Spices Extension Trainees (SETs) - Spices Board 2026 — Job Details

About the Organisation

Spices Board, established under the Spices Board Act, 1986, is one of the five Commodity Boards functioning under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. It is an autonomous body responsible for the export promotion of the 52 scheduled spices and the development of spices in India. Its mandate includes research, development, regulation, and quality control to ensure India's position as a global leader in spice production and export. The Board plays a crucial role in supporting spice farmers, promoting sustainable cultivation practices, and enhancing the value chain of Indian spices across the nation, including its regional offices in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Role & Responsibilities

Spices Extension Trainees (SETs) will be instrumental in the field-level implementation of various development and extension programs of the Spices Board. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the dissemination of modern cultivation techniques and best practices to spice farmers.
• Conducting field visits to monitor crop health, identify issues, and provide timely solutions.
• Organizing farmer awareness programs, workshops, and training sessions on spice cultivation, post-harvest management, and quality improvement.
• Collecting field data related to spice production, yield, and farmer demographics.
• Facilitating the adoption of new technologies and high-yielding varieties among farmers.
• Liaising between farmers and Spices Board officials to ensure effective communication and support.
• Preparing reports on field activities and progress.
• Promoting sustainable and organic spice farming practices to enhance productivity and quality.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Spices Extension Trainees (SETs) position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: Applicants are required to hold a Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or Botany from a recognized University or Institution. This qualification is essential to understand the technical aspects of spice cultivation and extension work effectively.
• Age Limit: The crucial date for determining the age limit for applicants is 08.04.2026. Age relaxation will be applicable for eligible candidates as per the extant rules and Office Memoranda (OMs) issued by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), Government of India.
• Category: This recruitment drive is exclusively for candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories, aiming to promote inclusive growth and representation within the government sector.
• Experience: No prior experience is explicitly mentioned, making it an excellent opportunity for fresh graduates or those looking to start their career in the agricultural extension sector.

Selection Process

The selection of Spices Extension Trainees (SETs) will be conducted through a Walk-in Test. This process is designed to assess the candidates' knowledge, aptitude, and communication skills relevant to the role. The Walk-in Test may include:

• A written aptitude test to evaluate general knowledge and subject-specific understanding related to agriculture, horticulture, or botany.
• An interview to gauge communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and suitability for field extension work.
• Document verification to confirm educational qualifications, age, and caste certificates.

Candidates are advised to carry all original documents and their photocopies for verification on the day of the Walk-in Test.

Salary & Benefits

While specific salary details are not provided in the initial notification, Spices Extension Trainee positions are typically offered on a short-term contract basis. This role offers invaluable experience in the central government sector, particularly within the agricultural and commerce domain. Trainees will gain hands-on exposure to spice cultivation, farmer interaction, and government extension programs, which can be a significant stepping stone for future career prospects in agriculture, horticulture, or related fields. The remuneration will be competitive for a trainee position, aligning with government norms for contract engagements, providing a solid foundation for a career in public service.

Application process reference

Interested and eligible SC/ST candidates must appear for the Walk-in Test on the specified date and time. No prior online application is required.

• Walk-in Test Date: To be announced soon on the official Spices Board website. Candidates are advised to regularly check the website for updates regarding the exact date.
• Reporting Time: (To be specified in the official notification)
• Venue: Regional/Divisional/Field Offices of Spices Board in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Specific venues will be detailed in the official notification.
• Documents Required: Candidates must bring the following documents in original along with one set of self-attested photocopies:
  • Educational Qualification Certificates (Degree, Mark sheets)
  • Caste Certificate (SC/ST) issued by a competent authority
  • Proof of Age (e.g., 10th standard certificate)
  • Identity Proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Any other relevant documents mentioned in the detailed advertisement.

Candidates should arrive at the venue well in advance of the reporting time to complete all formalities.

Important Dates

• Crucial Date for Age Limit Determination: 08.04.2026
• Walk-in Test Date: To be announced soon (Refer to the official Spices Board website for updates)
• Application Mode: Walk-in Test (No online application required)