OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 44 Assistant Fisheries Officer Posts, Check Eligibility, Salary & Last Date
OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 notification has been officially released by the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) for the recruitment of 44 Assistant Fisheries Officer (Group-B) posts under the Odisha Fisheries Service Cadre. This special recruitment drive is conducted under the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department, Government of Odisha. Candidates holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Fishery Science (B.F.Sc.) can apply online through the official OPSC website.
The online application process started on 24 July 2026 and will remain open until 24 August 2026 (5:00 PM). One of the biggest advantages of this recruitment is that no application fee is required. Selected candidates will receive an attractive salary of ₹44,900 per month under Level-10 Pay Matrix along with other government allowances.
If you are looking for a secure Odisha Government Job in the Fisheries Department, this recruitment offers an excellent career opportunity. In this article, you will find complete information about the OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026, including important dates, vacancy details, eligibility criteria, educational qualification, age limit, salary, selection process, exam pattern, required documents, application process, FAQs, and important links.
OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 Overview
OPSC Assistant Fisheries Officer Recruitment 2026 aims to recruit qualified candidates through a competitive written examination followed by a Viva Voce Test. This recruitment is conducted exclusively for eligible SC and ST category candidates. Applicants should carefully read the official notification before submitting the online application form.
Featured Snippet
OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 has been announced for 44 Assistant Fisheries Officer (Group-B) vacancies. Candidates possessing a B.F.Sc. degree can apply online from 24 July to 24 August 2026. The recruitment process includes a written examination and interview. Selected candidates will receive a salary of ₹44,900 (Level-10) under the Odisha Government.
OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 Highlights
| Organization | Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Name | OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 |
| Advertisement Number | 05 of 2026-27 |
| Post Name | Assistant Fisheries Officer (Group-B) |
| Total Vacancies | 44 |
| Department | Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Department |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Starts | 24 July 2026 |
| Last Date | 24 August 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Application Fee | Nil |
| Selection Process | Written Examination + Viva Voce Test |
| Salary | ₹44,900 (Level-10) |
| Job Location | Odisha |
| Official Website | https://www.opsc.gov.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Released | 18 July 2026 |
| Online Application Begins | 24 July 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 24 August 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Written Examination | 26 September 2026 |
OPSC Assistant Fisheries Officer Vacancy 2026
The Odisha Public Service Commission has announced a total of 44 vacancies under this special recruitment drive. The vacancies are reserved for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe candidates.
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 01 |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 43 (Including 13 Women) |
| Total | 44 |
Who Can Apply for OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026?
Candidates who fulfill all eligibility conditions prescribed by the Odisha Public Service Commission can submit their online applications before the last date. Applicants should ensure that all educational qualifications and age criteria are satisfied before registration.
Educational Qualification
To apply for the OPSC Assistant Fisheries Officer Recruitment 2026, candidates must possess the following qualification:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Fishery Science (B.F.Sc.).
- The degree must be obtained from a recognized University in India or abroad.
- Candidates should possess all educational certificates before applying online.
Age Limit
The age of the candidate will be calculated as per the official notification.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 21 Years |
| Maximum Age | 47 Years |
| Eligible Date of Birth | Born between 02 January 1979 and 01 January 2005 |
Age Relaxation
Since this recruitment is meant for SC and ST candidates, the upper age limit has already been extended up to 47 years.
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD) having 40% or more permanent disability and belonging to SC/ST categories are eligible for an additional 10 years of upper age relaxation.
- Age relaxation will be provided strictly according to Odisha Government rules.
- Candidates must produce valid supporting certificates during document verification.
OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 Salary
Candidates selected for the post of Assistant Fisheries Officer (Group-B) will receive an attractive salary under the Odisha Revised Scales of Pay (ORSP) Rules, 2017. Apart from the basic pay, employees will also be eligible for Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Medical Allowance and other benefits as per Odisha Government rules.
| Post Name | Pay Level | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Fisheries Officer (Group-B) | Level-10 | ₹44,900/- + Applicable Allowances |
This salary package makes the OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 one of the best opportunities for candidates seeking a permanent Odisha Government job in the Fisheries Department.
