India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for Various Posts

The Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, Government of India, has released an official notification for the India Post Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Recruitment 2026. Eligible candidates are invited to apply online for various posts including Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), and Dak Sevak. This is a golden opportunity for matriculate candidates seeking government jobs across different circles/divisions of the Department of Posts. The application window is open from January 31, 2026, with the last date for online application and fee payment being February 16, 2026.

Quick Overview

Vacancy Details

The India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is for various Gramin Dak Sevak posts. The detailed division-wise and community-wise breakdown of vacancies will be made available on the official online engagement portal. Candidates are advised to regularly check the portal for updates on specific vacancy numbers for their preferred circle/division.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• Candidates must have passed the 10th standard (Secondary School Examination) from a recognized Board of School Education by the Government of India/State Governments/Union Territories.
• Passing marks in Mathematics and English are mandatory.
• Applicants must have studied the local language up to the 10th standard. The list of prescribed local languages for each circle/division is provided in Annexure-III of the official notification.
• Special Provision for Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, and Sikkim: Specific local language requirements are detailed in the notification for these states. For instance, in Arunachal Pradesh, knowledge of both English/Hindi and a notified tribal language (as a third language) up to 10th standard is required.

Age Limit (as on the last date of application)

• Minimum Age: 18 years
• Maximum Age: 40 years

Other Qualifications

• Knowledge of Computer: Basic computer knowledge is required. Candidates will need to submit an undertaking at the time of engagement.
• Ability to Cycle: Candidates must know how to cycle or ride a two-wheeler (scooter/bike) for performing duties. An undertaking will be required.
• Adequate Means of Livelihood: Applicants must have other sources of income for self and family sustenance, in addition to the TRCA and allowances provided by the government. An undertaking will be required.

Application Fee

• For General/OBC/EWS Male/Trans-male Candidates: Rs. 100/- (Rupees One Hundred Only)
• For Female, SC/ST, PwBD, and Transgender Candidates: Exempted from fee payment.
• Payment Mode: Online through Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
• Note: Fees once paid will not be refunded under any circumstances.

Important Dates

Selection Process

The selection process for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is based purely on merit, without any written examination. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Merit List based on 10th Marks: Candidates will be selected based on a system-generated merit list, which will be prepared using the marks obtained in the 10th standard Secondary School Examination. Marks will be considered up to 4 decimal places.
2. Grade/Point Conversion: If marks are provided as Grades/Points on the mark sheet, they will be converted to marks using a multiplying factor of 9.5 (for a maximum of 100 marks). For boards providing both percentage and grades, percentage will be considered.
3. Tie-Breaking Criteria: In case of a tie in marks, the merit list will be determined by the following priority order:
   • Date of Birth (older age preferred)
   • ST (Trans-female)
   • ST (Female)
   • SC (Trans-female)
   • SC (Female)
   • OBC (Trans-female)
   • OBC (Female)
   • EWS (Trans-female)
   • EWS (Female)
   • UR (Trans-female)
   • UR (Female)
   • ST (Trans-male)
   • ST (Male)
   • SC (Trans-male)
   • SC (Male)
   • OBC (Trans-male)
   • OBC (Male)
   • EWS (Trans-male)
   • EWS (Male)
   • UR (Trans-male)
   • UR (Male)
4. Document Verification (DV): Shortlisted candidates will undergo document verification by the appointing authority. This involves physical verification of all original documents and submission of self-attested copies.
5. Provisional Engagement Offer: Upon successful document verification, a system-generated ‘Provisional Engagement Offer’ will be issued.
6. Joining Formalities: Selected candidates must complete pre-engagement formalities, including basic training and arranging accommodation, within 30 days of the provisional offer.

How to Apply

Candidates must apply online through the official India Post GDS online engagement portal. Follow these steps:

1. One-Time Registration (OTR):
   • Visit the official website: https://indiapost.gov.in/gdsonlineengagement
   • Click on the “Candidate Login/Registration” button and then “New Registration”.
   • Fill in your valid mobile number (verified via OTP), email ID (verified via OTP), 10th Board details, personal details (name, DOB, gender, father’s/mother’s name, community), and create a password.
   • After successful registration, a unique Registration Number will be generated. Note it down for future reference.
2. Fill Online Application Form:
   • Log in using your Registration Number and the password received via SMS.
   • Click on the “Apply Online” link under the “Active Notification” tab for GDS Online Engagement Schedule-I.
   • Your personal details from OTR will be auto-filled. Fill in the remaining required information, including Board/Educational details (circle, board, year of passing, marks).
   • Select your preferred Division and Post preferences based on your local language knowledge. You must specify preferences for all related Post IDs.
3. Upload Photo & Signature:
   • Upload your recent passport-sized photograph and signature as per the specified format:
   • Photo: JPG/JPEG format, 30-100 KB, 320×400 pixels (4:5 aspect ratio), 72-150 DPI, plain white/light background, face 70-80% of image.
   • Signature: JPG/JPEG format, 20-100 KB, 300×120 pixels (5:2 aspect ratio), 72-150 DPI, clear signature on plain white background, 70-80% of image area.
4. Pay Application Fee (if applicable):
   • If you belong to a category requiring fee payment, you will be prompted to pay Rs. 100/- online.
   • Complete the payment within 10 minutes of the payment window opening.
5. Preview and Submit:
   • Review all filled details before final submission. Edit if necessary.
   • After final submission, no changes will be allowed, except during the correction window.
6. Correction Window:
   • A two-day correction window (18.02.2026 to 19.02.2026) is provided to edit details (excluding mobile number and email ID).
   • Any changes requiring fee payment will only be accepted after successful payment.
7. Print Application: Download and print your submitted application form for future reference.

