College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology Principal Dr. H. D. Rank shares an in-depth view of the institution’s evolution, academic programs and global exposure. With ICAR accreditation and top national rankings, it is shaping the next generation of agri-tech leaders ready to meet the challenges of climate-smart agriculture and global competitiveness.

Dr. H. D. Rank serves as the Principal and Dean at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh, a prestigious institution functioning under the umbrella of Junagadh Agricultural University, Gujarat.

In his leadership role, he oversees not only the administrative and academic functions of the college but also directs its expanding research initiatives. The college is committed to nurturing talent across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, offering B.Tech, M.Tech, and Ph.D. programs in various disciplines of agricultural engineering.

Research plays a crucial role here. The college is enriched with numerous research schemes, four of which are part of the All India Coordinated Research Projects (AICRP) funded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). These national-level schemes not only enhance the research environment but also offer substantial academic exposure and practical insights to students.

Reflecting on the roots of the institution, Dr. Rank shares that the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology was established in March 1984. For him, the connection is deeply personal—he belongs to the very first graduating batch and earned his degree in 1988. It is a matter of immense pride for him that many of his batchmates are now contributing significantly across agricultural universities, central and state government departments, and even in international institutions. Initially, the college was part of the Gujarat Agricultural University headquartered in Sardarkrushinagar, Dantiwada at that time. In 2004-05, the university system was reorganized into four separate agricultural universities, and since then, the college has functioned under Junagadh Agricultural University.

Elaborating on the academic structure of the college, Dr. Rank describes the B.Tech in Agricultural Engineering program as a convergence of engineering principles with agricultural applications. The aim is to equip students with the tools and knowledge required for sustainable, profitable, and climate-resilient agriculture. The curriculum is built on a strong foundation of specialized departments that each focus on a critical aspect of the field.

The Department of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering trains students in methods related to water harvesting, efficient flood management, and groundwater recharge.

Next is the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering, which introduces learners to contemporary irrigation techniques—from micro and drip irrigation systems to automation through the Internet of Things (IoT), contributing to climate-smart agriculture.

The Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering plays a vital role in keeping students updated with the rapid advancements in agricultural mechanization. With constant evolution in farm implements and tractor technologies, students gain first-hand exposure to modern equipment and machine systems that are revolutionizing the farming landscape.

The Department of Agricultural Process Engineering deals with post-harvest aspects. Students here gain technical proficiency in storage solutions, agro-processing techniques, and value addition methods that are crucial for enhancing the market value of farm produce.

Another key focus area is the Department of Renewable Energy Engineering. As the global reliance on conventional petroleum-based energy wanes, the future lies in sustainable alternatives. The department empowers students with knowledge about solar, wind and bio-energy, and tidal energy systems, preparing them to develop and manage energy solutions that are both eco-friendly and efficient.

To keep pace with technological disruption across industries, the college has integrated specialized courses into its curriculum. Topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Drones, Internet of Things (IoT), and CAD-CAM have been introduced to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. These additions ensure that students graduate not only with agricultural expertise but also with modern technical skills that meet the evolving demands of the industry.

With its strong academic framework, cutting-edge research opportunities, and forward-thinking curriculum, the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology under Dr. H. D. Rank’s guidance stands as a model institution shaping the future of agri-tech and sustainable farming practices in India.

Continuing from the academic structure and innovation-driven curriculum at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Dr. H. D. Rank goes on to detail the admission process—an equally robust and inclusive system designed to ensure transparency and accessibility for aspiring students across Gujarat and beyond.

Admissions to this college, as well as to other agricultural engineering colleges under the four agricultural universities in Gujarat, are conducted through a Common Admission Test. This centralized system, known as the Gujarat State Common Admission Test (GUSCAT), allows students to apply online and select their preferred colleges under the respective universities. The entire process, from application to seat allocation, is managed digitally, ensuring fairness and efficiency.

Eligibility begins at the Senior Secondary Level. Students who have passed their Class 12 exams in the Science Stream with English as a subject are eligible to apply. This includes students from Group A (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics), Group B (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), and Group AB (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology). Regardless of the group, all students meeting these criteria can apply for the agricultural engineering degree program.

