ICAR CRRI Young Professional-I Recruitment 2026: ₹30,000/Month Carbon Sequestration Research Job

ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI), Cuttack, is recruiting one Young Professional-I (YP-I) on a temporary, project-based basis for a nationally important carbon sequestration research project focused on incentivizing smallholder farmers in Odisha to adopt climate-friendly agricultural practices.

The position offers a consolidated salary of ₹30,000 per month and is open to candidates aged 21–45 years with a B.Sc. in Agriculture, Botany, or Zoology, with preference given to those having research experience, GIS/data analysis skills, and computer proficiency. The role involves field data collection, GIS-based analysis, report preparation, and collaboration with farmers and researchers, and will continue until project completion (expected August 2027).

Selection will be through a walk-in interview (and possible written test) on 16 January 2026 at ICAR-CRRI, with no prior online application required, making it an excellent career-building opportunity for early-career researchers interested in agriculture, climate action, and sustainability.

ICAR CRRI Young Professional-I Recruitment 2026: Complete Guide to ₹30,000/Month Carbon Sequestration Research Job

ICAR-CRRI is hiring a Young Professional-I for a carbon sequestration project in Odisha, offering ₹30,000/month via walk-in interview on 16 Jan 2026.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) – Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) in Cuttack, Odisha, is actively recruiting for a Young Professional-I (YP-I) position under an exciting carbon sequestration research project.

This is a premier opportunity for agriculture graduates and science researchers to work on a nationally significant initiative: “Paying Small Holder Farmers to Increase Carbon Sequestration by Changing Agricultural Practice: Evidence from Odisha.” If you’re seeking meaningful research work in the agricultural sector with a competitive salary and exposure to cutting-edge GIS and data analysis tools, this guide covers everything you need to know about the ICAR CRRI recruitment 2026.

What is the ICAR CRRI Young Professional-I Position?

The Young Professional-I (YP-I) role at ICAR-CRRI is a temporary, project-based position designed for early-career researchers who want to contribute to agricultural science innovation. Unlike permanent positions, this role is co-terminus with the project, meaning your employment continues until the project concludes in August 2027 or earlier upon project completion.

Project Name: Paying Small Holder Farmers to Increase Carbon Sequestration by Changing Agricultural Practice: Evidence from Odisha (EAP-470)

This research project focuses on environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation through agricultural practice improvements. Your contributions will directly impact smallholder farmer communities in Odisha and contribute to India’s carbon sequestration goals.

ICAR CRRI YP-I Salary and Compensation Details

The ₹30,000 consolidated salary includes all allowances and benefits. As a consolidated payment, no separate dearness allowance (DA) or other benefits are provided—the amount covers your total compensation package.

Eligibility Criteria for ICAR CRRI Young Professional-I Recruitment

Essential Qualification:

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Agriculture, Botany, or Zoology

This is a mandatory requirement. Your undergraduate degree must be in one of these three fields. If you hold a diploma in agriculture or a postgraduate degree, you still need to satisfy this essential qualification criterion.

Desirable Qualifications (Added Advantage):

• One year of research experience in a scientific project at any research institution
• Knowledge of IT applications and virtual meeting platforms
• Computer skills including:
  • MS Word
  • MS Excel
  • PowerPoint
  • Tally
  • GIS software (Geographic Information Systems)
  • Data analysis tools

If you have experience working with GIS software or data visualization platforms, your application becomes significantly more attractive. Given the project’s focus on carbon sequestration data analysis, familiarity with spatial data and environmental monitoring tools is highly valued.

Age Limit:

• Minimum: 21 years
• Maximum: 45 years (as on the date of interview: 16 January 2026)
• SC/ST/OBC candidates: Relaxation as per Government of India norms

Job Description and Daily Responsibilities

As a Young Professional-I at ICAR-CRRI, your primary responsibilities will include:

1. Collection of Experimental Data: You’ll be responsible for gathering field data from research plots and smallholder farmer sites in Odisha. This involves systematic sampling, measurement recording, and documentation of agricultural practices and their carbon sequestration outcomes.
2. Data Analysis Using GIS and Software: This is a critical component of the role. You’ll use Geographic Information Systems (GIS), statistical analysis software, and data visualization tools to process and interpret the experimental data collected. Experience with platforms like QGIS, ArcGIS, or R programming would be valuable.
3. Project Report Preparation: You’ll compile findings, analysis results, and research outputs into comprehensive project reports that meet ICAR standards. Clear technical writing and documentation skills are essential for this responsibility.

Work Environment: You’ll be based at ICAR-CRRI headquarters in Cuttack, Odisha, but field visits to farmer sites will be regular. The position involves both office-based analytical work and fieldwork.

