India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 for 28636 Posts: 10th Pass Students Can Apply Online Before February 16 Deadline
India Post has officially announced the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 with 28636 vacancies for Gramin Dak Sevak positions across 23 postal circles nationwide. This massive recruitment drive offers a golden opportunity for 10th pass candidates to secure government jobs without appearing for any written examination. The online application process, which started on February 2, 2026, will close on February 16, 2026, at 5 PM. Candidates interested in Branch Postmaster (BPM) and Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) positions must submit their applications immediately as the deadline is approaching fast. The selection will be purely merit-based, considering Class 10 marks, making it one of the most accessible central government recruitment opportunities for young job aspirants this year.
⚡ Important Alert for Candidates
- Last Date to Apply: February 16, 2026 (5 PM)
- Registration Deadline: February 14, 2026 (5 PM)
- Total Vacancies: 28,636 Posts
- No Written Exam: Merit-based selection on 10th marks
- Minimum Qualification: 10th Pass from recognized board
India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 for 28636 Posts Complete Overview and Official Notification Details
The Department of Posts, Government of India, has released the Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Online Engagement Schedule-I, January 2026 notification with Advertisement Number 17-37/2025-GDS. This recruitment aims to fill 28,636 vacancies spanning multiple categories including UR (12,696), OBC (5,694), SC (3,942), ST (2,716), and EWS (2,719) posts. Candidates can check the official notification at indiapost.gov.in/gdsonlineengagement.
The recruitment offers positions in three key categories: Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS) who work in departmental offices for mail delivery, Branch Post Master (BPM) who manage branch post offices, and Assistant Branch Post Master (ABPM) who assist BPMs in daily operations. Similar central government opportunities like the BSNL Recruitment 2026 are also generating significant interest among job seekers.
| Particulars | India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation Name | India Post (Department of Posts) |
| Post Names | Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS), Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) |
| Recruitment Name | Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Online Engagement Schedule-I, January 2026 |
| Advertisement Number | 17-37/2025-GDS |
| Total Vacancies | 28,636 Posts |
| Educational Qualification | 10th Pass from Recognized Board |
| Age Limit | 18 to 40 years (Relaxation applicable) |
| Salary Range | Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 29,380 per month |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Application Fee | Rs. 100 (UR), Nil (SC/ST/PWD/Female/Transwomen) |
| Selection Process | Merit-Based (10th Marks) + Document Verification |
| Official Website | indiapost.gov.in/gdsonlineengagement |
Critical Important Dates for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 Application Timeline
Time management is crucial for this recruitment as the Department of Posts has announced strict deadlines. Candidates must complete their registration before February 14, 2026, at 5 PM, while the final application submission deadline is February 16, 2026, at 5 PM. The merit list will be published on February 28, 2026, on the official portal.
| Event Name | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Online Registration Opens | January 31, 2026 | February 14, 2026 (5 PM) |
| Online Application Submission | February 2, 2026 | February 16, 2026 (5 PM) |
| Online Fee Payment Last Date | - | February 16, 2026 |
| Application Form Correction Window | February 18, 2026 | February 19, 2026 |
| 1st Merit List Publication | - | February 28, 2026 |
Complete Circle-wise Vacancy Distribution for 28636 India Post GDS Posts 2026
The 28,636 vacancies are distributed across 23 postal circles covering all Indian states and union territories. Maharashtra leads with the highest 3,553 vacancies, followed by Uttar Pradesh (3,169), West Bengal (2,963), and Madhya Pradesh (2,102). Candidates can apply for circles based on their domicile and language proficiency requirements.
