OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026 Out for 118 Posts: Assistant Agriculture Officer Recruitment Exam Scheduled for February 19
The **Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC)** has officially released the exam schedule for the highly anticipated recruitment drive for **Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO)** positions. Candidates who successfully applied for the **118 vacancies** under this notification can now finalize their preparations, as the written examination is scheduled to take place on **19 February 2026**. This announcement marks the final phase of the selection process for these critical roles within the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha.
The **OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026** notification was a significant update for thousands of aspirants seeking a career in agriculture management within the state. The commission has detailed that the written examination will be held in offline mode at designated centers primarily in Cuttack, Odisha. This news, released just days before the scheduled exam date, emphasizes the need for immediate action from all candidates to download their admit cards and verify all details related to their examination center and shift timing.
For individuals preparing for government examinations, especially those related to technical fields like agriculture, staying informed about exam dates and updates is crucial. This article provides comprehensive details regarding the **OPSC AAO recruitment 2026**, covering the examination schedule, admit card download procedure, detailed exam pattern, and essential preparation tips to ensure candidates are well-prepared for the upcoming test.
Key Details: OPSC Assistant Agriculture Officer Recruitment 2026
Before delving into the specific preparation strategies for the last week before the exam, let's look at a quick overview of the essential information related to the **OPSC Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO) recruitment 2026**. This information includes the name of the organization, the specific post, total number of vacancies, and critical dates for the examination process.
| Recruitment Body | Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO) |
| Total Posts | 118 Vacancies |
| Application Start Date | Not Available |
| Last Date to Apply | Not Available |
| Exam Date 2026 | 19 February 2026 (Thursday) |
| Admit Card Release Status | Available (As per exam date proximity) |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (Written Examination) |
| Official Website | www.opsc.gov.in |
OPSC AAO Exam Schedule and Centers: February 19, 2026
The **OPSC** selection process for the **Assistant Agriculture Officer** post generally comprises a written examination followed by a viva voce or interview round. The written examination serves as the first and most crucial screening stage. According to the official notification released by the commission, the written examination for the **OPSC AAO recruitment** for **118 posts** will be held on **19 February 2026**. This date is firm, and candidates must ensure they are ready to appear for the examination on the scheduled day.
The examination will be conducted offline, requiring candidates to visit specific examination centers designated by the **OPSC**. The primary location for the exam centers is typically Cuttack, Odisha. Detailed information regarding the precise address of the examination center, shift timings (morning or afternoon), and specific instructions for the exam day are provided on the admit card. Candidates must carefully review their admit card upon download to confirm their center details and plan their travel accordingly, especially those traveling from outside Cuttack.
The **Assistant Agriculture Officer** role is vital for implementing agricultural schemes and ensuring food security in the state. The large number of vacancies, specifically **118 posts**, indicates the high demand for qualified personnel in the agricultural sector. The **OPSC** maintains strict adherence to its recruitment schedule to fill these positions promptly, making the **February 19, 2026, exam date** a non-negotiable deadline for aspirants.
How to Download OPSC AAO Admit Card 2026
With the **OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026** confirmed, the immediate next step for all registered candidates is to download their admit cards (or hall tickets). The admit card is a mandatory document that serves as proof of identity and confirms a candidate's eligibility to appear for the exam. Without a valid admit card, candidates will not be permitted to enter the examination hall. The admit card download process typically begins one to two weeks before the exam date, meaning candidates should be able to download it immediately given the current date of **11 February 2026**.
Follow the step-by-step instructions below to download your **OPSC AAO admit card 2026** from the official **OPSC** website:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official website of the **Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC)**, which is www.opsc.gov.in. It is crucial to use the official website to avoid potential scams or misinformation from unofficial sources.
Step 2: Locate the Admit Card Section
On the homepage, look for the "What's New," "Notifications," or "Download Admit Card" section. The link for the **OPSC AAO admit card download** will be prominently displayed here, often with the specific notification number (e.g., Advertisement No. 05 of 2023-24).
Step 3: Access the Login Portal
Click on the relevant link for the "Assistant Agriculture Officer Admit Card 2026." You will be redirected to a new page where you need to log in using your credentials. Typically, you will need your Registration Number and Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY format) or a combination of username and password provided during the application process.