The merit-based selection process is carefully structured. Candidates from the open category, SEBC (Socially and Educationally Backward Classes), and EWS (Economically Weaker Sections) must have scored a minimum of 40% in their qualifying examinations. For SC (Scheduled Caste) and ST (Scheduled Tribe) candidates, the minimum requirement is slightly relaxed at 35%. The final merit is calculated by giving 60% weightage to the marks obtained in Class 12 and 40% to the GUSCAT score.

A noteworthy feature of the system is its inclusivity. The college reserves 25% to 30% of its seats for students admitted through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) quota. This national-level reservation allows students from across India to join the program, bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the classroom. It enriches the learning environment and encourages cultural exchange among students from different regions.

One important guideline Dr. Rank highlights is that students must appear for and pass the GUSCAT in the same academic year in which they seek admission. The score must be current and relevant to the year of application; previous years’ scores are not considered valid.

In addition to its academic provisions, the university also demonstrates a commendable commitment to supporting female education. Across all disciplines—not just agricultural engineering—girls are exempted from paying both tuition and hostel fees. This progressive policy reflects the university’s broader vision of promoting gender equality in higher education and empowering young women to pursue careers in Science, Engineering, and Agriculture without financial barriers.

With such well-defined admission protocols and student-friendly policies, the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology continues to foster a transparent, inclusive, and merit-based environment where aspiring minds are welcomed and supported at every step of their educational pursuit.

Building on the transparent and inclusive admission structure at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. H. D. Rank also emphasizes the institutional credibility that adds further value to the academic experience offered here.

Both Junagadh Agricultural University (JAU) and its College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology are accredited by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi. This accreditation stands as a hallmark of academic excellence, ensuring that the university maintains rigorous standards in teaching, research, and extension services in the field of agriculture and allied sciences.

Further reinforcing its standing in the academic landscape, Junagadh Agricultural University has consistently received a 5-star rating for the past three consecutive years under the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF). This prestigious recognition by the Government of Gujarat underscores the university's performance in multiple parameters including academic excellence, infrastructure, research output, governance, and student outcomes.

Principal Dr. Rank underlines this distinction to highlight that students at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology are not only part of a technologically advanced and academically rich program but are also embedded in a university ecosystem that consistently ranks among the best. This recognition serves as both an assurance to prospective students and a source of pride for the academic community that continues to drive the university’s mission forward.

In addition to its stellar 5-star GSIRF ranking, Junagadh Agricultural University has also been recognized on the national stage. In the India Today Survey 2024, JAU was ranked 31st among all universities in India, making it the only government university from Gujarat to secure a place in this prestigious list. This ranking reflects the university’s all-round performance, strong academic output, and its growing influence in agricultural research and education nationwide.

Building on its series of remarkable accolades, the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology has continued to make its presence felt both within Gujarat and across the nation. In the latest rankings released by the Global Human Resource Development (GHRD) Centre, the college secured the 2nd position in Gujarat, reaffirming its stature as a state leader in agricultural engineering education.

Expanding its influence further, the college also achieved the 4th rank in Western India, a region that includes several prominent academic hubs. This recognition reflects the institution’s consistent performance, modern infrastructure, and the quality of its faculty and research initiatives.

On the national front, the college proudly stands at the 21st position across India, a significant milestone considering the competitive landscape of engineering institutions in the country. These rankings are not just numbers—they represent the collective effort of the college’s administration, faculty, researchers, and students who work with dedication to uphold the values of academic excellence, innovation, and societal contribution.

Such achievements reinforce the college’s mission to create industry-ready professionals who are well-versed in the latest technologies and deeply committed to the cause of sustainable agriculture.

Complementing its impressive rankings, the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology takes immense pride in its faculty members—a cornerstone of its academic strength and intellectual vitality. The college boasts a team of highly qualified educators and researchers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and unique expertise to the table.

The faculty is not only academically accomplished but also geographically diverse, representing various regions of India. This cultural and regional diversity enriches the learning environment, exposing students to a wide spectrum of perspectives and pedagogical approaches. Such representation also fosters an inclusive and vibrant campus culture, encouraging open dialogue and mutual respect among peers and mentors.