Important Links

Job Profile & Career Scope

The Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) role in India Post is a vital part of connecting rural India. It offers a unique opportunity to serve your local community while being part of a prestigious government organization. As a GDS, you’ll be involved in various postal operations, including mail delivery, counter services, and promoting postal products like India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) services. While GDS are not regular government employees, they play a crucial role and receive Time Related Continuity Allowance (TRCA) and other benefits. Career progression for GDS typically involves opportunities to appear for departmental examinations to become Postal Assistants/Sorting Assistants or even higher positions, depending on service length and eligibility. The work environment is community-oriented, requiring good communication skills and a service-minded approach.

Preparation Tips

Since the selection for India Post GDS is purely merit-based on 10th standard marks, the primary focus for applicants should be on ensuring their application is accurate and complete. Here are some key tips:

• Accuracy in Application: Double-check all details, especially your 10th class marks, personal information, and category. Any discrepancy can lead to rejection.
• Document Readiness: Keep all necessary documents (10th mark sheet, caste certificate, PwBD certificate, etc.) ready in original and self-attested copies for the document verification stage. Ensure your caste/EWS certificates are in the prescribed format and valid as per the latest government guidelines.
• Photo & Signature: Adhere strictly to the photo and signature specifications (size, format, background, clarity). Blurred or incorrect uploads will lead to rejection.
• Local Language Proficiency: Ensure you meet the local language proficiency requirement for your chosen circle/division, as this is a mandatory eligibility criterion.
• Stay Updated: Regularly check the official India Post GDS portal for any announcements, corrigenda, or updates regarding the application or selection process.
• Computer & Cycling Skills: While not part of a written exam, ensure you have basic computer knowledge and can cycle/ride a two-wheeler, as these are essential for the job profile and require an undertaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the main posts under India Post GDS Recruitment?

The main posts are Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), and Dak Sevak.

Q2: Is there a written exam for GDS selection?

No, there is no written exam. Selection is purely based on the merit of marks obtained in the 10th standard (Secondary School Examination).

Q3: What is the age limit for India Post GDS posts?

The minimum age is 18 years and the maximum age is 40 years. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per government rules.

Q4: How do I apply for India Post GDS 2026?

You need to apply online through the official India Post GDS online engagement portal at https://indiapost.gov.in/gdsonlineengagement by completing a one-time registration, filling the application form, uploading documents, and paying the fee (if applicable).

Q5: What is the application fee for GDS Recruitment?

The application fee is Rs. 100/- for General/OBC/EWS Male/Trans-male candidates. Female, SC/ST, PwBD, and Transgender candidates are exempted from paying the fee.

Q6: What documents are required for Document Verification (DV)?

Key documents include 10th Mark Sheet, ID Proof, Caste Certificate (if applicable), PwBD Certificate (if applicable), EWS Certificate (if applicable), Transgender Certificate (if applicable), Date of Birth Proof, Medical Certificate, and Local Language Certificate (for specific states).

Q7: Can I apply for multiple circles/divisions?

No, a candidate can apply for one or more vacant GDS posts in only one selected division. If found applying multiple times, all candidatures will be rejected.

Q8: What happens if I make a mistake in my application?

India Post provides a two-day correction window after the last date of application. You can edit most details (except mobile number and email ID) during this period. However, it’s crucial to fill the form carefully initially to avoid errors.

Q9: What is TRCA?

TRCA stands for Time Related Continuity Allowance. It is the basic remuneration paid to Gramin Dak Sevaks, which includes an annual increment of 3% and Dearness Allowance (DA) as declared by the Government of India from time to time.

Q10: Is knowledge of cycling mandatory?

Yes, knowledge of cycling or riding a two-wheeler (scooter/bike) is a mandatory requirement for GDS posts, and candidates will be required to submit an undertaking in this regard.