Updated: April 21, 2026
KEA Recruitment 2026 AO AAO: If you hold a B.Sc Agriculture degree and dream of a stable, respected government job in Karnataka, this is your golden opportunity. The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially released the KEA AO & AAO Recruitment 2026 notification for 890 vacancies of Agriculture Officer (AO) and Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO) posts in the State Agriculture Department.
Applications opened on April 19, 2026, and the last date to apply online is May 10, 2026. With attractive pay scales, job security, and the chance to contribute directly to Karnataka’s farming community, this recruitment is one of the biggest opportunities for agriculture graduates in 2026.
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Why KEA AO & AAO Recruitment 2026 is a Game-Changer
KEA, known for conducting transparent and fair examinations, is handling this recruitment to fill Group-B posts across the state. Out of the total 890 vacancies, a major portion is divided between the RPC (Rest of Karnataka) region and the Kalyana Karnataka region, ensuring regional balance.
These roles let you work on the ground—advising farmers, implementing government schemes, promoting modern farming techniques, and improving agricultural productivity. It’s not just a job; it’s a meaningful career that impacts rural Karnataka.
Here are some quick highlights:
- Total Vacancies: 890 (including HK quota)
- Post Names: Agriculture Officer (AO) & Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO)
- Department: Karnataka State Agriculture Department
- Job Location: Across Karnataka (RPC & Kalyana Karnataka regions)
- Application Period: April 19 to May 10, 2026
KEA AO AAO 2026: Vacancy Details at a Glance
Here’s a clear table summarizing the key information:
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) |
| Total Vacancies | 890 (RPC: 630+02 HK, KK: 242+16 HK) |
| Post Names | Agriculture Officer (AO) & Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO) |
| Qualification Required | B.Sc (Agriculture)/B.Sc (Hons) Agri or equivalent specified degrees |
| Age Limit (as on 01.04.2026) | 40 years (General), 43 years (Cat 2A/2B/3A/3B), 45 years (SC/ST/Cat-1) |
| Application Start Date | April 19, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | May 10, 2026 |
| Official Website | cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea |
This table gives you all the essential facts in one place so you don’t miss any important detail.
Eligibility Criteria You Must Know
Educational Qualification:
- For 85% posts: B.Sc (Agriculture) or B.Sc (Hons) Agriculture from a university recognized by ICAR or AICTE.
- For 15% posts: Degrees like B.Tech (Food Science & Technology), B.Tech (Food Technology), B.Sc (Sericulture & Cooperation), B.Sc (Agri Business Management), B.Sc (Agri Biotechnology), B.Tech (Biotechnology), B.Sc/B.Tech (Agricultural Engineering), etc.
Age Limit: Relaxations apply as per government norms for reserved categories. Candidates must also have basic Kannada language proficiency (exemptions may apply in certain cases).
If you meet these criteria, don’t wait—start preparing your documents and register on the OTR portal if not done already.
Selection Process and Exam Pattern
The selection process is straightforward and merit-based:
- Kannada Language Test (qualifying in nature)
- Written Examination (OMR-based)
- Document Verification
The written exam consists of two papers (300 marks each for most posts):
- Paper 1: General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Karnataka & India History/Geography, Mental Ability, Indian Constitution, Rural Development, etc.
- Paper 2: Subject-specific Agriculture paper (detailed syllabus available in the official notification).
The exam is scheduled tentatively in early June 2026. Focus on both general studies and core agriculture topics like agronomy, soil science, plant breeding, horticulture, and agricultural economics.
Pro Tip from an Expert: Start with previous year papers and standard agriculture textbooks. Join a good test series for regular practice. Consistent revision of current affairs related to agriculture schemes (like PM-KISAN, soil health cards, etc.) will give you an edge.
Salary and Perks – What You’ll Earn
Selected candidates can expect a competitive pay scale:
- Agriculture Officer: ₹69,350 – ₹1,34,500 (approx., Level as per 7th Pay Commission)
- Assistant Agriculture Officer: Slightly lower but still attractive with all government allowances (DA, HRA, medical benefits, pension, etc.)
Along with salary, you get job security, promotional avenues, and the satisfaction of serving the farming community.
How to Apply Online for KEA AO AAO 2026
- Visit the official website: cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea
- Click on the relevant link for AO & AAO Recruitment 2026 (RPC or KK region).
- Register or login using your credentials.
- Fill the application form carefully.
- Upload required documents and pay the fee (₹750 for General & OBC categories; lower for SC/ST).
- Submit and take a printout for future reference.
Last date for fee payment is May 12, 2026. Avoid last-minute rush—apply early to prevent technical glitches.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss This Opportunity
The KEA Recruitment 2026 for AO and AAO is a rare chance for agriculture graduates to secure a prestigious government job in Karnataka. With 890 vacancies, transparent selection, and excellent career growth, this recruitment can transform your future. If you have the right qualification and passion for agriculture, start preparing today. Update your documents, understand the syllabus thoroughly, and submit your application before May 10, 2026.
Stay tuned to the official KEA website for hall tickets, exam dates, and further updates. A bright career in public service awaits you—grab it with both hands!