The North Eastern Postal Circle has emerged as a focal point in the 2026 Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) recruitment cycle, boasting the highest number of vacancies among all postal circles in India. For candidates eyeing a career with India Post in this region, understanding the cut-off dynamics is essential.
This analysis breaks down the official cut-off data, vacancy trends, and what it all means for future applicants.
North East GDS 2026 Vacancy Overview
The North Eastern Circle stands out in the July 2026 Schedule-II recruitment with 2,614 vacancies, the largest allocation across all postal circles . This is significantly higher than the next closest circles, including Maharashtra (2,431) and Tamil Nadu (2,118) .
The vacancies span Branch Postmaster (BPM), Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM), and Dak Sevak positions. Notably, the North Eastern Circle operates under multiple language categories, including English/Hindi, which reflects the linguistic diversity of the region .
SEO Insight: The high vacancy count in the North East creates a unique opportunity for candidates willing to relocate or serve in this region, as a larger number of openings typically translates to slightly more accessible cut-off thresholds compared to highly competitive circles like Delhi or Bihar.
North East GDS Cut Off 2026: Official Data Analysis
The cut-off for GDS selection represents the Class 10 percentage of the last candidate selected in a particular category and post . Based on official merit list data, here is how the North Eastern Circle performed in 2026.
Category-Wise Cut Off (Schedule-I, January 2026)
According to the official GDS merit list released in May 2026, the North East circle cut-offs were as follows :
| Category | Cut Off Percentage |
|---|---|
| UR (Unreserved) | 97.20% |
| OBC | 96.40% |
| SC | 95.40% |
| ST | 93.42% |
| EWS | 94.20% |
| PwBD | 96.00% |
Post-Specific Cut Offs (4th Merit List Data)
The 4th Merit List revealed significant variation across different posts within the North Eastern Circle :
BPM (Branch Postmaster):
- UR: 76.83%
- OBC: 97.95%
- SC: 94.60%
- ST: 77.66%
- EWS: 87.40%
ABPM (Assistant Branch Postmaster):
- UR: 88.40%
- OBC: 98.00%
- SC: 95.00%
- ST: 89.30%
- EWS: 87.40%
Dak Sevak:
- UR: 85.33%
- OBC: 97.83%
- ST: 80.83%
- EWS: 87.40%
Key Observation: The UR cut-off for BPM, ABPM, and Dak Sevak in the 4th Merit List dropped significantly compared to the first merit list. This indicates that subsequent merit lists provide genuine opportunities for candidates with scores in the 76-88% range, particularly for unreserved positions .
Why North East Cut Offs Differ from Other Circles
Several factors explain the distinct cut-off pattern in the North Eastern Circle:
1. Geographic and Logistical Considerations
The North Eastern region encompasses remote and difficult terrain. Candidates from other parts of India may be hesitant to relocate, reducing the applicant pool and thereby lowering competition levels compared to circles like Uttar Pradesh or Bihar .
2. Local Language Requirements
GDS candidates must have studied the local language of the circle up to Class 10. The North Eastern Circle has unique language requirements, which naturally limits eligibility to candidates with the appropriate linguistic background .
3. Vacancy Volume
With 2,614 vacancies—the highest in the country—the sheer volume of openings creates more selection opportunities, which can lower the effective cut-off .
4. Category-Wise Distribution
The ST category has a significant presence in the North East, and reserved vacancies naturally have lower cut-offs. The ST cut-off of 93.42% (January cycle) and 77-89% (4th Merit List) reflects this reservation benefit .
Expected Cut Off Trends for Future Cycles
Based on 2026 data and historical patterns, here is what candidates can anticipate:
| Category | Expected Cut Off Range (UR Safe Score) |
|---|---|
| UR | 85-97% (varies by post and merit list) |
| OBC | 88-98% |
| SC | 90-96% |
| ST | 77-94% |
| EWS | 87-95% |
| PwBD | 78-96% |
Important Note: The cut-off for the first merit list is always higher than subsequent lists. Candidates with scores in the 85-90% range should remain hopeful for later merit lists, especially for BPM and Dak Sevak posts .
What This Means for Aspirants
For High Scorers (95%+)
You are in a strong position for first-list selection. Focus on completing document verification promptly if shortlisted.
For Mid-Range Scorers (85-95%)
Your chances depend heavily on the post, division, and category. BPM positions in remote divisions and Dak Sevak roles offer the best opportunities. Monitor subsequent merit lists carefully .
For Reserved Category Candidates
ST candidates have the most favorable cut-off thresholds in the North East, with scores in the 77-89% range proving sufficient in the 4th Merit List . OBC and SC candidates still face competitive thresholds in the 95-98% range for first-list selection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the minimum percentage required for North East GDS 2026?
The minimum varies by category and merit list. For the 4th Merit List, UR candidates for BPM needed only 76.83%, while ST candidates for Dak Sevak needed 80.83% .
Q2: Is the North East GDS cut-off lower than other states?
Generally, yes. The North Eastern Circle has historically had lower cut-offs than high-competition states like UP, Bihar, and Delhi due to geographic and language factors .
Q3: Can I get selected with 80% in North East GDS?
Possibly, depending on your category and post. ST candidates and those applying for BPM positions in remote divisions have the best chances with an 80% score .
Q4: How many vacancies are there in North East GDS 2026?
The July 2026 Schedule-II cycle announced 2,614 vacancies for the North Eastern Circle—the highest among all circles .
Q5: Does the North East GDS have separate cut-offs for Hindi and English?
The merit is calculated based on overall Class 10 percentage. The language category (English/Hindi) affects eligibility, not the cut-off calculation .
Disclaimer: This analysis is based on official merit list data and trends observed in the 2026 recruitment cycles. Official cut-offs are determined solely by India Post based on the last selected candidate’s merit in each specific division. Candidates are advised to refer to the official India Post GDS portal (indiapostgdsonline.gov.in) for final verified lists.