India Post GDS Eligibility 2026, Check Age Limit, Qualification & Post Office Recruitment Rules
Parul Rishi5 Feb, 2026
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India Post GDS Eligibility 2026: The India Post Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Recruitment 2026 is a major opportunity for candidates aspiring to secure a government job in the postal department. Before applying, it is essential to understand the India Post GDS eligibility criteria 2026 to ensure you meet all the requirements. Here’s a comprehensive overview covering important aspects such as age limit, educational qualification, nationality, and other essential criteria for India Post GDS 2026 recruitment.
- GDS Full Form: Gramin Dak Sevak
India Post GDS Eligibility 2026
The Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) plays a key role in India Post, responsible for providing postal services in rural areas. The recruitment process includes posts such as Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), and Dak Sevak, making it one of the most popular government job options for 10th pass candidates, especially in rural areas. GDS recruitment happens across all states in India, making it a pan-India opportunity. The eligibility for GDS recruitment is determined by various factors like age, educational qualifications, nationality, and physical fitness. Let’s explore each aspect in detail below.India Post GDS Eligibility for Various Posts
The GDS recruitment includes three main posts, and the eligibility remains largely the same for all.| India Post GDS Eligibility for Various Posts | |
|---|---|
| Post | Eligibility Criteria |
| Branch Postmaster (BPM) | 10th Pass, Local Language Proficiency, Basic Computer Knowledge, 18-40 yrs of age |
| Assistant BPM (ABPM) | 10th Pass, Local Language Proficiency, Basic Computer Knowledge, 18-40 yrs of age |
| Dak Sevak | 10th Pass, Local Language Proficiency, Basic Computer Knowledge, 18-40 yrs of age |
India Post GDS Age Limit 2026
The age limit is one of the primary criteria for eligibility. Check India Post GDS Age Limit criteria below:| India Post GDS Age Limit 2026 | |
| Age Limit (Max) |
18 yrs |
| Age Limit (Minimum) |
40 yrs |
India Post GDS Age Limit Relaxation 2026
Certain categories are eligible for relaxation as per government norms:|
India Post GDS Age Limit Relaxation 2026 |
|
|
Category |
Age Relaxation |
|
SC / ST |
5 years |
|
OBC |
3 years |
|
Persons with Disabilities (PwD) |
10 years |
|
Persons with Disabilities (PwD) + OBC |
13 years |
|
Persons with Disabilities (PwD) + SC/ST |
15 years |
India Post GDS Educational Qualifications
Candidates must meet specific educational requirements to be eligible for GDS posts.10th Standard Pass: Secondary School Examination pass certificate of 10th standard with passing marks in Mathematics and English conducted by any recognized Board of School Education by the Government of India/State Governments/ Union Territories in India. The applicant should have studied the local language at least up to the 10th Standard from a recognized board.
No Higher Qualification Required: Candidates with only Class 10 qualifications are eligible. There is no weightage given to higher qualifications during the India Post GDS selection process .
Candidates must have basic knowledge of the local language of the postal circle they are applying for. Proficiency in reading, writing, and understanding the local language is required.India Post GDS Eligibility Regarding Local Language Proficiency 2026
Each postal circle requires candidates to know the local language. This is critical as GDS operates in rural areas where local communication is vital.Local Language Requirement
Candidates must have studied the local language as a subject till Class 10. Check the official notification for the local language requirement of the specific state or postal circle. Some examples are as follows:- For Maharashtra: Marathi
- For Tamil Nadu: Tamil
- For Uttar Pradesh: Hindi
India Post GDS Eligibility for Computer Knowledge
In today’s digital era, computer proficiency is a vital skill for GDS roles.- Candidates must possess basic computer knowledge.
- A certificate of computer training from a recognized institute can be considered effective.
India Post GDS Physical Eligibility
While no specific physical standards are mentioned for GDS posts, candidates must be medically fit to perform the duties. A medical certificate from a government-authorized doctor may be required during the document verification stage.India Post GDS Nationality
The candidate must be an Indian citizen to apply for GDS posts.Other Important India Post GDS Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must possess basic knowledge of cycling and have adequate means of livelihood. Both married and unmarried candidates are eligible. Candidates employed in any other government job are not eligible unless they resign before applying.Adequate Means of Livelihood
Candidates must have an additional source of income to support themselves and their families. While not a prerequisite for selection, they must comply with this condition within 30 days before engagement and submit an undertaking (Annexure-IV) confirming their financial stability.
Residence Accommodation
Selected candidates for GDS BPM must arrange suitable accommodation for the Branch Post Office (BO) before engagement. The office should be located in a busy village area, preferably in a Gram Panchayat, Government building, or rented space, meeting the following conditions:
- Size: At least 100 sq. ft. (10’x10’) on the ground floor with direct road access.
- Structure: Preferably brick and mortar for security.
- Facilities: Power supply, fan, light, and an electrical outlet for device charging.
- Network Connectivity: Must support DARPAN devices via NSPs like Airtel, Jio, BSNL, etc.
Documents Required to Prove India Post GDS Eligibility 2026
Candidates need to upload the following documents during the application process:- Class 10 Certificate
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Computer Training Certificate
- Proof of Local Language Proficiency
- Passport-Sized Photograph
- Signature in Digital Format
- Residence Proof
Common Reasons for Rejection
-
Local language is not studied till Class 10
-
No valid computer certificate
-
Incorrect document format
-
Age criteria not met
Who Can Apply for Post Office Jobs?
You are eligible if you meet:
| Requirement |
|---|
| 10th Pass with English + Maths |
| Age between 18–40 years |
| Know the local language of the postal circle |
| Basic computer knowledge |
Note: 10वी पास महिलांसाठी सरकारी नोकरी शोधत असाल तर India Post GDS हा एक उत्तम पर्याय आहे.
How to Ensure India Post GDS Eligibility Before Applying?
The India Post GDS eligibility criteria 2026 required careful adherence to ensure a successful application. Meeting the age, educational, and language requirements is essential, along with basic computer knowledge. Candidates must also ensure the following factors before applying.- Read the Official Notification : Carefully go through the eligibility section of the GDS recruitment notification.
- Check Age and Education : Verify that your age and educational qualifications match the requirements.
- Verify Documents : Ensure all necessary documents are valid and ready for submission.
- Check Local Language Knowledge : Confirm you meet the language proficiency for the postal circle you’re applying to.
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