Cabinet Secretariat DFO (Technical) 2026: Highlights

The Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India, has invited applications from Indian nationals who hold a valid GATE score for direct recruitment as Deputy Field Officer (Technical), a Group ‘B’ Non-Gazetted post at Level-7 in the Pay Matrix. The notice appeared in Employment News (17–23 October 2026). There is no written exam of its own: candidates are shortlisted on GATE marks and then interviewed.

*The notice prints the total as 260, but the subject-wise figures add up to 250. Please confirm the final number from the official advertisement.

Subject-wise Vacancies and GATE Paper Code

Vacancies are tentative and can be revised by the Cabinet Secretariat at any stage.

Eligibility Criteria

Nationality

Indian nationals only.

Age limit

Not more than 30 years as on the closing date. Relaxation is available for SC/ST, OBC, Central Government employees and ex-servicemen as per Central Government orders in force. Check the exact relaxation in the official notice.

Educational qualification

A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Technology, or a Master’s degree in Science, in one of the subjects listed above, from a recognised university or institution.

GATE requirement

A valid GATE score card in the paper that matches your degree subject. Valid means you achieved the qualifying cut-off marks in GATE 2024, 2025 or 2026.

Selection Process

• All applications received by the closing date and meeting the eligibility criteria are ranked subject-wise, in order of merit of GATE score.
• Candidates numbering five times the vacancies in each subject are shortlisted for interview.
• Final selection is based on GATE score and interview, subject to eligibility, character and antecedent verification, and a medical examination.
• Interview date, time and centre will be sent to shortlisted candidates by e-mail, so keep your e-mail ID active.
• Medical standards follow Central Government guidelines for Group ‘B’ posts.

How to Apply (Offline)

1. Download or copy the application form printed in the notice (Employment News, 17–23 October 2026, pages 48–49) and type it on A-4 size paper.
2. Fill it in English capital (block) letters with black or blue ink. Do not leave any column blank.
3. Paste a self-attested recent passport-size colour photograph on the form.
4. Attach self-attested copies of the documents listed below.
5. Send the envelope by ordinary post to: Post Bag No. 001, Lodhi Road Head Post Office, New Delhi – 110003.
6. Make sure it reaches by 15 November 2026, since the date is for receipt, not posting.

Documents to attach

• Mark-sheets and certificates (hard copy) of Matriculation, 10+2 and B.E./B.Tech./M.Sc.
• Proof of date of birth: Matriculation certificate, birth certificate, passport, driving licence or PAN card
• Valid GATE score card
• Aadhaar card copy
• Caste certificate (Annexure-I or II) if claiming age relaxation
• NOC from present employer, if employed
• Undertaking (Annexure-III) and discharge certificate for ex-servicemen
• Two passport-size colour photographs with name and date of birth on the back

Important Dates

Tips for Candidates

• Check that your degree subject matches your GATE paper code before applying.
• Post early. Ordinary post can be slow and late receipt means rejection.
• Keep a photocopy of the complete application and your postal receipt.
• Be ready for field-posting and transfer conditions across India.
• Give an e-mail ID and mobile number you check daily, as the interview call comes by e-mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a written exam?

No separate written exam is mentioned. Selection is based on GATE score and interview.

Can I apply with a GATE 2023 score?

No. Only GATE 2024, 2025 or 2026 scores are valid for this recruitment.

Can I apply in more than one subject?

No. Only one subject is allowed per candidate.

Is there an online application?

The notice describes an offline process by post. Always confirm from the official notice.