Great news for government job seekers in India. India Post has officially started the GDS Online Engagement 2026 process. This is a massive recruitment drive to fill over 28,000 vacancies for Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS) across the country. If you have passed the 10th standard, this is a golden opportunity to secure a stable job without giving any written exam. This article covers everything you need to know about the dates, eligibility, and how to apply.
What is the News?
On January 31, 2026, the Department of Posts released the notification for “GDS Online Engagement Schedule-I, January 2026”. The online registration link is now active on the official portal.
This recruitment is for three main posts:
- BPM: Branch Postmaster
- ABPM: Assistant Branch Postmaster
- Dak Sevak
The selection will be done purely on a merit basis using your Class 10 marks. There is no interview or written test involved.
Key Dates for GDS 2026
It is very important to complete your application on time to avoid server issues on the last day.
| Event | Date |
| Registration Starts | January 31, 2026 |
| Application Submission Starts | February 2, 2026 |
| Registration Ends | February 14, 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | February 16, 2026 |
| Correction Window | February 18 – 19, 2026 |
| First Merit List (Result) | Expected by February 28, 2026 |
Vacancy Details
India Post has announced approximately 28,740 vacancies across 23 postal circles in India.
- Top States: States like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, and West Bengal usually have a high number of seats.
- Circles Covered: The recruitment covers all regions including Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and more.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, make sure you meet the following requirements set by India Post.
1. Educational Qualification
- You must have a Secondary School Examination (10th Class) pass certificate.
- You must have passed Mathematics and English as compulsory or elective subjects.
- You should know the Local Language of the circle you are applying for (studied up to 10th standard).
2. Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 40 years
- Note: Age relaxation is available for reserved categories (SC/ST: 5 years, OBC: 3 years, PwD: 10 years).
3. Other Skills
- Knowledge of Cycling is mandatory for all GDS posts.
- Basic computer knowledge is required (though a certificate is often not asked for during the initial application, it is good to have).
Salary Structure (TRCA)
GDS employees are paid a “Time Related Continuity Allowance” (TRCA) instead of a regular salary scale.
- BPM (Branch Postmaster): Rs. 12,000 – Rs. 29,380
- ABPM / Dak Sevak: Rs. 10,000 – Rs. 24,470
- Allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA) are paid extra as per government rules.
How to Apply Online
Follow these simple steps to submit your form:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to
indiapostgdsonline.gov.in. - Registration: Click on “Registration” and enter your mobile number and email. Verify them using OTP.
- Fill Details: Enter your name, father’s name, DOB, and 10th-class marks details carefully.
- Upload Documents: Upload a recent scanned photo and signature in JPG format.
- Choose Preferences: Select the Division and post preferences. Be smart here—choose areas where you are willing to work.
- Pay Fee: The application fee is Rs. 100 for General and OBC male candidates. (SC/ST, All Female candidates, and PwD candidates pay zero fees).
- Submit & Print: Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
Impact and What Happens Next?
This recruitment is a lifeline for rural youth in India. Since there is no exam, lakhs of students apply.
- Merit List: After the applications close on February 16, officials will process the data.
- Result Declaration: The Department will release a “Merit List” (likely in late February). If your name is on the list, you will receive an SMS/Email.
- Document Verification (DV): Shortlisted candidates must visit the divisional office with their original 10th marksheet, caste certificate, and ID proof for verification.
Important Official Update
Candidates are advised not to wait for the last date (Feb 14). The website often becomes slow due to heavy traffic. Also, ensure you enter your marks exactly as they appear on your marksheet; even a small error can lead to rejection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is there any exam for GDS selection?
No, there is no written exam or interview. Selection is based 100% on the marks you scored in Class 10.
Q2. Can I apply for more than one state?
No, you can only apply for one Postal Circle during a specific schedule. However, you can give multiple preferences for posts within that Circle.
Q3. What is the application fee?
The fee is Rs. 100. However, Women, SC, ST, and Transgender candidates do not have to pay any fee.
Q4. When will the GDS 2026 result come?
The first merit list is expected to be released around February 28, 2026.
Q5. Is knowledge of the local language compulsory?
Yes. For example, if you are applying for the Maharashtra circle, you must have studied Marathi up to the 10th standard.