The candidate must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Agriculture Sciences or in Agriculture related disciplines, of any of the Universities incorporated by an act of the central or state legislature in India or other educational institutions established by an act of Parliament or declared to be deemed as a University under section 3 of UGC Act, 1956, or possess an equivalent qualification recognized by the Ministry of HRD, Government of India.

The candidates who do not have formal education in Agriculture or Agriculture related disciplines but have at least a Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in any other discipline from a University or Institution and a strong interest in Agriculture, Agro/Food Processing, Rural and Allied Sectors are also eligible to apply.. The Bachelor's Degree or equivalent qualification obtained by the candidate must entail a minimum of three years of education after completing higher secondary schooling (12th) or equivalent.