ICAR IIMR SRF recruitment 2026 is open for one Senior Research Fellow position under the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project at the Indian Institute of Millets Research, Hyderabad. The selected candidate will earn Rs.37,000 per month + HRA on a contractual basis till 31 March 2027. If you hold a post-graduation in Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Extension, Agricultural Economics, or related fields, this walk-in interview on 22nd September 2026 is your chance to join India’s Global Centre of Excellence on Millets (Shree Anna).
This guide is for agriculture post-graduates, agribusiness professionals, and FPO workers aged 21–35 years looking for government-linked research contract jobs in 2026. Below you will find the complete salary breakdown, eligibility criteria, step-by-step walk-in process, important dates, and all official links you need to apply.
ICAR IIMR SRF recruitment 2026 invites PG-qualified agriculture professionals to walk in on 22 September 2026 at 10:30 AM at Rajendranagar, Hyderabad for 1 Senior Research Fellow vacancy under the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project, offering Rs.37,000 + HRA per month till 31 March 2027. Report by 10:15 AM with filled bio-data, original certificates, and Annexure-I & II application forms.
- Recruiting Body: ICAR – Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), Hyderabad
- Post Name: Senior Research Fellow (SRF)
- Total Vacancies: 1 (One)
- Project: SFAC-FPO-Millets Project
- Salary / Emoluments: Rs.37,000/- per month + HRA
- Tenure: Till 31 March 2027 (extendable based on performance & funding)
- Place of Posting: FPO locations in Karnataka state or ICAR-IIMR, Hyderabad
- Interview Date: 22nd September 2026 at 10:30 AM
- Reporting Time: 10:15 AM (grace period 15 minutes only)
- Age Limit: Max 35 years (SC/ST & women: 40 years; OBC: 38 years)
- Application Mode: Walk-in interview — no online application
- Official Website: www.millets.res.in
📋 Table of Contents
- What Is ICAR IIMR SRF Recruitment 2026?
- Who Should Apply for This SRF Post?
- Salary & Emoluments Details
- Eligibility Criteria
- How to Apply — Walk-In Process
- ICAR IIMR SRF vs Other Research Fellowships
- Advantages & Disadvantages of This SRF Position
- Important Terms Related to ICAR IIMR SRF 2026
- Important Dates & Timeline
- Important Links
- Conclusion
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is ICAR IIMR SRF Recruitment 2026?

ICAR IIMR SRF recruitment 2026 is the official selection process by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Indian Institute of Millets Research (ICAR-IIMR) to recruit one Senior Research Fellow on a purely contractual basis for the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project. The selected candidate will work directly with Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) engaged in millet-based business development across Karnataka, or at the IIMR campus in Rajendranagar, Hyderabad.
ICAR-IIMR, officially designated as the Global Centre of Excellence on Millets (Shree Anna), is India’s premier research institute focused on all aspects of millet crop improvement, production technology, post-harvest management, and value chain development. The institute, located at Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500030, operates under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), which is the apex body for coordinating, guiding, and managing research in agriculture and allied sciences in India.
The SFAC-FPO-Millets Project is a joint initiative between ICAR-IIMR and the Small Farmers’ Agri-Business Consortium (SFAC), an autonomous society promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. SFAC is the nodal agency for the Central Sector Scheme for the formation and promotion of 10,000 FPOs across India. Under this project, the SRF will play a hands-on role in technology dissemination, millet-based business plan development, and FPO promotion — making this a unique field-oriented research career opportunity.
Who Should Apply for ICAR IIMR SRF Post 2026?
This walk-in interview is specifically designed for candidates with a post-graduate background in agriculture-related disciplines who want to contribute to India’s growing millet economy. Here are the 8 candidate profiles that are the best fit:
- 🎓 Agribusiness Management PG holders — PGDABM / MBA Agri / M.Sc. Agribusiness graduates seeking applied research roles with FPOs and value chains.