| State/Circle Name | Total Vacancies | UR | OBC | SC | ST | EWS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | 1,060 | 487 | 241 | 142 | 45 | 110 |
| Assam | 639 | 304 | 147 | 57 | 53 | 62 |
| Bihar | 1,344 | 599 | 328 | 199 | 67 | 119 |
| Chhattisgarh | 1,155 | 472 | 46 | 137 | 340 | 115 |
| Delhi | 38 | 27 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| Gujarat | 1,782 | 752 | 441 | 61 | 281 | 179 |
| Haryana | 270 | 114 | 73 | 48 | 0 | 25 |
| Himachal Pradesh | 520 | 217 | 101 | 131 | 12 | 49 |
| Jammu & Kashmir | 267 | 116 | 69 | 24 | 24 | 25 |
| Jharkhand | 908 | 382 | 105 | 100 | 218 | 71 |
| Karnataka | 1,022 | 435 | 242 | 149 | 59 | 112 |
| Kerala | 1,691 | 930 | 378 | 151 | 20 | 161 |
| Madhya Pradesh | 2,102 | 844 | 252 | 336 | 398 | 222 |
| Maharashtra | 3,553 | 1,544 | 780 | 383 | 286 | 401 |
| North Eastern | 1,014 | 545 | 36 | 21 | 298 | 74 |
| Odisha | 1,191 | 518 | 121 | 175 | 249 | 106 |
| Punjab | 261 | 119 | 58 | 55 | 3 | 20 |
| Rajasthan | 634 | 295 | 87 | 84 | 73 | 73 |
| Tamil Nadu | 2,009 | 870 | 503 | 372 | 17 | 186 |
| Telangana | 608 | 305 | 127 | 73 | 17 | 70 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 3,169 | 1,328 | 830 | 588 | 62 | 291 |
| Uttarakhand | 436 | 228 | 63 | 72 | 16 | 38 |
| West Bengal | 2,963 | 1,255 | 662 | 582 | 171 | 208 |
| Total | 28,636 | 12,696 | 5,694 | 3,942 | 2,716 | 2,719 |
State-specific recruitment drives like HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 and PSSSB Excise Inspector Recruitment 2026 are also attracting candidates looking for regional government job opportunities.
Detailed Eligibility Criteria for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 for 10th Pass Candidates
Educational Qualification Requirements
Candidates must possess a Secondary School Examination pass certificate (10th standard) from any board recognized by the Government of India, State Governments, or Union Territories. The certificate must clearly show the marks or grades obtained. Additionally, candidates must have basic computer knowledge, cycling skills, and adequate means of livelihood as per the official notification guidelines.
Age Limit and Relaxation Details
The prescribed age limit for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is between 18 to 40 years as on the closing date of receipt of applications. Age relaxation is provided as follows: SC/ST candidates get 5 years (up to 45 years), OBC candidates receive 3 years (up to 43 years), while Persons with Disabilities (PwD) are eligible for 10 years relaxation. Combined relaxations apply for PwD+OBC (13 years) and PwD+SC/ST (15 years). No age relaxation is applicable for EWS category candidates.
Circle-wise Language Proficiency Requirements
Language knowledge is mandatory for the respective circle where candidates apply. The circle-wise language requirements include Telugu for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Assamese for Assam, Hindi for Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, Gujarati for Gujarat, Kannada for Karnataka, Malayalam for Kerala, Marathi/Konkani for Maharashtra, Oriya for Odisha, Punjabi for Punjab, Tamil for Tamil Nadu, and Bengali for West Bengal and parts of North Eastern circle.
| Eligibility Parameter | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Educational Qualification | 10th Pass from Recognized Board |
| Age Limit (General Category) | 18 to 40 years |
| SC/ST Age Relaxation | 5 years (Upper age limit: 45 years) |
| OBC Age Relaxation | 3 years (Upper age limit: 43 years) |
| PwD Age Relaxation | 10 years |
| PwD + OBC Relaxation | 13 years |
| PwD + SC/ST Relaxation | 15 years |
| EWS Age Relaxation | No relaxation |
| Computer Knowledge | Mandatory (Basic Level) |
| Cycling Knowledge | Mandatory |
| Language Proficiency | Regional language of respective circle (Mandatory) |
India Post GDS Salary Structure and Pay Scale Details for 2026
The Department of Posts offers competitive remuneration for GDS positions. Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) and Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) positions carry a salary range of Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 24,470 per month, while Branch Postmaster (BPM) positions offer Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 29,380 per month. The actual salary depends on the workload, office category, and operational hours of the respective post office.
| Post Name | Minimum Salary | Maximum Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) | Rs. 10,000/- | Rs. 24,470/- |
| Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) | Rs. 10,000/- | Rs. 24,470/- |
| Branch Postmaster (BPM) | Rs. 12,000/- | Rs. 29,380/- |
For candidates interested in banking sector opportunities with competitive salary packages, the UCO Bank Officer Exam Date 2026 Update provides valuable information about upcoming banking examinations.
