Agricultural Economics Govt Jobs 2026: Key Highlights
| Category | Recruiting Bodies | Typical Age Limit | Salary Range (Approx.) |
|---|
| Agricultural Economist/Analyst | Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, NABARD, State Agriculture Departments, ICAR | 21-30 years | Pay Level-7 (Rs. 44,700 - 1,42,400) to Pay Level-10 (Rs. 56,100 - 1,77,500) |
| Data Analyst (Agriculture) | NITI Aayog, State Planning Boards, Agricultural Research Institutions | 21-30 years | Pay Level-6 (Rs. 35,400 - 1,12,400) to Pay Level-8 (Rs. 47,600 - 1,51,100) |
| Project Officer/Manager (Agriculture) | State Agriculture Missions, Rural Development Dept., Agricultural Cooperatives | 21-35 years | Pay Level-7 (Rs. 44,700 - 1,42,400) |
Job Profile & Responsibilities
Professionals in Agricultural Economics within the government sector are tasked with a range of critical duties. These typically include:
- Conducting economic analysis of agricultural production, distribution, and consumption patterns.
- Developing and evaluating agricultural policies and programs related to farming, crops, livestock, and rural development.
- Forecasting market trends, price fluctuations, and their impact on the agricultural sector.
- Assisting in the formulation of strategies for enhancing farm productivity and farmer income.
- Analyzing data related to agricultural exports and imports, and trade policies.
- Researching and advising on the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices and resource management.
- Preparing reports, policy briefs, and presentations for senior officials and stakeholders.
Eligibility Criteria (Detailed)
To be considered for government roles in Agricultural Economics, candidates generally need to meet the following criteria:
Educational Qualification:
- A Master's degree (M.A./M.Sc.) in Agricultural Economics, Economics with specialization in Agriculture, or a related field from a recognized university is typically required.
- In some cases, a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture with a Master's in Economics or an equivalent qualification might be considered.
- Specific research or project roles may require a Ph.D.
Age Limit:
- The general age limit for most government positions ranges from 21 to 30 years.
- Relaxations are applicable for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC) and persons with disabilities as per government norms. (Often up to 3 years for OBC, 5 years for SC/ST).
Experience:
- Entry-level positions may not require prior experience, but research, analytical, or project-specific roles might prefer candidates with a few years of experience in the field, often gained through internships or academic projects.
Selection Process & Exam Pattern
The selection process for Agricultural Economics jobs in government organizations is competitive and usually involves multiple stages:
- Phase 1: Written Examination
- Objective Type Test: Assesses knowledge in Agricultural Economics, General Economics, Statistics, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, and English.
- Descriptive Type Test: Evaluates analytical and writing skills on subjects related to agricultural policy, economic issues, and current affairs.
- Common Syllabus Topics: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Agricultural Markets and Prices, Agricultural Policy and Development, Statistics and Econometrics, Indian Economy, Rural Development, and basic concepts of Agriculture.
- Phase 2: Skill Test / Interview
- Personal Interview: Assesses subject matter expertise, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and suitability for the role.
- Skill Test (If applicable): May include data analysis, presentation skills, or computer proficiency tests for specific roles.
Salary Structure & Allowances
Government jobs in Agricultural Economics offer a stable and attractive salary package. The remuneration is determined by the Pay Commission recommendations and the specific Pay Level of the post.
- Basic Pay: Ranges typically from Pay Level-7 (approx. Rs. 44,700) to Pay Level-10 (approx. Rs. 56,100) or higher for senior positions.
- Allowances: In addition to basic pay, employees receive Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA which varies by city), Travel Allowance (TA), and other benefits as per government rules, significantly increasing the in-hand salary.
- Grade Pay: Entitlements are aligned with the pay matrix, including applicable Grade Pay.
How to Apply
Government vacancies for Agricultural Economists are typically advertised through:
- UPSC (Union Public Service Commission): For central government ministries and departments (e.g., Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, NITI Aayog).
- State Public Service Commissions (e.g., UPPSC, MPSC, BPSC): For state agriculture departments, rural development agencies, and state agricultural universities.
- NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development): Recruits for specialist officer roles.
- ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research): For research and administrative positions within its network.
- Direct Recruitment Notifications: Some organizations issue their own specific recruitment notices on their official websites.
Candidates should regularly monitor the 'Recruitment' or 'Careers' sections of these official websites and prominent national/state employment news portals such as 'Employment News' (Rozgar Samachar).