Step 4: Download and Verify Details
After logging in, your admit card will be displayed on the screen. Download the document in PDF format. Before printing, carefully verify all personal details (name, photo, signature), roll number, exam date, time, and the assigned examination center. Report any discrepancies to the **OPSC** helpline immediately.
Step 5: Print the Admit Card
Take a clear printout of the admit card on a clean A4 sheet. It is advisable to print a color copy, though black and white is generally acceptable. Keep multiple copies in a safe place for future reference.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus for OPSC AAO Examination
Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus is crucial for last-minute preparation for the **OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026**. The **OPSC Assistant Agriculture Officer recruitment** written examination typically consists of two papers, designed to evaluate both general aptitude and subject-specific knowledge of agriculture science. While candidates have been preparing for months, a final review of the pattern can optimize preparation in the week leading up to **19 February 2026**.
The written examination usually involves objective-type questions (Multiple Choice Questions - MCQs) with negative marking for incorrect answers. The specific details vary depending on the exact **OPSC** notification, but the general structure remains consistent for technical posts.
Paper I: General Studies and Aptitude
This paper evaluates a candidate's general knowledge, current affairs awareness, and analytical capabilities. Subjects included typically are:
- General Knowledge: Focus on state and national-level news, history, geography, economy, and general science, particularly related to Odisha.
- Current Affairs: Recent events, government schemes (especially those related to agriculture and rural development), and new policies.
- Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude: Questions on data interpretation, number series, coding-decoding, and basic mathematical calculations.
- English Language: Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and sentence construction.
Paper II: Agriculture Science
This paper tests the candidate's core knowledge of agriculture, aligning with the requirements for the **Assistant Agriculture Officer** post. The syllabus typically covers all major disciplines of agriculture studied during the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Agriculture program:
- Agronomy: Crop production, field crops, cropping systems, weed management, and agricultural meteorology.
- Horticulture: Cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers; post-harvest technology.
- Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry: Soil properties, fertilizers, manures, and soil conservation techniques.
- Plant Protection: Entomology, pathology, and integrated pest management (IPM).
- Plant Breeding and Genetics: Principles of genetics, crop improvement, and biotechnology.
- Agricultural Economics and Farm Management: Cost-benefit analysis, market dynamics, and agricultural policies.
Candidates must ensure they dedicate sufficient time to revising both papers, as a balanced score in both is generally required to qualify for the next stage of the selection process.
Eligibility Criteria for Assistant Agriculture Officer Post
For context, it is helpful to recall the primary eligibility criteria that were required for candidates to apply for the **OPSC AAO recruitment** in the first place. These requirements ensure that only qualified individuals with the necessary academic background for the **Assistant Agriculture Officer** role apply for the **118 vacancies**.
Educational Qualification: The essential requirement for the post of **Assistant Agriculture Officer** is a Bachelor's degree (B.Sc.) in Agriculture from a recognized university or institution. In some cases, a B.Sc. in Horticulture may also be considered, depending on the specific terms of the notification. Candidates must have obtained this degree by the specified cut-off date during the application period.
Age Limit: Candidates applying for the **OPSC AAO** post typically fall within an age bracket specified by the **Odisha Public Service Commission**. Age relaxation is usually provided for candidates belonging to reserved categories (SC/ST/SEBC) as per government rules. The typical minimum age is around 21 years, with a maximum age limit around 32-38 years, depending on category and specific advertisement terms.
Other Requirements: Candidates must also be able to read, write, and speak Odia fluently. This is a common requirement for posts in the state government to ensure effective communication with local communities and adherence to local regulations.
Last-Minute Preparation Strategy for OPSC AAO Exam 2026
With only a few days remaining until the **OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026** (19 February 2026), candidates should shift their focus from learning new concepts to revising and consolidating existing knowledge. The final week of preparation is crucial for enhancing speed and accuracy and building confidence.
1. Revision of Core Subjects: Prioritize revising high-weightage topics from Paper II (Agriculture Science). Avoid starting new chapters now. Focus on reviewing notes, key formulas, important definitions, and flowcharts related to Agronomy, Soil Science, and Horticulture. For Paper I (General Studies), focus on current affairs from the last 6-12 months.
2. Mock Test Practice: The best way to simulate the actual exam environment is by taking full-length mock tests. Since the exam mode is offline, practice with OMR sheets (if possible) to get used to marking answers carefully. Analyze your performance in mock tests to identify areas where you are weak and quickly review those topics.