Selection Process and Merit List Preparation for India Post GDS Posts
The selection process for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is entirely merit-based with no written examination. The merit list will be prepared based on the percentage of marks obtained in the Class 10 examination. Marks will be converted to percentage up to four decimal places for accurate ranking. The first merit list is scheduled to be released on February 28, 2026, containing details like division, office name, post name, category, registration number, marks percentage, and document verification venue.
Candidates who qualify in the merit list will be called for document verification at designated centers. The final selection depends on successful verification of all original documents including educational certificates, category certificates, domicile proof, and other mandatory documents as mentioned in the official notification.
| Selection Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Merit List Based on Class 10 Marks Percentage |
| Stage 2 | Document Verification (DV) |
| Written Examination | Not Applicable |
| Merit List Release Date | February 28, 2026 |
| Marks Calculation | Percentage up to 4 decimal places |
How to Apply Online for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: Step-by-Step Application Process
Candidates must follow these steps to apply online for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 before the February 16, 2026 deadline. First, visit the official website indiapostgdsonline.gov.in where you will find a notification about the new GDS portal. Click on the link to be redirected to indiapost.gov.in/gdsonlineengagement.
On the homepage, scroll down and click on "Click Here to Register/Apply". New candidates must complete registration first by providing basic details like name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number. After successful registration, login using your credentials and fill the application form carefully with accurate personal, educational, and contact details.
Upload scanned copies of required documents including photograph, signature, Class 10 mark sheet, and category certificate (if applicable). Pay the application fee of Rs. 100 for unreserved candidates through online mode using debit card, credit card, or net banking. SC/ST/PWD/Female/Transwomen candidates are exempted from paying the fee. After successful payment, submit the application form and save the acknowledgment receipt for future reference.
Application Fee Payment Details
| Category | Application Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General (UR) Candidates | Rs. 100/- |
| SC Category Candidates | Nil (Exempted) |
| ST Category Candidates | Nil (Exempted) |
| PWD Candidates | Nil (Exempted) |
| Female Candidates | Nil (Exempted) |
| Transwomen Applicants | Nil (Exempted) |
| Payment Mode | Online (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking) |
Engineering graduates looking for technical government positions can explore opportunities like HSSC Horticulture JE and Junior Engineer Recruitment for specialized technical roles.
Understanding What is Gramin Dak Sevak GDS Position and Job Responsibilities
Gramin Dak Sevak, commonly known as GDS, are essential postal workers serving rural and semi-urban areas across India. They form the backbone of India Post's rural postal network, ensuring last-mile delivery of mail, parcels, and government welfare schemes to villages and remote locations.
GDS employees perform multiple responsibilities including mail delivery, selling stamps and postal stationery, accepting deposits under various postal savings schemes, processing money orders, handling speed post consignments, and providing doorstep banking services. They work directly with rural communities, making postal services accessible to millions of citizens who depend on India Post for communication and financial transactions.
Three Main Categories of GDS Posts
Branch Post Master (BPM): BPMs are responsible for managing and operating a branch post office independently. They handle all postal transactions, maintain cash accounts, supervise staff (if any), ensure timely delivery of mail in their jurisdiction, and act as the primary point of contact between India Post and the local community.
Assistant Branch Post Master (ABPM): ABPMs work under the supervision of the BPM or Postmaster and assist in daily post office operations. Their duties include counter services, mail sorting, accepting postal deposits, processing applications for various schemes, and maintaining records of transactions.
Dak Sevak: Dak Sevaks primarily focus on mail delivery services in rural areas. They collect and deliver letters, parcels, registered posts, and speed posts to designated delivery areas, usually covering multiple villages. They also assist in post office operations during peak hours or special postal campaigns.
