ICARES

The scheme aims to utilize the expertise of outstanding superannuated scientists of the National Agricultural Research System by supporting nationally important research, teaching, human resource development, and extension activities through honorarium and research grants.

The "ICAR Emeritus Scientist" scheme is implemented by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to utilize the services of outstanding superannuated scientists for completing nationally important research work and contributing to agricultural education and development. The scheme supports retired scientists in continuing ongoing research projects of national importance and participating in specialized teaching programmes. It also promotes the development of instructional materials and addresses policy issues related to agriculture and allied sciences. The scheme provides financial assistance in the form of honorarium, contingency grants, and support for research personnel. The appointment is granted for a fixed tenure of 3 years without extension.

• The applicant must be a scientist of repute from the National Agricultural Research System (NARS).
• The applicant must hold or have held the position of Principal Scientist, Professor, or above in an eligible institution.
• The applicant must be retiring within the next 12 months or must have retired within 1 year from the last working day of the notification month.
• The applicant must not be more than 65 years of age at the time of application.
• The applicant must have at least 5 research papers published in refereed journals during the last 5 years, or must have received a national/international award or recognition.
• In the case of teachers, the applicant must have received a teaching excellence award or appreciation for outstanding teaching performance.
• The applicant must submit a project of national importance that is a continuation of his/her previous work.
• The applicant must demonstrate that an equally competent regular scientist is not available in the institution to undertake the proposed work.
• The applicant must be willing to devote full time to the approved project and must not accept any other remunerative employment during the tenure.
• The applicant must not receive financial assistance for the same work from any other source while availing benefits under this scheme.

> Honorarium:

• ₹50,000/- per month honorarium in addition to pension.
• Subject to provisions of the Income Tax Act.

> Contingency Grant:

• Up to ₹2,00,000/- per annum per scientist.
• Used for chemicals, glassware, books, stationery, laboratory assistance, and ministerial help.
• May be enhanced with approval based on the nature of research work.
• Can be used for domestic travel related to research, data collection, scientific meetings, conferences, and ICAR review meetings.
• Includes economy-class airfare, eligible daily allowance, and road mileage within India.

> Research Personnel Support:

• Financial assistance for engagement of:
• Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
• Senior Research Fellow (SRF)
• Research Associate (RA)
• Appointment remains valid until completion of the project.

> Leave Benefits:

• 1 month leave with honorarium for each completed year of tenure.
• Leave on a pro-rata basis for any fraction of a year.
• Up to 3 months leave without honorarium may be granted on health grounds with a medical certificate.

> Research and Academic Support:

• Opportunity to complete ongoing nationally important research.
• Opportunity to teach specialized courses in universities and institutions.
• Opportunity to develop instructional and multimedia educational materials.