UPSC invites online applications for 16 posts including Assistant Keeper, Senior Store Officer, and Livestock Officer. Eligibility: Age limits. Last Date: May 1, 2026. Apply at upsconline.nic.in.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released an indicative advertisement (No. 02/2026) inviting online applications for various direct recruitment posts. This notification announces 16 vacancies for positions such as Assistant Keeper, Senior Store Officer Grade-II, and Livestock Officer across different ministries and departments. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official UPSC website from April 11, 2026, to May 1, 2026. This is a golden opportunity for individuals aspiring to secure a prestigious central government job.
Quick Overview
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Advertisement No. | 02/2026 (Indicative) |
| Post Names | Assistant Keeper, Senior Store Officer Grade-II, Livestock Officer |
| Total Vacancies | 16 |
| Application Start Date | April 11, 2026 |
| Application Last Date | May 1, 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in, https://upsconline.nic.in/ora/ |
Vacancy Details
Here’s a breakdown of the vacancies announced by UPSC:
| Post Name | Vacancy No. | Department/Ministry | Total Vacancies | Category-wise Breakup | Pay Scale (7th CPC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assistant Keeper | 26040201411 | Anthropological Survey of India, Ministry of Culture | 01 | UR-01 | Level-07 |
| Senior Store Officer Grade-II | 26040202411 | Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry Of Defence | 07 | UR-05, OBC-01, SC-01, PwBD-01 (Blindness and Low Vision) | Level-10 |
| Livestock Officer | 26040203111 | Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying | 08 | EWS-04, OBC-01, SC-02, ST-01 | Level-10 plus NPA |
PwBD Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Vacancies Reserved for PwBDs | Category of Disabilities | Sub-Category of Disability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Store Officer Grade-II | 01 | Blindness and Low Vision | Blind (B) and Low Vision (LV) |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply for the UPSC Direct Recruitment 2026:
Educational Qualification
The detailed educational qualifications for each post are not explicitly mentioned in this indicative advertisement. Candidates are advised to refer to the detailed recruitment advertisement, which will be uploaded on the Commission’s website, for specific requirements.
Age Limit
The crucial date for determining the age limit shall be the closing date for submission of online application (May 1, 2026).
| Post Name | Category | Maximum Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Keeper | UR | 30 years |
| Senior Store Officer Grade-II | UR | 35 years |
| OBC | 38 years | |
| SC | 40 years | |
| PwBDs | 45 years | |
| Livestock Officer | EWS | 35 years |
| OBC | 38 years | |
| SC & ST | 40 years |
Note: Age relaxations for other reserved categories (if applicable) will be as per government rules and will be detailed in the full advertisement.
Application Fee
The application fee details are not specified in this indicative advertisement. Candidates should check the detailed recruitment advertisement on the UPSC website for information regarding application fees and payment methods.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | April 11, 2026 |
| Online Application Last Date | May 1, 2026 |
| Crucial Date for Age Limit | May 1, 2026 |
| Detailed Advertisement Release | To be announced on official website |
Selection Process
The selection process for these posts will be through Direct Recruitment by selection. Typically, for UPSC direct recruitment, this involves an initial shortlisting of candidates based on their applications and qualifications, followed by an interview. In some cases, a Recruitment Test (RT) may be conducted if the number of applicants is very high. The final selection is based on performance in the interview and/or recruitment test.
Typical Stages:
- Online Application Submission: Candidates apply online with all required details and documents.
- Scrutiny of Applications: UPSC scrutinizes applications based on eligibility criteria.
- Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted based on their qualifications and experience.
- Recruitment Test (if applicable): If the number of applications is large, a written test may be conducted.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates are called for an interview to assess their suitability for the post.
- Document Verification: Original documents are verified.
- Final Merit List: A final merit list is prepared based on performance in the interview/recruitment test.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the UPSC Direct Recruitment 2026:
- Visit the official UPSC online application portal: https://upsconline.nic.in/ora/.
- Click on the ‘Apply Online’ link for the ‘Indicative Advertisement No. 02/2026’ or the specific post.
- Register yourself if you are a new user, or log in with your existing credentials.
- Fill out the application form carefully with all personal, educational, and experience details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and other required documents as per the specifications.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable) through the available online payment modes.
