India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 28,635 Gramin Dak Sevak Posts
The Department of Post, under the government of India, has officially released the notification for the India Post Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Recruitment 2026. This new recruitment drive, which begins on 31 January 2026, offers a significant opportunity for individuals across the country, particularly those who have completed their Class 10 education. The recruitment aims to fill a substantial number of vacancies for the position of Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) in various postal circles nationwide. According to the official announcement, a total of 28,635 posts are available in this current cycle, making it one of the largest recruitment drives for GDS in recent years.
The application process for the India Post GDS Online Registration Form 2026 has commenced today, 31 January 2026, and candidates will have until 14 February 2026 to submit their applications online. The entire application procedure, including registration, fee payment, and submission of details, must be completed through the dedicated official website, indiapostgdsonline.gov.in. Candidates are strongly advised to carefully review the official notification and ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before proceeding with the application.
The India Post GDS Vacancy 2026 offers positions across different categories, including Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), and Dak Sevak. These roles are essential for strengthening the postal network in rural and semi-urban areas of India. The selection process for these positions is notably straightforward, relying on a merit list generated from the candidates' Class 10 marks, rather than a separate written examination. This makes the recruitment process highly accessible for many candidates seeking a stable government job.
This article provides a detailed overview of the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026, covering key aspects such as eligibility criteria, application process, selection procedure, important dates, and required documents. Candidates can find comprehensive information here to guide them through the application process for the 28635 Posts available.
Key Details of the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026
The Department of Post, Government of India, plays a crucial role in delivering postal services across the vast geographical expanse of the nation. The Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) post is particularly vital for connecting rural communities to essential services. The notification for India Post GDS New Vacancy 2026 provides a detailed breakdown of the available positions and eligibility requirements. The total count of 28,635 Posts for this cycle indicates a massive recruitment drive to fill existing vacancies and expand service capabilities in various circles.
The application window for this recruitment drive is relatively short, starting on 31 January 2026 and closing on 14 February 2026. Candidates must complete their registration and application submission within this period. Failure to submit the application before the specified last date will result in exclusion from the selection process. The recruitment aims to select eligible candidates for GDS roles who will be responsible for a range of duties, including mail delivery, counter services, and managing branch post office operations.
The India Post Gramin Dak Sevak Recruitment 2026 is highly sought after due to its accessible qualification requirement (Class 10 pass) and stable employment prospects within the government sector. Candidates interested in applying should carefully review the eligibility conditions, especially regarding age limits and local language proficiency, to ensure they meet the criteria for their respective circles.
Understanding the Roles of Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS)
The India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 encompasses several different roles under the general umbrella of Gramin Dak Sevak. It is important for applicants to understand the specific responsibilities associated with each role to make informed choices during the application process. The primary roles include Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), and Dak Sevak.
1. Branch Postmaster (BPM): The BPM is the head of a Gramin Dak Sevak Branch Post Office. The responsibilities of a BPM are diverse and include managing the day-to-day operations of the branch office. This involves handling counter transactions, managing cash, maintaining records, and promoting India Post services and products. The BPM is also responsible for managing the ABPMs and Dak Sevaks working under them. This role requires a greater sense of responsibility and leadership skills, as the BPM acts as the face of the post office in the local community.
2. Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM): The ABPM assists the Branch Postmaster in carrying out the day-to-day operations of the branch office. Their duties often include managing a portion of the counter transactions, delivering mail to households, collecting mail from letter boxes, and supporting the BPM in administrative tasks. In larger branches or during high-traffic periods, the ABPM plays a vital supportive role in ensuring efficient service delivery.
3. Dak Sevak: A Dak Sevak's primary responsibility is to facilitate the delivery of mail and parcels within the assigned area. This involves sorting mail, delivering it to specific locations (households and businesses), and performing collection duties. Dak Sevaks may also be required to perform counter duties at the Branch Post Office when necessary. This role requires a high degree of physical fitness and local knowledge to ensure efficient delivery in rural and sometimes challenging terrain.
Detailed Eligibility Criteria for India Post GDS Vacancy 2026
To apply for the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 for 28,635 Posts, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria related to age, educational qualification, and other essential requirements. These criteria are strictly enforced by the Department of Post.
1. Age Limit:
- The minimum age requirement for candidates applying for India Post GDS New Vacancy 2026 is 18 years as on the last date of application.
- The maximum age limit is 40 years as on the last date of application.
- Age relaxation will be provided for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per government rules:
- SC/ST candidates: 5 years age relaxation.
