India Post GDS Online Engagement Schedule-II

Rakhal das

Sep 04, 2026

India Post GDS Online Engagement Schedule-II, July-2026: Complete Details

The Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, Government of India, has released the Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Online Engagement Schedule-II, July-2026 notification. The recruitment is being conducted for vacant posts of Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) and Dak Sevak in different offices of India Post.

According to the official notification, the notification is numbered 17-12/2026-GDS and is dated 20 August 2026. Candidates who satisfy the prescribed educational, age, language and other eligibility requirements can apply through the official India Post GDS Online Engagement portal.

The official portal currently shows that One-Time Registration is open from 31 August 2026 to 19 September 2026, while the online application submission and fee-payment window runs from 2 September 2026 to 21 September 2026. A separate correction window will be available from 23 September 2026 to 24 September 2026, up to 5:00 PM.

For candidates looking for a government-sector opportunity after Class 10, this recruitment is particularly important because the GDS selection process is based on a system-generated merit list using Class 10 marks, rather than a conventional written examination.

India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: Overview

*The official notification provides the vacancy position division-wise through the portal and Annexure-I. Current recruitment summaries report 23,757 vacancies; candidates should verify the exact post/division position on the official portal before submitting an application.

What is India Post GDS Recruitment 2026?

Gramin Dak Sevak, commonly known as GDS, is an engagement opportunity under the Department of Posts. GDS positions support the functioning of Branch Post Offices, Post Offices, delivery centres and other postal establishments.

For Schedule-II, July-2026, India Post has invited applications for three broad categories:

1. Branch Postmaster (BPM)

2. Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM)

3. Dak Sevak

The official notification makes it clear that GDS personnel are not regular Central Government employees. Their service conditions are governed by the Gramin Dak Sevaks (Conduct and Engagement) Rules, 2020, as revised from time to time. GDS personnel are civil-post holders outside the regular civil services of the Union and generally work in rural areas.

Therefore, candidates should carefully understand the nature of the engagement before applying. The GDS opportunity can be attractive for 10th-pass candidates, but it should not be confused with recruitment to a regular Central Government civil-service post.

India Post GDS Vacancy 2026

The Schedule-II, July-2026 recruitment covers vacancies in different postal circles and divisions across India. The official notification places the detailed vacancy information in Annexure-I, while the online portal provides the division-wise vacant-post information.

The reported total for this recruitment cycle is 23,757 posts. The vacancy distribution includes different categories such as Unreserved, OBC, SC, ST, EWS and PwBD, according to the applicable reservation rules.

Because the vacancy position is linked to specific divisions, candidates should not select a division simply because it appears to have a lower expected merit level. They must first check whether they are eligible for the posts displayed for that division based on their community, age, disability status, local language and other requirements.

The official portal should be treated as the final source for the currently available vacancy list.

Posts Available Under GDS Recruitment

1. Branch Postmaster (BPM)

The BPM is responsible for the overall functioning of a Branch Post Office. Duties can include postal operations, India Post Payments Bank-related work, marketing and promotion of postal products and services, customer-service activities, mail conveyance and mail delivery.

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

An important condition is that a selected BPM must arrange accommodation for operating the Branch Post Office at their own cost. The selected BPM is also required to reside in the post village where the Branch Office functions.

2. Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM)

The ABPM assists in the day-to-day operation of the Branch Post Office. Duties may include selling stamps and stationery, mail delivery, exchanging mail with the account office, handling deposits and payments, and carrying out India Post Payments Bank transactions.

ABPMs can also assist the BPM in postal operations and may be assigned marketing and customer-service activities. Under certain circumstances, an ABPM may also perform combined BPM duties. ABPMs are required to reside within the delivery jurisdiction of the concerned Branch Office.

3. Dak Sevak

Dak Sevaks may be engaged in Post Offices, Sorting Offices, Mail Offices, Transit Mail Offices, Delivery Centres or other offices of the Department of Posts.

Their duties can include selling stamps and stationery, conveying and delivering mail, handling IPPB transactions, handling mail bags and parcels, transhipment of bags, assisting with delivery operations and supporting the smooth functioning of departmental Post Offices.

Depending on the workplace, duties can therefore differ considerably. Dak Sevaks attached to delivery operations may have substantial field responsibilities.

