Top 10 Reasons Why Agri Grads Left Jobs Prematurely

Every year, agri recruiters hire thousands of fresh graduates from BSc Agri, Agri MBA, and rural universities. Yet many of these new hires resign within the first 12 to 18 months. Why?

This article dives deep into the root causes — not just symptoms — of early attrition among agri graduates in India.

1. Unrealistic Pay Expectations vs Reality

Many agri grads believe they’ll start at ₹30,000+ monthly, influenced by campus brochures and startup narratives. The reality? Rural field roles often start at ₹18,000–₹22,000.
Fix: Transparent salary communication during placement.

2. No Visible Career Ladder

They ask: "What after 1 year?" Most agri firms don’t show a clear path from field to mid-level roles.
Fix: Career path frameworks with role transitions mapped.

3. Isolation in Rural Postings

Being stationed in remote locations without digital access or peer network triggers resignation.
Fix: Digital check-ins, cluster postings, peer WhatsApp groups.

4. Zero Mentorship or Buddy System

New hires are thrown into the field alone. No support, no shadowing, no role model to emulate.
Fix: Assign mentors + create 90-day onboarding journeys.

5. No Exposure to Digital Tools

Most agri grads want to engage with CRM apps, farm data platforms, or IoT tools. Many employers still run on Excel + WhatsApp.
Fix: Offer tech exposure as part of early roles.

6. Role Mismatch

Hired for “agronomy” but asked to do sales. Hired for “research” but placed in inventory.
Fix: Hire per actual JD. Not per label.

7. Perceived Social Status Gap

Rural field roles are seen as low-prestige when compared to urban fintech or FMCG jobs.
Fix: Build prestige by showcasing success stories.

8. Culture Shock + Language Gaps

Grads from Tamil Nadu posted in UP; or Assamese grads sent to Maharashtra. No cultural alignment.
Fix: Regional pairing + language-based deployment.

9. Poor Manager Behavior

Local field managers often lack coaching skills. Many are reactive, not developmental.
Fix: Train managers in mentorship, not just performance.

10. Job Role Confusion

JD says “Farm Liaison,” but daily work is reporting + sales admin.
Fix: Show actual Day-in-Life videos during hiring.

Conclusion

Early exits aren't about Gen Z entitlement. They reflect structural gaps in how Agri HR operates. Fix these 10 points, and retention won't need incentives. It will come from clarity, support, and respect.

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