India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: BPM, ABPM and Dak Sevak Eligibility, Salary, Selection and Apply Online

India Post has announced the Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Online Engagement Schedule-II, July-2026 for engagement to GDS posts in different offices of the Department of Posts. The recruitment includes Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) and Dak Sevak posts. The notification is dated 20 August 2026.

The recruitment is open to candidates who meet the prescribed age, Class 10 educational qualification, local-language and other requirements. Applications are submitted online. One-Time Registration is scheduled from 31 August to 19 September 2026, while online applications and fee payment can be completed from 2 September to 21 September 2026 up to 5:00 PM. A two-day correction window will be available on 23 and 24 September 2026.

Unlike recruitments that involve a written examination, GDS shortlisting is based on a system-generated merit list prepared using Class 10 marks/converted grades. This makes the Class 10 marks an important part of the selection process.

Recruitment Overview

Particular	Details
Organization	Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications
Recruitment	Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Online Engagement Schedule-II, July-2026
Notification Date	20 August 2026
Posts	BPM, ABPM and Dak Sevak
Vacancies	Division-wise vacancies are provided through the GDS Online Engagement Portal
Qualification	Class 10 pass with Mathematics and English
Local Language	Relevant local language studied up to Class 10
Age Limit	18 to 40 years, subject to applicable relaxation
BPM TRCA Slab	₹12,000 to ₹29,380
ABPM/Dak Sevak TRCA Slab	₹10,000 to ₹24,470
Application Mode	Online
Registration	31 August to 19 September 2026
Application	2 September to 21 September 2026
Correction Window	23 to 24 September 2026
Selection	System-generated merit list based on Class 10 marks/grades

The notification states that the tentative vacant posts for each Circle and Division are available through the prescribed GDS engagement system. It does not provide a single aggregate vacancy figure in the main notification; candidates should check the available posts and Post IDs while applying.

About India Post GDS Recruitment

The GDS engagement covers three main categories: Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) and Dak Sevak.

These posts are different from regular Central Government employee posts. GDS personnel are governed by the Gramin Dak Sevaks (Conduct and Engagement) Rules, 2020. They generally work for four to five hours a day and are mainly engaged in rural areas. The notification also states that a GDS should have another source of income apart from the allowances paid by the Government.

Therefore, candidates should understand the nature of GDS engagement before applying rather than assuming that it is the same as a regular full-time Central Government post.

Vacancy Details

The notification provides the structure for division-wise vacancy information, including the office name, post, Post ID, language, PIN code and community-wise vacancy details. The actual division-wise vacancy position is to be available on the GDS portal.

Candidates should therefore select their Division carefully and check the posts displayed for their eligibility.

The three categories are:

Post	Basic role
BPM	Responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the Branch Post Office and related postal services
ABPM	Assists in postal operations, mail delivery, transactions and customer services
Dak Sevak	Performs mail, delivery, sorting, parcel and other assigned postal duties

Who Can Apply?

Educational Qualification

The minimum educational qualification for GDS engagement is a Class 10 Secondary School Examination pass certificate from a recognized board, with passing marks in Mathematics and English.

The notification specifically states that candidates with an equivalent qualification from another board that does not meet the prescribed requirement are not eligible.

Candidates must also have studied the required local language up to Class 10 from a recognized board.

For example, the notification lists Telugu as the local language for both the Andhra Pradesh Postal Circle and Telangana Postal Circle.

Age Limit

The prescribed age range is:

Minimum age: 18 years
Maximum age: 40 years

Age is calculated as on the last date for submission of applications.

The upper-age relaxation mentioned in the notification is:

Category	Upper-age relaxation
SC/ST	5 years
OBC	3 years
EWS	No relaxation
PwBD	10 years
PwBD + OBC	13 years
PwBD + SC/ST	15 years

Other Qualifications

The notification also requires:

Knowledge of computers
Knowledge of cycling
Adequate means of livelihood

Selected candidates have to provide the prescribed undertakings regarding these requirements at the time of engagement.

Understanding the Eligibility

A candidate should not check only the Class 10 qualification and age. Local-language eligibility, community status, Division eligibility and post preferences can also affect which posts are available in the application.

The system displays eligible posts according to factors including community, age, PwD status and local language studied. Candidates can give preferences only for the posts shown as eligible to them.

Salary and Job Benefits

GDS personnel receive Time Related Continuity Allowance (TRCA) rather than the regular employee pay structure.

The basic TRCA slabs given in the notification are:

Post	TRCA Slab
BPM	₹12,000 – ₹29,380
ABPM/Dak Sevak	₹10,000 – ₹24,470

The notification states that TRCA carries an annual increase of 3%, subject to the conditions under the GDS Rules. GDS personnel are also entitled to Dearness Allowance and certain other allowances and social-security benefits, including GDS Gratuity and the Service Discharge Benefit Scheme.

These figures are TRCA slabs, so they should not be treated as an exact in-hand monthly salary.

What Does a GDS BPM Do?