Further enhancing their credibility, several members of the teaching staff have been trained internationally through university-sponsored programs. These global exposures have allowed them to integrate some best international practices, cutting-edge research methodologies, and advanced technological know-how into the college’s academic framework. Their experience from abroad brings a global edge to the curriculum, ensuring that students are not just industry-ready for the Indian agricultural sector but are also equipped to compete and collaborate on global platforms.

This blend of cultural diversity, academic rigor, and global insight positions the college as a truly forward-looking institution, committed to nurturing the next generation of agricultural engineers.

Adding to its academic and faculty strengths, the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology is equally distinguished by its robust infrastructure that supports an immersive and future-ready learning experience. The campus is equipped with smart classrooms featuring central air conditioning, creating a comfortable and tech-enabled environment for effective teaching and learning.

All laboratories are fully furnished with the instruments and equipment prescribed by the 16th edition of the agricultural engineering syllabus, ensuring that students have hands-on exposure to industry-relevant tools. These well-maintained labs serve as vital platforms for practical training, experimentation, and innovation across all departments.

The college also houses a dedicated computer lab with over 200 computers, catering to both academic and research needs. This digital infrastructure empowers students to access advanced software, simulation tools, and data analysis platforms integral to modern agricultural engineering.

Understanding the importance of overall development, the college provides separate hostel facilities for boys and girls, each equipped with the necessary amenities to ensure comfort and safety. Beyond academics, student life is enriched through access to a gymnasium and a gymkhana sports ground, along with dedicated spaces for indoor and outdoor sports. These facilities foster a healthy lifestyle and encourage students to remain physically active alongside their academic commitments.

To further support extracurricular growth, the college features the Sardar Patel Sabhagruh and an auditorium, where students regularly participate in co-curricular and cultural programs. These spaces become vibrant hubs during university-wide events and student-led initiatives, offering platforms to showcase talents beyond the classroom and to build confidence, leadership, and community engagement.

Continuing from its extensive academic and infrastructural strengths, the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology further reinforces its commitment to practical excellence through a wide array of discipline-specific and advanced laboratories. As mentioned earlier, each discipline within the college is supported by its own dedicated subject-wise laboratory, ensuring that students gain thorough, hands-on experience aligned with their coursework.

In addition to these core labs, the institution has proactively established cutting-edge supporting labs that reflect the latest advancements in science and technology. Recognizing the growing influence of information technology and automation in modern agriculture, the college has set up a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab and a Precision Agriculture Lab. Here, students learn to work with technologies such as drones, IoT devices, and automated irrigation systems, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed for smart, data-driven farming practices.

The curriculum also includes CAD-CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing) training, a crucial skill for today’s engineering students, especially in designing agricultural tools and machinery with precision.

Another significant facility is the Remote Sensing and GIS (Geographic Information System) Lab, which introduces students to the application of satellite data for surveying natural resources. Given the increasing costs and complexities of manual surveying, this lab enables students to understand and utilize geospatial technology to conduct accurate, large-scale agricultural resource mapping and analysis.

Together, these state-of-the-art labs serve as a foundation for making each student not just an agricultural engineer, but a technologically competent professional ready to contribute to sustainable and innovative agricultural solutions.

The institution is not limited to B.Tech in Agricultural Engineering alone—it also offers advanced degrees that deepen specialization and research capabilities.

Students can pursue Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, a program designed to equip them with in-depth technical knowledge and practical solutions for sustainable resource management. For those aspiring to become research scholars or academic professionals, the college also offers Ph.D. programs in key disciplines such as Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, Process and Food Engineering, Renewable Energy, and Irrigation and Drainage Engineering. These postgraduate and doctoral tracks prepare students for leadership roles in innovation, research, and policy-making in agricultural technology.

A distinctive advantage for students here—and in all the colleges across Junagadh Agricultural University—is the opportunity to earn dual degrees through an international collaboration. Final-year undergraduate and postgraduate students can apply for the Dual Degree Program with Western Sydney University, Australia. Thanks to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two institutions, eligible students can graduate with degrees from both Junagadh Agricultural University and Western Sydney University within the same academic timeframe.

