The Department of Posts, Government of India, has officially released the India Post GDS 1st Merit List 2026 for the January 2026 recruitment cycle. Notably, this automated selection process has shortlisted candidates for 28,636 vacancies including Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), and Gramin Dak Sevaks. Candidates who applied between 31 January and 16 February 2026 can now verify their selection status across all 23 postal circles. Consequently, shortlisted individuals must act promptly to complete the mandatory document verification process before the prescribed deadline.
Job Overview
| Recruitment Board | Department of Post (India Post) |
| Advertisement Number | 17-37/2025-GDS (Pt. I) |
| Post Names | GDS, BPM, ABPM |
| Total Vacancies | 28,636 |
| Selection Method | Merit-Based (Class 10 Marks) |
| Merit List Release Date | 06 March 2026 |
Vacancy Breakdown
The recruitment drive covers a vast network of rural post offices. Furthermore, the vacancies are distributed among various categories to ensure diverse representation.
| Category Name | No. Of Post |
| General (UR) | 12,696 |
| Other Backward Class (OBC) | 5,694 |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 3,942 |
| Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | 2,719 |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 2,716 |
| PwD (A, B, C, D&E) | 869 |
| Total | 28,636 |
Eligibility Criteria
While the merit list is now public, it is important to remember the foundational requirements that determined the India Post GDS 1st Merit List 2026.
Age Limit (As of 01 January 2026)
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Maximum Age: 40 Years
- Relaxation: Upper age limits were relaxed by 3 years for OBC and 5 years for SC/ST candidates.
Educational Qualification
- Academic: Completion of Class 10 (Secondary School Examination) with passing marks in Mathematics and English.
- Language: Proficiency in the local language of the applied circle (studied up to at least Class 10) was mandatory.
- Additional Skills: Knowledge of cycling and basic computer operations.
Selection Process
The India Post GDS selection is unique as it bypasses traditional examinations.
- Automated Merit List: Generated based on Class 10 marks (percentage calculated to four decimal places).
- Document Verification (DV): Shortlisted candidates must present original certificates for scrutiny.
- Medical Examination: Post-verification fitness check.
- Final Engagement: Issuance of the appointment letter upon successful clearance of all stages.
How to Check & Download India Post GDS 1st Merit List 2026
Shortlisted candidates should follow these steps to confirm their results and find their DV details:
- Visit the official India Post GDS portal at indiapostgdsonline.gov.in.
- Navigate to the “Candidate’s Corner” on the left-hand sidebar.
- Select the link titled “Shortlisted Candidates: Schedule-1, January 2026.”
- Choose your respective Postal Circle (State) from the dropdown menu.
- The India Post GDS 1st Merit List 2026 PDF will open automatically.
- Use Ctrl + F to search for your Registration Number.
- Notably, if your number is present, check the last column for your designated Document Verification Division.
Important Dates & Links
Candidates must strictly adhere to the verification timeline, as failure to report will result in the immediate cancellation of candidature.
| Event | Date |
| Online Application Window | 31 Jan – 16 Feb 2026 |
| 1st Merit List Release | 06 March 2026 |
| Deadline for Document Verification | 23 March 2026 |
| 2nd Merit List (Expected) | April 2026 |
Important Links
| Link Title | Direct Link |
| Check 1st Merit List (All Circles) | Click Here |
| Online Registration Form | Click Here |
| Official Notification PDF | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
Document Verification Checklist
Shortlisted candidates must report to their assigned Divisional Office with the following original documents and two sets of self-attested photocopies:
- Class 10/SSC Marksheet and Passing Certificate.
- Identity Proof (Aadhar Card, PAN, etc.).
- Caste/Community Certificate (if applicable).
- PwD/EWS Certificate (if applicable).
- 60 days Computer Knowledge Certificate (if required by the specific circle).
- Two recent passport-size photographs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cut-off for the India Post GDS 1st Merit List 2026?
The cut-off varies by circle and category. Notably, in high-competition states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, the UR cut-off often reaches 98% to 100%.
Will there be a second merit list for GDS 2026?
Furthermore, if vacancies remain unfilled after the first round of document verification, India Post typically releases supplementary merit lists.
What should I do if my name is on the list but I haven’t received an SMS?
Do not wait for the SMS. If your registration number appears in the PDF, you must report for document verification before 23 March 2026.
Is there any interview for the GDS post?
No, the selection is purely based on your Class 10 marks and successful document verification.
Where do I go for document verification?
Your assigned verification center is mentioned in the final column of the merit list PDF next to your registration number.