J&K Students Association seeks CM Omar Abdullah's intervention in APD recruitment policy overhaul

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Sunday urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene in addressing the restrictive recruitment policies within the Agriculture Production Department (APD) that have left young, qualified professionals without career opportunities in the field.In a statement, the Association’s National Convenor, Nasir Khuehami, raised serious concerns about the limited recruitment pathways for Junior Agriculture Extension Officers (JAEOs) and Agriculture Extension Officers (AEOs) due to policy changes that heavily favor promotions over direct recruitment.

He highlighted how these restrictive policies are limiting career opportunities for qualified agriculture graduates.He said that,"Agriculture remains a cornerstone of J&K’s economy, with the potential to drive both economic growth and employment. However, current recruitment policies within the APD have created significant obstacles for qualified graduates hoping to contribute to the sector," said Khuehami.

"The absence of entry-level roles and the policy changes favoring promotions over fresh recruitment are preventing the agricultural sector from evolving to meet new challenges."Khuehami emphasized that, in recent years, recruitment opportunities for JAEOs and AEOs have been systematically restricted. SRO-442, introduced on October 23, 2017, altered the recruitment structure for JAEOs from a 60:40 direct-to-promotional ratio to a 100% promotional basis.

This shift removed entry-level positions for recent graduates, severely limiting their opportunities to join the department.He further noted that the policy regarding AEO recruitment has seen a similar decline in direct recruitment opportunities. Initially, under SRO-179 (1988), the AEO positions were split equally with a 50:50 direct-to-promotional ratio, ensuring a balanced intake of fresh talent. However, this ratio was later revised under SRO-433 (2004) to an 80:20 split, favoring promotional appointments.

As a result, no AEO positions have been advertised for direct recruitment in over 17 years, despite the pressing need for skilled personnel in the sector and hundreds of vacancies remaining unfilled.In 2020, the APD briefly announced 156 positions for Agriculture Extension Assistants (AEAs), raising hopes among young graduates across the region. However, the abrupt decision to withdraw these positions further dashed the aspirations of many qualified professionals, who are now left with limited pathways to enter the government sector. "The lack of recruitment openings and unfilled critical vacancies not only jeopardizes the future of the agriculture sector but also puts young professionals at risk of aging out of eligibility for government roles," Khuehami emphasized.He asserted that,

"The restrictive recruitment policies not only affect the livelihoods of thousands of young professionals but also prevent the agriculture sector from benefiting from fresh perspectives and new skills. Without the influx of young talent, the sector risks stagnation and may struggle to meet emerging challenges, particularly in areas such as climate resilience, modern farming practices, and technological adaptation.

"The Association has called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to immediately address these longstanding recruitment issues. Khuehami urged a repeal of SRO-442, a resumption of direct recruitment for JAEO and AEO positions, and the re-advertisement of the previously withdrawn AEA posts to ensure equitable opportunities for aspiring agriculture professionals.

"We hope that under the leadership of Chie Minister Omar Abdullah, the aspirations of thousands of agriculture graduates will be acknowledged, and a more balanced, fair path forward will be established," Khuehami added. "The APD’s restrictive policies are stifling the potential of a new generation of skilled youth who are eager to contribute to the agricultural sector's growth and innovation." He stressed that an equitable recruitment process will not only benefit young professionals but also play a critical role in revitalizing J&K’s agricultural sector.