ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026 offers 1 Senior Research Fellow post at ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, under the NAIF scheme. The walk-in written test cum interview is on 15 October 2026 at 9:00 AM, with a monthly stipend of Rs.37,000 + 20% HRA (rising to Rs.42,000 + 20% HRA from Year 3).
- Organization: ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute (ICAR-SBI), Coimbatore
- Post Name: Senior Research Fellow (SRF)
- No. of Posts: 01 (One)
- Project: NAIF Scheme, Component 1 — Production Systems, Agribusiness & Institutions Impact Assessment of Agricultural Technology
- Stipend: Rs.37,000 + 20% HRA (Year 1 & 2); Rs.42,000 + 20% HRA (Year 3)
- Duration: Up to 31.03.2027 (likely to be extended)
- Walk-in Date: 15 October 2026 at 9:00 AM
- Venue: ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore-641007, Tamil Nadu
- Age Limit: 35 years (Men); 40 years (Women) — SC/ST/OBC relaxation as per Govt. of India norms
- Application Fee: Nil
📋 Table of Contents
- What Is ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026?
- Who Should Apply for ICAR SBI SRF 2026?
- Salary and Stipend Details
- Eligibility and Qualifications
- How to Apply — Step-by-Step Process
- ICAR SRF vs JRF — Key Differences
- Advantages and Disadvantages of ICAR SRF Position
- Important Terms Related to ICAR SBI SRF 2026
- Important Dates
- Important Links
- Conclusion
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026?
ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026 is an official notification issued by the ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute (ICAR-SBI), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, to fill one position of Senior Research Fellow (SRF) on a contractual basis under the NAIF (National Agricultural Innovation Fund) Scheme, Component 1. The project focuses on the “Production Systems, Agribusiness and Institutions Impact Assessment of Agricultural Technology” — a critical research initiative evaluating how agricultural technology transforms productivity and economic outcomes for Indian farmers.
ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute, established in 1912, is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious agricultural research institutes under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Located at Coimbatore-641007 in Tamil Nadu, the institute has over 110 years of excellence in sugarcane research, crop improvement, biotechnology, and sustainable agriculture. The NAIF scheme under which this SRF post is offered is funded by ICAR to foster agribusiness innovation and institutional impact in Indian agriculture.
The selection process is a walk-in written test cum interview scheduled for 15 October 2026 at 9:00 AM at ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore. Unlike competitive exams, this is a direct recruitment process — eligible candidates can appear without prior registration. The position is purely on a temporary, contractual basis co-terminus with the project, with an initial duration up to 31 March 2027, which is likely to be extended based on project requirements and the candidate’s performance.
Who Should Apply for ICAR SBI SRF 2026?
This SRF position is highly targeted — the right candidate has a specific academic and research profile. Here are the 8 profiles best suited for this opportunity:
- 🎓 M.Sc. (Agriculture) graduates in Agricultural Economics, Dairy Economics, or related disciplines with a 4 or 5-year Bachelor’s degree.
- 🏫 M.B.A. (Agri Business Management) holders from recognized universities looking to enter ICAR-funded research.
- 📊 M.Tech graduates in Agricultural Economics or allied subjects seeking a research career pathway with Ph.D. registration opportunity.
- 🔬 NET/GATE qualified candidates in agricultural sciences or economics who want government-affiliated research experience.
- 📚 CSIR-UGC NET or ASRB-NET holders with a 3-year Bachelor’s degree looking to leverage their qualification for ICAR research positions.
- 🌾 Agriculture graduates interested in agribusiness and technology impact research who want to assess how farming technology changes rural India.
- 👩🔬 Women candidates aged up to 40 years who qualify under the relaxed age limit — this notification specifically allows women up to 40 years.
- 📖 Aspiring Ph.D. scholars — selected candidates will be allowed to register for a Ph.D. as per ICAR guidelines under the UGC/ICAR-AU system.
