Agricultural Field Officer (AFO) Govt. Jobs 2026: Key Highlights
| Category |
Details |
| Role Name |
Agricultural Field Officer (AFO) |
| Common Recruiting Bodies |
NABARD, State Agriculture Departments, IBPS (for Public Sector Banks), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), National Seeds Corporation (NSC) |
| Usual Age Limit |
18-40 years (Relaxable for reserved categories) |
| Typical Salary Range |
Pay Level-4 to Level-7 (Approx. Rs. 25,500 - Rs. 1,12,400) per month, plus allowances |
Job Profile & Responsibilities
The primary responsibility of an Agricultural Field Officer is to provide guidance and support to farmers. Key duties include:
- Disseminating information about new agricultural techniques, government schemes, and subsidies.
- Conducting field inspections and surveys to assess crop health, soil conditions, and pest infestations.
- Promoting the use of improved seeds, fertilizers, and modern farming equipment.
- Organizing farmer training programs and workshops.
- Monitoring the implementation of agricultural development projects.
- Collecting data on crop yields and agricultural production.
- Advising farmers on crop diversification and sustainable agricultural practices.
- Liaising with research institutions and agricultural universities.
Eligibility Criteria (Detailed)
Candidates aspiring for AFO vacancies in 2026 must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Typically, a Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, Veterinary Science, Dairy Science, or a related agricultural discipline from a recognized university. Some recruitments may also consider B.Tech in Agri. Engineering or similar.
- Age Limit: Generally, the minimum age is 18 years, and the maximum age is 30-40 years, depending on the recruiting body. Age relaxation is provided for SC/ST/OBC and PwBD candidates as per government norms.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India.
- Technical Skills: While not always mandatory, knowledge of local agricultural practices and proficiency in regional languages is often an advantage. A valid driving license may be required for field visits.
Selection Process & Exam Pattern
The selection process for AFO positions usually involves multiple stages:
- Preliminary Examination (Objective Type): Tests reasoning, quantitative aptitude, English, and general awareness. For some bank recruitments, agricultural awareness is also a section.
- Main Examination (Objective & Descriptive Type): Covers core subjects like Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, and relevant specializations, along with English.
- Interview: Candidates shortlisted after the written examinations face a personal interview to assess their knowledge, communication skills, and suitability for the role.
Common Syllabus Topics:
- General Agriculture (Agronomy, Soil Science, Crop Physiology)
- Horticulture
- Animal Husbandry & Dairying
- Fisheries
- Forestry
- Agricultural Engineering
- Agricultural Economics
- Plant Protection (Entomology, Pathology)
- Agricultural Extension
- Genetics & Plant Breeding
- Government Schemes & Policies related to Agriculture
Salary Structure & Allowances
Agricultural Field Officers are typically appointed at a pay scale corresponding to Pay Level-4 to Level-7 under the 7th Central Pay Commission. This means a basic pay ranging from approximately Rs. 25,500 to Rs. 1,12,400 per month. In addition to the basic pay, AFOs receive various allowances, which may include:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Travel Allowance (TA)
- Special Allowance
- Medical Reimbursement
The total in-hand salary can be significantly higher than the basic pay, making it an attractive career option.
How to Apply for Agricultural Field Officer Vacancies
Government agencies and public sector banks announce Agricultural Field Officer vacancies through official notifications released on their respective websites and in the Employment News. The application process is generally online:
- Visit Official Websites: Regularly check the 'Careers' or 'Recruitment' sections of the official websites of organizations like NABARD, State Agriculture Departments, IBPS (for bank jobs), etc.
- Find Relevant Notification: Locate the specific notification for the Agricultural Field Officer post. Read it thoroughly for eligibility, application dates, and exam details.
- Online Application: Click on the 'Apply Online' link. Fill in all required details accurately in the application form.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and other required documents in the specified format.
- Application Fee: Pay the application fee online through the available payment gateway (Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI).
- Submit and Print: Submit the application and take a printout of the submitted application form for future reference.