India Post has finally released the much-awaited notification for GDS Online Engagement Schedule-I (January 2026). This is great news for 10th-pass candidates looking for a government job without a written exam. The Department of Posts has announced over 28,740 vacancies across India.
If you are looking for a job as a Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS), Branch Postmaster (BPM), or Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), the online registration process has already started. This article explains everything you need to know in simple English—including dates, eligibility, salary, and how to apply.
What is the Latest News?
On January 31, 2026, India Post officially opened the portal for the first recruitment cycle of the year. This process is called “Online Engagement” because these posts are not regular civil service posts but are engaged for specific duties in rural areas.
The application window is short. Candidates have until February 14, 2026, to register. Since there is no exam, thousands of candidates apply, so it is better to submit your form early to avoid website issues later.
Read more: SSC MTS Admit Card 2026
Vacancy Details and Salary
This recruitment drive covers 23 postal circles across India (like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, etc.).
Total Vacancies: 28,740 (Approx.)
There are three main job roles available:
- Branch Postmaster (BPM): The head of the rural post office.
- Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM): Assists the BPM in office work.
- Dak Sevak: Handles mail delivery and stamps.
Salary Structure (TRCA)
India Post pays a “Time Related Continuity Allowance” (TRCA) instead of a regular salary.
- BPM: Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 29,380 per month.
- ABPM / Dak Sevak: Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 24,470 per month.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The rules are very simple. You do not need high qualifications or experience.
1. Education
- You must have passed Class 10 (Matriculation) from a recognized school board.
- You must have studied Mathematics and English as compulsory or elective subjects.
- Local Language: You must know the local language of the circle you are applying for (reading and writing). For example, if you apply for Maharashtra, you must know Marathi.
2. Age Limit (as of 01 January 2026)
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Maximum Age: 40 Years
- Relaxation: Age relaxation is available for SC/ST (5 years), OBC (3 years), and PwD candidates as per government rules.
3. Other Skills
- Knowledge of cycling is mandatory.
- Basic computer knowledge is required.
Selection Process: No Exam!
The best part of GDS engagement is that there is no written exam or interview.
- Merit List: The selection is based purely on your Class 10 marks.
- System-Generated: A computer system will automatically shortlist candidates based on their grades/percentage.
- Document Verification: If your name appears in the merit list, you will be called to show your original documents (10th marksheet, caste certificate, etc.).
Important Note: Do not enter fake marks. If your entered marks do not match your original certificate during verification, your application will be rejected immediately.
Important Dates 2026
| Event | Date |
| Notification Released | January 31, 2026 |
| Registration Starts | January 31, 2026 |
| Apply Online & Submit Form | February 02, 2026 onwards |
| Last Date to Register & Apply | February 14, 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | February 16, 2026 |
| Correction Window (Edit Form) | February 18 – 19, 2026 |
| 1st Merit List Result (Expected) | February 28, 2026 |
How to Apply Online
Follow these steps carefully to fill out the form on the official website.
- Visit the Website: Go to [suspicious link removed].
- Registration: Click on “Registration” and enter your mobile number and email. You will get a Registration Number.
- Pay Fee: If you are a General or OBC male candidate, pay the Rs. 100 application fee. (Female, SC, ST, and PwD candidates do not have to pay).
- Fill Application: Log in with your registration number. Select your Circle (State) and enter your Class 10 marks exactly as they are on your marksheet.
- Upload Documents: Upload your photo and signature in the correct size.
- Choose Preferences: Select the post offices where you want to work. You can select multiple options.
- Submit & Print: Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is there an exam for the GDS 2026 job?
No, there is no exam. Selection is based only on your Class 10 marks.
Q2. Can I apply for a state different from my own?
Yes, you can. However, you must know the local language of that state and have studied it up to Class 10.
Q3. What is the last date to apply?
The last date to submit the online application is February 14, 2026.
Q4. I have higher qualifications like 12th or Graduate. Will I get extra marks?
No. Only your Class 10 marks are considered for the merit list. Higher degrees do not give you any advantage.
Q5. When will the result come out?
The first merit list is expected to be released around February 28, 2026.