- 🌾 Agricultural Extension graduates — Candidates with M.Sc. or PG in Agricultural Extension who want field-based technology dissemination work in Karnataka or Hyderabad.
- 📊 Agricultural Economics post-graduates — Those with expertise in farm economics, market linkages, and rural enterprise development supporting millet FPOs.
- 🌲 Forestry Sciences PG holders — Graduates of Forestry Sciences seeking interdisciplinary roles in sustainable agriculture and FPO promotion.
- 🤝 FPO / Cooperative sector professionals — Individuals already working with Farmer Producer Organisations, rural cooperatives, or NABARD-linked FPO clusters wanting to upgrade to an ICAR research role.
- 🔬 Rural development diploma holders — PGDRD, PGDRM, or PGDAEM graduates from IGNOU or recognized universities eligible under the essential qualification criteria.
- 📍 Karnataka-based agriculture professionals — Candidates willing to be posted at FPO locations in Karnataka state, working directly at the grassroots level with millet farming communities.
- 🏅 Fresh PG graduates (2024–2026 batch) — Recent post-graduation completers who fulfill the 35-year age cap and want to launch their research career at India’s foremost millet institute.
ICAR IIMR SRF Salary & Emoluments 2026
The monthly emolument for the Senior Research Fellow at ICAR-IIMR under the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project is Rs.37,000 per month + HRA as per ICAR norms. The HRA (House Rent Allowance) component depends on the city of posting — Hyderabad (classified as Y-category city) typically attracts HRA at 20% of basic emoluments, while rural Karnataka FPO postings may vary as per government norms.
| Component | Amount / Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Emoluments (per month) | Rs.37,000/- |
| HRA (as per ICAR norms) | As applicable based on city / posting location |
| Effective Monthly Take-Home (est.) | Rs.40,000 – Rs.44,000+ (with HRA) |
| Annual Gross CTC (est.) | Rs.4.80 – Rs.5.28 Lakh |
| Contract Tenure | Till 31 March 2027 |
| Extension Clause | Extendable based on performance + project funding |
| TA/DA for Interview | Not admissible — candidate bears own travel costs |
| Nature of Employment | Temporary, purely contractual |
It is important to note that this is a contractual, project-based position. The selected candidate cannot claim regular appointment or permanent absorption into ICAR-IIMR or the funding agency (SFAC) at the end of the project tenure, as per the terms and conditions stated in the official notification.
Eligibility Criteria for ICAR IIMR SRF 2026
All candidates must meet the essential qualification requirements specified in the official notification before attending the walk-in interview. Certificates for both essential and desirable qualifications are compulsory — no exceptions will be made at the time of registration.
Essential Educational Qualifications
- Post-Graduation in Agribusiness Management from a recognized university
- Post-Graduation in Agricultural Extension from a recognized university
- Post-Graduation in Agricultural Economics from a recognized university
- Post-Graduation in Forestry Sciences from a recognized university
- PGDABM (Post Graduate Diploma in Agribusiness Management)
- PGDRD (Post Graduate Diploma in Rural Development)
- PGDRM (Post Graduate Diploma in Rural Management)
- PGDAEM (Post Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Extension Management)
Desirable Qualifications
- Working experience with Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)
- Hands-on experience in Technology Dissemination in the agriculture sector
- Prior involvement in Development of Millets-based Business Plans
- Experience in Formation & Promotion of FPOs at grassroots level
Age Limit (as per Government of India Rules)
| Category | Maximum Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 35 years |
| OBC (Other Backward Classes) | 38 years (3-year relaxation) |
| SC / ST | 40 years (5-year relaxation) |
| Women | 40 years (5-year relaxation) |
| PwD / Ex-Serviceman | As per GoI norms |
Documents to Carry for Walk-In Interview
- Duly filled Annexure-I bio-data form (with passport-size photograph affixed and signed)
- Duly filled Annexure-II declaration form (relative declaration)
- Original certificates from Class 10 onwards (Matriculation / SSC, HSC / 10+2, Graduation, PG, Doctorate if any)
- Self-attested photocopies of all mark sheets and certificates
- Experience certificates (original + self-attested copies) if applicable
- No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer, if currently employed
- Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar card / Voter ID / Passport)
- Caste certificate (for SC/ST/OBC candidates claiming age relaxation)
How to Apply — ICAR IIMR SRF Walk-In Interview Process 2026
There is no online application for this position. Candidates must attend the walk-in interview in person at ICAR-IIMR, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. Follow these steps carefully:
- Download the Application Form: Visit www.millets.res.in and download the official Annexure-I and Annexure-II forms. You can also download the notification PDF from the Telegram channel link provided by Agrijob.in: https://t.me/agrijob_in/793
- Fill the Bio-Data Form (Annexure-I): Complete all details — name, date of birth, address, Aadhaar number, mobile number, email, educational qualifications from Class 10 onwards, prior experience details, and any additional academic information. Affix a latest passport-size photograph and sign the form.
