Syllabus for Agriculture Optional subject in UPSC:

The Agriculture optional subject is one of the popular choices among UPSC aspirants due to its relevance and scoring potential. The syllabus for Agriculture optional subject in UPSC consists of two papers - Paper 1 and Paper 2.

Paper 1:
1. Agroclimatology and Crop Ecology:
- Weather elements and their impact on agriculture
- Climatic classification and its influence on crops
- Crop adaptation to environmental factors
- Crop ecology and its relevance in agriculture

2. Genetics and Plant Breeding:
- Principles of genetics and their application in plant breeding
- Modes of reproduction
- Plant breeding techniques and methods
- Breeding of field crops, horticultural crops, and plantation crops

3. Plant Physiology:
- Plant cell structure and function
- Water relations in plants
- Photosynthesis and respiration
- Growth and development of plants
- Mineral nutrition and nutrient management in plants

4. Seed Technology:
- Seed production, processing, and testing
- Seed storage and seed quality management
- Seed certification and seed legislation

5. Plant Pathology:
- Causes and classification of plant diseases
- Principles of plant disease management
- Methods of disease diagnosis and control
- Integrated disease management strategies

6. Entomology:
- Insect morphology and physiology
- Classification and identification of insects
- Insect-pest management
- Beneficial insects and their role in agriculture

Paper 2:
1. Agronomy:
- Principles and practices of crop production
- Soil fertility and nutrient management
- Irrigation and water management
- Weed management
- Organic farming and sustainable agriculture

2. Agricultural Extension:
- Role and importance of agricultural extension
- Diffusion and adoption of agricultural innovations
- Extension methods and approaches
- Farm management and agricultural finance

3. Agricultural Economics:
- Micro and macroeconomics in agriculture
- Agricultural finance and marketing
- Agricultural price policy and subsidies
- Agricultural development and rural institutions

4. Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry:
- Soil formation and classification
- Soil fertility and nutrient management
- Soil erosion and conservation
- Soil testing and fertilizer recommendations
- Soil microbiology and biofertilizers

5. Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science:
- Animal genetics and breeding
- Livestock production and management
- Dairy science and technology
- Veterinary public health and epidemiology

6. Agricultural Engineering:
- Farm machinery and power
- Soil and water conservation engineering
- Post-harvest technology and food processing
- Renewable energy sources for agriculture

Note: The above syllabus is a broad guideline, and candidates are advised to refer to the official UPSC website for the most updated and detailed syllabus.