India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: Vacancies, Salary Details, Application Process & More

Good news for government job seekers. India Post has announced GDS Recruitment 2026 for 28,636 Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) posts across the country.[1] The application window runs from 31 January 2026 to 14 February 2026, with a correction window on 18–19 February 2026. Selection is merit-based, using Class 10 marks as per the official rules and requires no written exams. The vacancies include BPM, ABPM, and Dak Sevak roles. 

If you’re looking for a government job, prefer working close to home, and want a stable monthly income, this recruitment is worth your attention. In this guide, we have covered everything from the selection process, GDS online form and eligibility, salary details, and step-by-step application instructions. 

What is India Post GDS Recruitment 2026? 

India Post Recruitment for Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) is conducted to strengthen postal services in rural and semi-urban areas. Under India Post Gramin Dak Sevak 2026, candidates will be engaged for the following roles: 

• Branch Postmaster (BPM) 

• Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) 

• Dak Sevak 

The recruitment is managed through the GDS Online Engagement Portal, and applications are accepted only in online mode. 

Overview of India Post Recruitment 

India Post releases the GDS notification to recruit candidates for roles in rural and semi-urban post offices. The main purpose is to strengthen postal services at the ground level, like deliveries and customer support at branch offices. 

Here’s what they generally look for in this recruitment: 

• 10th-pass eligibility  

• Merit-based selection (no written exam in most cases) 

• Online application process 

• Posting in a preferred region/state (based on vacancies and choice) 

Roles Under India Post Gramin Dak Sevak 2026 

Under the GDS recruitment, you’ll usually see these key roles: 

• BPM (Branch Postmaster) 

Handles the overall functioning of a Branch Post Office. They manage branch post office operations, postal services, and administrative duties. 

• ABPM (Assistant Branch Postmaster) 

Supports the BPM in daily branch office work. This role often includes assisting with counter services, documentation, and operational tasks. 

• Dak Sevak 

Focuses more on field-level work like deliveries and supporting postal services in the area. The exact duties can vary depending on local requirements. 

India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 – Key Highlights 

India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 is a nationwide hiring drive to fill Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) posts across different postal areas. It’s a popular option for candidates who are looking for government jobs with local postings, especially in their own district or nearby areas. The post application process is online, with merit-based selection (as per the official notification). Candidates usually apply for their preferred state/circle, based on available vacancies and eligibility rules. 

Recruitment Authority and Post Names 

The recruitment is conducted by India Post (Department of Posts), under the Ministry of Communications, Government of India.  

Under the GDS recruitment, these are the key roles:  

• Branch Postmaster (BPM) 

• Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) 

• Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) 

Application Mode and the Portal 

India Post GDS applications are online only. You need to apply through the official GDS engagement portal within the notification dates. 

What candidates need to do: 

• Register and submit the online form on the India Post GDS portal 

• Fill in personal details along with Class 10 marks details 

• Choose your postal circle and state as per the available vacancies 

• Upload required documents in the given format and pay the fee (if applicable) 

Before you submit your application, double-check your name, DOB, and Class 10 marks, because the merit list is prepared using these details. 

India Post GDS 2026 Vacancy Details  

The India Post has announced 28,636 total vacancies. Vacancies are distributed among different postal circles, including state–wise and local locations. Candidates can apply only for one circle. 

GDS Vacancy 28636 Posts 2026 – Category-Wise Breakup  

India Post has released a category-wise vacancy breakup for GDS recruitment, which helps you quickly check how many seats are available under UR, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, and PwD categories. [2] 

State-Wise Vacancy Distribution  

The state-wise vacancy distribution shows how many GDS posts are available in each postal circle [1][2]. Refer this table to decide which circle to apply for based on vacancies and your location preference. 

GDS BPM ABPM Dak Sevak Posts 2026 Explained 

India Post recruits GDS candidates for three main roles. Eligibility is similar, but work responsibilities differ: 

• BPM (Branch Postmaster): Leads a Branch Post Office and manages daily branch operations and service delivery. 

• ABPM (Assistant Branch Postmaster): Supports branch functioning, including counter work, records, and daily tasks. 

• Dak Sevak: Mainly handles delivery/support duties as per local office requirements (work can vary by location). 

While applying, you usually select the post/circle as per the vacancies. Always read the post details in the notification, so you know what the role involves. 

India Post GDS 2026 Salary Structure 

India Post GDS salary structure depends on the post you choose (BPM/ABPM/Dak Sevak) and the duty hours assigned. As per the notification pay bands, ABPM/Dak Sevak pay ranges from ₹10,000 to ₹24,470, while BPM pay ranges from ₹12,000 to ₹29,380. [3] 

India Post GDS 2026 Salary Structure for BPM 

BPM (Branch Postmaster) roles have a higher TRCA (Time Related Continuity Allowance) band because the work includes overall branch handling and supervision. 