- Fill the Declaration Form (Annexure-II): Complete the relative declaration form confirming whether or not any of your relatives are employed at ICAR-IIMR. This form is mandatory — candidates without it will not be registered.
- Gather All Original Documents: Assemble original mark sheets, degree certificates, experience certificates, caste certificate (if applicable), and NOC from current employer. Prepare one set of self-attested photocopies of each document.
- Report to the Venue on Time: Reach ICAR-IIMR, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500030 by 10:15 AM on 22 September 2026. The grace period is only 15 minutes. Applications from candidates arriving after the grace period will not be accepted under any circumstances.
- Complete Registration: Submit your filled application forms and a set of self-attested copies at the registration desk. Show all original documents for verification at this stage and again before joining, if selected.
- Attend the Walk-In Interview: Appear before the Interview Panel at the designated time. Only candidates found eligible based on submitted documents will be allowed to proceed to the interview round.
- Await Result: The decision of the PI / Director, ICAR-IIMR is final. Selected candidates may be required to join immediately, so plan accordingly. No TA/DA is payable for attending the interview.
Carry at least 3 sets of self-attested photocopies of all certificates — one for submission at registration, one for the interview panel, and one as your personal backup. Candidates who submitted false information at any stage will face summary rejection or appointment termination as per official terms & conditions. Also note: if you are currently employed anywhere, an NOC from your employer is mandatory even if you are applying for this temporary contractual position.
ICAR IIMR SRF 2026 vs Other Agricultural Research Fellowships
How does the ICAR IIMR SRF for the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project compare with other popular research fellowships available to agriculture post-graduates in India?
| Feature | ICAR IIMR SRF 2026 (This Post) | ICAR Regular SRF (ASRB NET) | NABARD Research Fellowship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend / Salary | Rs.37,000 + HRA | Rs.35,000 + HRA (standard) | Rs.15,000 – Rs.20,000 (stipend) |
| Selection Process | Walk-in interview (direct) | ASRB NET exam + interview | Written test + interview |
| Contract Tenure | Till 31 March 2027 | Up to 5 years (project-based) | 1–2 years (study period) |
| Nature of Work | Field-based FPO & millet research | Lab / field research (varies) | Academic research / dissertation |
| Posting Location | Karnataka FPOs or Hyderabad | Various ICAR institutes | NABARD regional offices |
| Eligibility | PG in Agri / Agribusiness fields | PG + ICAR NET qualification | PG in Economics / Agri |
| Age Limit | 35 years (relaxation for SC/ST/Women) | 35 years | 25–30 years (varies) |
| Scope for Regular Job | Not available — purely contractual | Limited — project-based | No — fellowship only |
| Best For | FPO experience seekers, field workers | Lab research aspirants | PhD aspirants & academics |
For candidates with hands-on FPO experience or agribusiness management backgrounds, the ICAR IIMR SRF 2026 is one of the most attractive short-term research positions available in September 2026 — offering the highest stipend in its category (Rs.37,000 + HRA) with direct field exposure to India’s flagship millet and FPO ecosystem. While it does not lead to a permanent government job, it is excellent experience for future ASRB NET, NABARD, or state government positions in the agri-research sector.