ICAR SBI SRF 2026 Salary and Stipend Details
The ICAR SBI SRF stipend of Rs.37,000 per month (Years 1 and 2) plus 20% HRA is among the standard ICAR NAIF scheme remuneration rates for 2026. The stipend increases to Rs.42,000 per month plus 20% HRA from the third year onward. This is consistent with ICAR remuneration norms applicable across NAIF-funded SRF positions at all ICAR institutes in 2026.
| Year | Basic Stipend | HRA (20%) | Gross Monthly (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Rs.37,000 | Rs.7,400 | Rs.44,400/month |
| Year 2 | Rs.37,000 | Rs.7,400 | Rs.44,400/month |
| Year 3 | Rs.42,000 | Rs.8,400 | Rs.50,400/month |
Note: No TA/DA is paid to any candidate for attending the written test or interview. The position is on a whole-time basis. The selected candidate will be working full-time at ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore, and is not permitted to take up part-time employment elsewhere. There is no provision for re-employment after termination of the project — candidates should not expect pay scale fixation or absorption against any regular post.
Eligibility and Qualifications for ICAR SBI SRF 2026
The eligibility criteria for ICAR SBI SRF recruitment 2026 are clearly defined in the official notification (F.No: 14-23/2026-Estt., dated 05.10.2026). Candidates must meet ALL essential qualifications before appearing for the walk-in interview.
Essential Qualifications
- Masters Degree (M.Sc. Agri) or M.Tech in Agricultural Economics / Dairy Economics / M.B.A. in Agri Business Management with a 4-year or 5-year Bachelor’s degree
- OR — Candidates with a post-graduate degree in the above subjects with a 3-year Bachelor’s degree must additionally hold:
- NET or equivalent qualification such as CSIR-UGC NET / ASRB-NET/GATE
- OR selection through any Central Government Department and their Agencies or Institutions such as DST, DBT, DAE, DOS, DRDO, MHRD, ICAR, ICMR, IIT, IISc, IISER, etc.
Desirable Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics / Dairy Economics / Agri Business Management
- Publications in journals with impact factors or NAAS-rated journals
- Experience in climate change studies and carbon credits
Age Limit
| Category | Age Limit (as on 15.10.2026) |
|---|---|
| Men (General/EWS) | 35 Years |
| Women (General/EWS) | 40 Years |
| SC/ST/OBC (Men & Women) | Relaxable as per Govt. of India norms |
Eligibility Summary
- Gender: Men / Women / Transgender — all eligible
- Nationality: Indian citizens only
- Employed candidates: Must bring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer
- Awaiting-results candidates: Not eligible — must hold degree certificate (at least provisional)
- Application fee: Nil (no fee for any category)
How to Apply for ICAR SBI SRF 2026 — Step-by-Step Process
The ICAR SBI SRF 2026 recruitment follows a walk-in written test cum interview process. There is no online application form. Candidates must appear in person at ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore on 15 October 2026. Follow these 7 steps exactly:
- Download the Application Proforma — Download the prescribed bio-data form from the official ICAR-SBI vacancy page at sugarcane.icar.gov.in or use the Telegram notification link provided below.
- Fill the Application Form — Complete the bio-data proforma with your personal details, educational qualifications (from SSLC onwards), work experience, and community information. Paste a passport-size photograph in the designated space.
- Arrange All Original Documents — Collect all original certificates from SSLC onwards, one set of self-attested photocopies of each certificate, experience certificates (if any), NET/GATE certificate, and latest passport-size photographs.
- Arrange NOC if Employed — If you are currently employed, obtain a No Objection Certificate from your present employer. Candidates without an NOC will not be considered.
- Arrive 60 Minutes Before Reporting Time — Reach ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore-641007 at least 60 minutes before 9:00 AM on 15 October 2026 for document verification formalities. Candidates who arrive late may not be permitted to sit for the written test.
- Appear for Written Test cum Interview — The selection process consists of an in-person written test followed by an interview at ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore on 15.10.2026.
