[Exam Pattern] UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist 202
The Union Public Service Commission has officially announced the UPSC CGS Recruitment 2025: 85 Vacancies | Apply Now initiative to recruit qualified geoscientists across India. Eligible candidates can submit their applications online through the official portal to secure prestigious Group A positions in central government departments.
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Total Posts | 85 Vacancies |
| Application Start | 04/09/2024 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24/09/2024 |
| Application Fee | ₹200 (Exempted for Female/SC/ST/PwBD) |
| Apply Mode | Online |
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Geo-Scientist (CGS) examination annually to select highly skilled professionals for key scientific positions in the country. The official notification marks the beginning of a highly competitive selection procedure designed to fill critical roles within the Geological Survey of India (GSI) under the Ministry of Mines, and the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti. For geoscientists, geologists, geophysicists, and chemists across India, this recruitment drive represents one of the most prestigious career paths in the public sector, offering both professional growth and the opportunity to contribute directly to the nation's resource management and scientific research.
With a total of 85 vacancies distributed across various specialized categories, candidates must prepare thoroughly to navigate the multi-stage examination process. The online application portal is currently active, allowing eligible candidates to register and submit their details. It is essential for all aspirants to carefully verify their eligibility criteria, understand the syllabus, and complete the registration process well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical difficulties.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CGS Recruitment 2025: 85 Vacancies | Apply Now
To participate in the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist recruitment drive, candidates must satisfy the detailed eligibility criteria specified in the official notification. The primary parameters include nationality, age limits, and specific educational qualifications tailored to each scientific discipline. Candidates must possess these qualifications from a recognized Indian university or institution by the prescribed deadline.
1. Nationality
A candidate must be either a citizen of India, a subject of Nepal, a subject of Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came over to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in the country. Candidates from other categories must possess a valid certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India.
2. Age Limit & Age Relaxation
The general age limit for candidates applying for the posts of Geologist, Geophysicist, and Chemist in GSI is 21 to 32 years. For the post of Scientist 'B' in CGWB, the age limit is also 21 to 32 years. The crucial date for determining the age limit is calculated as of January 1 of the examination year. Government rules provide significant age relaxation for various reserved categories, as detailed in the table below:
| Category | Age Relaxation Permissible | Maximum Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| General / EWS | No Relaxation | 32 Years |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC - Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 Years | 35 Years |
| Scheduled Castes (SC) / Scheduled Tribes (ST) | 5 Years | 37 Years |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) | 10 Years | 42 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen (including Commissioned Officers) | 5 Years | 37 Years |
3. Educational Qualifications
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in the relevant scientific field to be eligible for these technical Group A positions. The specific educational requirements for each post are as follows:
- Geologist (Group A): Master's degree in Geological Science, Geology, Applied Geology, Geo-Exploration, Mineral Exploration, Engineering Geology, Marine Geology, or Earth Science and Resource Management from a recognized university.
- Geophysicist (Group A): M.Sc. in Physics, Applied Physics, Geophysics, Applied Geophysics, Marine Geophysics, or M.Tech. in Exploration Geophysics.
- Chemist (Group A): M.Sc. in Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, or Analytical Chemistry from a recognized university.
- Scientist 'B' (Hydrogeology/Geophysics/Chemical): Master's degree in Geology, Applied Geology, Marine Geology, Geophysics, or Chemistry depending on the specific sub-discipline chosen within the Central Ground Water Board.
Vacancy Details / Post-wise Breakdown
The UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2025 offers a total of 85 vacancies. These vacancies are distributed across two major organizations: the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). The post-wise distribution, along with the required minimum qualification and pay scale details, is outlined in the comprehensive table below:
| Post Name | Vacancies | Qualification | Pay Scale (7th CPC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geologist (Group 'A') in GSI | 50 | Master's Degree in Geological Sciences | Level 10 (₹56,100 - ₹1,77,500) |
| Geophysicist (Group 'A') in GSI | 10 | Master's Degree in Geophysics / Physics | Level 10 (₹56,100 - ₹1,77,500) |
| Chemist (Group 'A') in GSI | 15 | Master's Degree in Chemistry | Level 10 (₹56,100 - ₹1,77,500) |
| Scientist 'B' (Hydrogeology) (Group 'A') in CGWB | 05 | Master's Degree in Geology / Hydrogeology | Level 10 (₹56,100 - ₹1,77,500) |
| Scientist 'B' (Geophysics) (Group 'A') in CGWB | 03 | Master's Degree in Geophysics / Applied Geophysics | Level 10 (₹56,100 - ₹1,77,500) |
| Scientist 'B' (Chemical) (Group 'A') in CGWB | 02 | Master's Degree in Chemistry | Level 10 (₹56,100 - ₹1,77,500) |
In addition to the basic pay scale of Level 10, selected candidates are eligible for various central government allowances. These include Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and other medical and retirement benefits as per the prevailing rules of the Government of India.
Application Fee Details
To successfully register for the examination, candidates must pay the required application fee. The fee structure is designed to promote inclusivity, with complete exemptions provided to female candidates and individuals belonging to reserved categories. The payment can be made online or offline through authorized banking channels.
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