Advantages & Disadvantages of ICAR IIMR SRF Position 2026
Advantages (Pros)
- ✅ Competitive Salary: Rs.37,000 + HRA per month is significantly higher than most state-level research fellowships and private agri-sector entry-level roles.
- ✅ Prestigious Institution: Working at ICAR-IIMR — India’s Global Centre of Excellence on Millets (Shree Anna) — adds high value to your CV, recognized at national and international levels.
- ✅ Direct Walk-In — No Exam Required: Unlike ASRB NET or IBPS, this position is filled through a direct walk-in interview, meaning no lengthy exam cycle or waiting period.
- ✅ Field + Research Dual Experience: The SFAC-FPO-Millets Project provides unique exposure to both grassroots FPO development work and institutional research — a rare combination in one role.
- ✅ Millet Sector Career Launch Pad: With millets gaining global importance as climate-resilient, nutritious crops under India’s Shree Anna initiative, this role places you at the center of a growing sector.
Disadvantages (Cons)
- ❌ No Permanency: The position is purely temporary and contractual — no claim for regular appointment or absorption in ICAR or SFAC can be made at any stage.
- ❌ Short Tenure: Contract is valid only till 31 March 2027 (approximately 6 months from the interview date of 22 September 2026), with extension conditional on performance and project funding.
- ❌ No TA/DA for Interview: Candidates must bear all travel and accommodation expenses for attending the walk-in interview at Hyderabad out of their own pocket.
- ❌ Location Uncertainty: Posting could be either at FPO locations in Karnataka state or at IIMR Hyderabad — the exact location is determined post-selection, which may require relocation.
Important Terms & Concepts Related to ICAR IIMR SRF 2026
Understanding these key terms will help you prepare better for the walk-in interview and demonstrate subject knowledge to the selection panel:
- ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research): Apex autonomous body under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India — oversees all agricultural research institutions including IIMR.
- IIMR (Indian Institute of Millets Research): Premier national research institute in Hyderabad dedicated to millets (Shree Anna), designated as the Global Centre of Excellence on Millets. Contact: 040-24599310; website: www.millets.res.in.
- SRF (Senior Research Fellow): A contractual research position in ICAR institutes, one level above Junior Research Fellow (JRF), typically requiring a post-graduation and offering Rs.31,000–Rs.37,000 per month plus HRA as per ICAR norms.
- SFAC (Small Farmers’ Agri-Business Consortium): An autonomous society promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. SFAC is the nodal agency for formation and promotion of 10,000 FPOs under the Central Sector Scheme and also oversees e-NAM linkages.
- FPO (Farmer Producer Organisation): A legal entity formed by primary producers (farmers) registered as a Company or Cooperative. FPOs help small and marginal farmers access better inputs, credit, technology, and markets collectively — a key instrument in India’s agricultural policy.
- HRA (House Rent Allowance): An additional allowance over the base emolument provided to government / ICAR employees based on the city classification. Typically 24% (X-cities), 16% (Y-cities), or 8% (Z-cities) of basic pay under 7th CPC norms.
- Shree Anna (Millets): The Government of India’s branding of millets as “Shree Anna” — promoted under India’s initiative during the International Year of Millets 2023 and continued under ICAR-IIMR’s Global Centre of Excellence for millet research and value chain development.
- Technology Dissemination: The process of transferring agricultural research outputs — improved varieties, production packages, post-harvest technologies — to farmers and FPOs at field level; a core function of the SRF role under this project.
- PGDABM / PGDRD / PGDRM / PGDAEM: Post-Graduate Diploma programmes in Agribusiness Management, Rural Development, Rural Management, and Agricultural Extension Management respectively — all recognized as equivalent qualifications for this SRF position as per ICAR criteria.