- OBC candidates: 3 years age relaxation.
- PWD candidates: 10 years age relaxation.
- EWS candidates: No age relaxation.
2. Educational Qualification:
- Candidates must have successfully passed the Class 10 examination from a recognized board of education.
- A mandatory requirement is that the candidate must have passed Mathematics and English as subjects in their Class 10 examination.
- Furthermore, candidates must have studied the local language of the respective state or postal circle at least up to the Class 10 level. This is a crucial requirement for effective communication with the local populace.
3. Local Language Requirement:
Knowledge of the local language is essential for a Gramin Dak Sevak to perform their duties effectively in rural areas. The specific local language required varies according to the postal circle a candidate applies for. For example, candidates applying in the Uttar Pradesh circle must have studied Hindi in Class 10. For the Maharashtra circle, Marathi would be the requirement, and for the Karnataka circle, Kannada. Candidates must provide proof of having studied the local language in their Class 10 marksheet or a certificate from the concerned educational authority.
4. Basic Computer Knowledge:
While a formal computer certificate might not be mandatory in all cases, basic computer knowledge is considered a requirement for the GDS post. Candidates must be able to perform simple computer tasks, such as data entry, email operations, and using basic software applications. This knowledge is important for managing branch post office accounts and transactions, which are increasingly digitized.
5. Knowledge of Cycling:
For efficient mail delivery in rural areas, knowledge of cycling is often a prerequisite for the Dak Sevak role. Candidates must declare that they know how to cycle, as this is necessary for traversing distances between the post office and various villages or delivery points. In areas with difficult terrain, a moped or two-wheeler might be used, but basic cycling knowledge remains a standard requirement.
Application Process: How to Apply Online for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026
Candidates interested in applying for the India Post GDS Online Registration Form 2026 must follow a specific online process outlined by the Department of Post. The application portal on indiapostgdsonline.gov.in is where candidates must complete all steps between 31 January 2026 and 14 February 2026.
Step 1: Registration
The first step for every new applicant is to register on the official portal. Candidates need to provide basic details such as name, mobile number, email address, date of birth, gender, and caste. Once these details are submitted, a unique registration number will be generated. This registration number is essential for all future correspondence related to the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026.
Step 2: Fee Payment
After successful registration, candidates must proceed to pay the application fee. The application fee for the India Post GDS Vacancy 2026 is typically Rs. 100/- for male candidates belonging to General, OBC, and EWS categories. However, female candidates of all categories, as well as male candidates belonging to SC/ST categories and PWD candidates, are fully exempted from paying the application fee. Payment can be made online through various methods, including credit/debit card or net banking.
Step 3: Apply Online and Fill Details
Using the registration number obtained in Step 1, candidates can log in to the application portal to fill out the detailed application form. This form requires comprehensive information, including educational qualifications (Class 10 marksheet details), preferred postal circles/divisions, and personal information. Candidates must accurately enter their marks obtained in the Class 10 examination, including marks for specific subjects like Mathematics and the local language. Any discrepancies found during document verification will lead to disqualification.
Step 4: Document Upload
As part of the application process for the 28635 Posts, candidates must upload digital copies of several documents. These typically include a recent photograph and a signature. The photograph should be clear and adhere to the specified dimensions and file size. The signature should be on white paper and also conform to the required specifications. Candidates should prepare these documents in advance to avoid last-minute issues during the application process.
Step 5: Final Submission and Printout
Before final submission, candidates must carefully review all details entered in the application form. Once satisfied, they can click the submit button. It is highly recommended that candidates take a printout of the final submitted application form for their records. This printout will be important during the document verification stage.
Selection Process for India Post Gramin Dak Sevak Vacancy 2026
The selection process for the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 for 28,635 Posts is entirely based on merit, specifically on the marks obtained by the candidate in their Class 10 board examination. There will be no written test or interview for this recruitment drive. This unique selection method emphasizes academic performance at the secondary level.
1. Preparation of Merit List:
The Department of Post generates a merit list for each postal circle and division. The merit list is prepared strictly based on the percentage of marks obtained by candidates in their Class 10 examination. Candidates with higher percentages will be ranked higher on the list. In cases where two or more candidates have the same percentage, specific tie-breaking rules are applied, such as the date of birth (older candidate prioritized) or higher marks in specific subjects (e.g., mathematics or local language).
