Tejas Prasanna

Agricultural Officer Who is an Agricultural Officer? The state and central governments have got several officers. An agricultural officer is also one among them who makes sure farmers and other agriculturists employ the best agricultural practices. They also ensure such practices are in line with the regulations prescribed by the government. The key objective of an agricultural officer is to collaborate with the farmers and other agricultural companies and improvise on existing agricultural methods. What are the Roles and Responsibilities of an Agricultural Officer? Agricultural Officers typically consult farmers and agricultural companies and businesses on the latest methods and technologies and how to leverage them. They constantly upgrade themselves by attending seminars and working with experts. Other responsibilities may include assisting NGOs and various other agriculture organizations with their problems. What are the Eligibility Criteria? An ideal agricultural officer should have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in agricultural engineering or agriculture. Although the educational qualifications for the two posts are nearly the same, there are several differences between them. One of the major differences lies in the experience required. Agricultural officers deal with everyday farming methods and so, they must have the ability to find effective solutions to various problems in such methods. They must also find new methods of farming that can help enhance productivity in terms of yield. What are the Skills required? Communication and interpersonal skills, persuasive abilities, keenness about agriculture, and sound knowledge of farming form the basis on which such officers can build their careers. In addition, an agricultural officer should also love working outdoors for long hours. What are the Costs Associated with pursuing a career as an Agricultural Officer? There are different courses in the field of agriculture. Also, there are several colleges and universities for the same. While the costs for pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate course vary from one college or university to the other, a typical B.Sc. course costs around INR 10,000 to 50,000 a year. How to Prepare for Entering into an Undergraduate or Postgraduate Course in Agriculture? The ideal candidate should have completed his or her schooling from a reputed or recognized school. Also, the candidates must meet the admission criteria outlined for the different courses and the colleges or universities. While most agricultural officers are undergraduates or postgraduates in agriculture or related fields, many of them are also BSc graduates in agriculture. Agricultural officers may also hold other degrees or may have pursued other undergraduate or postgraduate courses in addition to agriculture, although not mandatory. A BSc program or an undergraduate or postgraduate course in agriculture will help the candidates to acquire the required skills and knowledge, so they can have a successful career. Students of agriculture will acquire several skills which may include pest management, greenhouse management, plant anatomy and physiology, business in agriculture, animal science, and soil science. Several exams are conducted for the recruitment of agricultural officers. So, those keen on pursuing a career in the field can apply to them. People who have a love for agriculture and farming and those who have an urge to pursue a career can also go online and download the syllabus for the different courses. What is the Career Path for an Agricultural Officer? Most agricultural officers work for the state or central governments. However, some private companies or organizations, especially those in the agriculture sector, may also need them for various purposes. Additionally, Non-Government Organizations and other employers may also hire agricultural officers for their extensive knowledge about the latest technologies and products in the field. Also, several agricultural officers are self-employed and operate their own business consultancies. Their clients may include both the government and various private players who want to learn about the latest technologies and agricultural methods. What is the Average Salary of an Agricultural Officer? In the beginning, agricultural officers can earn between INR two and four lacs per year. Furthermore, Glassdoor also suggests agricultural officers can earn anywhere from INR 2.5 Lacs to INR 4 lacs per year. Who are the Top Recruiters? Many key players in the agriculture sector, both government and private, recruit the best candidates for the position of agricultural officers. Some key employers that hire such candidates include the Department of Agriculture, pest control companies, agricultural co-operation, corn-chandlers, and various other companies that manufacture different agricultural products.