OPSC AHO Recruitment 2026 

The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has announced a new recruitment drive for the post of Assistant Horticulture Officer (AHO) under the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha. This recruitment presents an excellent opportunity for candidates holding a B.Sc. degree in Horticulture or Agriculture who wish to build a stable and rewarding career in the government sector.

As per the official notification, OPSC will fill 22 Assistant Horticulture Officer (Group-B) vacancies through a competitive selection process consisting of a written examination and personality test. The online application process will begin on 28 July 2026 and interested candidates can submit their forms until 28 August 2026 through the official OPSC portal.

One of the major attractions of this recruitment is the Level-10 pay scale under the Odisha Revised Scales of Pay Rules, along with government allowances and long-term career growth opportunities. Candidates selected for these posts will play an important role in supporting horticulture development and agricultural productivity across Odisha.

Those planning to apply should carefully review the eligibility conditions, age criteria, examination pattern, and application guidelines before proceeding with registration. Since the competition for state government jobs remains high, applicants are advised to complete their applications well before the deadline and begin their preparation early.

Advisory: Candidates should keep their educational certificates, photograph, signature, and identity proof ready before starting the online application process.

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OPSC Assistant Horticulture Officer Recruitment 2026 Overview

The recruitment aims to appoint qualified horticulture and agriculture graduates to Odisha Horticulture Service under Group-B category.

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OPSC AHO Notification 2026 Details

OPSC released the detailed notification for Assistant Horticulture Officer Recruitment on 18 July 2026. The notification contains complete information regarding vacancies, eligibility, age relaxation, exam pattern, selection procedure, salary, and application instructions.

Applicants should read the official notification thoroughly to avoid mistakes during registration and ensure that they meet all eligibility conditions before applying.

Important Advice: Do not rely solely on social media updates. Always verify details through the official notification issued by OPSC.

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Vacancy Distribution

A total of 22 vacancies have been announced under different reservation categories.

Women Reservation: 07 posts are reserved for women candidates across categories.

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Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

Candidates must possess:

• Bachelor of Science in Horticulture [B.Sc. (Horticulture)] OR
• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture [B.Sc. (Agriculture)]

The degree must be obtained from a university or institution recognized by the Government of India or any State Government.

Experience Requirement

No prior work experience has been prescribed in the notification. Fresh graduates meeting the eligibility criteria can apply.

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Application Fee

Candidates belonging to General and other eligible categories must pay the prescribed examination fee during the application process.

Applicants should ensure successful payment confirmation before final submission of the application form.

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Age Limit for OPSC AHO Recruitment 2026

Applicants must satisfy the prescribed age criteria as on the date mentioned in the notification.

Age Relaxation

Candidates should possess valid supporting documents to claim age relaxation benefits.

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Salary Structure

Selected candidates will receive pay under the Odisha Revised Scales of Pay Rules along with applicable allowances.

In addition to the basic pay, employees may receive Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and other government-approved benefits.

Also Read: SAIL RSP Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Notification Released for 1110 Trade, Diploma & Degree Apprentice Vacancies

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Important Dates

Candidates should remember the following key dates related to the recruitment process.

Advisory: Apply well before the closing date to avoid server issues and heavy traffic on the final days.

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Selection Process

The OPSC Assistant Horticulture Officer selection process consists of two stages.

Stage 1: Written Examination

• Objective-type examination (MCQ)
• Two papers related to horticulture subjects
• Each paper carries 100 marks
• OMR-based evaluation
• Negative marking applicable

Stage 2: Personality Test (Interview)

Candidates qualifying in the written examination will be invited for the personality test.

• Interview Marks: 25
• Assesses subject knowledge, communication skills, confidence, and suitability for the post

Negative Marking

For every incorrect answer, 25% of the marks assigned to the question will be deducted.

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Preparation Tips for OPSC AHO Exam 2026

Candidates can improve their chances of success by following these preparation strategies:

• Focus on horticulture and agriculture core subjects
• Study previous years’ state agriculture recruitment papers
• Practice objective-type MCQs regularly
• Revise plant science, crop production, pest management, and horticulture concepts
• Improve time management through mock tests
• Keep updated with current developments in agriculture and horticulture sectors

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How to Apply Online for OPSC AHO Recruitment 2026

Follow the steps below to complete your application successfully:

1. Visit the official OPSC website.
2. Open the Assistant Horticulture Officer Recruitment 2026 notification.
3. Read all instructions carefully.
4. Click on the online registration link.
5. Enter personal and educational details correctly.
6. Upload scanned photograph, signature, and left thumb impression.
7. Verify all information before proceeding.
8. Pay the application fee if applicable.
9. Submit the application form.
10. Note down the generated PPSAN number.
11. Download and print the final application form for future use.
12. Keep all supporting documents safely for verification.

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Important Links

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FAQs – OPSC AHO Recruitment 2026

1. What is the last date to apply for OPSC AHO Recruitment 2026?

The online application process will remain open until 28 August 2026 at 5:00 PM. Candidates are advised not to wait until the last day because technical issues and heavy traffic may delay successful submission.

2. What educational qualification is required for the Assistant Horticulture Officer post?

Applicants must possess either a B.Sc. in Horticulture or B.Sc. in Agriculture from a recognized university or institution. No other equivalent qualification has been accepted in the notification.

3. How many vacancies are available under OPSC AHO Recruitment 2026?

The Odisha Public Service Commission has announced 22 vacancies for Assistant Horticulture Officer posts across UR, SC, and ST categories, including reserved positions for women candidates.

4. Is there any negative marking in the written examination?

Yes. OPSC has clearly mentioned that 25% of the marks assigned to a correct answer will be deducted for every wrong answer, making accuracy important during the examination.

5. What is the salary of an Assistant Horticulture Officer in Odisha?

Selected candidates will receive salary under Level-10 of the Pay Matrix, corresponding to the pre-revised scale of ₹9,300–₹34,800 with Grade Pay of ₹4,600, along with government allowances.

6. Can fresh graduates apply for OPSC AHO Recruitment 2026?

Yes. The notification does not require any prior experience. Eligible fresh graduates holding the required Agriculture or Horticulture degree can apply and compete for the recruitment process.