• Rusts, Smuts and Mildews
• Wilts, Blights and Mosaics
• Disease Cycle and Epidemiology
• Disease Forecasting
• Host-Pathogen Interaction
• Disease Resistance Mechanisms
• Integrated Disease Management (IDM)
• Chemical Disease Control
• Biological Disease Control
• Major Diseases of Rice, Wheat, Cotton, Chickpea and Sugarcane
• Basics of Mycology, Bacteriology and Virology

 

ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 Exam Pattern

Understanding the ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 Exam Pattern is essential for effective preparation. The examination is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to postgraduate agricultural programs and the award of Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) in Plant Science disciplines.

Key Features of the Exam Pattern

• Mode of Examination: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Medium of Examination: English
• Duration: 2 Hours (120 Minutes)
• Total Questions: 120
• Total Marks: 480
• Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Marking Scheme: +4 marks for each correct answer
• Negative Marking: -1 mark for each incorrect answer

Question Distribution

The Plant Science paper consists of questions covering major disciplines related to plant sciences and agriculture. Candidates are expected to have a strong understanding of both fundamental and applied concepts from their undergraduate studies.

Marking Scheme

The examination follows a straightforward marking system:

• Correct Answer: +4 Marks
• Incorrect Answer: -1 Mark
• Unanswered Question: 0 Marks

Since negative marking is applicable, candidates should avoid random guessing and focus on attempting questions with reasonable confidence.

Duration and Time Management

Candidates are given 120 minutes to answer 120 questions, which means approximately one minute is available per question. Effective time management is therefore crucial for maximizing the score.

Some useful strategies include:

• Attempt easy and familiar questions first.
• Avoid spending excessive time on a single question.
• Keep the last few minutes for review.
• Use elimination techniques for difficult questions.

Difficulty Level

The overall difficulty level of the ICAR PG JRF Plant Science examination is generally moderate to difficult. Questions are designed to test conceptual understanding, analytical ability, and application of subject knowledge rather than rote memorization.

Important Points to Remember

• The examination is conducted entirely online.
• All questions are objective in nature.
• Negative marking can significantly affect the final score.
• Strong conceptual preparation is essential for securing a good rank and JRF fellowship.
• Regular practice of previous year papers and mock tests helps improve speed and accuracy.

A clear understanding of the ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 Exam Pattern enables candidates to develop an effective preparation strategy and approach the examination with greater confidence.

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ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 Eligibility Criteria

The ICAR PG JRF Plant Science exam is a highly competitive national-level entrance for admission to Master's programs in Plant Sciences and for the award of the prestigious ICAR Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). Understanding the eligibility criteria is the first and most important step for aspirants targeting ICAR AIEEA PG 2027.

Educational Qualification

To be eligible for ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027, candidates must have completed a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as:

• B.Sc. Agriculture
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture
• B.Sc. Horticulture
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Horticulture
• B.Sc. Forestry
• B.Tech. (Biotechnology) or equivalent

The degree should generally be of 4 years (12+4) or 5/6 years duration. Candidates with a 3-year Bachelor’s degree are not eligible for most seats under the ICAR-AU system, except for limited programs at ICAR Deemed Universities like IARI.

Final-year students appearing in their qualifying examination can also apply, provided they complete all degree requirements by the specified date (usually July 31 of the admission year).

Minimum Marks Requirement (OGPA/Percentage)

Candidates must meet the following minimum marks/OGPA in their Bachelor’s degree:

For General, OBC, EWS & UPS Categories:

• 6.60/10.00 OGPA
• 5.88/9.00 OGPA
• 5.22/8.00 OGPA
• 4.57/7.00 OGPA
• 3.92/6.00 OGPA
• 60% marks (where only percentage is awarded)

For SC, ST, PwBD & Third Gender Categories:

• 5.60/10.00 OGPA
• 4.98/9.00 OGPA
• 4.42/8.00 OGPA
• 3.87/7.00 OGPA
• 3.32/6.00 OGPA
• 50% marks (where only percentage is awarded)

No rounding-off of marks or OGPA is allowed. For example, 5.59/10.00 will not be considered as 5.60.

Age Limit

• Candidates must be at least 19 years old as on the date specified in the official notification (usually 31st August).
• There is no upper age limit for the ICAR PG exam.

Nationality

Only Indian Nationals are eligible to apply.

