The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), a premier scientific organization spearheading agricultural research, has strongly denied allegations of wrongdoing in the appointments of scientists, as reported by a section of the media.
In response to the news reports, ICAR issued a statement asserting, “The ICAR strongly objects to such baseless allegations that are not only factually incorrect but also highly misleading. All recent recruitments have been conducted strictly in accordance with the Model Qualifications duly approved by the Competent Authority.”
The statement clarified that there has been no change in the Essential Qualifications (EQs) for the post of Director, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, since the EQs were last revised. The previous Director of IARI, New Delhi, Dr. A.K. Singh, who retired in June 2024, was appointed in 2019 under the same qualifications currently advertised for the ongoing recruitment process.
Furthermore, ICAR emphasized that no changes have been made to the EQs for any research management positions within ICAR over the past five years. The advertisement for the IARI Director’s position has not been invalidated, as falsely reported. The ICAR release categorically stated that there are no procedural lapses in the recruitment process. The organization attributed these allegations to “a few disgruntled elements unnecessarily spreading rumors to misguide a Governing Body (GB) member for their own vested interests.”
Regarding the appointment of Dr. Cherukumalli Srinivasa Rao as the Director of IARI, the release clarified that he was serving as Director of the National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM), Hyderabad, at the time of his selection. It noted that provisions exist allowing an official to be relieved while on tour, as an employee on tour remains on official duty.
Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao assumed charge as Director of IARI only after he was formally relieved from his post at NAARM. ICAR highlighted that there were no procedural anomalies in this case, as approvals can be granted through emails and/or the e-Office mode, in line with stipulated Office Procedures. Referring to these procedures as “abrupt” or “unprecedented” was described as improper, defamatory, and indicative of a lack of knowledge on the part of the rumour-mongers.
ICAR concluded that the facts in this matter have been distorted and misreported, calling for a public apology. The release expressed concern over repeated attempts to tarnish the organization’s reputation, seemingly driven by the personal vested interests of a few individuals.