GDS Salary 2026

GDS personnel receive Time Related Continuity Allowance (TRCA) rather than the regular salary structure applicable to ordinary Central Government employees.

According to the July-2026 notification, the initial engagement TRCA slabs are:

The notification states that TRCA carries an annual increase of 3%, subject to the applicable conditions. GDS personnel are also entitled to Dearness Allowance on TRCA as declared by the Government from time to time. Other benefits include GDS Gratuity and the Service Discharge Benefit Scheme, subject to the applicable rules.

Candidates should remember that these figures represent the prescribed TRCA slabs and should not automatically be interpreted as an identical monthly take-home amount for every employee.

GDS Eligibility Criteria 2026

Candidates must satisfy all eligibility requirements prescribed in the notification.

Educational Qualification

The minimum educational qualification is a Secondary School Examination pass certificate of Class 10, with passing marks in Mathematics and English.

The qualification must be obtained from a recognised Board of School Education recognised by the Government of India, a State Government or a Union Territory.

The notification specifically states that an equivalent qualification from another board that does not meet the prescribed recognition conditions is not eligible.

Therefore, candidates should check their Class 10 certificate carefully before applying.

Local Language Requirement

The applicant must have studied the prescribed local language up to at least Class 10 from a recognised board.

The applicable local language depends on the postal circle and post. The post-wise language details are provided in Annexure-III of the notification.

This requirement is extremely important. A candidate may have a high Class 10 percentage but still be ineligible for a particular post if the required local language condition is not satisfied.

Special language provisions are applicable to some states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Sikkim and Nagaland. Candidates applying for posts in these states should carefully read the relevant provisions in the notification.

Computer Knowledge

Knowledge of computers is also listed as an additional qualification for GDS engagement.

Selected candidates are required to provide the prescribed undertaking relating to computer knowledge at the time of engagement.

Knowledge of Cycling

Knowledge of cycling is another prescribed qualification.

This is particularly relevant because GDS duties can involve mail delivery and movement within the local area. Selected candidates are required to provide the relevant undertaking at the engagement stage.

Adequate Means of Livelihood

The notification also requires candidates to have adequate means of livelihood. Selected candidates are required to provide an undertaking in the prescribed format.

GDS Age Limit 2026

The prescribed age limit for GDS engagement is:

• Minimum age: 18 years

• Maximum age: 40 years

The age is determined as on the last date of submission of applications.

Age Relaxation

The notification provides the following upper-age relaxations:

The candidate should have the appropriate certificate where reservation or age relaxation is claimed.

India Post GDS Application Fee 2026

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

However, the notification provides fee exemption for:

• Female candidates

• SC candidates

• ST candidates

• PwBD candidates

• Transwomen candidates

Eligible fee-paying candidates can pay through available online methods, including recognised credit/debit cards, net banking and UPI.

The fee, once paid, is not refundable. Therefore, candidates should carefully verify their eligibility and selected division before making payment.

Candidates who are required to pay the fee must ensure that both application submission and successful fee payment are completed by 5:00 PM on 21 September 2026. Incomplete or pending payment after the closing time can result in rejection.

Important Dates for GDS Recruitment 2026

The India Post GDS Schedule-II, July-2026 timeline is divided into three separate stages.

These dates are confirmed on the official GDS Online Engagement portal.

One important point is that registration and application submission are two separate steps. Completing One-Time Registration alone does not mean that the candidate has submitted an application.

How to Apply for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026

Candidates should follow the online application procedure carefully.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to the official India Post GDS Online Engagement website:

India Post GDS Online Engagement Portal

Candidates should avoid unofficial websites when entering personal information or making fee payments.

Step 2: Complete One-Time Registration

Candidates must first complete the One-Time Registration (OTR).

An active mobile number and email ID are required. Both are verified through OTP. The same mobile number and email ID cannot subsequently be used for another applicant's registration.

Candidates should keep their Class 10 board information and year of passing ready.

Step 3: Enter Personal Details

During registration, candidates need to enter important personal information such as:

• Name

• Date of birth

• Gender

• Father's/Guardian's name

• Mother's name

• Community

• Mobile number

• Email ID

The name, date of birth and other important details should be entered exactly as recorded on the Class 10 certificate.

A mismatch between the application and the matriculation certificate can create problems during verification and may result in cancellation.

