The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has officially launched a significant recruitment drive for the year 2026, inviting applications for the post of Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO). This initiative by the state's Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department presents a major opportunity for graduates in agriculture and horticulture seeking stable government employment within Odisha.
Key Dates and Vacancy Details for OPSC AAO 2026
Prospective candidates must mark their calendars with the crucial timeline for this recruitment process. The official notification was released on December 31, 2025. The online application window will open on January 10, 2026, and remain active until January 27, 2026. The commission is scheduled to conduct the written examination on February 19, 2026, with admit cards likely to be available in February.
A total of 118 vacancies have been announced for the Group-B, Class-II Assistant Agriculture Officer position. In a move to promote gender diversity, 40 of these posts are specifically reserved for women candidates. The remaining vacancies are distributed across various categories as per the state government's reservation policy.
Eligibility Criteria and Selection Process
To be considered eligible, applicants must possess a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture (B.Sc. Agriculture) or Horticulture (B.Sc. Horticulture) from a recognized university. No other academic qualifications will be accepted for this specific recruitment.
Regarding age, candidates must be a minimum of 21 years old and not exceed 38 years as of January 1, 2025. The government provides standard age relaxation for applicants from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC), women, persons with disabilities, and ex-servicemen.
The selection of candidates will be a two-stage process. It begins with a computer-based written examination, followed by an interview or personality test for those who qualify. The written exam will consist of two papers, each carrying 100 marks, making a total of 200 marks. The test will feature 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), with a negative marking of 0.25 marks deducted for every wrong answer.
Salary, Posting, and How to Apply
Successful candidates appointed as Assistant Agriculture Officers will be compensated with a salary in Pay Level 10 according to the Odisha government's pay matrix. Selected officers should be prepared for a posting anywhere within the state's jurisdiction.
Aspiring applicants are advised to visit the official OPSC website during the application period from January 10 to January 27, 2026. It is highly recommended to complete and submit the online application form well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical glitches or server congestion. Candidates should thoroughly read the official notification to understand all requirements and procedures before applying.
This recruitment drive is a pivotal step for the Odisha government to strengthen its agricultural department with qualified professionals. It offers a rewarding career path for individuals passionate about contributing to the state's farming and horticulture sectors through a respected government role.
