Are you passionate about contributing to the growth and development of India’s rural and agricultural sectors? Do you possess the right skills and qualifications to serve in a prestigious financial institution dedicated to rural development? If yes, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) invites applications for the position of Development Assistant. This comprehensive job opportunity offers a meaningful career with prospects for growth, attractive salary packages, and the chance to make a positive impact in underserved communities. Read through this detailed job description to understand all requirements, benefits, and the application process.
NABARD Development Assistant Recruitment 2026 – Detailed Job Description
Overview of the Recruitment
The NABARD has announced the recruitment of a total of 162 posts for Development Assistant and Development Assistant (Hindi) across various states and regional offices. This is a golden opportunity for aspirants seeking a career in the banking and rural development sector.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Company/Organization | National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) |
| Posts Available | 162 (159 Development Assistant, 3 Development Assistant (Hindi)) |
| Advertisement Number | 08/DA/2025-26 |
| Salary Range | Rs. 20,700 to Rs. 55,700 (Approx. Rs. 46,500/- Gross initially) |
| Official Website | www.nabard.org |
| Application Start Date | 17/01/2026 |
| Application Last Date | 03/02/2026 |
Vacancy Details and Regional Distribution
The vacancies are spread across India’s various states and regional offices, providing opportunities nationwide. The detailed distribution is as follows:
Development Assistant Positions
| State/Region | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Andaman and Nicobar | 1 |
| Andhra Pradesh | 7 |
| Assam | 5 |
| Bihar | 1 |
| Chhattisgarh | 5 |
| Goa | 1 |
| Gujarat | 9 |
| Haryana | 3 |
| Himachal Pradesh | 4 |
| Jammu & Kashmir | 3 |
| Jharkhand | 1 |
| Karnataka | 7 |
| Kerala | 3 |
| Ladakh | 2 |
| Madhya Pradesh | 10 |
| Maharashtra (including HO Mumbai) | 48 |
| Manipur | 2 |
| Meghalaya | 1 |
| New Delhi | 3 |
| Odisha | 8 |
| Punjab | 2 |
| Rajasthan | 5 |
| Tamil Nadu | 9 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 11 |
| West Bengal | 8 |
| Total | 159 |
Development Assistant (Hindi) Positions
| State/Region | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | 1 |
| Maharashtra (HO Mumbai) | 1 |
| Tamil Nadu | 1 |
| Total | 3 |
Reservation and Category-wise Breakdown
Out of the total vacancies, reservations are provided as per government norms, ensuring inclusivity for all eligible candidates.
- UR: 78
- SC: 21
- ST: 17
- OBC: 26
- EWS: 17
- PWBD: 7
- Ex-Servicemen (EXS): 16
- Disability-Exempted (DIS-EXS): 7
Note: Candidates can apply for vacancies in one State only. Reservation for PWBD/Ex-Servicemen is horizontal, and candidates should choose accordingly.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Essential Qualifications
Qualification requirements vary slightly based on the post applied for:
For Development Assistant
Candidate must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline with at least 50% marks in aggregate from a recognized university/institution. For SC/ST/PWBD/Ex-Servicemen, passing marks are sufficient.
For Development Assistant (Hindi)
Candidate must hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university in English or Hindi medium, with Hindi and English as compulsory or elective subjects, securing a minimum of 50% marks (pass for SC/ST/PWBD/Ex-Servicemen). Knowledge of word processing on PC and translation proficiency between English and Hindi are mandatory.
Qualifications for Ex-Servicemen
- Must have either graduated from a recognized university or
- Passed matriculation/equivalent exam in Armed Forces with at least 15 years of defense service.
Language Proficiency
Applicants should demonstrate proficiency in the official language of the concerned state—reading, writing, speaking, and understanding are mandatory. The official language is as per the state’s gazette notification.
Desirable Skills
- Knowledge of computer applications and word processing.
- Proficiency in the official language of the respective state.
Important Notes on Qualifications
Educational qualifications should be from universities recognized by UGC or similar authorities. GPAs and OGPA scores will be converted to percentage as per the provided conversion formula. All marks and qualifications must be verifiable through appropriate documents.