Application Fee
According to the official notification, candidates are not required to pay any application fee while submitting the online application form.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| All Eligible Candidates | Nil |
Candidates can complete the online registration and directly submit the application after uploading the required documents.
Selection Process
The selection process for OPSC Assistant Fisheries Officer Recruitment 2026 consists of two stages. Candidates must qualify in each stage to be considered for final selection.
| Stage | Selection Process | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Written Examination | 800 |
| Stage 2 | Viva Voce (Interview) | 100 |
Written Examination
- Objective-type examination.
- Total two papers.
- Each paper carries 400 marks.
- Each paper contains 200 multiple-choice questions.
- Every question carries 2 marks.
- No negative marking for incorrect answers.
- Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks in each paper.
Interview (Viva Voce Test)
- Candidates qualifying in the written examination will be shortlisted for the interview.
- The Commission may call approximately twice the number of advertised vacancies for the Viva Voce Test, subject to availability.
- The interview carries 100 marks.
- The final merit list will be prepared based on the combined marks of the written examination and interview.
OPSC AFO Exam Pattern 2026
| Paper | Duration | Questions | Marks | Question Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | 2 Hours 30 Minutes | 200 | 400 | Objective |
| Paper-II | 2 Hours 30 Minutes | 200 | 400 | Objective |
Exam Highlights
- Mode of Examination: Offline Written Test.
- Total Written Marks: 800.
- Interview Marks: 100.
- Total Selection Marks: 900.
- No Negative Marking.
- Each Question Carries 2 Marks.
- Examination Centre: Cuttack (Kataka) and Bhubaneswar, depending on the number of applicants.
OPSC AFO Syllabus 2026
The official notification mentions that both papers will contain subject-specific objective questions related to Fisheries Science. Candidates should prepare thoroughly from their B.F.Sc. academic syllabus.
Major topics may include:
- Fish Biology
- Aquaculture
- Fish Nutrition
- Fish Breeding
- Fish Genetics
- Fish Diseases and Health Management
- Marine Fisheries
- Inland Fisheries
- Fish Processing Technology
- Fishery Economics and Extension
- Reservoir and Riverine Fisheries
- Ornamental Fisheries
- Fish Harvesting Technology
- Fisheries Resource Management
Candidates should refer to the official notification for any updates regarding the detailed syllabus.
Required Documents
Before filling out the online application form, candidates should keep the following documents ready in the prescribed format.
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Scanned signature.
- Left-Hand Thumb Impression (LTI).
- Bachelor’s Degree in Fishery Science (B.F.Sc.) certificate.
- Mark Sheets of all semesters/years.
- SC/ST Category Certificate.
- PwD Certificate (if applicable).
- Valid Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, etc.).
- Date of Birth Proof.
- Any other document mentioned in the official notification.
How to Apply Online for OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026?
Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can apply online through the official OPSC website. It is advisable to complete the application process well before the last date to avoid server issues or technical problems.
- Visit the official website of Odisha Public Service Commission.
- Click on the OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 or Assistant Fisheries Officer Recruitment link.
- Read the official notification carefully before starting the registration process.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in all personal, educational and category details correctly.
- Upload the required scanned documents, passport-size photograph, signature and Left-Hand Thumb Impression (LTI).
- Verify all the information entered in the application form.
- As there is no application fee, proceed directly to the final submission.
- After successful submission, note your Permanent Public Service Account Number (PPSAN).
- Download and print the submitted application form for future reference.
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Read the official notification carefully before applying.
- Apply only through the official OPSC portal.
- Ensure that all uploaded documents are clear and readable.
- Enter your name, date of birth and educational details exactly as mentioned in your certificates.
- Keep your registered mobile number and email ID active throughout the recruitment process.
- Submit the application before 24 August 2026 (5:00 PM).
- Retain the application form and PPSAN for future communication.
- Regularly visit the official website for admit card, exam date updates and further announcements.
Why Apply for OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026?
The OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for Fisheries Science graduates seeking a stable and rewarding government career. The recruitment provides a permanent Group-B position under the Odisha Government with an attractive salary, job security and career growth.
- Permanent Odisha Government Job.
- Salary starting from ₹44,900 under Level-10 Pay Matrix.
- No application fee.
- Career growth through departmental promotions.
- Government allowances and retirement benefits.
- Opportunity to work in the Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Department.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
Many applications get rejected because of simple errors. Avoid these common mistakes while filling out the online form.
- Do not enter incorrect personal information.
- Avoid uploading blurred or unclear documents.
- Do not wait until the last day to submit your application.
- Ensure your B.F.Sc. qualification details are entered correctly.
- Use an active email ID and mobile number.
- Double-check category details before final submission.
- Review the application form carefully before clicking the submit button.
Preparation Tips for OPSC AFO Exam 2026
With proper planning and consistent practice, candidates can improve their chances of qualifying for the written examination and interview.
1. Understand the Exam Pattern
Study the official exam pattern and marking scheme before starting your preparation. Since there is no negative marking, candidates should attempt all possible questions.
2. Focus on Fisheries Science Subjects
Prepare core B.F.Sc. subjects such as Aquaculture, Fish Biology, Fish Nutrition, Fish Diseases, Fish Genetics, Marine Fisheries and Fish Processing Technology.
3. Practice Previous Year Papers
Solve previous OPSC Fisheries Officer papers and mock tests to understand the question pattern and improve time management.
4. Revise Regularly
Prepare short notes and revise important concepts every week to improve retention before the examination.
5. Stay Updated
Keep checking the official OPSC website for admit card release, exam instructions and any changes in the recruitment schedule.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What is the last date to apply for OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 24 August 2026 (5:00 PM).
How many vacancies are available in OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026?
The Odisha Public Service Commission has announced a total of 44 Assistant Fisheries Officer vacancies.
What is the qualification required for OPSC Assistant Fisheries Officer?
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Fishery Science (B.F.Sc.) from a recognized university.
Is there any application fee for OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026?
No. The official notification clearly states that candidates are not required to pay any application fee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the last date to apply for OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026?
The last date to submit the online application form is 24 August 2026 (5:00 PM).
2. How many vacancies have been announced?
Odisha Public Service Commission has released 44 vacancies for the post of Assistant Fisheries Officer (Group-B).
3. What is the educational qualification required?
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Fishery Science (B.F.Sc.) from a recognized university in India or abroad.
4. Is there any application fee?
No. The application process is completely fee-free for eligible candidates.
5. What is the age limit for OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026?
The minimum age is 21 years and the maximum age is 47 years as prescribed in the official notification.
6. What is the selection process?
The selection process includes a Written Examination followed by a Viva Voce (Interview).
7. What salary will selected candidates receive?
Selected candidates will receive a starting salary of ₹44,900/- under Level-10 Pay Matrix, along with admissible allowances.
8. When will the written examination be conducted?
The written examination is scheduled to be held on 26 September 2026.
Important Links
| Particulars | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://www.opsc.gov.in |
| Official Notification PDF | Available on the Official Website |
| Apply Online | https://www.opsc.gov.in |
| Latest Odisha Government Jobs | Visit INJOBMAHITI |
Why This Recruitment is Important
The OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for Fisheries Science graduates looking for a secure government career. With a permanent Group-B post, attractive Level-10 salary, no application fee and career growth opportunities, this recruitment offers long-term stability. Candidates selected through this recruitment will contribute to the development of Odisha’s fisheries sector while enjoying government benefits, promotions and retirement security.
Final Words
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you should complete your application before the last date instead of waiting until the final day. Read the official notification carefully, prepare all required documents in advance and start preparing for the written examination. Regular practice of Fisheries Science subjects and revision of core concepts will improve your chances of selection.
Keep visiting our website for the latest updates on OPSC AFO Recruitment 2026, admit card release, exam pattern, answer key, result, cut-off marks and future Odisha Government Job notifications.
Last Updated
Last Updated: 26 July 2026