The Indian Post Office is one of the oldest and most trusted government institutions in India. With a vast network that connects even the remotest villages to urban centers, the postal department plays a crucial role in communication, banking, insurance, and public service delivery. Every year, the Department of Posts announces job opportunities for various positions, among which Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS), Post Master (PM), and Assistant Post Master (APM) are the most popular and sought-after roles.
This article provides a complete and detailed overview of Post Office GDS, Post Master, and Assistant Post Master job calls, including eligibility criteria, responsibilities, selection process, salary structure, career growth, and benefits. If you are looking for a stable government job with social respect and long-term security, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know.
Overview of Post Office Jobs in India
The Indian Postal Department operates under the Ministry of Communications, Government of India. It employs lakhs of people across the country and regularly recruits candidates for both rural and urban services. Post Office jobs are highly preferred due to:
- Job security
- Fixed working hours (in most cases)
- Government pay structure
- Pension and retirement benefits
- Opportunity to serve society
Among various posts, GDS, Post Master, and Assistant Post Master positions are entry-level to mid-level jobs that attract a large number of applicants every year.
Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Job Call
What is GDS?
Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) is a rural-based postal job designed to strengthen postal services in villages and semi-urban areas. GDS employees act as the backbone of rural postal operations and ensure last-mile connectivity.
Types of GDS Posts
GDS recruitment usually includes the following roles:
- Branch Post Master (BPM)
- Assistant Branch Post Master (ABPM)
- Dak Sevak
Each role has specific duties but works together to maintain smooth postal operations.
Eligibility Criteria for GDS
To apply for a GDS job, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification:
Minimum 10th standard pass from a recognized board with passing marks in Mathematics and English. - Age Limit:
Minimum age: 18 years
Maximum age: 40 years
(Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per government rules.) - Computer Knowledge:
Basic computer skills are mandatory. - Local Language Proficiency:
Candidates must know the local language of the postal circle they are applying for.
GDS Selection Process
One of the biggest advantages of the GDS job is that there is no written examination. Selection is purely merit-based:
- Merit list prepared based on 10th standard marks
- Marks are calculated up to 4 decimal points
- Preference may be given to candidates with higher accuracy in marks
This transparent selection process makes GDS recruitment fair and accessible.
Salary and Benefits of GDS
GDS employees are paid under the Time Related Continuity Allowance (TRCA) system.
Approximate salary structure:
- Branch Post Master (BPM): ₹12,000 – ₹29,380 per month
- Assistant Branch Post Master (ABPM): ₹10,000 – ₹24,470 per month
- Dak Sevak: ₹10,000 – ₹24,470 per month
Additional benefits include:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Insurance cover
- Paid leaves
- Gratuity benefits
Career Growth for GDS
GDS employees have good career progression opportunities. With departmental examinations and internal selections, they can be promoted to:
- Postman
- Mail Guard
- Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS)
- Assistant Post Master
Post Master (PM) Job Call
Role of a Post Master
A Post Master is the head of a post office and is responsible for managing all postal, financial, and administrative activities. This role carries authority, responsibility, and respect.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Post Master
- Overall management of post office operations
- Handling postal services such as letters, parcels, and speed post
- Supervising staff and ensuring discipline
- Managing savings bank accounts, recurring deposits, and fixed deposits
- Handling government schemes like PPF, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, and NSC
- Maintaining records and ensuring compliance with rules
Eligibility for Post Master Job
Post Master recruitment is usually done through:
- Promotion from within the postal department
- Departmental competitive examinations
Basic eligibility includes:
- Graduation (for direct or higher-level PM posts)
- Experience in postal services (for internal candidates)
- Knowledge of postal rules and financial services
Selection Process
The selection process for Post Master typically involves:
- Departmental examination
- Performance evaluation
- Seniority and service record
For direct recruitment (where applicable), candidates may need to clear competitive exams conducted by authorized bodies.
Salary of a Post Master
Post Master salary depends on the level of the post office (Level 1 to Level 3).
Approximate pay scale:
- ₹25,500 – ₹81,100 per month (as per 7th Pay Commission)
Additional benefits include:
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Transport Allowance
- Medical benefits
- Pension after retirement
Assistant Post Master (APM) Job Call
What is an Assistant Post Master?
An Assistant Post Master supports the Post Master in managing daily post office operations. This role is critical for ensuring smooth workflow and service delivery.
Responsibilities of Assistant Post Master
- Assisting in supervision of postal staff
- Managing customer services
- Handling financial transactions
- Maintaining records and reports
- Supporting administrative duties
- Acting as Post Master in their absence
Eligibility Criteria for APM
Assistant Post Master recruitment generally requires:
- Graduation from a recognized university
- Passing departmental or competitive examinations
- Prior experience in postal services (for internal candidates)
Selection Process for APM
- Written examination
- Skill and knowledge assessment
- Performance and service record evaluation
Salary and Allowances for APM
Assistant Post Masters are placed in Level 6 of the pay matrix.
Approximate salary range:
- ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400 per month
Benefits include:
- DA and HRA
- Medical and insurance benefits
- Leave travel concession (LTC)
- Retirement pension
Why Choose a Career in the Post Office?
A career in the postal department offers long-term stability and respect. Some major advantages include:
- Secure government employment
- Regular salary and increments
- Work-life balance
- Opportunities for promotion
- Serving rural and urban communities
- Contribution to national development
Post Office jobs are ideal for candidates who value discipline, public service, and a structured career path.
How to Apply for Post Office Job Calls
Applications for GDS, Post Master, and Assistant Post Master posts are released through official notifications.
General application steps:
- Visit the official postal recruitment portal
- Register with basic details
- Fill the online application form
- Upload required documents
- Pay application fee (if applicable)
- Submit and save confirmation
Applicants should regularly check notifications to stay updated about new job calls.
Preparation Tips for Aspirants
- Focus on academic accuracy for GDS merit-based selection
- Improve basic computer knowledge
- Learn postal rules and financial schemes
- Practice general awareness and reasoning
- Stay physically and mentally fit for service
Conclusion
Post Office GDS, Post Master, and Assistant Post Master job calls provide excellent opportunities for individuals seeking a stable and respectable government career. Whether you are a 10th pass candidate aiming for GDS or a graduate looking for administrative roles like Post Master or Assistant Post Master, the Indian Postal Department offers a structured and rewarding career path.
With transparent recruitment processes, attractive salary packages, and long-term benefits, postal jobs continue to be among the most trusted employment options in India. Staying informed, preparing well, and applying on time can help you secure a position in this prestigious government organization.