Pros and Cons of India Post GDS Jobs 2026
| Advantages of GDS Posts | Challenges of GDS Posts |
|---|---|
| No written examination required - purely merit-based selection | High competition with lakhs of applicants for limited vacancies |
| Only 10th pass qualification needed - accessible to maximum candidates | Contract-based engagement, not permanent government employee status |
| Job security under Government of India organization | Salary lower compared to regular departmental postal employees |
| Opportunity to serve in hometown or nearby rural areas | Work location typically in remote villages with limited facilities |
| Postal department benefits and allowances applicable | Physical work involving cycling for mail delivery in all weather conditions |
| Potential for regularization and departmental examinations in future | Working hours may extend during festival seasons and special postal drives |
| No age barrier - upper age limit of 40 years with relaxations | Limited career growth opportunities compared to Group C/D posts |
| Prestige of working with India Post, a trusted government brand | Responsibility of cash handling and accountability for postal articles |
Comparison Between Different GDS Post Categories
| Comparison Factor | Branch Post Master (BPM) | Assistant Branch Post Master (ABPM) | Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Responsibility | Managing entire branch post office | Assisting BPM in office operations | Mail delivery in rural areas |
| Salary Range | Rs. 12,000 - Rs. 29,380 | Rs. 10,000 - Rs. 24,470 | Rs. 10,000 - Rs. 24,470 |
| Work Nature | Office-based administrative work | Counter services and record keeping | Field-based mail delivery |
| Cycling Requirement | Occasionally required | Occasionally required | Daily requirement |
| Supervisory Role | Yes - supervises branch operations | No - works under BPM | No - independent delivery work |
| Cash Handling | High - manages all transactions | Moderate - assists in transactions | Low to Moderate |
| Future Growth | Better prospects for regularization | Moderate prospects | Limited to delivery domain |
Candidates preparing for judicial services can check Telangana District Court Recruitment for law graduate opportunities in the court system.
Important Documents Required for India Post GDS Application 2026
Candidates must keep the following documents ready in scanned format before starting the online application process. All documents should be clear and readable with file size within the prescribed limits mentioned in the official notification.
- Recent passport-size color photograph (JPG/JPEG format, size: 10KB to 100KB)
- Scanned signature (JPG/JPEG format, size: 10KB to 100KB)
- Class 10th mark sheet and passing certificate from recognized board
- Date of birth proof (10th certificate or birth certificate)
- Caste/Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) issued by competent authority
- Domicile certificate of the state/circle for which applying
- PwD certificate (if applicable) from authorized medical board
- Valid email ID and active mobile number for registration
Tips to Improve Your Merit Ranking in GDS Selection 2026
Since selection is purely merit-based on Class 10 marks, candidates cannot improve their marks now. However, they can ensure maximum accuracy in filling the application form to avoid rejection. Double-check your marks percentage calculation as per the formula mentioned in the notification. Ensure the marks entered match exactly with your original mark sheet.
Apply for multiple circles if eligible based on your language proficiency to increase selection chances. Prepare all required documents beforehand to complete the application in one sitting. Keep your registration number and password safe for future login during correction window and merit list checking. Regularly check the official website for updates regarding merit list publication and document verification schedule.
Why India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is a Golden Opportunity for Rural Youth
This massive recruitment drive of 28,636 vacancies provides unprecedented opportunities for rural youth, especially those who have completed only 10th standard and lack resources for higher education. Unlike most government jobs requiring graduation or technical qualifications, GDS posts are accessible to matriculates, democratizing government employment.
The merit-based selection without written examination eliminates coaching expenses and competitive exam stress. Candidates can secure government jobs based on their Class 10 performance, rewarding academic sincerity during school education. For rural candidates, working in their home state or nearby villages offers job security without migration to cities.
GDS positions also serve as stepping stones for career advancement in the postal department. Many GDS employees successfully clear departmental examinations to become Postal Assistants, Postmen, or Multi-Tasking Staff in regular cadres. The work experience gained in GDS roles proves valuable for future government job examinations.
Candidates interested in urban planning and municipal administration roles can explore MPPSC Assistant Town Planner Recruitment for professional career growth in state civil services.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026
Many candidates make avoidable errors during the application process that lead to rejection. Do not apply for circles where you don't have language proficiency as mentioned in the notification. Language test may be conducted during document verification and failure will result in disqualification.
Avoid entering incorrect marks percentage - calculate your percentage accurately up to four decimal places using the formula provided in the notification. Discrepancy between declared marks and original certificates will lead to application cancellation. Do not upload unclear or oversized photographs and signatures exceeding the prescribed file size limits.
Don't wait for the last date to apply as technical glitches or server issues may prevent submission. Complete your application at least 2-3 days before the deadline. Never share your registration credentials with others or use cyber cafes for filling sensitive information. Maintain a copy of the submitted application form and payment receipt for future reference.
Laboratory science graduates can check RSSB Lab Assistant Recruitment 2026 for technical positions in railway laboratories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About India Post GDS Recruitment 2026
What is the last date to apply online for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 for 28636 posts?