Pay scale (TRCA) ranges between ₹12,000 to ₹29,380 per month. The exact amount within this range depends on the duty hours and posting-related factors mentioned in official guidelines. 

Salary Details for ABPM and Dak Sevak 

ABPM and Dak Sevak fall under the same broad TRCA pay range in most notifications.[3] 

Pay scale (TRCA) ranges between ₹10,000 to ₹24,470 per month. ABPM typically supports branch operations, while Dak Sevak duties can include delivery/support work. Final monthly pay depends on duty hours, and the role is allotted. 

Allowances and Benefits 

These benefits other than the base pay and help cover work-related costs. Exact eligibility can depend on your post, duty type and location, as per India Post rules. 

1) Core Pay Components 

• TRCA (Time Related Continuity Allowance): The main salary component, linked to duty hours (typically 4 or 5 hours). It generally includes a 3% annual increase. 

• DA (Dearness Allowance): Paid on TRCA to adjust for inflation, broadly aligned with central government rates. 

2) Role-Based Allowances (Mostly for BPM / Delivery Duties) 

• OMA (Office Maintenance Allowance): ₹100/month (for BPM). 

• Stationery Charges: ₹25/month (for BPM); ₹10/month (for other GDS). 

• CMA (Cycle Maintenance Allowance): ₹60/month (for mail deliverers/carriers). 

• CDA (Combined Duty Allowance): ₹500/month (for BPMs handling additional delivery/conveyance duties). 

3) Travel/Handling Related Allowances Other Benefits 

• Cash Conveyance Allowance: ₹50/month 

• Boat Allowance: Actual charges up to ₹50/month (where applicable) 

4) Social Security and Benefits 

• GDS Gratuity 

• Service Discharge Benefit Scheme (NPS-like structure) 

• Limited medical benefits (as per applicable rules) 

5) Leave 

• Paid casual leave is available. 

Allowances are applicable as per India Post rules and may differ as per post, duty type, and posting location. 

India Post GDS Selection Criteria 2026 

India Post GDS selection is merit-based, which means there is usually no written exam. Candidates are shortlisted using a merit list prepared from Class 10 marks, followed by document verification for those who make it to the shortlist. 

Merit-Based Selection Process 

• Selection is done through a merit list prepared circle-wise (state/postal circle). 
• Candidates with higher eligible Class 10 marks are ranked higher in the list. 
• After the merit list is published, shortlisted candidates are called for document verification. 

Accuracy of your Class 10 marks is crucial. Ensure to double check your marks during the application. 

Role of Class 10 Marks in Selection 

• Class 10 marks are the key factor used to generate the merit list. 
• The merit is calculated as per the calculation method mentioned in the official notification, including how marks are rounded. 
• Your listed marks must match your Class 10 marksheet, because they will be checked during verification. 

Keep your original marksheet and a clear scanned copy ready before applying. 

Document Verification Process 

If you are shortlisted, you will need to appear for document verification (DV) with original documents. They typically check your: 

• Class 10 marksheet/certificate 
• Identity proof (as accepted) 
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS), if applicable 
• PwD certificate, if applicable 
• Any other documents mentioned in the notification (like domicile/residence proof, if required) 

How to Apply for GDS Recruitment 2026 

The India Post GDS application process is online only. To avoid last-minute errors, keep your Class 10 marksheet details, ID proof, category certificate (if applicable), and scanned documents ready before you start. Below is a simple step-by-step guide to help you complete the form smoothly on the official portal. 

GDS Recruitment 2026 Apply Online – Step-by-Step 

Step 1: Register Online 

Visit the GDS Online Engagement Portal and register using your mobile number and email ID. Use active contact details for updates. 

Step 2: Fill the GDS Online Form 

Enter your personal details along with Class 10 details carefully and select one postal circle you want to apply for. 

Step 3: Upload Documents 

Upload your Class 10 marksheet, photograph, signature, and local language proof (if required). 

Step 4: Pay Application Fee 

• UR/OBC/EWS: ₹100 
• SC/ST/PwD/Female candidates: No fee 
• Pay online using UPI, debit card, or net banking. 

Step 5: Submit the Form 

Review all details, submit the form, and download the confirmation page for future reference. 

India Post GDS Last Date to Apply 2026 

For the GDS post, the last date to apply is 14th  February, 2026. Below table, gives additional details for application.[2] 

India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: Important Dates 

What applicants should keep in mind 

• Complete your application well before 14 February 2026 to avoid last-minute rush 
• Even after applying, you can fix small mistakes during the correction window 
• Keep checking the portal around 28 February 2026 for the merit list update 

Save these dates or set reminders, especially for the last date and correction window. If one ends up missing them, it could mean waiting another year.