Additional Important Points

• The candidate’s university must be recognized by ICAR or a competent authority.
• For Plant Science group (Code 02), the qualifying degree should align with sub-subjects like Genetics & Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Seed Science & Technology, etc.
• Candidates must produce the final degree/provisional certificate and transcript at the time of counselling/admission.
• Relaxation in marks is applicable only for reserved categories as per Government of India norms.

Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee admission. Candidates must also secure a good rank in the ICAR AIEEA PG 2027 exam for seat allotment and JRF consideration.

Stay updated with the official notification on the NTA ICAR portal or ICAR website, as minor changes may occur for the 2027 cycle. Start preparing early if you meet these requirements.

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Overview of ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027

The ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 is a national-level entrance examination for admission to Master's degree programs in Plant Sciences and the award of the prestigious ICAR Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).

Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), this exam is popularly known as ICAR AIEEA PG Plant Science. It targets graduates who wish to pursue higher studies in disciplines such as Genetics and Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Seed Science & Technology, Agricultural Microbiology, and Plant Genetic Resources.

Why Choose ICAR PG JRF Plant Science?

• Access to top agricultural universities and ICAR institutes like IARI New Delhi, PAU Ludhiana, and UAS Bangalore.
• Financial support through JRF scholarship for the entire Master's program.
• Strong focus on research and practical skills in crop improvement, disease management, and sustainable agriculture.
• Excellent career prospects in research, academia, seed industry, and government sectors.

Key Highlights

• Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Duration: 120 minutes
• Questions: 120 Multiple Choice Questions
• Total Marks: 480
• Language: English
• Subject Group: Plant Sciences (Code 02)

Eligibility Criteria (Summary)

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, or related fields with the required OGPA/percentage as per category. Final-year students can also apply. Indian nationals meeting the minimum age criteria (usually 19 years) are eligible.

Exam Pattern

The test covers undergraduate-level knowledge with emphasis on core Plant Science subjects. There is positive marking for correct answers and negative marking for incorrect ones.

Syllabus Overview

The syllabus includes basic agriculture, genetics, plant breeding, pathology, microbiology, seed technology, and related topics. It is designed to test both conceptual understanding and applied knowledge.

Fellowship Benefits

Top rankers receive a monthly stipend of approximately ₹12,640 along with an annual contingency grant for two years.

The ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 offers a solid pathway for agriculture graduates to build a successful career in plant sciences. Stay updated with official notifications on the NTA and ICAR websites for exact dates and details. Start your preparation early for better results.

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ICAR PG JRF Plant Science 2027 Syllabus

 

Original Syllabus of ICAR AIEEA PG JRF – Plant Sciences

Code 02: Major Subject Group – Plant Sciences

Sub-Subjects ( 2.1 Plant Breeding & Genetics, 2.2 Plant Pathology, 2.3 Agricultural Microbiology/Microbiology, 2.4 Seed Science & Technology, 2.5 Plant Genetic Resources)

UNIT–I

1. Importance of Agriculture in national economy.
2. Basic principles of crop production.
3. Cultivation of Rice, Wheat, Chickpea, Pigeon-pea, Sugarcane, Groundnut, Tomato, Potato and Mango.
4. Major soils of India.
5. Role of N, P and K.
6. Deficiency symptoms of NPK nutrients.

UNIT–II

1. Structure and function of cell organelles.
2. Mitosis and meiosis.
3. Mendelian genetics.
4. Elementary knowledge of Photosynthesis, Respiration and Transpiration.
5. Structure and functions of Carbohydrates, Proteins, Nucleic acids, Enzymes and Vitamins.
6. Major pests and diseases of Rice, Wheat, Cotton, Chickpea and Sugarcane.
7. Their management practices.

UNIT–III

Microbiology & Genetics

1. Characteristics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.
2. Differences between Fungi, Bacteria, Mycoplasmas and Viruses.
3. Physical and chemical basis of heredity.
4. Chromosome structure.
5. Gene and operon concept.
6. Protein biosynthesis.
7. Transformation.
8. Recombination.
9. Heterosis.

Economic Botany & Plant Pathology

1. Elements of economic botany.
2. Integrated disease management.
3. Sterilisation, disinfection and pasteurization.
4. Koch’s postulates.
5. Etiological agents of Rusts, Smuts, Powdery mildews, Downy mildews, Wilts, Yellows, Mosaic, Necrosis, Enations, Blights and Witches’ broom.