This global exposure not only enhances academic credentials but also broadens students' perspectives, helping them integrate best global practices with local agricultural needs.

Following the diverse and advanced academic exposure students receive at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, their career possibilities expand across multiple domains—government, private, and entrepreneurship.

He shares that after completing the B.Tech, M.Tech, or Ph.D. programs offered by the university, students can apply for various government positions, especially in central and state institutions. Key recruiters include the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) where different scientific roles—such as Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB) positions—are available.

Moreover, all four agricultural universities in Gujarat, along with several others across India, regularly recruit faculty members and researchers. Beyond academia, graduates also find roles in national banks, the insurance sector, and important government bodies like Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam, Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation, FSSAI, and the Food Corporation of India. These government roles offer strong stability and allow students to contribute significantly to the agricultural ecosystem at large.

In the private sector, the scope is equally dynamic. Students are placed in companies engaged in the manufacturing of tractors, farm equipment, and machinery. With the growing relevance of drones, robotics, and micro-irrigation systems, students well-versed in these technologies are in demand. Similarly, industries dealing with solar and wind energy, agro-processing, value addition, and food technology also recruit agricultural engineers trained at this college.

He emphasizes that even NGOs working in water conservation, groundwater recharge, and land and water resource management are actively hiring graduates who possess technical expertise in these areas. The IT sector is another emerging space where students are finding placements. As insurance and agri-tech companies incorporate tools like remote sensing and GIS to evaluate crop data, there’s a growing demand for agricultural engineers who can manage these technological applications. He notes that crop insurance assessments, for instance, are increasingly reliant on satellite data and automation, opening up new roles for tech-savvy graduates.

Students are also making a mark in custom hiring centers, agricultural consultancy, and most notably, in entrepreneurship. The college fosters entrepreneurial thinking through motivational talks, hands-on training, and exposure to market trends. As a result, several alumni have gone on to start businesses in tractor manufacturing, farm power solutions, irrigation equipment production, and pump industry, not only catering to Indian markets but also exporting their products globally. These ventures not only reflect the entrepreneurial spirit of the college but also contribute to foreign exchange inflow, enhancing both the state and national economy.

Through a curriculum that blends tradition with innovation, and training that empowers students to lead in diverse sectors, the college equips its graduates not just to seek opportunities—but to create them.

Building on this strong foundation of diverse career opportunities, the vision ahead is also deeply shaped by the feedback and expectations received from industry stakeholders, farmers, and seasoned entrepreneurs. The college maintains constant interaction with these communities to ensure its students remain aligned with real-world demands.

Dean Dr. H. D. Rank emphasizes that beyond technical qualifications, what truly sets a student apart is character. From conversations and collaborations with professionals in the field, one insight stands out clearly—industries want individuals who are hardworking, honest, and faithful. These three values, he believes, form the cornerstone of lasting success. In a world increasingly driven by qualifications and competition, being a good human being remains an irreplaceable trait. If students cultivate these qualities alongside their skills, they not only meet expectations but exceed them—and in doing so, build a future that is not just bright, but deeply fulfilling.

Looking ahead, he notes that the future of agriculture lies in automation and climate-smart technologies. With labor shortages becoming a growing concern and climatic patterns shifting unpredictably—marked by untimely rains, extreme temperatures, heatwaves, and cold spells—agriculture now demands more than traditional methods. Timely operations, from sowing to harvesting, must be supported by mechanization and smart planning.

Dr. H. D. Rank points out that while automation, robotics, and AI have already transformed sectors like manufacturing, IT, and logistics, agriculture is now poised for the same evolution. And that’s where agricultural engineering emerges as a powerful force—not only to mechanize farming but to make it sustainable, efficient, and resilient in the face of climate uncertainty.

With the rise of smart tools and automated systems, this sector offers not just job placements but the opportunity to lead innovation in rural development and food security.

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Principal and Dean Dr. H. D. Rank concludes by reaffirming his belief that Agriculture Engineering holds immense scope, not just as a discipline but as a path to secure livelihoods, drive economic impact, and shape a more prepared and prosperous tomorrow.