Salary and Other Benefits
The selected candidates will be paid a salary in the pay scale of Rs. 20,700 to Rs. 55,700, with an initial gross monthly emolument of approximately Rs. 46,500. The salary structure includes basic pay and various allowances, as detailed below:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Pay Scale | Rs. 20,700 (basic) to Rs. 55,700 (total scale with increments) |
| Starting Basic Pay | Rs. 23,100 per month (including two advance increments) |
| Monthly Gross Emoluments | Approx. Rs. 46,500 |
| Allowances |
|
| Perquisites & Benefits |
|
Career Growth and Promotions
Located within NABARD’s structured hierarchy, the role provides reasonable prospects for promotion to higher grades and managerial positions based on performance and experience.
Age Limit and Relaxation Norms
The age criteria are as follows:
- Minimum age: 21 years (born on or after 02/01/1991)
- Maximum age: 35 years (born on or before 01/01/2005)
Relaxation in Age for Reserved Categories
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | Up to 5 years |
| OBC | Up to 3 years |
| PWBD | Up to 10 years (General), 13 (OBC), 15 (SC/ST) |
| Ex-Servicemen | Service rendered + 3 years, upto a maximum of 50 years |
| Widows/Divorced Women/Judicially Separated (SC/ST) | Up to 5 years |
Application Fees and Payment Method
Application fees vary by category:
- SC/ST/PWBD: NIL + Rs. 100 intimation charges
- General/OBC/EWS/Others: Rs. 450 + Rs. 100 intimation charges
- NABARD Staff: As per applicable rules
Payment Mode: Online via debit/credit card, net banking, or mobile wallets. The fee is non-refundable.
Key Dates and Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Publication | 17/01/2026 |
| Start of Online Application | 17/01/2026 |
| End of Online Application | 03/02/2026 |
| Preliminary Exam | 21/02/2026 |
| Main Examination | 12/04/2026 |
| Language Proficiency Test (LPT) | After Main Exam (date to be announced) |
Note: NABARD reserves the right to alter these dates based on organizational needs. Candidates should periodically visit the official website for updates.
Selection Process and Examination Pattern
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination (Online) — Qualifying
Objective test comprising three sections:
- English Language (40 questions, 20 min)
- Numerical Ability (30 questions, 20 min)
- Reasoning Ability (30 questions, 20 min)
Maximum marks: 100. Shortlisting ratio: 1:25 based on performance.
Stage 2: Main Examination (Online)
Objective and Descriptive tests covering:
- Reasoning (30 questions, 30 min)
- Quantitative Aptitude (30 questions, 30 min)
- General Awareness (50 questions, 25 min)
- Computer Knowledge (40 questions, 20 min)
- English Language (Descriptive, 3 questions, 30 min)
Maximum marks: 200. The merit list is prepared based on Main exam scores only.
Stage 3: Language Proficiency Test (LPT)
Qualifying in the LPT is mandatory. It assesses proficiency in the state’s official language. Candidates who qualify are eligible for appointment.
Additional Selection Notes
- Negative marking: 1/4th mark deducted per wrong answer.
- Tie-breaking: Higher educational qualification, then higher marks, then age.
- Final merit list based on Main exam results.
- Biometric verification required at all stages from Main Exam onwards.
How to Apply for NABARD Development Assistant 2026
- Visit the official NABARD recruitment portal: www.nabard.org
- Click on the link for “Recruitment to the post of Development Assistant / Development Assistant (Hindi)-2026”.
- Select “New Registration” and fill in your personal details.
- Note down your registration ID and password sent via email/SMS.
- Prepare scanned copies of your photograph, signature, thumb impression, and handwritten declaration as per the specified specifications.
- Log in using your registration credentials and complete the online application form by filling all required details.
- Upload the scanned documents correctly.
- Pay the application fee online through the feasible payment modes.
- Submit the application and keep a printout for future reference.
For detailed steps, refer to the [official application procedure](https://www.nabard.org/auth/writereaddata/CareerNotices/1701261858Final%20Advertisement.pdf?csrt=11219967734975343460).
Important Links and Resources
Additional Information and FAQs
Important Instructions
Candidates must possess valid documents, adhere to specified formats, and meet all eligibility criteria to be considered for the recruitment process. An active email ID and mobile number are mandatory for receiving notifications. Strictly prohibited items during exams include calculators, mobile phones, and Bluetooth devices. Candidates are advised to follow all instructions provided in the official notification carefully.
Help & Support
For further assistance, visit the official NABARD recruitment page or contact the support helpline as specified on the official website. Keep track of all updates and announcements related to the recruitment process.
Final Notes
Embark on your journey to join NABARD, contributing towards India’s rural upliftment and financial empowerment. Ensure timely submission of your application, prepare diligently for the exams, and stay updated with the latest information to increase your chances of success. Good luck!