The Textbook of Agricultural Entomology: A Handbook for ARS & SRF Aspirants by Dr. Amit Umesh Paschapur is a meticulously curated academic resource tailored for students and researchers aiming to crack prestigious competitive examinations like the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) in the field of agricultural entomology. Developed over a focused period from 2018 to 2025, the book reflects the author’s sustained academic engagement and in-depth understanding of the subject.
Structured as a comprehensive compilation of subjective questions and model answers, this textbook is rooted in the core syllabus prescribed by the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB). It spans all vital topics in entomology—ranging from insect systematics, morphology, anatomy, and physiology to pest ecology, host plant resistance, integrated pest management, apiculture, sericulture, vector biology, and other sub-disciplines. Drawing on insights from standard textbooks, scientific manuals, and competitive exam guides, the book stands out for its clarity, conceptual depth, and scientific rigor.
A standout feature of the book is its strict adherence to ASRB-recommended word limits for different categories of questions—50 words for 5-mark, 100 for 10-mark, and 150 for 15-mark questions—ensuring students are well-practiced in delivering concise and impactful answers. With over 1,000 curated questions, chapter-wise mock test papers, and exam-oriented content, the book serves as both a preparatory tool and a quick revision manual, equipping aspirants with a clear roadmap to success.
Behind this remarkable work is Dr. Amit Umesh Paschapur, a Senior Scale Scientist at ICAR–Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan in Almora, Uttarakhand. With a rich academic background that includes a B.Sc. in Agriculture from UAS, Dharwad, and an M.Sc. in Entomology from PJTSAU, Hyderabad, Dr. Paschapur is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in molecular entomology at ICAR–IARI, New Delhi. A decorated scholar, he has achieved top national rankings—12th in ICAR-JRF (2015), 1st in both ICAR-SRF and IARI Ph.D. entrance exams (2017), and 3rd in the All-India ARS examination (2018).
Dr. Paschapur’s research contributions include over 45 publications in reputed journals and 15 book chapters covering themes such as insect biodiversity, pollinator ecology, and pest management in mountain ecosystems. His current research delves into climate-resilient pest strategies and the conservation of non-Apis pollinators under changing agroecological landscapes. As a mentor and educator, he has guided countless students across India in navigating the challenges of agricultural competitive exams, gaining admiration for his insightful teaching and supportive mentorship.
This textbook, born out of his academic excellence and teaching experience, promises to be a trusted companion for every serious aspirant in agricultural entomology, combining depth, precision, and exam-readiness in one authoritative volume.