PG Certificate Program in Dryland Agriculture

Master Dryland Agriculture with ABIDAT & BGU

The Post-Graduate Certificate in Dryland Agriculture at ABIDAT, in partnership with Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU), Israel, is designed to equip students with cutting-edge knowledge in sustainable farming, soil conservation, water management, and climate-resilient agriculture. Learn from leading experts in dryland farming and agrotechnology to prepare for high-impact careers in sustainable agriculture.

Why Choose This Program?

Taught by Global Experts

- Learn from top Israeli agricultural scientists renowned for their expertise in desert and dryland farming.
-Access BGU’s advanced agricultural research centers and experimental farms.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

-Covers sustainable soil and water management, precision farming, agri-tech innovations, and climate-smart agriculture.
-Hands-on, field-oriented training with a strong focus on real-world agricultural applications.

Pathway to a Master’s at BGU

-Top-performing students qualify for fully-funded second-year research at BGU.
-Successful students receive a Master’s degree in Dryland Agriculture from BGU.

Global Placement Assistance

Strong industry collaborations for internships and job placements in agribusiness, research institutions, and sustainability-driven organizations globally.

Program Structure
Duration

1 academic year (2.5 semesters).

Mode

Online, Offline, and Hybrid.

Hands-on Learning

Field-based projects, agritech innovation labs, and research-driven simulations.

Credit Transfer

Recognized under the Bologna Convention, ensuring international academic mobility.

Real-World Case Studies

Case 1 :

Transforming Desert Lands into Productive Farms

BGU researchers have pioneered desert agriculture techniques, converting barren lands into high-yield farming zones using advanced irrigation and soil fertility methods. ABIDAT students will engage in similar hands-on desert agriculture projects.
Case 2 :

Water-Efficient Drip Irrigation in Drylands

BGU-led research introduced micro-irrigation techniques that reduced water consumption by 60% while boosting crop yields. ABIDAT students will analyze and implement similar sustainable water management models.
Case 3 :

Climate-Resilient Crop Development

BGU’s agri-scientists developed heat-tolerant crop varieties suited for dryland environments. ABIDAT students may get to work on field trials and genetic adaptation strategies for crops suited to arid climates.
Why Choose Us

Eligibility & Admissions

Eligibility

Bachelor’s degree in Agrriculture, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Science, or related fields with 60% aggregate marks.

Fee Structure

₹2.75 Lakhs (payable in two installments).

Scholarships

Limited scholarships available for high-achieving students.

Intake Dates

15 March 2025 & 15 October 2025.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The program aims to provide in-depth knowledge of sustainable farming practices, soil management, and water conservation techniques in arid and semi-arid regions.

Graduates in agriculture or related fields are eligible. Professionals with relevant experience in agriculture can also apply.

Graduates can pursue roles as agronomists, agricultural consultants, policymakers, or researchers specializing in dryland farming systems.

Yes, the course includes hands-on training in dryland farming techniques, soil conservation, and water management strategies.

The PGCDS is a 1-year hybrid program, delivered through live online sessions and on-site practicals at the ABIDAT study center in Chennai.

es. Top-performing students are offered a direct pathway to pursue a fully-funded Master’s degree at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel, after completing the PGCDS.

The total program fee is ₹2.75 lakhs, payable in two installments. Limited scholarships are available for meritorious students.

Graduates can pursue careers in:

  • Climate-resilient agriculture

  • Agro-research & development

  • Sustainable farming projects

  • NGOs and international development organizations

  • Government and private agri-tech firms
    Placement support is offered for both Indian and international roles.

You gain:

  • Global exposure through mentorship from Israeli professors

  • Hands-on field experience at live dryland research farms

  • A pathway to advanced studies and international careers

  • Certification aligned with global sustainable agriculture goals

  • Access to Israel’s agricultural innovation ecosystem

Yes, international students are welcome to apply. Please contact the admissions team for specific application guidelines.

The course follows a hybrid model:

  • Live interactive online classes

  • On-site workshops and practicals at the ABIDAT research station in Chennai

Advance Your Career in Sustainable Agriculture