My iPad 2 (IOS 7) was no longer syncing contacts with my iPhone (IOS 9.3.1) and my Mac (OS X10.9.5). I used "Contacts Sync for Google Gmail" to sync the contacts from the Mac to a gmail account. This app then made it very easy to merge the contacts from both the iPad and the iPhone to the gmail account and to eliminate duplicates. Then I turned the "Merge" option off and synced down to the iPad. Fast, easy to use, good interface, good feedback on what is happening. Well worth the small in-app purchase to handle unlimited contacts. Recommended.
Twizzard about Contacts Sync: Google & More