The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has inaugurated a high-priority Special Recruitment drive for the position of Assistant Fisheries Officer (AFO) within the prestigious Odisha Fisheries Service Cadre. This initiative, specifically designed for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates, represents a targeted effort by the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department to bridge representation gaps within the state’s technical administration.
For graduates in Fishery Science, this recruitment is not merely a job opening but a gateway to managing Odisha’s vast maritime economy and water resources. This cadre offers significant fiscal security and a robust career trajectory in a sector vital to Odisha’s GDP.
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OPSC AFO 2026: Key Recruitment Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) |
| Advt. No. | 05 of 2026-27 |
| Post Name | Assistant Fisheries Officer (Group-B) |
| Total Vacancies | 44 (13-W) |
| Pay Scale | Level-10 of Pay Matrix (ORSP Rules, 2017) |
| Official Website | opsc.gov.in |
Important Dates and Timeline
Meticulous timeline management is essential to avoid technical bottlenecks. Candidates are advised to complete their registration early in the window.
| Events | Dates |
|---|---|
| Notification Date | 18th July 2026 |
| Registration Start Date | 24th July 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24th August 2026 (5:00 P.M.) |
| Written Exam Date | 26th September 2026 (Saturday) |
Eligibility Criteria: Educational and Age Requirements
Educational Qualification
A candidate must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Fishery Science (B.F.Sc.) from a recognized University in India or abroad. This specific scientific background is mandatory for recruitment into this Group-B service.
Age Limit & Relaxations (as of 01.01.2026)
- Standard Bracket: 21 to 47 years.
- Birth Date Window: Born between 2nd January 1979 and 1st January 2005.
- Inclusive Age Policy: PWD candidates from SC/ST categories receive an additional 10-year relaxation (Upper limit 57 years).
Vacancy Distribution
| Category | No. of Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 01 |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 43 (13-W) |
| Total | 44 (13-W) |
*W denotes vacancies reserved for women candidates.
Compensation Structure and Salary Benefits
Appointment to the Odisha Fisheries Service provides long-term fiscal security. Under the ORSP Rules, 2017, the position is ranked at Level-10 of the Pay Matrix.
- Base Pay: Rs. 44,900/-
- Allowances: Includes Dearness Allowance (DA) and other benefits as sanctioned by the Govt. of Odisha.
Selection Process: The Path to Appointment
The OPSC utilizes a multi-tiered evaluation system:
- Stage 1: Written Examination (Objective Type) – 800 Marks
- Stage 2: Viva Voce (Interview) – 100 Marks
Note: Candidates are called for the interview at a ratio of approximately 2:1 per vacancy.
Detailed Exam Pattern
| Subject | Sitting | Duration | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | 1st | 2.5 Hours | 200 | 400 |
| Paper-II | 2nd | 2.5 Hours | 200 | 400 |
- Format: Objective MCQs based on B.F.Sc. curriculum.
- Negative Marking: None. No penalty for incorrect answers.
- Center: Cuttack (Kataka) and possibly Bhubaneswar.
How to Apply for OPSC AFO: 7-Step Protocol
- Portal Entry: Visit opsc.gov.in.
- Instructional Review: Read the Proforma Application instructions carefully.
- Data Input: Fill in personal, educational, and category details.
- Digital Uploads: Upload passport photo, signature, and Left-Hand Thumb Impression (LTI).
- Fee Exemption: This is a Zero-Fee drive for SC/ST. Proceed to final submission.
- PPSAN Generation: Secure your unique Permanent Public Service Account Number.
- Documentation: Print the final application for the verification stage.
