Introduction

While millions of students are preparing for tough competitive exams like Railways and SSC, the Department of Posts (India Post) offers a golden route to a government job without a single written exam. The wait is finally over! According to the latest reports, India Post is all set to release the Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Schedule-I January 2026 Notification.

This year, the department is expected to fill over 28,740 vacancies across 23 postal circles nationwide. If you have passed Class 10th and are looking for a stable job with good perks, this recruitment is tailor-made for you. The online application link is expected to go active on January 31, 2026.

In this article, we provide a detailed breakdown of the GDS 2026 notification, including the state-wise vacancy list, salary structure for BPM/ABPM, and the secret to getting selected.

India Post GDS 2026: Recruitment Overview

Before applying, candidates must check the key details of this recruitment drive.

India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 Overview

Important Dates to Remember

Missing the deadline is the biggest mistake students make. Mark these dates on your calendar:

• Notification Release Date: January 31, 2026
• Online Application Starts: January 31, 2026
• Last Date to Apply: February 14, 2026
• Correction Window: February 18–19, 2026
• First Merit List Release: Last week of February 2026

Note: The window to apply is very short (only about 2 weeks). Candidates are advised to register as soon as the link activates to avoid server issues.

Vacancy Breakdown (Circle-Wise Expectations)

The 28,000+ vacancies are distributed across India. Based on early reports, here are the states with the highest expected seats:

1. Uttar Pradesh: 3,100+ Seats
2. West Bengal: 2,900+ Seats
3. Bihar: 2,400+ Seats
4. Maharashtra: 2,100+ Seats
5. Rajasthan: 1,800+ Seats

(Detailed circle-wise list will be updated here once the PDF is released.)

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

The best part about GDS recruitment is its simple eligibility requirements.

1. Educational Qualification:

• Mandatory: Secondary School Examination pass certificate of 10th standard from a recognized board.
• Subjects: Passing marks in Mathematics and English are compulsory.
• Local Language: The candidate must have studied the local language of the applied circle (e.g., Hindi for UP/Bihar, Marathi for Maharashtra) up to 10th standard.

2. Other Requirements:

• Knowledge of Cycling is mandatory for all posts.
• Basic Computer Training Course certificate (minimum 60 days) is preferred but often not mandatory if Computer was a subject in school.

3. Age Limit (as on notification date):

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

Job Profile & Salary Structure (TRCA)

GDS posts are not regular Civil Service posts but are engaged as Extra Departmental agents. The salary is termed as Time Related Continuity Allowance (TRCA).

1. Branch Postmaster (BPM):

• Role: Head of the Gramin Dak Seva branch, managing records, and promoting government schemes (Sukanya Samriddhi, etc.).
• Salary (TRCA Slab): ₹12,000 – ₹29,380 per month.

2. Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) / Dak Sevak:

• Role: Sale of stamps, door-to-door mail delivery, and assisting the BPM.
• Salary (TRCA Slab): ₹10,000 – ₹24,470 per month.

Reality Check: While the basic pay seems low, GDS employees often get DA (Dearness Allowance) and other incentives, taking the initial in-hand salary for a BPM to around ₹16,000 – ₹18,000 per month.

Selection Process: The “Merit” System Explained

There is NO Written Exam and NO Interview.

1. System-Generated Merit List: The software automatically calculates merit based on your 10th Class marks.
2. Accuracy is Key: If you enter incorrect marks, your candidature will be rejected during verification.
3. Grades to Marks: If your board awards CGPA/Grades (like CBSE), it will be converted to marks using a multiplication factor (e.g., 9.5x).

Cut-Off Trends:

Since there is no exam, the competition is fierce. In states like UP and Bihar, the cut-off for General Category often goes above 95%. However, in tribal or remote areas, selection is possible at 85-90%.

How to Apply Online: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps carefully to ensure your form is accepted:

1. Registration: Visit indiapostgdsonline.gov.in and click on “Registration”. Enter your Mobile Number and Email ID (OTP verification required).
2. Fill Application: Log in with your Registration Number. Select your Circle (State) carefully—you can only apply to one circle!
3. Choose Preferences: You will see a list of Post Offices. Select as many preferences as possible to increase your chances.
4. Upload Documents: Upload your Photo (upto 50kb) and Signature (upto 20kb).
5. Fee Payment: Pay the application fee of ₹100. (SC/ST/Female/Transgender candidates are exempted from fees).
6. Print: Save the application PDF for future reference.

Conclusion

The India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is an excellent backup option for students preparing for higher-level exams, as it allows you to earn while you learn. With the notification dropping on January 31, make sure your documents are ready.

Stay connected with DigitalNewsReporting.com for the direct application link and the first merit list update!

FAQs