Step 4: Receive Registration Number

After successful registration, a unique registration number is generated. The registration number is also communicated to the registered mobile number and email address.

Candidates should save the registration number and password securely because these credentials are needed for future login and application submission.

Step 5: Login and Apply Online

Once the application window opens, candidates can log in using the registration number and password.

The application includes sections for:

• Personal details

• Educational details

• Class 10 marks

• Board and passing year

• Division selection

• Post preference

• Photograph

• Signature

• Fee payment, where applicable

The official instructions explain that candidates must select eligible posts based on the available vacancies, local-language qualification and other eligibility conditions.

Step 6: Select Division and Post Preferences

This is one of the most important stages.

A candidate can apply for vacant GDS posts in only one selected Division. After selecting the Division, the system displays eligible posts based on factors such as community, age, PwD status and local-language eligibility.

The candidate must provide preferences for the posts they wish to be considered for.

If a candidate does not give preference to a particular post, they will not be considered for that post. If a candidate is shortlisted for more than one opted post, only the first suitable post according to the candidate's preference will be offered and the claims over the remaining posts will be forfeited.

Therefore, candidates should carefully arrange their post preferences before final submission.

Photograph and Signature Requirements

Candidates must upload their recent photograph and signature according to the prescribed specifications.

Photograph

The notification specifies:

• Format: JPG/JPEG

• File size: 30 KB to 100 KB

• Recommended dimensions: 320 × 400 pixels

• Aspect ratio: 4:5

• DPI: 72 to 150

• Background: Plain white or light-coloured

• Face should occupy approximately 70–80% of the image

The photograph should be clear and should not contain shadows or red-eye. Scanned photographs and selfies should be avoided.

Candidates should prepare the photograph and signature before beginning the application process. A blurred or illegible photograph/signature can lead to rejection.

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Selection Process for GDS Recruitment 2026

The India Post GDS selection process is different from many other government recruitment examinations.

There is no conventional written examination for preparing the initial merit list. Instead, candidates are shortlisted through a system-generated merit list based primarily on Class 10 marks.

Merit List Based on Class 10 Marks

The merit list is prepared using the marks obtained in the Secondary School Examination of Class 10.

The marks are aggregated into a percentage with accuracy up to four decimal places.

This means that Class 10 academic performance is extremely important.

Candidates should therefore enter their Class 10 marks accurately. Incorrect marks can affect merit and can also cause problems during document verification.

Grade/CGPA Conversion

The notification contains specific rules for candidates whose Class 10 marksheets show grades or grade points.

For boards where only grades are provided, the notification specifies a multiplication factor of 9.5 for conversion in the applicable circumstances.

The listed grade-point conversion includes:

Where CGPA is provided, the notification states that marks are arrived at by multiplying CGPA by 9.5. If both individual subject grades and CGPA are available, the higher applicable marks are used under the stated rules.

Candidates should not independently enter converted marks where the application system asks for grades or points. The system performs the applicable conversion for merit preparation.

Tie-Breaking Rules

When two or more applicants have the same merit position, the Department applies a specified tie-breaking order.

The notification begins the tie-breaking process with date of birth, giving priority to the older candidate, followed by a prescribed order based on category and gender.

Because GDS merit can be highly competitive, even very small differences in Class 10 percentage can matter in some divisions.

Document Verification

After the merit list is published, shortlisted candidates must attend physical document verification at the designated authority's office.

The official notification states that shortlisted candidates must report to the designated Divisional/Unit Head within 15 days from the date of shortlisting. Failure to report within the prescribed period can result in cancellation.

Candidates should carry original documents along with two sets of self-attested photocopies, as applicable.

Documents can include:

• Class 10 marksheet

• Identity proof

• Caste certificate

• PwBD certificate

• EWS certificate

• Transgender certificate

• Date of birth proof

• Government medical certificate

• Required local-language or tribal-language certificate for applicable states

A medical certificate from a Government Hospital, Government Dispensary or Government Primary Health Centre is compulsory under the notification.

What Happens After Document Verification?

If the original documents are verified successfully and no discrepancy is found, the system-generated offer of provisional engagement can be issued.

After receiving the offer, candidates must complete the prescribed pre-engagement formalities within the specified period. These include basic training of three days and other requirements such as accommodation arrangements where applicable.

