ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute Recruitment 2026: Overview
The ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) has officially published a recruitment notification for the engagement of Project Associate I positions on a purely temporary/contractual basis. Eligible and interested candidates are invited to attend a walk-in interview scheduled for 27-10-2026. ICAR-IARI, widely recognized as Pusa Institute, is India's premier national institute for agricultural research, education, and extension. Working at IARI offers immense exposure to modern agricultural methodologies, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, and interdisciplinary research projects led by distinguished scientists.
Interested candidates possessing the required academic qualifications in Agricultural Sciences, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or allied disciplines are advised to read through the detailed eligibility criteria, age limitations, salary breakdown, selection framework, and attendance guidelines provided below before appearing for the walk-in recruitment process.
ICAR IARI Vacancy Details & Eligibility Criteria
The notification details temporary research positions created under competitive research schemes funded by institutional or external national bodies. Below is the detailed breakdown of the post, vacancies, and academic qualifications required:
| Post Title | No. of Vacancies | Essential Educational Qualification | Desirable Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Associate I | 02 | Master’s Degree / Post Graduate Degree in Agricultural Sciences, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, Plant Breeding, or allied discipline from a recognized university. | Knowledge of laboratory techniques, field experimentation, data handling, and bio-informatics tools is preferred. |
Key Qualification Guidelines
- Primary Education: Master's degree in the relevant subject with a minimum requisite percentage from an accredited institute.
- National Level Eligibility: Candidates who have cleared CSIR-UGC NET / GATE or national level examinations conducted by Central Government Departments and their Agencies (such as DST, DBT, DAE, DOS, DRDO, MHRD, ICAR, ICMR, IIT, IISc, IISER) will be given preference and designated standard higher fellowship scale.
Age Limit, Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Candidates appearing for the post of Project Associate I must fulfill the prescribed age specifications as on the date of the walk-in interview (27-10-2026):
- Maximum Age Limit (General Candidates): 35 Years for Men; 40 Years for Women.
- Upper Age Relaxation: Relaxable by 5 years for SC/ST and Persons with Disabilities (PWD), and 3 years for OBC candidates as per Government of India and ICAR rules.
- Document Proof: Class 10th (Matriculation) certificate or Birth Certificate will serve as standard proof for date of birth verification.
Pay Scale & Emoluments Structure
The monthly remuneration for Project Associate I is structured in accordance with DST/ICAR standard guidelines for project personnel:
| Post Category | Qualifications Standard | Monthly Emoluments |
|---|---|---|
| Project Associate I (Category-A) | Scholars selected through CSIR-UGC NET/GATE or National Level Examinations conducted by Central Govt Agencies. | Rs. 31,000/- + HRA per month |
| Project Associate I (Category-B) | Candidates who possess required educational qualification but do not fall under Category-A. | Rs. 25,000/- + HRA per month |
House Rent Allowance (HRA) will be paid at applicable rates depending on the station of posting, as per institutional rules.
Selection Process
The recruitment process for the 02 posts of Project Associate I at ICAR IARI is based entirely on a walk-in evaluation. The primary components of the selection process include:
- Document Screening & Verification: Candidates must present their original documents, mark sheets, certificates, and application form upon arrival at the venue. Screening will determine initial eligibility.
- Personal Interview: Shortlisted/eligible candidates will appear before a Selection Committee on the same day. The committee will evaluate candidates on academic foundation, technical grasp of subject matter, research aptitude, and communication skills.
- Written Assessment (If required): In the event of a high turnout of candidates, a preliminary screening written test may be conducted to short-list candidates for the personal interview.
Walk-in Interview Schedule & Venue Details
Candidates must carefully note the details of the venue, date, and reporting time to ensure hassle-free participation:
- Date of Walk-in Interview: 27-10-2026
- Reporting Time: 09:30 AM to 10:30 AM (Late arrival may lead to disqualification)
- Venue: Designated Division/Auditorium, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa Campus, New Delhi - 110012
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply / Attend Walk-in
Since this recruitment is via direct walk-in interview, applicants are required to follow these steps precisely:
ol>iari.res.in and navigate to the 'Contractual Jobs' or 'Announcements' section.Important Guidelines & Required Documents
Candidates arriving for the walk-in interview must bring the following documents in original as well as self-attested photo copies:
- Duly filled application form in the prescribed format.
- Proof of Date of Birth (Class 10th Certificate/Birth Certificate).
- All Educational Marksheets and Degree Certificates starting from High School to Post Graduation.
- Valid CSIR-UGC NET / GATE / National Level Test Result Certificate (if applicable).
- Caste/Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS) issued by competent authorities in prescribed format (if seeking age relaxation or reservation benefits).
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer, if currently working in any Government, Semi-Government, or Autonomous organization.
- Valid Photo Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License).
- Two recent passport-sized color photographs.