India Post GDS 2026 Apply Online Now — Application Started from 2 September
Gramin Dak Sevak (BPM / ABPM / Dak Sevak) Online Engagement, Schedule-II July 2026 — Notification No. 17-12/2026-GDS, dated 20 August 2026.
📌 OTR Registration vs Apply Online — Don’t Confuse the Two
A lot of candidates are mixing up two separate stages on the GDS portal. Here is the exact difference:
| Stage | What it means | Window |
|---|---|---|
| One-Time Registration (OTR) | Creating your basic profile — mobile number, email ID, generating your Registration ID and password. This does not submit your candidature for any post. | 31 August – 19 September 2026 |
| Apply Online (Application Form) | Logging in with your OTR credentials, filling Class 10 marks, choosing circle/division preferences, uploading photo & signature, and paying the fee. This is the actual application. | 2 September – 21 September 2026 (5:00 PM) |
🗓️ India Post GDS 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 20 August 2026 |
| One-Time Registration (OTR) Starts | 31 August 2026 |
| OTR Last Date | 19 September 2026 |
| Apply Online Starts | 2 September 2026 |
| Apply Online Last Date & Fee Payment | 21 September 2026, up to 5:00 PM |
| Correction Window | 23–24 September 2026 |
| Merit List | To be announced (system-generated) |
📋 GDS 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Body | Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, Government of India |
| Posts | Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), Dak Sevak |
| Total Vacancies | 23,757 (Schedule-II, July 2026 cycle) |
| Notification No. | 17-12/2026-GDS dated 20 August 2026 |
| Official Portal | indiapost.gov.in/gdsonlineengagement |
| Mode of Application | Online only (OTR + Application Form) |
| Selection Mode | System-generated merit list — no written exam, no interview |
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Passed Class 10 (Secondary School Examination) from a recognised Board
- Must have passed with Mathematics and English as subjects
- Must have studied the Local Language up to Class 10 level as prescribed for the applied circle
Age Limit
- Minimum: 18 years
- Maximum: 40 years
- Age relaxation applicable to reserved categories as per government norms
💰 Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100/- |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Female / Transwomen | Fully Exempted (No Fee) |
Fee payment is to be made online along with the application form before the last date.
💵 GDS Salary (TRCA)
| Post | TRCA Range (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| Branch Postmaster (BPM) | ₹12,000 – ₹29,380 |
| ABPM / Dak Sevak | ₹10,000 – ₹24,470 |
TRCA increases by 3% annually along with applicable Dearness Allowance and other benefits.
📝 How to Apply for India Post GDS 2026 (Step-by-Step)
- Step 1: Visit the official portal — indiapost.gov.in/gdsonlineengagement
- Step 2: If not already registered, click “Register” and complete One-Time Registration (OTR) using mobile number and email ID
- Step 3: Log in with your generated Registration ID and password
- Step 4: Click on “Apply Online” and select the circle/division of your choice
- Step 5: Fill in personal details, Class 10 marks/board details, and communication address
- Step 6: Upload photograph and signature in the prescribed format and size
- Step 7: Pay the application fee (if applicable) online
- Step 8: Submit the form and download/save the confirmation page for future reference
🏆 Selection Process
There is no written examination, skill test, or interview for GDS recruitment. Selection is entirely based on a system-generated merit list prepared from Class 10 marks. Candidates with higher qualifying percentage get preference in circle/division allotment.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is OTR the same as applying for GDS 2026?
No. OTR only creates your registration profile. You must separately complete the “Apply Online” step between 2–21 September 2026 and pay the fee to be considered a valid applicant.
When does India Post GDS 2026 application submission start?
Online application submission starts on 2 September 2026 and closes on 21 September 2026 at 5:00 PM.
Is there a written exam for GDS recruitment?
No. Selection is based purely on a system-generated merit list using Class 10 marks. There is no written test or interview.
Can I correct my application after submission?
Yes, a correction window will be open on 23–24 September 2026 for candidates who have already submitted their application.
What is the application fee for GDS 2026?
₹100/- for General/OBC/EWS candidates. Female, SC, ST, PwBD, and Transwomen candidates are fully exempted from the fee.