The Department of Posts officially published the India Post Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) 5th Merit List on July 9, 2025, marking the final list in the current cycle of recruitment for 21,413 vacancies across roles like GDS, Branch Postmaster (BPM) and Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM). This milestone offers the last sorted chance for candidates who were not shortlisted earlier. With competition intense and all selections purely based on Class 10 board marks and preferences, the fifth merit list determines eligibility for document verification—the critical next step toward appointment.
What Is This Merit List and Why Does It Matter?
The GDS recruitment process does not include written tests or interviews. Instead, merit lists are generated in rounds using Class 10 marks, normalized across boards, and following reservation norms. Each merit round offers fresh cut-offs, giving candidates another opportunity to qualify. The fifth list, being the last, means shortlisted candidates must now move forward with document verification quickly. Failure to act will result in forfeiture of the vacancy.
How to Download the 5th Merit List from the Official Portal
To access the list, candidates should visit the official portal and navigate to the section named “Shortlisted Candidates” or “Results”. Within this section, they can select their applicable state or postal circle and download the corresponding merit list PDF. These lists are made available in state-wise or circle-wise format. Once downloaded, candidates can use the “Ctrl + F” function to search for their registration number or name within the PDF and confirm their selection.
Timeline of Merit Lists – How We Got Here
The GDS recruitment schedule launched on February 10, 2025, with application open until March 3, followed by a correction window until March 8. The first merit list was posted on March 21, followed by successive lists throughout April, May and June. The fifth and final merit list appeared on July 9, 2025, completing the full cycle of state-wise candidate selections. Each list filled vacancies left by the previous rounds.
What Happens After Your Name Appears in the List?
Shortlisted candidates are required to report at their designated document verification center, usually aligned to their postal circle. They must carry original documents such as their Class 10 mark sheet and certificate, valid photo ID, category or reservation certificate (if applicable), and other identity proofs. Document verification and posting processes must be completed by specified deadlines—typically within two to three weeks of the list release. Once verified, candidates receive final appointment letters and details for induction or training.
State-wise Trends – How Different Circles Filled Vacancies
State or postal circles like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Karnataka released separate PDFs reflecting selection lists. With over 21,000 posts across 22 circles, each region received a tailored merit threshold. Cut-off percentages often ranged from high 90s to perfect scores depending on competition level and vacant positions by round. Candidates shortlisted in the earlier rounds had advantage, leaving higher thresholds in later lists; the fifth list included those who met lower but still essential marks.
Remote Access Tips When Portal Faces Traffic
High traffic during merit announcement dates often caused slow downloads or login errors. Aspirants found success by choosing off-peak hours, switching browsers, or clearing cache. Makeshift mirror links and direct download URLs from educational portals helped bypass delays. Some used mobile data rather than unstable public Wi‑Fi. Retaining registration details and application numbers proved crucial when recalling lost credentials.
Is Document Verification Mandatory and What If You Miss It?
Yes the document verification stage is non-negotiable. Those who fail to appear or submit valid documents lose their selection and may not be eligible for future lists. After the fifth merit list, no further rounds will be conducted. Candidates must attend the verification before the cut-off date, otherwise the vacancy gets reassigned to waiting applicants. This makes timely action critical.
Why It’s Safe to Act Now and What to Expect Ahead
Being selected in the fifth merit list means you are among the final shortlisted candidates in this cycle. Document verification is your last chance to convert the shortlist into an appointment. After validation, you may receive posting orders soon and complete joining formalities. It’s wise to keep copies of all documents—photographically or digitally stored—and prepare travel to verification centres in advance.
Even if you initially missed earlier lists, this final round gives closure. Candidates not listed here should await official announcements for potential additional cycles or future batches in later years.
Conclusion
In summary, the India Post GDS 5th Merit List 2025 released on July 9 represents the final merit-based selection phase for GDS vacancies. Aspirants shortlisted must promptly download their state-wise PDF from the official portal, locate their names, and attend the document verification round with all required proofs before the deadline. With no exams involved, Class 10 marks serve as the selection metric—making accuracy in your credentials and timely action essential. This final list either marks the end of the journey or opens the door to your appointment in India Post services. If you’d like a Hindi version or a step-by-step PDF guide, I’d be happy to prepare one.