UPSC Opens Applications for 194 Group A and B Posts Across Central Ministries

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched one of its largest specialist recruitment drives of 2026, announcing 194 vacancies for Group A and Group B posts across multiple central government ministries and departments. The recruitment notification, released under Advertisement No. 05/2026, invites applications for a wide range of technical, scientific, academic and administrative positions, with the online application process open until June 12, 2026.

The recruitment drive covers 32 different job roles in departments linked to civil aviation, defence, culture, meteorology and scientific research. Among the key positions announced are Airworthiness Officer, Deputy Controller of Explosives, Scientist-B, Assistant Director, Training Officer and Associate Professor. The vacancies are aimed at strengthening technical expertise and specialist manpower within government institutions.

According to the notification, educational qualifications vary depending on the post. Some positions require bachelor’s degrees in engineering, science or related disciplines, while others demand master’s degrees, professional certifications or specialised academic backgrounds. Several posts also require prior work experience in relevant fields. Age limits for applicants range between 30 and 48 years, with relaxations applicable for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per government norms.

The salary structure differs across positions, ranging from Pay Level-6 to Academic Level-13A1 under the central government pay matrix. UPSC has stated that applicants must submit all documents online, including educational certificates, proof of date of birth, work experience certificates, passport-size photographs and signatures. Candidates will also be required to upload a live photograph while completing the application process.

The selection process will primarily involve shortlisting based on qualifications and experience, followed by interviews. For certain posts, UPSC may also conduct recruitment tests if the number of applications is high. The commission has prescribed minimum interview suitability marks of 50 for unreserved candidates, 45 for OBC candidates and 40 for SC, ST and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities categories.

Reservation policies for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, Economically Weaker Sections and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities will apply in accordance with central government rules.

Recruitment experts believe the scale and diversity of this year’s UPSC specialist recruitment drive reflect the government’s increasing focus on strengthening technical and scientific capacity in critical sectors. The appointments are expected to support areas such as aviation safety, scientific research, meteorological services and heritage management.

At the same time, experts suggest competition for the posts is likely to remain intense due to the limited number of vacancies and the growing interest in stable, high-level government jobs among skilled professionals. Some analysts also note that future recruitment cycles may further evolve to attract niche talent in emerging technical fields if vacancies remain difficult to fill.