Seed Science & Plant Physiology

1. pH and buffer.
2. Vitamins.
3. Role of plant hormones in Seed germination and Seed dormancy.
4. Pollination and fertilization in flowering plants.
5. Methods of seed testing.
6. Classes of seed: Breeder seed, Foundation seed and Certified seed.
7. Seed production in Self-pollinated crops and Cross-pollinated crops.

Agricultural Microbiology

1. Nitrate assimilation.
2. Biological nitrogen fixation.
3. Other uses of microorganisms in agriculture.

UNIT–IV

Agricultural Extension & Rural Development

1. Food and industry.
2. Composting and biogas production.
3. Important rural development programmes in India.
4. Organizational set-up of Agricultural research in India, Agricultural education in India and Agricultural extension in India.

Principles of Seed Technology by P.K.Agrawal

Summary Notes & MCQs of

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Principles of Seed Technology by P.K.Agrawal

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Outline

SN	Topic	MCQs
1	Introduction to Seeds	20
2	Seed development, maturation and chemical composition	20
3	Concept of seed quality and factors affecting it	20
4	Seed-borne diseases	20
5	Insects during production and storage	20
6	Nematodes associated with seeds	20
7	Seed production and certification	20
8	Seed processing	20
9	Tetrazolium test for seed viability
10	Seed testing
11	Seed storage and packaging
12	Cultivar purity test
13	Indian seed legislation
14	References

Major pests and diseases of rice, wheat, cotton, chickpea, sugarcane and their management.

Major pests and diseases of rice, wheat, cotton, chickpea, sugarcane and their management.



.

Structure and functions of carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes and vitamins.

Structure and functions of carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes and vitamins.


..

Elementary knowledge of photosynthesis, Respiration, Photorespiration, Transpiration.

Elementary knowledge of photosynthesis, Respiration, Photorespiration, Transpiration.


.

Mendelian genetics.

Mendelian genetics.

.

Mitosis and meiosis

Mitosis and meiosis

.

Structure and function of cell organelles

Structure and function of cell organelles


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Code 02: MAJOR SUBJECT GROUP - PLANT SCIENCES (SYLLABI FOR ICAR’S JRF)

SYLLABI FOR ICAR’S ALL INDIA ENTRANCE EXAMINATION FOR ADMISSION TO MASTER

DEGREE PROGRAMMES AND ICAR-PG SCHOLARSHIP/NTS (PGS)

Code 02: MAJOR SUBJECT GROUP - PLANT SCIENCES 

(Sub-Subjects: 2.1: Plant Breeding & Genetics, 2.2: Plant Pathology, 2.3: Agricultural Microbiology/Microbiology, 2.4: Seed Science & Technology, 2.5: Plant Genetic Resources) 

UNIT-I:  General Agriculture: 

1. Importance of Agriculture in national economy; 
2. Basic principles of crop production; 
3. Cultivation of rice, wheat, chickpea, pigeon-pea, sugarcane, groundnut, tomato, potato and mango. 
4. Major soils of India, 
5. Role of NPK and their deficiency symptoms.

UNIT-II: .

1. Structure and function of cell organelles; 
2. Mitosis and meiosis; 
3. Mendelian genetics; 
4. Elementary knowledge of photosynthesis; respiration, and transpiration; 
5. Structure and functions of carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes and vitamins. 
6. Major pests and diseases of rice, wheat, cotton, chickpea, sugarcane and their management.

UNIT-III: 

1. Characteristics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, 
2. Differences between fungi, bacteria, mycoplasmas and viruses; 
3. Physical and chemical basis of heredity; 
4. Chromosome structure; 
5. Genes/operon concept; 
6. Protein biosynthesis; 
7. Transformation, 
8. Recombination, 
9. Heterosis; 
10. Elements of economic botany; 
11. Integrated diseases management; 
12. Sterilisation, disinfection and pasteurization; 
13. Koch’s postulates; 
14. Etiological agents of rusts, smuts, powdery/downy mildews, wilts, yellows, mosaic, necrosis, enations, blights and witches- broom; 
15. pH, buffer, 
16. Vitamins, 
17. Role of plant hormones in seed germination and dormancy; 
18. Pollination/ fertilization in flowering plants; 
19. Methods of seed testing; 
20. Breeders, foundation and certified seeds; 
21. Seed production in self and cross pollinated crops, 
22. Nitrate assimilation; 
23. Biological nitrogen fixation and other uses of microorganisms in agriculture.

UNIT-IV: 

1. Food and industry; 
2. Composting and biogas production. 
3. Important rural development programmes in India; 
4. Organizational set up of agricultural research, education and extension in India.