Nationwide Protest by KVK Employees Against ICAR’s Discriminatory Policies
05 December 2024, New Delhi: A nationwide protest erupted across Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in India on Thursday as employees under administrative control of non-ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) host organizations staged a pen-down strike. The demonstrators demanded the implementation of a “One Nation, One KVK” policy, as recommended by the Paroda High Power Committee. They also sought an end to discriminatory practices by ICAR regarding pay scales, allowances, and service benefits.
The strike was observed at over 650 non-ICAR KVKs, involving 8,000 employees, including scientists, technical staff, administrative personnel, and support workers. Protestors highlighted systemic disparities between ICAR-run and non-ICAR-run KVKs, particularly in wages, promotions, and work conditions.
Root Cause of the Protests
The ongoing dissatisfaction among non-ICAR KVK employees stems from unequal treatment despite performing identical roles under the same government-funded scheme. While ICAR-controlled KVK employees enjoy benefits akin to other ICAR staff, their counterparts in non-ICAR KVKs face lower salaries, limited promotional opportunities, and reduced service benefits. Protestors alleged that ICAR frequently issues contradictory and demoralizing circulars, creating an unfavorable work environment for non-ICAR KVKs, which adversely affects research and extension activities.
A Unified Call for Change
Under the banner of the KVK and AICRP Forum, employees gathered at their respective KVK centers from 10 AM to 5 PM, holding placards and banners to voice their concerns. They called for immediate government intervention to address these disparities.
In a joint statement, the forum’s leaders reiterated their demands for uniformity across all KVKs, emphasizing that all centers operate under the same 100% government-funded scheme and fulfill similar responsibilities. They pointed out that only 9% of KVKs (66 centers) are under ICAR, while the rest remain under various host institutions, creating a fragmented and inequitable system.
Impact of KVKs and the Need for Reforms
KVKs serve as crucial hubs for agricultural innovation, bridging the gap between government policies and farmers. They host subject matter experts in agriculture and allied fields who disseminate new technologies and foster productivity, sustainability, and improved livelihoods for farmers. Addressing the grievances of KVK employees is essential to energize this workforce, ensuring that they can effectively support India’s agricultural and rural economies.
The forum has urged both the central and state governments to take swift action to address their demands, asserting that resolving these issues will benefit not just KVK staff but also the broader rural and farming communities they serve. They warned of escalating protests if no action is taken, stressing that justice and equity for hard-working KVK employees are long overdue.
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