The last date to submit online applications for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is February 16, 2026, at 5:00 PM. However, the registration process will close earlier on February 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Candidates must complete both registration and application submission within these deadlines. The online fee payment is also accepted until February 16, 2026. Late applications will not be entertained under any circumstances.
Can 10th fail or appearing candidates apply for India Post Gramin Dak Sevak GDS jobs 2026?
No, only candidates who have already passed the Class 10 examination from a recognized board are eligible to apply for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026. Candidates appearing in Class 10 examinations or those who have failed are not eligible. You must possess a valid 10th pass certificate with marks or grades at the time of application. The merit list will be prepared based on Class 10 marks percentage, so passing status is mandatory for eligibility consideration.
Is there any written exam or interview for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 selection process?
No, there is no written examination, computer-based test, or interview for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026. The selection is entirely merit-based, prepared according to the percentage of marks obtained in the Class 10th examination. Marks will be calculated up to four decimal places for accurate ranking. After merit list publication, selected candidates will be called only for document verification. Final selection depends on successful verification of original certificates and fulfillment of eligibility criteria.
What is the salary structure for GDS BPM and ABPM posts in India Post 2026 recruitment?
For Assistant Branch Post Master (ABPM) and Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) positions, the salary ranges from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 24,470 per month. For Branch Post Master (BPM) positions, the salary structure is Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 29,380 per month. The actual salary depends on factors like office workload, operational hours, and the category of the post office. Additional allowances and benefits as per postal department norms are also applicable to GDS employees.
Can I apply for multiple postal circles in India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 application form?
Candidates can apply for multiple postal circles if they fulfill the language proficiency requirements for those respective circles. However, each circle requires knowledge of the specified regional language. For example, you cannot apply for both Tamil Nadu (Tamil language) and Kerala (Malayalam language) circles unless you are proficient in both languages. During document verification, you may be tested for language knowledge, and inability to communicate in the required language can lead to disqualification from that particular circle.
What documents are required for document verification after India Post GDS merit list 2026 is released?
After the merit list is published on February 28, 2026, shortlisted candidates must bring the following original documents for verification: Class 10th mark sheet and passing certificate, date of birth proof, caste/category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) from competent authority, domicile certificate of the state for which you applied, disability certificate if claiming PwD quota, recent passport-size photographs, and identity proof. Candidates should also carry self-attested photocopies of all these documents along with the application acknowledgment receipt.
Is India Post GDS job permanent or temporary contractual employment with Government of India?
India Post GDS positions are contractual engagements, not permanent government jobs. GDS employees work on an engagement basis under the Department of Posts. However, these positions offer job security under a government organization with defined salary structure and benefits. GDS employees can appear for departmental examinations conducted by India Post to get absorbed into regular cadres like Postal Assistant, Postman, or Multi-Tasking Staff. Many GDS employees have successfully transitioned to permanent postal department positions through such examinations over the years.
What is the age relaxation for SC ST OBC and PwD candidates in India Post GDS Recruitment 2026?
The age relaxation for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is as follows: SC/ST candidates receive 5 years relaxation making their upper age limit 45 years, OBC candidates get 3 years relaxation with upper age limit of 43 years, Persons with Disabilities (PwD) are eligible for 10 years relaxation. Combined relaxations apply where PwD+OBC candidates get 13 years total relaxation and PwD+SC/ST candidates receive 15 years total relaxation. However, EWS category candidates do not get any age relaxation and their upper age limit remains 40 years only.
About the Author
Aswin Anil is a senior government jobs news editor and career counselor specializing in central and state recruitment notifications. With extensive experience in analyzing Indian government job trends, Aswin helps lakhs of job aspirants stay updated with the latest sarkari naukri opportunities, exam patterns, and selection strategies. He regularly covers major recruitments including SSC, UPSC, Banking, Railways, State PSCs, and various departmental examinations across India.
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Official Important Links for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026
| Link Description | Direct Link Access |
|---|---|
| India Post GDS Online Application Portal 2026 | Click Here to Apply Online |
| Official Notification PDF Download | Download GDS Notification 2026 |
| Circle-wise Vacancy Details | Check State-wise Vacancies |
| India Post Official Website | Visit Official Portal |
| GDS Salary Structure Details | View Pay Scale Information |