Failure to complete the required formalities or join within the prescribed period can result in cancellation and the post may subsequently be offered to another candidate.

Final engagement is subject to the required verification processes, including verification of educational and other certificates and antecedent verification where applicable.

DigiLocker and Educational Certificate Verification

An important feature of the current process is digital verification of Class 10 documents where the relevant records are available online.

The Department may verify secondary-level documents through API Setu, DigiLocker or the official website of the educational board.

Shortlisted candidates are therefore advised to ensure that their relevant documents are correctly available in DigiLocker where applicable. If online records contain discrepancies in marks or other details, the candidature can be affected.

Candidates should therefore check their Class 10 certificate details before applying.

Important Instructions for Applicants

Candidates should keep the following points in mind while applying for GDS Schedule-II, July-2026:

1. Only one registration is allowed

Multiple or duplicate registrations/applications are strictly prohibited. If duplicate applications are detected, candidature can be cancelled.

2. Do not create a new registration to correct a mistake

Candidates are provided with an edit/correction facility. Creating duplicate registrations can cause serious problems.

3. Use accurate Class 10 information

Your name, date of birth, parents' names and other important information should match the matriculation certificate.

4. Choose the division carefully

The candidate can apply for GDS vacancies in only one selected Division under the application rules. Post preferences should be entered carefully.

5. Do not wait until the last day

The Department advises applicants to submit applications well before the closing date to avoid technical difficulties or heavy website traffic.

6. Keep your mobile number and email active

Important communication can be sent through registered contact details, although candidates are also advised to regularly check the official portal.

7. Never share registration credentials

Candidates should not share registration numbers, passwords, mobile numbers or email information with unknown persons.

The Department specifically warns candidates about unscrupulous phone calls and states that applicants should remain alert to fraudulent communications.

Is There Any Written Exam for GDS Recruitment 2026?

No conventional written examination is used for preparing the GDS merit list.

The initial shortlisting is based on a system-generated merit list prepared from Class 10 marks according to the notification's conversion rules.

This makes the recruitment particularly suitable for candidates who have strong Class 10 academic records and want to apply for a postal-sector opportunity without appearing for a competitive written examination.

However, no-exam selection does not mean automatic selection. Eligibility, vacancy availability, merit position, preference, document verification and other prescribed conditions all remain important.

Who Should Apply for India Post GDS Recruitment 2026?

The recruitment may be suitable for candidates who:

• Have passed Class 10 with Mathematics and English.

• Meet the prescribed age requirements.

• Have studied the required local language.

• Have the required computer knowledge.

• Have knowledge of cycling.

• Meet the livelihood requirement.

• Are comfortable with the responsibilities of GDS work.

• Are willing to work in rural or semi-rural areas where applicable.

• Have Class 10 marks competitive enough for their preferred division.

Candidates should not apply solely because they see the words "10th pass government job." The duties, residence requirements, TRCA structure and non-regular status of GDS engagement should be understood before applying.

Advantages of GDS Recruitment

One of the major attractions of GDS recruitment is that candidates are shortlisted through Class 10 merit instead of a traditional written examination.

Another advantage is the wide geographic coverage of India Post. Vacancies are notified across postal circles and divisions, giving eligible candidates opportunities in different parts of the country.

The recruitment also provides an opportunity for candidates who may not want to pursue a long examination-preparation cycle.

However, candidates must balance these advantages against the specific conditions of GDS engagement. GDS personnel are not regular Central Government employees, and the service conditions differ from those of regular employees.

Important Warning About GDS Job Status

Applicants should carefully understand that GDS is not the same as a regular Central Government employee position.

The official notification explicitly states that GDS personnel are not regular employees of the Department/Central Government and that their emoluments and other entitlements are not at par with regular Central Government employees.

GDS personnel generally work for four to five hours per day under the applicable rules, and a GDS cannot be retained as a Sevak beyond 65 years of age.

Candidates should read the complete notification and GDS Rules before deciding whether the position is suitable for them.

GDS Recruitment 2026: Final Checklist

Before clicking the final submission button, candidates should verify:

• Class 10 certificate is available.

• Mathematics and English requirements are satisfied.

• Required local language was studied up to Class 10.

• Age requirement is satisfied.