3. Time Management: Practice managing your time during the mock tests. The **OPSC AAO** written examination will have a specific time limit for both papers. Ensure you complete the required number of questions within the allocated time without rushing or making careless errors. Develop a strategy for tackling different sections—decide whether to attempt Paper I or Paper II first based on your comfort level.
4. Document Preparation: Before the **OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026**, collect all necessary documents required for entry into the examination center. This includes:
- Printed copy of the **OPSC AAO Admit Card 2026**.
- Original Photo ID proof (e.g., Aadhar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License).
- Two passport-size photographs (in case of discrepancies on the admit card).
5. Stay Calm and Focused: Avoid last-minute stress. Ensure proper rest and nutrition. A fresh mind on exam day is far more effective than an exhausted one. Trust in the hard work put in over the past months and approach the exam with confidence.
Selection Process Breakdown for OPSC AAO Posts
The selection process for the **Assistant Agriculture Officer** recruitment by the **Odisha Public Service Commission** for **118 vacancies** involves two primary stages. Candidates must clear each stage to proceed to the next and eventually secure a position on the final merit list.
Stage 1: Written Examination (19 February 2026)
The first stage is the written examination, which will be conducted on **19 February 2026**. As discussed, this exam covers General Studies and Agriculture Science. Candidates must meet the minimum qualifying marks in this written test to be shortlisted for the interview round. The written examination score holds significant weight in the final merit calculation.
Stage 2: Interview/Viva Voce
Candidates who perform well in the written examination will be called for the interview round. The ratio for calling candidates for the interview varies but is typically 2 to 3 times the total number of vacancies (**118 posts**). The interview assesses a candidate's personality, communication skills, and practical knowledge related to agriculture. This round carries significant weight in determining the final selection.
Final Merit List:
The final merit list for the **OPSC AAO recruitment** is prepared based on the combined performance of candidates in both the written examination and the interview round. Candidates who rank high on this list will be selected for document verification and subsequent appointment to the **Assistant Agriculture Officer** posts. The notification and results for each stage will be published on the **OPSC** official website, as well as on trusted platforms like **Sarkari Result All**.
Candidates are advised to frequently check the official website of the **Odisha Public Service Commission** at www.opsc.gov.in and other reliable news sources for any last-minute updates regarding the **OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026** or potential changes in the schedule. The recruitment process for these **118 vacancies** is nearing its final stage, and candidates must be vigilant during this period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) regarding OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026
1. When is the OPSC AAO Exam Date 2026?
The written examination for the OPSC Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO) recruitment for 118 posts is scheduled for **19 February 2026**.
2. How many total vacancies are available for the OPSC Assistant Agriculture Officer recruitment?
There are a total of **118 posts** available for the Assistant Agriculture Officer position under this OPSC recruitment drive.
3. Where will the OPSC AAO examination be conducted?
The offline written examination for the **OPSC AAO** post will be primarily conducted at various designated examination centers in Cuttack, Odisha. Detailed information about the specific center will be provided on the candidate's admit card.
4. How can I download my OPSC AAO Admit Card 2026?
Candidates can download their admit card from the official website of the Odisha Public Service Commission (www.opsc.gov.in) by logging in with their registration number and date of birth. The admit card download link is typically activated one to two weeks before the exam date.
5. What is the selection process for the OPSC Assistant Agriculture Officer post?
The selection process consists of two main stages: a written examination (offline) and a subsequent interview or viva voce round. The final selection is based on a combined merit list prepared after both stages are complete.
6. Is there negative marking in the OPSC AAO written exam?
Yes, typically there is negative marking in OPSC written examinations. Candidates should carefully review the instructions provided on the admit card and question paper to understand the exact marking scheme and negative marking penalty for incorrect answers.
7. What documents are required for the exam day?
On the exam day (19 February 2026), candidates must carry a hard copy of their **OPSC AAO Admit Card 2026** and a valid original photo identity proof (such as Aadhar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License).
8. What are the key subjects for the OPSC AAO exam syllabus?
The written examination covers General Studies (General Knowledge, Aptitude, Current Affairs, English) and Agriculture Science. Paper II focuses specifically on subjects like Agronomy, Soil Science, Horticulture, Plant Protection, and Agricultural Economics.