The University of Agricultural Sciences Bangalore (UAS-B) has introduced three new undergraduate programs for academic year 2026-27, including a Bachelor of Science in Natural Farming,marking a first for state . The other two programs are BSc in Forestry and BSc in Biotechnology,aimed at addressing growing interest in sustainable agricultural practices.
Vice-Chancellor S.V. Suresha emphasized the importance of natural farming, stating that both students and faculty have expressed a strong desire for such a course. He noted that research into job opportunities revealed significant demand from start-ups and corporations for graduates skilled in natural farming techniques. “Currently,the undergraduate programmes that we offer are mix of both conventional farming and natural farming,” he explained.
Concerns over pesticide use have prompted this shift towards natural farming. Suresha pointed out that various studies indicate pesticides pose health risks,including developmental delays in children and neurological damage across age groups. Additionally,these chemicals harm beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs,which are crucial for pollination, and contribute to soil and water contamination. “This is where natural farming plays an important role,” he added .
Initially,UAS-B will limit enrollment to 60 students for each of the three new programs. The BSc in Forestry is particularly noteworthy,as only two institutions in Karnataka offer comprehensive forestry education, including undergraduate, postgraduate,and doctoral programs. These are the College of Forestry at Ponnampet, affiliated with the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR),and the College of Forestry in Sirsi, which is part of UAS in Dharwad. Many students have expressed a preference for studying at UAS Bengaluru, especially those aspiring to join the Indian Forest Service (IFS).
The forestry program will cover essential topics such as Silviculture and Agro Forestry,teaching students to integrate crop cultivation,livestock management,and timber production. Suresha noted that this initiative will particularly benefit students from regions like Kolar,Mandya,Ramanagara,Chickballapur, and Doddaballapur,who are eager for educational opportunities in this field.