A Branch Postmaster handles the day-to-day operations of the Branch Post Office and India Post Payments Bank services. The role can also include customer service, marketing and promotion of postal products and services, mail conveyance and mail delivery.

In a single-handed Branch Office, the BPM has overall responsibility for the smooth functioning of the office. A BPM may also have to perform ABPM-related duties when required.

One important condition is that a selected BPM must arrange accommodation for the Branch Post Office at their own cost and must reside in the post village where the Branch Office functions.

What Does an ABPM Do?

An Assistant Branch Postmaster assists with postal operations. Duties can include selling stamps and stationery, delivering mail, handling certain India Post Payments Bank transactions and assisting the BPM.

ABPMs may also be required to perform BPM duties when ordered or when a BPM is unavailable. They are required to reside within the delivery jurisdiction of the concerned Branch Office.

What Does a Dak Sevak Do?

A Dak Sevak may work in Post Offices, Sorting Offices, Mail Offices, Transit Mail Offices, Delivery Centres and other offices of the Department.

Depending on the place of engagement, duties can include:

Selling stamps and stationery
Conveying and delivering mail
Handling mail bags and parcels
Supporting sorting and transhipment work
Delivering mail and parcels
Assisting Post Office staff
Performing other duties assigned by senior officers

Dak Sevaks are required to reside within the delivery jurisdiction of the Post Office to which they are attached.

Application Fee

The application fee is ₹100 for applicants who are required to pay the fee.

Fee exemption is available to:

All female applicants
SC/ST applicants
PwBD applicants
Transwomen applicants

Applicants who are not exempt must complete the fee payment within the application period. The fee, once paid, is not refundable.

Selection Process

The GDS selection process is mainly based on Class 10 academic performance.

1. System-Generated Merit List

The Department prepares a merit list using the marks obtained in the Class 10 Secondary School Examination. The marks are aggregated into a percentage up to four decimal places.

Where only grades or grade points are available, the prescribed conversion method is applied by the system. Candidates do not have to manually convert their grades into marks where the notification says the system will perform the conversion.

2. Physical Verification of Documents

Shortlisted candidates are required to report to the designated authority for physical verification within the prescribed 15-day period from shortlisting.

Failure to report within that period can result in cancellation of candidature.

3. Offer of Provisional Engagement

If the original documents are verified successfully, a system-generated offer of provisional engagement is issued.

The selected candidate then has to complete pre-engagement formalities within 30 days, including prescribed basic training and other applicable requirements.

How to Apply

The application process has two main parts: One-Time Registration (OTR) and the Online Application Form.

Step 1: Complete One-Time Registration

Enter your active mobile number, email ID and required personal information. The mobile number and email ID are verified through OTP.

Step 2: Enter Personal Details Carefully

Your name, date of birth, parents’ names and other important details should match the Class 10 marksheet. Incorrect information can lead to cancellation.

Step 3: Enter Educational Details

Select the relevant board, passing year and Class 10 marks as required.

Step 4: Select Division and Post Preferences

The portal will display posts for which you are eligible based on the applicable conditions. You can provide your preference for the available Post IDs.

Importantly, a candidate can apply for vacant GDS posts in only one selected Division. If selected for more than one preferred post, only one post will ultimately be offered according to the applicable preference order.

Step 5: Upload Photograph and Signature

Only the prescribed photograph and signature need to be uploaded with the online application.

The photograph should be in JPG/JPEG format and the prescribed size is 30 KB to 100 KB. The signature should also be in JPG/JPEG format with a prescribed size of 20 KB to 100 KB.

Step 6: Preview the Application

Check every field before final submission. Make sure your personal details, educational information, post preference, photograph and signature are correct.

Step 7: Pay the Fee if Applicable

Candidates who are required to pay the fee must complete the payment within the prescribed deadline.

Step 8: Submit and Save the Application

Complete the final submission and keep the registration/application details safely for future use.

Documents Required at Verification

Candidates do not have to upload all supporting documents with the initial application. However, shortlisted candidates must carry the applicable original documents and two sets of self-attested photocopies during physical verification.

Documents mentioned in the notification include:

Class 10 marksheet
Identity proof
Caste certificate, where applicable
PwBD certificate, where applicable
EWS certificate, where applicable
Transgender certificate, where applicable
Date of birth proof
Government medical certificate
Prescribed local-language/dialect certificate for applicable states

Important Dates

Event	Date
Notification Date	20 August 2026
One-Time Registration	31 August to 19 September 2026
Online Application and Fee Payment	2 September to 21 September 2026
Application Closing Time	5:00 PM
Correction Window	23 to 24 September 2026
Examination Date	Not applicable/not specified

The notification provides a two-day correction window after the application closing date. After this correction period ends, further changes are not allowed.

