The Long-standing Inaction: Union Cabinet's Directive for Unification of ICAR Cadres and its Unfulfilled Promise

 

Introduction:

In 1997, the Union Cabinet directed the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to unify all the cadres of its institutes, aiming to issue a combined seniority list as part of the unification process. This move was intended to bring transparency and fairness to promotions within ICAR and address the challenges faced by assistants appointed through the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB) examination in 2012. However, despite a quarter-century passing since the directive, ICAR has failed to take any substantial action on this critical matter, leaving the deserving assistants in a state of uncertainty and disparity.

1. The Union Cabinet's Directive for Unification:

In 1997, recognizing the need for a unified approach to cadre management in ICAR, the Union Cabinet issued a directive to bring all the cadres of various ICAR institutes under one umbrella. The unification process aimed to streamline promotions and create a common seniority list, ensuring equitable opportunities for career growth.

2. The Promise of Transparency and Fairness:

The envisioned combined seniority list would have been a game-changer for assistants appointed through the ASRB examination in 2012. It would have addressed the long-standing issues of inequitable promotions based on vacancies, providing a fair chance for high rank holders to progress in their careers based on merit and performance.

3. The Disappointing State of Affairs:

Despite the promise of unification and combined seniority, ICAR's inaction on the matter over the past 25 years has been deeply disappointing. The lack of progress has left deserving assistants in a state of limbo, unable to access the career growth opportunities they rightfully deserve.

4. Impact on Career Progression:

The failure to implement the unification process and issue a combined seniority list has led to disparities in promotions, with deserving candidates often being denied the opportunities they have earned through their hard work and dedication. This lack of transparency and fairness erodes the morale and motivation of assistants, hindering their ability to contribute effectively to ICAR's objectives.

5. Call for Urgent Action:

The situation calls for urgent action from ICAR's leadership and relevant authorities. It is imperative to prioritize the unification process and create a combined seniority list to ensure equitable career growth for all assistants based on their merit and achievements.

6. Rebuilding Trust and Morale:

Implementing the Union Cabinet's directive would not only fulfill a long-pending promise but also help rebuild trust and morale among ICAR's workforce. This renewed sense of transparency and fairness will undoubtedly enhance the dedication and commitment of assistants to the organization's mission.

7. Strengthening ICAR's Future:

A unified approach to cadre management and a combined seniority list will strengthen ICAR's workforce, promoting a more inclusive and supportive work environment. This, in turn, will bolster ICAR's ability to address agricultural challenges and drive innovation in the sector.

Conclusion:

The Union Cabinet's 1997 directive for unification and the issuance of a combined seniority list was a beacon of hope for ICAR assistants appointed through the ASRB examination in 2012. However, the lack of action on this matter over the past 25 years has been a significant disappointment. It is high time for ICAR to prioritize this critical issue and take the necessary steps to bring transparency, fairness, and equity to promotions within the organization. By fulfilling the promise of unification, ICAR can pave the way for a brighter and more promising future for its dedicated workforce, ensuring the organization's continued success in driving agricultural research and development in India.