Position: Block Horticulture Officer (BHO)
We are seeking a qualified and field-oriented Block Horticulture Officer (BHO) to support horticulture development initiatives at the block level. This role focuses on implementing horticulture programs, providing technical guidance to farmers, improving productivity and quality of horticultural crops, and coordinating with government schemes and local stakeholders to strengthen agricultural outcomes.
Responsibilities
- Plan, implement, and monitor block-level horticulture development programs and seasonal action plans.
- Provide technical advisory services to farmers on crop planning, nursery management, protected cultivation, integrated pest management (IPM), and post-harvest practices.
- Conduct field visits, demonstrations, trainings, and farmer awareness programs to promote improved horticulture practices.
- Support implementation of relevant government schemes/subsidy programs and ensure proper beneficiary identification, documentation, and reporting.
- Coordinate with agriculture extension staff, local bodies, cooperatives, and other departments for convergence activities.
- Collect and analyze field data related to crop area, production, pest/disease incidence, and adoption of technologies; prepare periodic reports.
- Promote water-efficient and climate-resilient horticulture practices, including micro-irrigation and soil health management.
- Assist in quality control and distribution monitoring for inputs such as seeds, saplings, fertilizers, and plant protection materials.
- Support development of farmer producer groups/organizations and facilitate market linkages where applicable.
- Ensure compliance with departmental guidelines, record-keeping, and audit requirements.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture/Agriculture or a closely related discipline from a recognized institution (Master’s degree is a plus).
- Working knowledge of horticultural crop production, plant protection, soil and water management, and basic extension methodologies.
- Ability to conduct field-based diagnostics and recommend practical, locally suitable interventions.
- Strong communication skills in local language(s) and ability to prepare clear reports and documentation.
- Proficiency in basic computer applications (MS Office/Google Workspace) and comfort with digital data collection tools.
- Willingness to travel extensively within the block and work in field conditions.
- Integrity, public-service orientation, and ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders.
Benefits
- Opportunity to contribute directly to farmer livelihoods and sustainable horticulture development.
- Structured work environment with exposure to government programs and large-scale field implementation.
- Professional growth through trainings, field learning, and cross-department coordination.
- Competitive compensation and benefits aligned with applicable organizational/government norms (as per appointment type and rules).
About the Company
This role supports public-sector horticulture development efforts aimed at improving productivity, quality, and market outcomes for horticultural crops. The position works closely with local stakeholders and program teams to ensure effective delivery of horticulture initiatives at the grassroots level, with a strong emphasis on farmer support, technology adoption, and transparent reporting.
Work Location: Block-level posting (field-based)
Employment Type: As per recruitment/appointment terms