ICAR CRRI Cuttack: About the Research Institute

ICAR-CRRI (Central Rice Research Institute) is one of India’s premier agricultural research institutions, located in Cuttack, Odisha. The institute is renowned for:

• Developing high-yielding rice varieties suited to Indian agro-climatic conditions
• Conducting groundbreaking research in sustainable agriculture
• Training agricultural professionals and researchers
• Implementing Government of India agricultural policies at the ground level

Cuttack, the administrative capital of Odisha, offers a rich agricultural research ecosystem and excellent connectivity to other major cities. Working at ICAR-CRRI provides excellent professional development opportunities and exposure to national-level agricultural research networks.

Interview Date, Time, and Location Details

Important Note: No candidate will be entertained after 10:00 AM. Arrive well in advance to complete documentation verification.

How to Apply: ICAR CRRI Young Professional-I Walk-in Process

Unlike traditional online applications, ICAR-CRRI uses a walk-in interview format for this recruitment. Here’s the step-by-step application process:

Step 1: Download the Biodata Form
Visit the official ICAR-CRRI website (icar-crri.in) and download the prescribed biodata form. Fill it completely with accurate information.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents in original and photocopy (xerox):

• Recent passport-size photograph (1–2 recent ones)
• Educational certificates (matriculation/10th onwards)
• Degree certificate (B.Sc. or higher)
• Experience certificates (if applicable)
• Caste certificate (if claiming SC/ST/OBC relaxation)
• No Objection Certificate (if currently employed)

Step 3: Arrive on Interview Day
Visit ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack on 16 January 2026 before 10:00 AM with all documents and the filled biodata form.

Step 4: Certificate Verification
Submit your biodata form along with photocopies of all certificates at the registration desk for verification.

Step 5: Written Examination (if applicable)
If a large number of candidates apply, a screening test may be conducted to shortlist candidates for the personal interview round.

Step 6: Personal Interview
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a personal interview assessing your subject knowledge, communication skills, and suitability for the project.

Step 7: Skill Assessment (Possible)
ICAR-CRRI may conduct a skill test related to agricultural farm machinery operation, depending on the position requirements.

Important Terms & Conditions You Must Know

Before applying, understand these crucial conditions:

1. Temporary Appointment: This position is purely temporary and co-terminus with the EAP-470 project. Once the project ends (estimated August 2027), your appointment automatically terminates. No absorption into ICAR-CRRI is guaranteed.
2. No Travel Allowance: No Traveling Allowance (TA) or Daily Allowance (DA) is provided for appearing in the interview. You must arrange your own travel to Cuttack.
3. Current Employment: If you’re currently employed, you must bring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer to participate in the interview.
4. Strict Punctuality: Candidates arriving after 10:00 AM will not be entertained under any circumstances.
5. Disqualification Grounds: Any form of canvassing, political influence, or unfair means will immediately disqualify your application.
6. Director’s Discretion: ICAR-CRRI Director reserves the right to:
   • Increase or decrease the number of positions
   • Cancel the recruitment process entirely
   • Modify interview procedures or requirements

Essential Skills You’ll Need for Success

Beyond the formal qualifications, several practical skills will make you successful in this role:

GIS and Spatial Data Analysis
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is central to carbon sequestration research. If you’re familiar with ArcGIS, QGIS, or even basic spatial data interpretation, you’re ahead. Many candidates lack this skill, making it a significant advantage.

Data Management and Excel Proficiency
Excel is not just a checkbox skill—it’s fundamental for organizing field data, creating data summaries, and preparing reports. Pivot tables, vlookup, and data visualization in Excel are practical daily tools.

Scientific Writing and Report Preparation
Your ability to write clear, concise technical reports determines how your research impacts stakeholders. Practice structuring findings logically and presenting data visually.

Virtual Communication Tools
Post-COVID, ICAR institutes heavily use virtual meeting platforms (Zoom, Google Meet, Teams) for coordination with partner organizations and presentation of findings.

Field Data Collection Techniques
Familiarity with standardized field methodologies, measurement tools, and data recording protocols ensures data quality. Training in agricultural survey methods is valuable.

Carbon Sequestration Research: Why This Project Matters

The EAP-470 project addresses a critical environmental challenge: climate change mitigation through agricultural practices. Smallholder farmers in Odisha often lack awareness and resources to adopt carbon-sequestering practices like:

• Conservation agriculture
• Agroforestry integration
• Soil carbon building techniques
• Water management optimization

This research project studies payment mechanisms to incentivize these practices among smallholder farmers. As a Young Professional, you’ll directly contribute to understanding what works, at what cost, and how to scale successful models across Odisha and potentially India.

This positions you at the intersection of agriculture, climate action, and development economics—areas of growing importance in India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Career Advancement After ICAR CRRI YP-I Position

While the YP-I role is temporary, it offers significant career advantages:

Pathway to Permanent ICAR Positions:
Many candidates use temporary project positions as stepping stones to permanent research roles. Demonstrating excellence in the YP-I position makes you a competitive candidate for future ICAR recruitment drives.

