India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 Notification: Apply Online for BPM & ABPM Vacancies

The India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 notification is officially out, opening a massive opportunity for 10th-pass candidates across the nation. The Department of Posts has announced the engagement schedule for Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS), offering roles as Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), and Dak Sevaks . This is one of the most anticipated government recruitment drives because it selects candidates purely on merit based on 10th-standard marks, without any written examination.

If you are looking for a stable government engagement with a streamlined selection process, this is your chance. The online application window is now open, and candidates must register before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical glitches. This comprehensive guide covers everything from eligibility criteria and salary structures to a step-by-step application guide based on the official January 2026 notification.

India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 Key Highlights

Before you rush to apply, here is a quick snapshot of the critical details you need to know.

Important Dates & Schedule

Missing a deadline can cost you a year. Mark these dates on your calendar immediately.

• Online Registration Start Date: 31.01.2026
• Registration End Date: 14.02.2026 (up to 17:00 Hrs)
• Online Application Submission & Fee Payment: 02.02.2026 to 16.02.2026
• Edit/Correction Window: 18.02.2026 to 19.02.2026

Note: The cut-off time for submission is strictly 17:00 Hrs on the last date. Do not wait for the last day.

Vacancy Details & Salary Structure (TRCA)

The GDS posts are paid under the Time Related Continuity Allowance (TRCA). Here is the salary breakdown for 2026.

• BPM Job Profile: Includes day-to-day postal operations, IPPB transactions, and marketing of postal products .

• ABPM/Dak Sevak Job Profile: Includes sale of stamps, mail delivery at doorsteps, and assisting the BPM .

Also Read: Civil Services (Main) Exam 2026: Exam Date, Notification & Pattern

Eligibility Criteria for GDS 2026

Ensure you meet these strict requirements before applying.

1. Educational Qualification:

• Essential: Secondary School Examination (10th Std) pass certificate with passing marks in Mathematics and English from a recognized board.
• Local Language: You must have studied the local language of the applied circle at least up to the 10th standard.
  • Special Note: For Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, and Sikkim, specific local language rules apply (e.g., Konkani/Marathi for Goa) .

2. Age Limit (as on last date of application):

• Minimum Age: 18 Years
• Maximum Age: 40 Years
• Relaxations: SC/ST (5 Years), OBC (3 Years), PwBD (10 Years).

3. Other Requirements:

• Knowledge of Computers.
• Knowledge of Cycling.
• Adequate means of livelihood (Undertaking required).

Also Read: CG PET Syllabus 2026 & Exam Pattern (Official) – Download Subject-Wise PDF

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Online

The application process is divided into two parts: Registration and Application Submission. Follow these steps carefully to avoid rejection.

Part 1: One-Time Registration (OTR)

1. Visit the official portal: indiapost.gov.in/gdsonlineengagement.
2. Click on “New Candidate Registration”.
3. Validate your Mobile Number and Email ID via OTP.
4. Enter details exactly as per your 10th Class Certificate: Name, Father’s Name, DOB, Gender, Community.
5. Submit to generate your unique Registration Number.

Part 2: Online Application Form

1. Login using your Registration Number and the OTP/Password sent to your mobile.
2. Fill in personal details and 10th Board marks/grades .
   • Note: If your board awards grades, enter them directly; the system converts them (e.g., A1=10 points, multiplying factor 9.5) .
3. Select your Division and exercise preferences for posts. You can select multiple posts within one division .
4. Upload Documents:
   • Photo: JPG, 30-100 KB, 320×400 pixels .
   • Signature: JPG, 20-100 KB, 300×120 pixels .
5. Pay Fee: Rs. 100/- (Exempt for Female, SC/ST, PwBD, Transwomen) .
6. Submit and print the confirmation page.

Download Official Notification & Direct Links

• Click Here to Apply Online for India Post GDS 2026
• Download Official GDS Notification 2026 PDF
• Download User Manual for Registration

Comprehensive Analysis: Selection Process & Merit List

The selection is purely merit-based. Here is how the system works:

• Automated Merit List: The system generates a merit list based on 10th standard marks accurate to 4 decimals.
• No Weightage for Past Experience: Previous service or experience is not considered.
• Tie-Breaking Rule: If marks are same, priority is given to: Older candidate > ST Trans-woman > ST Female > SC Trans-woman… and so on.
• Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates must attend physical verification within 15 days of the result declaration. Failure to turn up leads to automatic cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is there any exam for GDS Recruitment 2026? No, selection is based entirely on the marks obtained in the 10th standard board examination.

Q2. Can I apply for multiple divisions? No, an applicant can apply for posts in only one selected Division. However, you can give preferences for multiple posts within that division.

Q3. What is the application fee? The fee is Rs. 100/- for UR/OBC/EWS males. Female candidates, SC/ST, PwBD, and Transwomen are exempted from paying the fee .

Q4. Can I edit my application after submission? Yes, a correction window is available from 18.02.2026 to 19.02.2026 to modify details (except Mobile Number and Email ID).

Q5. Is the GDS job permanent? GDS are holders of Civil Posts but are outside the regular Civil Services. They are engaged as “Extra-Departmental” employees with constitutional protection, working 4-5 hours a day .

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes based on Notification No. 17-37/2025-GDS (Pt.I). Candidates are strictly advised to visit indiapost.gov.in for the latest official updates and to verify all rules before applying.