1. For Departmental Candidates (LDCE – Limited Departmental Competitive Examination)

The LDCE for the post of Inspector of Posts (IPO) is conducted by the Department of Posts (DoP) for existing postal employees.

Eligibility Requirements:

a) Educational Qualification:

• Must have passed 10+2 (Higher Secondary) or higher qualification from a recognized Board.

• Some circles may specify that the candidate must have passed Graduation.

b) Service Requirement:

• Must be a permanent employee of India Post.

• Should have rendered at least 5 years of regular service in one of the following cadres:

  • Postal Assistant (PA)

  • Sorting Assistant (SA)

  • Lower Selection Grade (LSG) officials

  • Or equivalent post in RMS / Postal divisions.

c) Age Limit:

• Upper age limit: 45 years as of the notification date.

• Relaxation:

  • SC/ST: 5 years

  • OBC: 3 years

d) Departmental Record:

• Must have a clean service record without any disciplinary action or pending vigilance case.

2. For Direct Entry Candidates (Through SSC CGL Exam)

The post of Inspector of Posts is also recruited through the Staff Selection Commission – Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) Exam.

Eligibility Requirements:

a) Nationality:

• Must be an Indian citizen.

b) Educational Qualification:

• Must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university.

c) Age Limit:

• Age Range: 18 to 30 years
  (i.e., candidate must be born between specific dates as mentioned in SSC notification)

d) Age Relaxation (as per Government Rules):

• OBC: 3 years

• SC/ST: 5 years

• PwD: 10–15 years (depending on category)

e) Other Requirements:

• Should be medically fit for field duties and traveling assignments.

• Must be willing to serve anywhere in India.

  Note:

  • LDCE eligibility may vary slightly based on Postal Circle notifications.

  • Always check the official circular or SSC notification for exact cut-off dates and service criteria.