Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
The Fishery Survey of India (FSI), functioning under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, has officially published its notification for the recruitment of skilled personnel for various technical and deck positions for the year 2026. This recruitment drive aims to fill 4 vacancies across several crucial roles including Senior Deckhand-cum-Cook, Carpenter, Machinist, and Welder.
Selected candidates will have the opportunity to serve on marine survey vessels or support infrastructure, participating in essential marine fisheries survey activities across the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Interested and eligible applicants are advised to submit their application through the prescribed offline format on or before the closing date, 05-10-2026. Detailed information regarding eligibility criteria, age limits, selection procedure, and application instructions are provided below.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must possess specific qualifications tailored to each position to be considered eligible. Below is the detailed breakdown of post names along with essential educational and technical requirements:
| Post Name | Total Posts | Essential Educational Qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Deckhand-cum-Cook | 1 | 10th Pass (Matriculation) from a recognized board, along with relevant experience in culinary/cooking duties on marine vessels or commercial establishments. Possessing a valid seamanship certificate is desirable. |
| Carpenter | 1 | Matriculation (10th Pass) with an ITI Certificate in the Carpenter trade from a recognized institute, or substantial practical experience in carpentry works. |
| Machinist | 1 | 10th Pass along with an ITI Certificate in the Machinist trade from an NCVT/SCVT recognized institute with hands-on technical workshop experience. |
| Welder | 1 | 10th Pass with an ITI Certificate in the Welder trade or relevant professional welding certification and trade skill background. |
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
The age restriction for applicants targeting these posts is structured around standard Central Government guidelines:
- Minimum Age Limit: 18 Years
- Maximum Age Limit: 27 Years (as on the crucial date of application closing)
Age Relaxation Benefits
Age relaxation is provided to reserved category applicants as per Government of India directives:
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): Up to 3 years relaxation (Max 30 years).
- SC / ST Candidates: Up to 5 years relaxation (Max 32 years).
- Ex-Servicemen (ESM): Relaxation allowed as per Central Government norms for defence personnel service duration plus 3 years.
- Government Servants: Up to 40 years of age for regular employees in accordance with service rules.
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
Selected candidates will receive competitive pay packages under the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) Pay Matrix:
- Pay Matrix Level: Pay Level-2 (Rs. 19,900/- to Rs. 63,200/-)
- Initial Basic Pay: Rs. 19,900/- per month
- Allowances: Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and applicable Uniform/Washing allowances or vessel-related allowances during marine deployments.
Selection Process
The recruitment for FSI posts strictly follows a merit-based evaluation scheme comprising multiple stages:
- Screening of Applications: Shortlisting candidates based on age, educational qualifications, and trade experience documents submitted.
- Written Examination / Skill Test: Eligible candidates will be called for a trade-specific practical skill assessment and objective test evaluating technical knowledge.
- Document Verification: Original certificates, testimonials, age proofs, and experience certificates will be scrutinized.
- Medical Examination: Candidates must meet standard fitness criteria appropriate for shore and sea duties.
Detailed Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
The technical test for practical trades will assess practical handling alongside basic cognitive awareness as tabulated below:
| Section | Subject Domain | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A | General Awareness & Elementary Arithmetic | 25 | 25 |
| Part B | Trade Specific Technical Knowledge | 50 | 50 |
| Part C | Basic English & Language Comprehension | 25 | 25 |
| Total | 3 Parts | 100 Questions | 100 Marks |
Note: Practical trade performance test scores may also be incorporated to gauge hands-on proficiency in respective fields like Welding, Machining, Carpentry, and Cooking.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Application Form
Since the application mode for this recruitment drive is offline, candidates must follow the precise instructions outlined below to ensure valid submission:
- Visit the official Ministry/FSI website at minfahd.gov.in.
- Locate the notification link for FSI Recruitment 2026 under the Career / Vacancies section and download the application form format.
- Print the application form on standard clean A4 size paper.
- Fill in all required fields accurately, including personal details, educational qualifications, trade experience, contact address, and email ID.
- Attach self-attested copies of all necessary certificates (10th marksheet, ITI certificate, experience certificates, caste certificate, age proof).
- Paste a recent passport-sized photograph in the designated space and sign across it where required.
- Enclose the filled application form along with attachments in an envelope superscribed with "APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF [NAME OF THE POST]".
- Send the completed application packet via Speed Post / Registered Post to the designated address specified in the official notification before the closing date of 05-10-2026.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Ensure the following documents are arranged and self-attested prior to despatching the application packet:
- Matriculation / 10th Standard Passing Certificate as proof of Birth Date.
- ITI Certificate / Marksheets in the respective trade (Carpenter, Machinist, Welder) or sea service certificate for Senior Deckhand-cum-Cook.
- Work Experience Certificates clearly demonstrating relevant service duration.
- Caste/Category Certificate (OBC-NCL/SC/ST/EWS) issued by competent authorities.
- Aadhaar Card or Photo ID Proof.
- Recent passport-size photographs (minimum 2 to 3 extra copies).