- Review your application form thoroughly before final submission.
- Submit the application form and take a printout of the confirmation page for your records.
- Keep checking the official website for updates on the detailed advertisement and further instructions.
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| UPSC Online Application Portal | https://upsconline.nic.in/ora/ |
| UPSC Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in |
| Detailed Advertisement (To be released) | Will be available on https://upsc.gov.in |
Job Profile & Career Scope
Assistant Keeper (Anthropological Survey of India)
An Assistant Keeper typically assists in the management, preservation, and documentation of museum collections, artifacts, and archives related to anthropology. This role involves cataloging, research assistance, and ensuring the proper storage and display of valuable cultural heritage items. Career growth may lead to roles like Keeper or Curator, involving more specialized research and management responsibilities within the institution.
Senior Store Officer Grade-II (DRDO)
A Senior Store Officer in DRDO is responsible for the efficient management of stores, inventory control, procurement support, and logistics operations within a defense research establishment. Duties include maintaining stock records, ensuring timely supply of materials, and adhering to strict defense protocols. This role offers a stable career path with opportunities for promotion to higher administrative and logistics management positions within DRDO.
Livestock Officer (Animal Husbandry and Dairying)
A Livestock Officer plays a crucial role in the development and management of livestock, poultry, and dairy farming. Responsibilities include animal health management, breeding programs, disease prevention, extension services to farmers, and implementation of government schemes for livestock development. This position offers significant scope for contributing to rural development and food security, with career progression in state or central animal husbandry departments.
Preparation Tips for Direct Recruitment
While direct recruitment primarily focuses on interviews, a strong preparation strategy is key:
1. Keep Documents Ready
- Ensure all your educational certificates, experience letters, caste certificates (if applicable), and identity proofs are updated and readily available.
- Have multiple sets of self-attested photocopies and original documents for verification.
2. Research the Organization & Post
- Thoroughly understand the functions and mission of UPSC, the specific department (e.g., Anthropological Survey, DRDO, Animal Husbandry & Dairying), and the exact job profile you’re applying for.
- Familiarize yourself with recent developments or initiatives related to the respective fields.
3. Prepare for Interview
- Brush up on your subject-matter knowledge relevant to the post.
- Practice common interview questions, including behavioral questions and those testing your problem-solving skills.
- Focus on clear communication, confidence, and presenting your experience effectively.
- For posts requiring specific technical skills, be ready to discuss your practical knowledge and past projects.
4. Stay Updated
- Regularly check the UPSC official website for the detailed advertisement, corrigendum, or any other updates related to the recruitment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the last date to apply for UPSC Recruitment 2026?
The last date to apply online for the UPSC Indicative Advertisement No. 02/2026 is May 1, 2026.
Q2: How many vacancies are announced in this UPSC notification?
A total of 16 vacancies have been announced for various posts including Assistant Keeper, Senior Store Officer Grade-II, and Livestock Officer.
Q3: Where can I find the detailed eligibility criteria?
The detailed eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and specific age relaxations, will be available in the full recruitment advertisement on the official UPSC website (https://upsc.gov.in) when it is released.
Q4: Is there an application fee for these posts?
The indicative advertisement does not specify the application fee. Candidates should refer to the detailed notification for fee details.
Q5: What is the selection process for these posts?
The selection process is primarily through ‘Direct Recruitment by selection’, which typically involves shortlisting based on applications, followed by an interview. A Recruitment Test may also be conducted if deemed necessary by UPSC.
Q6: Can candidates from all over India apply for these UPSC posts?
Yes, UPSC recruitments are open to eligible Indian citizens from all states, subject to meeting the specific eligibility criteria for each post.
Q7: What should I do if I face issues during the online application?
If you encounter any issues during the online application process, it is recommended to first check the ‘Instructions to Candidates’ section on the UPSC online application portal. For persistent issues, you may contact UPSC’s helpline numbers or email support, usually provided in the detailed advertisement.
Q8: Will there be age relaxation for reserved categories?
Yes, age relaxation for reserved categories such as OBC, SC, ST, and PwBDs will be provided as per Government of India rules. The specific relaxations are mentioned in the age limit table above for the posts where details were provided in the indicative advertisement.