- Await Result and Joining — Selected candidates will be informed about joining formalities and must produce all original certificates plus a medical certificate at the time of joining.
Carry at least 2 sets of self-attested photocopies of every document. The written test for ICAR SRF positions typically covers your M.Sc. subject area — brush up on Agricultural Economics fundamentals, agribusiness concepts, and NAIF scheme objectives before appearing. Candidates failing to produce original certificates for verification will not be allowed to write the test, as per the official notification.
ICAR SRF vs JRF 2026 — Key Differences
Many candidates confuse ICAR Senior Research Fellow (SRF) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) positions. Here is a clear comparison to help you understand which post you qualify for:
| Feature | Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Qualification | M.Sc./M.Tech (Agri) with 4/5-yr B.Sc., or M.Sc. with 3-yr B.Sc. + NET/GATE | M.Sc./M.Tech (Agri) with 4/5-yr B.Sc., or with NET/GATE |
| Stipend (Year 1 & 2) | Rs.37,000 + 20% HRA = ~Rs.44,400/month | Rs.31,000 + HRA (varies by scheme) |
| Stipend (Year 3) | Rs.42,000 + 20% HRA = ~Rs.50,400/month | Rs.35,000 + HRA (after upgrade to SRF) |
| Research Level | Senior — independent research, report writing | Junior — supervised research, data collection |
| Ph.D. Opportunity | Yes — allowed to register Ph.D. as per ICAR guidelines | Yes — after upgrade to SRF level |
| Age Limit (Men) | 35 Years | 28 Years (typical) |
| Selection | Walk-in written test cum interview | Walk-in written test cum interview |
| Nature of Employment | Contractual, co-terminus with project | Contractual, co-terminus with project |
| Best For | Post-graduates with research experience, NET/GATE qualified | Fresh post-graduates entering research |
For candidates with M.Sc. (Agricultural Economics) or MBA (Agri Business) and NET/GATE qualification, the ICAR SBI SRF 2026 post offers a superior entry point compared to JRF — higher stipend, direct research responsibility, and immediate Ph.D. registration eligibility. If you hold the required qualification and are under 35 (men) or 40 (women), this walk-in on 15 October 2026 is worth attending.
Advantages and Disadvantages of ICAR SBI SRF Position
Advantages (Pros)
- ✅ Ph.D. Registration Allowed — Selected SRF candidates can register for a Ph.D. under the UGC/ICAR-AU system, making this a dual career investment.
- ✅ Competitive Stipend — Rs.44,400/month (gross) in Years 1 & 2 and Rs.50,400/month in Year 3, which is above the national average for agriculture research fellowships.
- ✅ Work at a Premier ICAR Institute — ICAR-SBI, established in 1912, is one of India’s most respected agricultural research institutes. This experience adds significant value to your research CV.
- ✅ No Application Fee — Zero cost to apply — no fees for any category, making it accessible to all eligible candidates.
- ✅ Direct Walk-in Selection — No lengthy exam cycle. The written test cum interview on 15 October 2026 gives immediate feedback and faster appointment.
Disadvantages (Cons)
- ❌ Purely Contractual — No Permanency — The post is co-terminus with the NAIF project. There is no provision for re-employment or absorption into regular ICAR posts after the project ends on 31.03.2027.
- ❌ No TA/DA for Interview — Candidates must arrange and fund their own travel and accommodation to appear at ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore — which could be costly for outstation applicants.
- ❌ Location-Specific — The post is fixed at ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Candidates unwilling to relocate should not apply, as the selected candidate must work on a whole-time basis at the institute.
Important Terms Related to ICAR SBI SRF 2026
Understanding key terms and concepts will help you prepare better for the written test and interview, and evaluate this opportunity accurately:
- NAIF (National Agricultural Innovation Fund): A flagship ICAR scheme designed to promote innovation in agriculture through competitive grant funding. Component 1 focuses on Network Projects for production systems and agribusiness assessment. Funding runs in multi-year cycles up to Rs.50 crore per network project.