- Walk-In Interview: A direct recruitment process where eligible candidates attend an interview on the specified date and time without prior shortlisting — common for contractual positions in ICAR institutes.
Important Dates & Timeline — ICAR IIMR SRF 2026
| Event | Date / Detail |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | September 2026 |
| Walk-In Interview Date | 22nd September 2026 (Monday) |
| Reporting Time (Latest) | 10:15 AM (Grace period: 15 minutes) |
| Interview Start Time | 10:30 AM |
| Project Tenure Start (Expected) | Immediate joining after selection |
| Contract End Date | 31st March 2027 (extendable) |
| Venue | ICAR-IIMR, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500030 |
Important Links — ICAR IIMR SRF Recruitment 2026
| Link Name | URL |
|---|---|
| Official Notification & Application Form Download | www.millets.res.in |
| Notification PDF Download (Agrijob Telegram) | t.me/agrijob_in/793 |
| ICAR Official Website | www.icar.org.in |
| SFAC Official Website (FPO Scheme Details) | sfacindia.com |
| India.gov.in — Agriculture Ministry | www.india.gov.in |
| More ICAR Research Jobs 2026 | Agrijob.in — ICAR Jobs |
| Agriculture Research Vacancies 2026 | Agrijob.in — Research Jobs |
| All Hyderabad Agriculture Jobs 2026 | Agrijob.in — Home |
Conclusion
The ICAR IIMR SRF recruitment 2026 offers a strong Rs.37,000 + HRA per month opportunity for post-graduates in Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Extension, Agricultural Economics, Forestry Sciences, and related disciplines to work directly with millet FPOs and contribute to India’s Shree Anna mission. With no written exam and a direct walk-in format, the barrier to entry is low — but preparation matters, since all original certificates and filled forms must be ready on 22 September 2026. If you meet the eligibility criteria, attend the walk-in interview by 10:15 AM at ICAR-IIMR, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad — and carry everything the notification specifies.
Download the official notification now from Agrijob.in Telegram (t.me/agrijob_in/793) or visit www.millets.res.in for all updates. Bookmark this page — we update it whenever official data changes.
- ICAR IIMR is hiring 1 Senior Research Fellow under the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project via walk-in interview on 22 September 2026.
- Monthly emolument is Rs.37,000 + HRA — one of the best-paid SRF stipends for agriculture post-graduates in 2026.
- Essential qualification: PG in Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Extension, Agricultural Economics, Forestry Sciences, or equivalent PG diploma (PGDABM / PGDRD / PGDRM / PGDAEM).
- Age limit is 35 years (40 years for SC/ST and women; 38 years for OBC) — check your eligibility before attending.
- No TA/DA is provided — candidates must reach ICAR-IIMR Hyderabad by 10:15 AM on their own; late arrivals will not be entertained.
- Download the notification PDF and Annexure-I/II forms from Agrijob.in Telegram or www.millets.res.in immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions About ICAR IIMR SRF Recruitment 2026
What is the salary for ICAR IIMR SRF 2026?
The salary for ICAR IIMR Senior Research Fellow under the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project 2026 is Rs.37,000 per month plus HRA as per ICAR norms. HRA is calculated based on the posting location — Hyderabad or FPO locations in Karnataka. The effective monthly take-home is estimated at Rs.40,000 to Rs.44,000+, depending on the applicable HRA rate. No other allowances are mentioned in the official notification.
What is the last date to apply for ICAR IIMR SRF recruitment 2026?
There is no separate last date for application submission as this is a direct walk-in interview recruitment. Candidates must attend in person at ICAR-IIMR, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500030 on 22nd September 2026. The reporting time is up to 10:15 AM — candidates arriving after the 15-minute grace period will not be registered or interviewed.
What qualifications are required for ICAR IIMR SRF 2026?
