The RLBCAU is engaged in basic, strategic and adaptive research focusing on problem being faced by the farmers of the country and particularly of the Bundelkhand region. This region is located in the heartland of the country and spread in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. It is characterized by undulating topography, predominance of gravelly and poor quality soils, traditional methods of crop production, lack of adequate infrastructure, and typical socio-cultural set-up.

Although the region receives a reasonably good annual rainfall (~800 mm) but it is highly erratic resulting in drought like situation in most of the years. The Bundelkhand region is considered a relatively backward in terms of agricultural research and development.

Traditionally, pulses, oilseeds, millets and coarse grains dominated agriculture as these crops required less water and can be grown under harsh environmental conditions. Among different vegetables, brinjal, okra, spinach, sem, seed spices etc. are known among cultivators. Livestock remain a strong component of the farming system. Among different breeds of milch animals, Bundelkhandi and Jamunapari breeds of goat; Bhadawari breed of buffalo; and Ken Katha, Tharparkar, Gir and Sahiwal of cow are commonly seen in the region. There are a number of small to large water bodies in the region and these offer ample scope for promotion of fisheries.