- SRF (Senior Research Fellow): A contractual research position under ICAR schemes for post-graduates with demonstrated academic excellence. SRFs conduct independent research, assist project PIs, and may pursue Ph.D. degrees simultaneously.
- ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research): India’s apex body for agricultural research and education, functioning under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture. ICAR operates 113 institutes and 73 All India Coordinated Research Projects across India.
- ICAR-SBI (Sugarcane Breeding Institute): Established in 1912 at Coimbatore, ICAR-SBI is one of India’s oldest agricultural institutes. It developed mega-varieties Co 86032 and Co 0238, which together cover over 50% of India’s sugarcane acreage.
- ASRB-NET: Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board National Eligibility Test — a qualifying exam for SRF positions in ICAR institutes when candidates hold a 3-year Bachelor’s degree.
- CSIR-UGC NET: National Eligibility Test conducted by CSIR and UGC for research fellowships in science subjects — accepted as equivalent qualification for ICAR SRF positions.
- Agri Business Management (ABM): A specialized MBA program focusing on agribusiness strategy, supply chains, rural finance, and agricultural marketing. M.B.A. in ABM is an essential qualification accepted for this SRF post.
- Impact Assessment of Agricultural Technology: The research area of this NAIF project — it evaluates how new agricultural technologies (mechanization, precision farming, improved varieties) affect farm productivity, farmer income, and rural institutions across India.
- NAAS-rated Journal: A journal recognized by the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences India. Publications in NAAS-rated journals are a desirable qualification for this SRF post.
- HRA (House Rent Allowance): For this position, HRA is 20% of the basic stipend. At Rs.37,000 basic, HRA is Rs.7,400/month. At Rs.42,000, HRA is Rs.8,400/month.
ICAR SBI SRF 2026 — Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Date | 05 October 2026 |
| Walk-in Written Test cum Interview | 15 October 2026 |
| Reporting Time | 9:00 AM (arrive 60 minutes early) |
| Venue | ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore-641007, Tamil Nadu |
| Project Duration (tentative end) | 31 March 2027 (extendable) |
| No application deadline | Walk-in only — appear directly on 15.10.2026 |
Important Links
| Link Name | URL |
|---|---|
| Official ICAR-SBI Vacancy Page | sugarcane.icar.gov.in/vacancy |
| ICAR-SBI Official Website | sugarcane.icar.gov.in |
| Download Notification (Telegram) | t.me/agrijob_in/1030 |
| ICAR Official Website | icar.org.in |
| ICAR SBI JRF Recruitment 2026 (Related Post) | ICAR SBI JRF Recruitment 2026 |
| All ICAR Recruitment 2026 | ICAR Jobs 2026 on Agrijob.in |
Conclusion
ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026 is a well-paying, research-focused contractual opportunity at one of India’s most prestigious agricultural institutes. With a gross monthly stipend of up to Rs.50,400/month in Year 3, Ph.D. registration eligibility, and direct association with ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute’s landmark research legacy, this position is ideal for qualified M.Sc. (Agri Economics) or MBA (ABM) candidates under 35 years. The walk-in written test cum interview is on 15 October 2026 at 9:00 AM — no prior registration required. Arrive 60 minutes early with all original certificates and a completed bio-data proforma.
Bookmark this page for updates, and check the official ICAR-SBI vacancy page regularly for any last-minute changes to the interview schedule or venue.
- ICAR-SBI is hiring 1 SRF at Coimbatore under the NAIF scheme — walk-in on 15 October 2026 at 9:00 AM.
- Stipend starts at Rs.37,000 + 20% HRA (~Rs.44,400/month gross), rising to Rs.42,000 + HRA in Year 3.
- Essential qualification: M.Sc./M.Tech (Agri Economics/Dairy Economics/ABM) with 4/5-yr Bachelor’s, or 3-yr B.Sc. + NET/GATE.
- Age limit is 35 years for men and 40 years for women, with SC/ST/OBC relaxation as per government norms.
- Ph.D. registration is permitted for selected SRFs under UGC/ICAR-AU system — a major career advantage.
