Indian Council of Agricultural Research

Indian Council of Agricultural Research or the ICAR is the autonomous and supreme body in the field of agriculture. Area of its work includes research and education related to agriculture. Through its vast network of thousands of employess, the ICAR has been working for the promotion of agricultural research in India.

General Body

The General Body, presided by the Union Agriculture Minister, is the supreme authority of the ICAR. Other members of the General Body include the Minister of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, senior provincial government officials, members of parliament, various scientific organisations and farmers.

Governing Body

The Governing Body, led by the Director-General, functions as the chief executive and decision making authority of the ICAR. Its members include agricultural scientists, legislators, eminent educationists and representatives of farmer community. Standing Finance Committee, Accreditation Board, Regional Committees and many scientific panels assist the governing body. The Director-General of the ICAR also functions as a secretary to the Union Government, providing advice in matters related to agriculture research and education.

Administrative Structure

Director-General of the ICAR is supported by eight Deputy Director-Generals heading sections like crop sciences, natural resource management, animal sciences, agricultural education, agricultural extension, fisheries, horticulture and agricultural engineering. The Secretary helps him in the administration while in financial matters, he is helped by the Financial Advisor.

Vast Network

The ICAR, employing about 30,000 people, has its offices and research centres in all parts of India. Several institutes, bureaus and project directorates work under the purview of ICAR. Thousands of agricultural scientists work in projects of the ICAR. The agricultural universities are also connected to the ICAR and take active part in teaching, research and education.

Recruitment

Agricultural Scientists' Recruitment Board (ASRB) works as an autonomous recruiting agency of the ICAR for its Agricultural Research Services, equivalent technical and research management posts. National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM) provides required training to new recruits.