The essential qualification for ICAR IIMR SRF recruitment 2026 is a Post-Graduation in Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Extension, Agricultural Economics, or Forestry Sciences from a recognized university. PG diploma holders with PGDABM, PGDRD, PGDRM, or PGDAEM are also eligible. Desirable qualifications include working experience with FPOs, technology dissemination, and development of millet-based business plans. Certificates for both essential and desirable qualifications are compulsory at the time of the walk-in interview.
What is the age limit for ICAR IIMR SRF 2026?
The maximum age limit for the Senior Research Fellow post at ICAR IIMR is 35 years for General / Unreserved candidates as per Government of India rules. Age relaxation is applicable — SC and ST candidates as well as Women get 5 years relaxation (maximum 40 years), OBC candidates get 3 years relaxation (maximum 38 years). PwD and Ex-Servicemen age relaxations follow GoI norms. Age is calculated as of the date of the walk-in interview, i.e., 22 September 2026.
Is ICAR IIMR SRF a permanent government job?
No. The ICAR IIMR Senior Research Fellow position under the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project is purely temporary and contractual in nature, co-terminus with the project. The appointment is valid till 31 March 2027 and may be extended based on the candidate’s performance and availability of project funding. The selected candidate cannot claim regular appointment or absorption into ICAR-IIMR or the funding agency (SFAC) at any point under the terms and conditions of this recruitment.
Where is the walk-in interview venue for ICAR IIMR SRF 2026?
The walk-in interview for ICAR IIMR SRF recruitment 2026 will be held at ICAR – Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad – 500030. The institute is also the Global Centre of Excellence on Millets (Shree Anna). For location details, contact the institute at Phone: 040-24599310 or visit the official website: www.millets.res.in.
What is the SFAC FPO Millets Project at ICAR IIMR?
The SFAC-FPO-Millets Project is a collaborative initiative between ICAR-IIMR and the Small Farmers’ Agri-Business Consortium (SFAC) — an autonomous society under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. The project focuses on supporting and strengthening Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) engaged in millet cultivation and value chain development, particularly in Karnataka. The SRF’s role involves technology dissemination, business plan development for millet FPOs, and promoting FPO formation and growth.
Will TA/DA be paid for attending the ICAR IIMR walk-in interview?
No. As per the official notification, no TA (Travel Allowance) or DA (Daily Allowance) or any other expenses will be paid to candidates for attending the walk-in interview at ICAR-IIMR, Hyderabad. All travel, accommodation, and related costs must be borne by the candidate independently.
Can I get a permanent job at ICAR IIMR after this SRF contract?
No direct pathway to permanent employment exists through this contractual SRF position. The official notification clearly states that the selected candidate shall not claim regular appointment or absorption in ICAR-IIMR or the funding agency at the end of the project. However, the experience gained while working at ICAR-IIMR on the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project significantly strengthens your profile for competitive examinations like ASRB NET, NABARD Officer, state agriculture services, and other government research positions.
Where will I be posted if selected for ICAR IIMR SRF 2026?
If selected, the place of posting will be either at FPO locations in Karnataka state or at the main ICAR-IIMR campus in Hyderabad, depending on the project requirements. The decision on exact posting location rests with the Principal Investigator (PI) of the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project and the Director, ICAR-IIMR. Candidates must be willing to accept either location and should be prepared for immediate joining as the institute may ask the selected candidate to report without delay.
Last Updated: September 2026 | Source: Official ICAR-IIMR Notification, SFAC-FPO-Millets Project | This guide is reviewed and updated regularly for accuracy. Bookmark this page for the latest information on ICAR recruitment 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, based on the official ICAR-IIMR walk-in interview notification for the SFAC-FPO-Millets Project. All vacancy figures, salary details, eligibility criteria, and dates are sourced from the official notification. Candidates are advised to verify all details from the official website www.millets.res.in before attending the walk-in interview. Agrijob.in is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes made by the recruiting authority after publication.






