Managers in agriculture, also known as agricultural managers or farm managers, play a crucial role in overseeing and coordinating agricultural operations. Here's a comprehensive overview of this career path in the Indian context:
Agricultural managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and supervising the daily activities on farms, ranches, or other agricultural establishments. Their primary duties include:
- Determining crop types and livestock to be raised based on market conditions and farm capabilities[16]
- Organizing and coordinating planting, cultivating, and harvesting activities[16]
- Managing farm personnel, including hiring, training, and supervising workers[16]
- Establishing marketing programs for farm products[16]
- Developing and maintaining financial and production records[16]
- Purchasing farm machinery, livestock, seeds, feed, and other supplies[16]
- Maintaining farm equipment and buildings[16]
- Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations[17]
Work-Life Balance: Agricultural managers often work long hours, especially during planting and harvesting seasons. The job can be physically demanding and may require outdoor work in various weather conditions. While challenging, the role offers the satisfaction of seeing tangible results from one's efforts.
How to Become Managers in agriculture -
To pursue a career as an agricultural manager in India, follow these steps:
- Education: Obtain a bachelor's degree in agriculture, agribusiness, farm management, or a related field from a recognized Indian university[1][19].
- Gain Experience: Work in various agricultural roles to gain practical experience in farming operations, crop management, and livestock handling[1].
- Develop Skills: Enhance your technical knowledge, business acumen, and leadership abilities through on-the-job experience and additional training[22].
- Certification: Consider obtaining relevant certifications, such as those offered by agricultural associations or management institutes[18].
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated on the latest agricultural technologies, sustainable practices, and market trends[22].
Skills and Competencies Required:
- Strong understanding of agricultural science and practices
- Business management and financial planning skills
- Leadership and team management abilities
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency in agricultural software and technologies
- Knowledge of sustainable farming practices
The agricultural sector in India is experiencing significant growth, creating ample opportunities for skilled agricultural managers.
Salary Range: Entry-level agricultural managers can expect to earn between ₹3-4 lakhs per annum, while experienced professionals can command salaries of ₹6-8 lakhs or more, depending on the scale of operations and location[25][26].
Career Progression: With experience, agricultural managers can advance to senior positions in larger agricultural enterprises, become consultants, or start their own agribusiness ventures.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook:
The Indian agriculture market is projected to reach $24 billion by 2025, creating numerous high-tech and management roles in agribusiness[7]. Key trends shaping the future of agricultural management include:
- Adoption of precision farming techniques and digital technologies
- Increasing focus on sustainable and organic farming practices
- Growing demand for agri-tech professionals
- Expansion of contract farming and agribusiness ventures
By 2030, the agricultural sector is expected to continue its significant contribution to India's GDP, potentially creating numerous job opportunities for skilled agricultural managers.
Citations:
[1] https://www.careers360.com/careers/agricultural-manager
[2] https://in.indeed.com/q-agriculture-farm-manager-jobs.html
[3] https://thecareerhub.brainwonders.in/careers/agricultural-manager-768
[4] https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-agricultural-manager
[5] https://www.cheggindia.com/career-guidance/bsc-agriculture-salary/
[6] https://in.indeed.com/career/farm-manager/salaries
[7] https://farmonaut.com/asia/unlocking-agribusiness-opportunities-top-agricultural-jobs-and-career-paths-in-indias-growing-sector/
[8] https://in.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/highest-paying-jobs-in-agriculture
[9] https://www.shiksha.com/business-management-studies/agriculture-food-business-career-chp
[10] https://au.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/farm-manager-responsibilities
[11] https://desagri.gov.in/about-us/role-functions-responsibilities-activities/
[12] https://thecareerhub.brainwonders.in/careers/agricultural-manager-768
[13] https://www.agrirs.co.uk/blog/2018/03/rural-jobs-farm-manager-role-in-detail
[14] https://www.careers360.com/careers/farm-manager
[15] https://in.linkedin.com/jobs/agricultural-manager-jobs
[16] https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/occupation/8785/ON;jsessionid=B644E268C99AA394F39BF556DCCFDE15.jobsearch74
[17] https://www.betterteam.com/farm-manager-job-description
[18] https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/agricultural-manager
[19] https://targetstudy.com/professions/agricultural-manager.html
[20] https://timespro.com/blog/a-comprehensive-guide-on-how-to-become-an-agriculture-officer
[21] https://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice/job-descriptions/agricultural-manager-job-description
[22] https://www.asmibmr.edu.in/blog/what-are-the-key-skills-required-for-an-agri-business-manager
[23] https://upsconline.nic.in/ora/Detail.php?post=MjAxNwHPXAY2MQZLAUCJDACA6IGKSQ3X5NWIFIKONCKA1ALXCC97ISXD&case=MjIwNw1O3C7AXACKHSL9AAIX5KMLZYCFNSQCJNUIVPG2D6WIXAXQIDCA&id=MQLOVSXIHNDIX2Q1ZWACIA6GCKXDFKPKMY53AS7IX9NQAUACCLJC
[24] https://mitwpu.edu.in/blog/the-future-of-agri-business--how-an-mba-can-give-you-an-edge
[25] https://in.talent.com/salary?job=farm+manager
[26] https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/agricultural-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,20.htm