- No application fee. Carry original certificates + NOC (if employed) + passport photos to the venue.
Frequently Asked Questions About ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026
What is the last date to apply for ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026?
There is no last date for a written application. ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026 is a walk-in process. Eligible candidates must appear directly at ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore on 15 October 2026 at 9:00 AM with their bio-data and original certificates. No prior registration or online application is required.
What is the salary for ICAR SBI Senior Research Fellow 2026?
The ICAR SBI SRF stipend is Rs.37,000 + 20% HRA per month for the 1st and 2nd year, making the gross monthly emolument approximately Rs.44,400. From the 3rd year, the stipend increases to Rs.42,000 + 20% HRA, resulting in a gross of approximately Rs.50,400 per month.
Is M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics required for this ICAR SRF post?
Yes, the essential qualification is a Masters Degree — specifically M.Sc. (Agri) or M.Tech in Agricultural Economics / Dairy Economics, or an M.B.A. in Agri Business Management. Candidates with a 3-year B.Sc. and M.Sc. in the above fields must additionally hold a valid NET (CSIR-UGC/ASRB) or GATE qualification.
Can I register for a Ph.D. if selected as SRF at ICAR-SBI?
Yes. The official notification clearly states that the selected candidate will be allowed to register for a Ph.D. at a recognized university as per ICAR guidelines under the UGC/ICAR-AU system. Both the candidate and the guide/PI must follow the rules and regulations of both the institute and the university where the student registers.
What is the age limit for ICAR SBI SRF 2026?
The age limit for the ICAR SBI SRF 2026 post (as on 15.10.2026) is 35 years for Men and 40 years for Women. SC, ST, and OBC candidates are eligible for age relaxation as per the Government of India norms.
What documents should I bring for the ICAR SBI walk-in interview?
Candidates must bring: (1) Completed bio-data in the prescribed proforma, (2) All original certificates from SSLC onwards, (3) One set of self-attested photocopies of all certificates, (4) Experience certificates if applicable, (5) NET/GATE certificate, (6) Latest passport-size photograph, (7) No Objection Certificate from current employer if employed, and (8) A valid community certificate for SC/ST/OBC candidates claiming age relaxation. Candidates must arrive at least 60 minutes before 9:00 AM for document verification.
Is the ICAR SBI SRF 2026 post a permanent government job?
No. The ICAR SBI SRF 2026 position is purely temporary and contractual, co-terminus with the NAIF project. The engagement runs up to 31 March 2027 (likely to be extended), but there is no provision for re-employment after project termination. Selected candidates will not have any right to claim pay scale fixation or absorption against any regular ICAR post.
Is there an application fee for ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026?
No. There is absolutely no application fee for ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026. Candidates from all categories — General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS — can appear for the walk-in interview without paying any fee. However, no TA/DA will be paid for attending the written test or interview.
What is the selection process for ICAR SBI SRF 2026?
The selection process for ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026 is a Walk-in Written Test cum Interview to be conducted in person at ICAR-SBI, Coimbatore on 15 October 2026 at 9:00 AM. Candidates must appear with their bio-data and original certificates. The final selection is based on the combined performance in the written test and the interview.
Where is the ICAR SBI SRF 2026 walk-in interview venue?
The walk-in written test cum interview for ICAR SBI SRF Recruitment 2026 will be held at ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore-641007, Tamil Nadu. Candidates must report at least 60 minutes before 9:00 AM on 15 October 2026 for document verification and formalities. No TA/DA is provided — candidates must arrange their own travel and accommodation.
Last Updated: October 2026 | Source: Official Notification F.No: 14-23/2026-Estt., ICAR-SBI Coimbatore, dated 05.10.2026. This guide is reviewed and updated regularly for accuracy. Bookmark this page for the latest information.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For official and legally binding information, always refer to the original notification published by ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute at sugarcane.icar.gov.in. Agrijob.in is not affiliated with ICAR or any government body.
