India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for BPM, ABPM & Dak Sevak
India Post has issued the Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Online Engagement Schedule-II, July 2026 for vacant posts of Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) and Dak Sevak. Applications must be submitted through the official GDS Online Engagement portal.
Updated: 29 August 2026India Post GDS Schedule-II 2026: Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| User Registration | 31 August 2026 to 19 September 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Online Application Submission | 2 September 2026 to 21 September 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Edit / Correction Window | 23 September 2026 to 24 September 2026, 5:00 PM |
Always verify dates on the official portal before applying because the Department may modify or extend the schedule.
GDS Eligibility 2026
Upper-age relaxation
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| EWS | No age relaxation |
| PwBD | 10 years |
| PwBD + OBC | 13 years |
| PwBD + SC / ST | 15 years |
GDS TRCA / Emoluments
GDSs receive Time Related Continuity Allowance (TRCA), along with applicable Dearness Allowance and other benefits under the governing GDS rules. The notification states the following basic TRCA slabs for initial engagement:
| Post | TRCA Slab |
|---|---|
| Branch Postmaster (BPM) | ₹12,000 to ₹29,380 |
| ABPM / Dak Sevak | ₹10,000 to ₹24,470 |
Application Fee
The application fee is ₹100 for applicants who are required to pay. The notification exempts all female applicants, SC/ST applicants, PwBD applicants and transwomen applicants. Payment is made online through the portal using available payment methods such as credit/debit card, net banking or UPI. Fee once paid is not refundable.
How to Apply Online for India Post GDS 2026
- Read the notification first. Check the post, Division, category, local-language requirement, age, educational qualification and other conditions.
- Complete One-Time Registration (OTR). Use your own active mobile number and email ID on the official GDS Online Engagement portal. Only one registration per candidate is permitted.
- Log in and complete the application. Enter personal details, Class 10 board/educational details and other information exactly as required.
- Select one Division and give post preferences. Eligible posts are displayed based on factors such as category, age, PwBD status and local language. Give preferences carefully because you will not be considered for a post for which no preference is indicated.
- Upload the prescribed photograph and signature. Follow the current size and format instructions shown on the portal.
- Pay ₹100 if applicable. Fee-exempt applicants can submit without payment.
- Review and submit. Save/print the submitted application and retain the registration number. Use the notified correction window if an eligible correction is needed.
GDS Selection Process
Applicants are shortlisted through a system-generated merit list based on Class 10 marks or the conversion of grades/points to marks as prescribed in the notification. The merit is worked out to four decimal places. There is no general written examination mentioned for this GDS engagement schedule.
Shortlisted candidates are notified through the GDS portal and may also receive SMS/email. Final engagement is subject to successful physical verification of original documents and completion of pre-engagement formalities.
Documents and Details to Keep Ready
- Class 10 / Secondary School marksheet and certificate details.
- Active personal mobile number and email ID.
- Recent photograph and signature in the format required by the portal.
- Category, EWS or PwBD certificate, where applicable.
- Local-language / dialect certificate where specifically required by the notification.
- Original documents and prescribed medical certificate for verification if shortlisted.
Legal / Service Status of Gramin Dak Sevaks
India Post expressly clarifies that GDSs are not regular employees of the Department or Central Government, and their emoluments and service entitlements are not at par with regular Central Government employees. Their service conditions are governed by the Department of Posts, Gramin Dak Sevaks (Conduct and Engagement) Rules, 2020, as revised from time to time.
Under the current notification, a GDS generally works for a minimum of four and a maximum of five hours a day under the applicable rules. A selected BPM is also required to arrange suitable accommodation for the Branch Post Office as prescribed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GDS the same as a Postman?
No. The current GDS engagement notification is for Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) and Dak Sevak posts. A regular Postman post is a different cadre.
Is there an exam for India Post GDS selection?
The Schedule-II July 2026 notification provides for shortlisting through a system-generated merit list based on Class 10 marks/converted grades or points, followed by document verification.
What is the GDS application fee?
The fee is ₹100 for applicants liable to pay. Female, SC/ST, PwBD and transwomen applicants are exempt under the current notification.
Can I make more than one GDS registration?
No. Only one registration per candidate is permitted. Duplicate or multiple registrations/applications can lead to cancellation of candidature.
Official Links
Disclaimer: This page is an informational guide and is not an official India Post website. Recruitment conditions, vacancies and dates can change. Candidates should rely on the official notification and portal before submitting an application or fee.