• Correct category is selected.

• Valid reservation certificate is available, if applicable.

• Name matches the Class 10 certificate.

• Date of birth matches the Class 10 certificate.

• Father's/guardian's and mother's names are correct.

• Class 10 marks are entered accurately.

• Division has been selected carefully.

• Post preferences are arranged correctly.

• Photograph meets the prescribed specifications.

• Signature is clear and readable.

• Application fee has been paid if applicable.

• Final application has been successfully submitted.

• Registration/application details have been saved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is India Post GDS Schedule-II July-2026?

It is the second GDS online engagement cycle of 2026 under which India Post is filling vacant positions of BPM, ABPM and Dak Sevak.

2. How many GDS vacancies are available?

Current recruitment summaries report 23,757 vacancies. However, candidates should verify the latest division-wise vacancy position directly on the official India Post GDS portal because the official notification provides vacancies by division.

3. What is the minimum qualification?

Candidates must have passed the Class 10 Secondary School Examination with passing marks in Mathematics and English from a recognised board.

4. What is the age limit?

The normal age limit is 18 to 40 years, subject to applicable relaxation.

5. Is there an examination?

There is no conventional written examination for preparation of the initial GDS merit list. Selection is based on a system-generated merit list using Class 10 marks.

6. What is the GDS salary?

The basic TRCA slab is ₹12,000–₹29,380 for BPM and ₹10,000–₹24,470 for ABPM/Dak Sevak, subject to applicable rules and allowances.

7. What is the application fee?

The prescribed fee is ₹100 for applicable candidates. Female, SC/ST, PwBD and Transwomen applicants are exempt from the fee.

8. When is the last date to apply?

The last date for online application submission and fee payment is 21 September 2026 up to 5:00 PM.

9. When is the correction window?

The correction window is scheduled for 23 September 2026 to 24 September 2026, up to 5:00 PM.

10. Can a candidate submit multiple registrations?

No. Only one registration is permitted. Multiple or duplicate registrations/applications are prohibited and can lead to cancellation.

11. Is local-language knowledge compulsory?

Yes. The candidate should have studied the prescribed local language up to at least Class 10, subject to special provisions applicable to certain states.

12. Can I apply without completing One-Time Registration?

No. Candidates must first complete the prescribed registration process and then submit the online application during the application window.

13. Does registration from an earlier GDS schedule remain valid?

No. For Schedule-II, July-2026, candidates are required to register afresh. The official portal specifically states that registration numbers generated in previous schedules will not be valid for this schedule.

14. What happens after shortlisting?

Shortlisted candidates are called for physical document verification. After successful verification and completion of required formalities, provisional engagement procedures follow.

15. Is a medical certificate required?

Yes. The notification lists a medical certificate issued by an appropriate Government medical facility as a compulsory document for physical verification.

Conclusion

The India Post GDS Online Engagement Schedule-II, July-2026 is an important recruitment opportunity for eligible Class 10-pass candidates. The recruitment covers BPM, ABPM and Dak Sevak positions, with vacancies distributed across different postal divisions.

The most important feature is the merit-based selection process using Class 10 marks, meaning candidates do not have to compete through a conventional written examination for the initial shortlisting. However, high marks alone are not sufficient. Candidates must satisfy the age, educational, Mathematics and English, local-language, computer, cycling and other prescribed requirements.

Applicants should also understand the specific service conditions of GDS engagement. GDS personnel are not regular Central Government employees, and BPM candidates have particular accommodation and residence responsibilities.

For Schedule-II, July-2026, candidates should remember the three critical dates: 19 September 2026 for One-Time Registration, 21 September 2026 for online application submission and fee payment, and 23–24 September 2026 for corrections. All closing times are 5:00 PM according to the official schedule.

Before applying, candidates should read the complete official notification, check the division-wise vacancy position, verify their Class 10 details, confirm the required local language and carefully arrange their post preferences.

The safest approach is to apply only through the official India Post GDS Online Engagement portal and keep a copy of the final submitted application and registration details for future reference.

Official Website: India Post GDS Online Engagement

Official Notification PDF: GDS Schedule-II July-2026 Official Notification

Important: Recruitment dates, vacancy numbers and other details can be modified by the Department. Candidates should always verify the latest information on the official India Post portal before submitting an application.