APEDA Recruitment 2026: Offline Applications Open for 07 Director, Secretary, GM & DGM Posts on Deputation

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has issued a recruitment notification dated 03 October 2026 for filling up 07 vacancies on a deputation basis. The posts include Director, Secretary, General Manager, and Deputy General Manager. This is a significant opportunity for serving government officers, PSU employees, and academic professionals looking to contribute to India's agri-export sector.

APEDA Recruitment 2026: Vacancy Breakdown

A total of 07 posts are available across four distinct roles. The pay levels range from Level 11 to Level 13, corresponding to senior administrative and managerial positions.

• Director: 01 post (Level 13)
• Secretary: 01 post (Level 12)
• General Manager: 02 posts (Level 12)
• Deputy General Manager: 03 posts (Level 11)

Eligibility Conditions for APEDA Deputation Posts

The eligibility criteria vary by post. For the Director and Secretary roles, officers must belong to Organized Group 'A' Services of the Central Government holding analogous posts on a regular basis, or have five years of regular service in the lower pay level. Existing APEDA General Managers and Secretaries with five years of service can also apply for the Director post.

For General Manager and Deputy General Manager positions, officers from Central/State Governments, Union Territories, PSUs, Universities, Autonomous Bodies, or Statutory Bodies are eligible. They must hold an analogous post or have requisite regular service in the immediate lower grade (Level 11 for GM, Level 10 for DGM).

Educational Qualification and Experience

Candidates applying for General Manager and Deputy General Manager posts must possess a relevant postgraduate degree or Chartered Accountancy. Acceptable disciplines include Agriculture, Horticulture, Plantation, Agricultural Engineering, Veterinary Science, Dairy Science/Technology, Food Processing/Technology, Foreign Trade, International Business, Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Economics, Finance, and MBA (Finance).

A minimum of five years of relevant post-qualification experience is mandatory. Published papers in international journals are considered desirable. The degree must be from a recognized university or institution.

Age Limit and Deputation Period

The maximum age limit for deputation is 56 years as on the closing date of application receipt. The deputation period is initially two years, extendable up to five years. Age relaxation and other service conditions will be governed by the official notification.

Application Process: Offline Mode

Interested candidates must submit their applications in the prescribed format through the proper channel. The application packet should include photocopies of ACRs/APARs for the last five years, cadre clearance, vigilance clearance, integrity certificate, and other documents specified in the notification.

The completed application should be sent to: Deputy General Manager (Personnel), APEDA, 3rd Floor, NCUI Building, 3 Institutional Area, August Kranti Marg, New Delhi – 110016.

Important Dates

The notification was released on 03 October 2026. The last date for receipt of applications is 30 days from the date of publication of the advertisement in Employment News. Candidates are advised to track the Employment News issue date and ensure their application reaches before the deadline.

How to Apply for APEDA Recruitment 2026

1. Read the official APEDA Recruitment 2026 notification carefully.
2. Verify your eligibility for the desired post.
3. Download and fill the prescribed application form.
4. Attach all required documents and certificates.
5. Get the application forwarded through the proper channel.
6. Send the completed application to the prescribed APEDA address.
7. Keep a copy for future reference.

Selection Process

The selection will be based on deputation terms. There is no written examination mentioned in the notification. Candidates will be evaluated based on their service record, experience, and eligibility. The selection committee will review applications and may conduct interviews if required.

Why Consider APEDA Recruitment 2026?

APEDA is a premier organization promoting India's agricultural exports. Working here offers a chance to contribute to national trade policy and export development. The deputation posts come with attractive pay levels and the opportunity to work in a dynamic ministry environment. Eligible officers seeking career progression in the commerce and agriculture sector should not miss this opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How many vacancies are available in APEDA Recruitment 2026?
A total of 07 vacancies for Director, Secretary, General Manager, and Deputy General Manager posts.

Q2: What is the maximum age limit?
The maximum age limit for deputation is 56 years as on the closing date.

Q3: What is the application mode?
Applications must be submitted offline in the prescribed format through the proper channel.

Q4: What is the last date to apply?
Within 30 days from the date of publication of the advertisement in Employment News.

Q5: What qualifications are required for GM and DGM posts?
A relevant postgraduate degree or Chartered Accountancy with at least 5 years of experience.

For detailed information, candidates should refer to the official APEDA website and the Employment News advertisement.