What Candidates Should Do Before Applying

GDS selection depends heavily on the information entered in the application and the Class 10 marks used for merit. Candidates should therefore:

Confirm that they passed Class 10 with the required Mathematics and English conditions.
Check the local language requirement for the Circle and post.
Confirm their age on the application closing date.
Check the Division and available Post IDs carefully.
Keep an active mobile number and email ID.
Check the Class 10 marksheet before entering marks.
Prepare the photograph and signature in the prescribed format.
Check reservation certificates if claiming a reserved category.
Preview the complete application before submission.
Save the registration number and submitted application details.

The Department specifically advises candidates to submit the application well before the deadline rather than waiting for the final day.

Common Mistakes Candidates Should Avoid

Applying with Incorrect Class 10 Details

The name, date of birth and other important details should match the Class 10 marksheet. Incorrect information can affect candidature.

Creating Multiple Registrations

Only one registration is permitted. Duplicate or multiple registrations can result in cancellation.

Selecting the Wrong Division

A candidate can select posts in only one Division. Post preferences should therefore be considered carefully before final submission.

Uploading an Unclear Photograph or Signature

Blurred or illegible photographs and signatures can lead to rejection. Candidates should check the preview before submitting the application.

Missing Document Verification

Shortlisted candidates must report for physical verification within the prescribed period. Failure to do so can result in cancellation.

How to Prepare for GDS Selection

There is no written examination stage specified for this GDS recruitment. The shortlist is generated from Class 10 marks or the prescribed grade-to-mark conversion.

Therefore, candidates applying in this cycle should focus less on traditional exam preparation and more on getting the application and documents correct.

If your Class 10 certificate contains grades or CGPA, understand how the notification says the system will convert them. Do not enter incorrect marks or manually change grades into marks when the application system asks for grades/points.

Also check whether your Class 10 marksheet is available through DigiLocker or the relevant education board’s online system, because the Department may use online verification for available documents.

Who Should Consider This Recruitment?

This recruitment may suit candidates who:

Have completed Class 10 with the required subjects
Meet the prescribed age limit
Have studied the required local language
Meet the computer and cycling requirements
Are comfortable with the working conditions of GDS engagement
Understand the requirement regarding an additional source of income
Can satisfy the residence or accommodation conditions applicable to their selected post

Candidates should read the conditions carefully before choosing a Division or Post ID.

Who Should Not Apply?

A candidate should not apply for a post if they do not meet its prescribed educational, age, local-language or other eligibility conditions.

Candidates should also understand that GDS personnel are not regular Central Government employees, and the notification specifically distinguishes their service conditions and entitlements from those of regular Central Government employees.

Before You Submit the Application

Use this final check:

Name: Match the Class 10 certificate
Date of Birth: Match the Class 10 certificate
Educational details: Enter the correct marks/grades
Local language: Confirm the requirement
Division: Select carefully
Post preference: Check every Post ID
Photograph: Follow the prescribed format and size
Signature: Follow the prescribed format and size
Category: Select the correct category
Fee: Pay if applicable
Preview: Check the entire form
Final submission: Complete it before 5:00 PM on the closing date

Important Links for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026

Purpose	Official Link
India Post Official Website	India Post Official Website
GDS Recruitment Notification	GDS Online Engagement Notification
Online Registration / Application	Apply Online for GDS Recruitment

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is India Post GDS Recruitment 2026?

It is the Gramin Dak Sevak Online Engagement Schedule-II, July-2026 recruitment for BPM, ABPM and Dak Sevak posts in different offices of the Department of Posts.

2. What is the minimum qualification for GDS?

Candidates must have passed Class 10 with passing marks in Mathematics and English from a recognized board, along with the required local-language qualification.

3. What is the GDS age limit?

The age limit is 18 to 40 years, subject to the applicable upper-age relaxations mentioned in the notification.

4. Is there a written exam for GDS recruitment?

The notification specifies shortlisting through a system-generated merit list based on Class 10 marks/grade conversion. It does not specify a written examination stage for this recruitment.

5. What is the GDS salary?

The notification gives a TRCA slab of ₹12,000–₹29,380 for BPM and ₹10,000–₹24,470 for ABPM/Dak Sevak, along with applicable allowances and benefits.

6. What is the application fee?

The fee is ₹100 for applicants who are required to pay it. Female, SC/ST, PwBD and Transwomen applicants are exempt from the fee.

7. Can a candidate apply for multiple Divisions?

No. The application system allows a candidate to apply for vacant GDS posts in only one selected Division, after which eligible posts and preferences are displayed.

8. What local language is required for Telangana GDS posts?

For the Telangana Postal Circle, the prescribed local language is Telugu.

9. What documents are required during verification?

Shortlisted candidates may need to produce their Class 10 marksheet, identity proof, applicable category certificates, date-of-birth proof, medical certificate and other documents specified for their case.

10. When can candidates register for GDS 2026?

One-Time Registration is scheduled from 31 August to 19 September 2026, while online application submission and fee payment are scheduled from 2 September to 21 September 2026 up to 5:00 PM.

Important Notice

Candidates should carefully read the official recruitment notification before submitting their application. Eligibility, dates, vacancies and other conditions are subject to the official notification. The Department also reserves the right to modify or revise the recruitment details as provided in the notification.