Resume Credentials:
Research experience at a premier institute like ICAR-CRRI carries substantial weight in academic and professional circles. This experience opens doors to:

• PhD programs in agricultural sciences
• Research positions at universities
• International research collaborations
• Agricultural development organizations

Professional Network:
You’ll build connections with established agricultural scientists, policymakers, and development professionals—invaluable for long-term career growth.

Skill Development:
Hands-on experience with GIS, field research methodologies, and report writing directly enhances your employability in agriculture, environmental consulting, and climate action sectors.

Interview Preparation Tips for ICAR CRRI Recruitment

Study These Topics:

1. Carbon Sequestration Basics: Understand what it is, why it matters for climate action, and mechanisms to incentivize it among farmers.
2. Odisha Agriculture: Familiarize yourself with major crops, farming systems, and smallholder farmer demographics in Odisha. Research recent agricultural policies and schemes.
3. GIS Fundamentals: Even if you don’t have hands-on experience, understand what GIS is, its applications in agriculture, and common data types used in environmental research.
4. Project Understanding: Download and read the full EAP-470 project proposal if available on ICAR’s website. Know the project objectives, expected outputs, and research methodology.
5. General Knowledge: Current agricultural news, India’s climate commitments, and government agricultural initiatives.

Common Interview Questions:

• “Why are you interested in agricultural research?”
• “How does carbon sequestration contribute to climate change mitigation?”
• “Describe your experience with data analysis or GIS (if any).”
• “How will you handle field challenges like farmer resistance or data collection difficulties?”
• “What do you expect to gain from this research project?”

Practice These:

• Mock interviews with mentors or colleagues
• Presentation of a project you’ve worked on (college project, internship, or research)
• Technical discussion on agriculture-related topics
• Problem-solving scenarios related to smallholder farmer contexts

Comparison: ICAR CRRI YP-I vs. Other Agricultural Research Positions

FAQs: Common Questions About ICAR CRRI Young Professional Recruitment

Q: Can I apply if I have a B.Sc. in Botany but no agriculture background?
A: Yes. B.Sc. Botany is one of the eligible qualifications. Your eligibility is confirmed, but emphasize relevant coursework (plant physiology, plant ecology, etc.) during the interview.

Q: Is it necessary to have GIS experience?
A: No, it’s listed as “desirable,” not essential. However, possessing GIS knowledge significantly strengthens your candidacy and makes the job easier once selected.

Q: What if I’m currently employed? Can I still apply?
A: Yes, but bring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer. The NOC confirms your employer allows you to attend the walk-in interview.

Q: Will I get permanent employment after the project ends?
A: No. ICAR-CRRI explicitly states no absorption guarantee. However, your experience positions you well for future permanent ICAR recruitment or other research institutions.

Q: Is there a written examination?
A: Only if many candidates apply. In that case, a screening test shortlists candidates for the personal interview.

Q: Can I negotiate the salary?
A: No. The consolidated salary of ₹30,000/month is fixed and non-negotiable for all selected candidates.

Q: What’s the work-life balance in field-based research?
A: Field-based agricultural research can be demanding, especially during harvest seasons or critical data collection periods. However, office-based analytical work provides some balance.

How to Stay Updated on ICAR CRRI Recruitment and Other Opportunities

Official Sources:

• ICAR Official Website: icar.org.in (for ICAR-wide recruitment)
• ICAR-CRRI Website: icar-crri.in (for institute-specific positions)
• Email Subscriptions: Subscribe to ICAR newsletters for timely updates on new recruitment drives

Job Portals:

• FreeJobAlert.com (track ICAR vacancies)
• LinkedIn (follow ICAR-CRRI official page)
• Indeed.com (search “ICAR jobs” or “agriculture research India”)

Building Your Agriculture Network:

• Join agriculture research forums and WhatsApp groups
• Attend agricultural conferences and seminars
• Connect with faculty from your college who have ICAR affiliations
• Follow agricultural research publications for industry trends

Conclusion: Seize This Research Opportunity

The ICAR CRRI Young Professional-I position for the carbon sequestration research project represents a meaningful opportunity to contribute to climate action while building a strong research career foundation. With a competitive salary of ₹30,000/month, exposure to cutting-edge GIS and data analysis tools, and the prestige of working at a premier agricultural institute, this is an attractive option for B.Sc. Agriculture, Botany, or Zoology graduates.

Key Takeaways:

• ✓ Walk-in interview on 16 January 2026 at 10:00 AM
• ✓ No prior application required—bring original documents and filled biodata form
• ✓ Temporary position (until August 2027), excellent for career building
• ✓ Competitive salary with direct research experience
• ✓ Skill development in GIS, data analysis, and agricultural research

Next Steps:

1. Verify you meet the essential B.Sc. qualification
2. Download the biodata form from icar-crri.in
3. Prepare your documents and interview responses
4. Plan your travel to Cuttack by 16 January 2026
5. Arrive before 10:00 AM with all required documents

This opportunity awaits qualified, motivated agricultural researchers ready to make a real-world impact on climate and sustainable farming. Apply today!