KVK PIRENS Subject Matter Specialist (Plant — Job Details

About the Organisation

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Babhaleshwar, operating under the esteemed Pravara Rural Education Society (PIRENS), is a vital district-level Farm Science Centre. Established with the support of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), KVKs play a pivotal role in agricultural development and rural upliftment across India. The primary mandate of KVKs is technology assessment, refinement, and demonstration of agricultural technologies and products. They serve as a crucial link between agricultural research institutions and the farming community, ensuring that scientific advancements reach the grassroots level. KVK PIRENS is dedicated to enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable farming practices, and improving the livelihoods of farmers in the Ahilyanagar district of Maharashtra through various extension activities, training programs, and advisory services.

Role & Responsibilities

The Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection) at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (PIRENS) will be instrumental in addressing challenges related to crop pests and diseases, thereby safeguarding agricultural production. Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting on-farm trials and frontline demonstrations of new plant protection technologies and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Organizing and conducting training programs for farmers, farm women, rural youth, and extension functionaries on various aspects of plant protection, including pest and disease identification, surveillance, and control measures.
• Providing expert advisory services to farmers on pest and disease management, judicious use of pesticides, and promotion of eco-friendly plant protection methods.
• Developing and disseminating relevant plant protection literature, advisories, and extension materials in local languages.
• Undertaking field visits to diagnose pest and disease problems and recommend appropriate solutions.
• Collaborating with research institutions, state agricultural departments, and other stakeholders for effective technology transfer and problem-solving.
• Collecting and analyzing data related to pest and disease incidence and the impact of interventions.
• Participating in various KVK activities, including diagnostic visits, field days, farmer fairs, and exhibitions.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates aspiring for the Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection) position must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: A Master's Degree in Agricultural Entomology or Plant Pathology or an equivalent qualification from a university recognized by the UGC/ICAR.
• Age Limit: The maximum age for applicants is 35 years as on the closing date of the application. Age relaxation for reserved categories will be applicable as per Government of India norms.
• Experience: While not explicitly stated as mandatory, practical experience in agricultural extension or research related to plant protection will be an added advantage.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection) position at KVK (PIRENS) is designed to identify the most suitable candidates. It typically involves the following stages:

• Application Scrutiny: All submitted applications will be thoroughly screened to ensure candidates meet the essential eligibility criteria.
• Shortlisting: Eligible candidates will be shortlisted based on their academic qualifications, experience, and relevance to the job profile.
• Written Examination (if applicable): Depending on the number of applications received, a written examination may be conducted to assess candidates' subject knowledge and general aptitude.
• Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview. The interview panel will evaluate candidates' technical knowledge, communication skills, practical experience, and suitability for the role.
• Document Verification: Final selection will be subject to successful verification of all original documents, including educational certificates, age proof, experience certificates, and caste certificates (if applicable).

Salary & Benefits

The selected candidate for the Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection) position will be offered an attractive remuneration package as per the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) recommendations. The position falls under Pay Level 10, with an entry pay of Rs. 56,100/- per month. In addition to the basic pay, the incumbent will be entitled to various allowances as admissible to KVK employees, which may include Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and other benefits as per the rules and regulations of the Pravara Rural Education Society (PIRENS) and ICAR guidelines. This permanent position also offers opportunities for professional growth and contribution to agricultural development.

Application process reference

Interested and eligible candidates are required to apply (application window now closed) for this position. Please follow the instructions carefully:

1. Download the prescribed application form from the official website of PIRENS (if available) or prepare a detailed resume/CV.
2. Fill out the application form completely and accurately with all required personal, educational, and professional details.
3. Attach self-attested copies of all necessary documents, including:
   • Educational qualification certificates (Master's degree, Bachelor's degree, etc.)
   • Age proof (Matriculation certificate)
   • Experience certificates (if any)
   • Caste certificate (for reserved categories)
   • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer (if applicable)
   • Recent passport-sized photographs
4. Ensure all documents are properly attested and arranged.
5. Send the completed application form along with all enclosures to the following address:

   The Chairman/Secretary,
   Krishi Vigyan Kendra (PIRENS),
   Babhaleshwar, Dist.-Ahilyanagar,
   Maharashtra

6. The application must reach the specified address within 30 days from the date of publication of the advertisement. Please ensure timely submission to avoid rejection.
7. Candidates may also be required to pay an application fee as specified in the detailed official notification. Refer to the official advertisement (Advertisement No: EN 48/66) for complete details regarding the application fee and payment method.

Important Dates

• Date of Advertisement Publication: January 15, 2026 (Tentative)
• Last Date for Application Submission: February 14, 2026 (Within 30 days of publication)
• Candidates are advised to refer to the official advertisement for exact dates and any potential updates.