2. Document Verification (DV):
Once the merit list is finalized, a provisional list of selected candidates is released. These selected candidates are then called for a document verification process (DV). This is a critical stage where candidates must present all original documents to verify the information provided in their online applications. If a candidate fails to produce the necessary original documents or if there is any mismatch in the information, their candidature may be rejected. The document verification process ensures the authenticity of the information submitted by the candidates.
3. Final Selection:
After successful document verification, candidates receive an official final selection letter or appointment letter from the respective postal circle authority. The process from initial application to final selection usually takes several months, and candidates are advised to keep track of official updates on the website.
Important Dates and Application Fee Summary
Candidates applying for the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 should pay close attention to the following dates and fee structure:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 31 January 2026 |
| Application Last Date | 14 February 2026 |
| Fee Payment Last Date | 14 February 2026 |
| Correction/Edit Window Dates | Not Available (Check official notification for specific dates) |
| Merit List Release Date | Not Available (To be announced post-application closure) |
Application Fee:
- General/OBC/EWS Male Candidates: Rs. 100/-
- SC/ST/Female/PWD Candidates: Rs. 0/- (Exempted)
Required Documents for Verification
During the document verification stage for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026, candidates must present the following original documents for verification:
- Class 10 Marksheet and Certificate: Essential proof of education and marks.
- Caste Certificate (if applicable): For claiming reservation benefits for SC/ST/OBC categories.
- EWS Certificate (if applicable): For Economically Weaker Section candidates.
- PWD Certificate (if applicable): For candidates applying under the Persons with Disabilities category.
- Computer Knowledge Certificate (if available): A basic certificate is often preferred, though not always mandatory if computer knowledge is demonstrated otherwise.
- Local Language Certificate: Proof of having studied the local language up to Class 10.
- Date of Birth Proof: Usually verified through the Class 10 marksheet.
- Recent Passport Size Photograph.
- Medical Certificate (as per specific instructions during verification).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there a written exam for the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026?
No, there is no written examination for the selection of Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) posts. The selection process for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is based purely on the merit list prepared using the marks obtained by candidates in their Class 10 board examination.
2. What is the total number of vacancies announced for the GDS recruitment drive in 2026?
According to the official notification, a total of 28,635 posts for Gramin Dak Sevak are available across various postal circles in India in the India Post GDS New Vacancy 2026 recruitment drive.
3. How is the merit list prepared for the India Post GDS selection process?
The merit list is prepared strictly based on the percentage or grades obtained by candidates in their Class 10 examination. Candidates with a higher score will receive a higher rank in the merit list for their chosen circle and division. There are specific tie-breaking rules if multiple candidates have identical percentages.
4. What is the minimum educational qualification required to apply for GDS?
To apply for the India Post GDS Recruitment 2026, candidates must have passed the Class 10 examination from a recognized board. Additionally, they must have studied Mathematics and the local language of the respective state as compulsory subjects up to the Class 10 level.
5. What is the age limit for applying to the Gramin Dak Sevak posts?
The age limit for candidates is between 18 years and 40 years. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories, including 5 years for SC/ST and 3 years for OBC candidates, as per government guidelines for India Post Gramin Dak Sevak Recruitment 2026.
6. Can I apply for more than one circle or post in the India Post GDS Vacancy 2026?
Yes, candidates can apply for multiple posts within a circle or across different circles. However, the application fee must be paid separately for each set of five preferences chosen within a division. Candidates should carefully select their preferences and ensure they meet the specific eligibility criteria for each chosen post and circle.
7. What documents are required for the application process?
Candidates need to upload scanned copies of their recent photograph and signature during the online application. After selection, during the document verification stage, original documents such as Class 10 marksheet, caste certificate (if applicable), computer certificate, and local language certificate must be presented.
8. What is the application fee for the India Post GDS Online Registration Form 2026?
The application fee is Rs. 100/- for male candidates belonging to the General, OBC, and EWS categories. Female candidates of all categories, and male candidates belonging to SC/ST and PWD categories, are exempted from paying the application fee.
9. What is the last date to apply for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026?
The last date for submitting the India Post GDS Online Registration Form 2026 is 14 February 2026. Candidates must ensure that they complete their registration and application submission well before this deadline to avoid any technical issues.
10. Where can I find the official notification and apply online for the India Post GDS Vacancy 2026?
Candidates can find the official notification and apply online directly through the official website: indiapostgdsonline.gov.in. It is recommended to download and carefully read the full notification before starting the application process. You can also monitor updates on websites like Sarkari Result All.