ICAR is the apex organisation of the national level for the promotion of science and technology programmes in the areas of agricultural research and education. The ICAR was set up in 1929 as a registered society under the Society Registration Act, 1860. The Council was set up on the recommendation of Royal Commission on Agriculture. The ICAR carries out research directly through ICAR institutes and National Centres and also in association with the State Agricultural Universities through the all India coordinated research project systems. These schemes are formulated for every plan period and funded through Plan Schemes. Apart from this, the Council has at its disposal the proceeds of the Agricultural Produce Cess which are utilised to finance Adhoc Research Schemes. Details of the Adhoc Research Scheme is given in this document since the Plan Schemes are mainly meant for in-house R&D.

		To plan, undertake, aid, promote and coordinate education, research and its application in agricultural, agroforestry, animal husbandry, fisheries, home science and allied sciences.
		To act as a clearing of research and general information relating to agriculture, animal husbandry, home science and allied sciences and fisheries matters through its publications and information system, and instituting and promoting transfer of technology.
		To provide, undertake and promote consultancy services in the field of education, research training and dissemination of information in agriculture, agroforestry, animal husbandry, fisheries, home science and allied sciences.
		To look into the problems relating to broader areas of rural development concerning agriculture, including post harvest technology by developing cooperative programmes with other organisations such as the Indian Council of Social Science Research, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and universities.
		To do other things considered necessary to attain the objectives of the society.

Schemes can be sponsored by ICAR institutes, agricultural or other universities, public, quasi-public and private institutions and other organisations capable of undertaking research in the area of agricultural research and education.