The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has announced the recruitment of 44 Assistant Fisheries Officers (AFOs) under the Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Department, offering a career opportunity for eligible Bachelor of Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.) graduates. The recruitment aims to strengthen the state’s fisheries extension services by filling technical positions that support aquaculture development and fish farming.
According to the official notification, the online application process will commence on July 24, 2026, and remain open until August 24, 2026. Candidates can submit their applications through the official OPSC online recruitment portal, while the written examination is scheduled for September 26, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must possess a Bachelor of Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.) degree from a recognised institution to be eligible for the post. The selected candidates will be appointed under Level-10 of the Odisha Revised Pay Matrix, carrying a basic pay of ₹44,900 per month, along with other allowances applicable under government service.
Vacancy Details
The recruitment has been announced as a special drive for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates of Odisha. Out of the 44 vacancies, 43 posts are reserved for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates, while one post is reserved for a Scheduled Caste (SC) candidate.
Another notable feature of this recruitment is that no application fee has been prescribed for eligible candidates applying for the Assistant Fisheries Officer posts.
Role of an Assistant Fisheries Officer
Assistant Fisheries Officers play an important role in implementing fisheries development programmes at the field level. Their responsibilities generally include providing technical guidance to fish farmers, promoting scientific aquaculture practices, assisting in the implementation of government fisheries schemes, monitoring fish production, and supporting sustainable fisheries development.
They also act as a link between government departments and farming communities by helping disseminate technical knowledge and facilitating the adoption of improved aquaculture practices.
Growing Demand for Fisheries Professionals
India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector has witnessed steady growth over the past decade, increasing the demand for trained fisheries professionals in government departments, research institutions, extension services, and the private sector.
Recruitments such as these not only create employment opportunities for fisheries graduates but also strengthen the technical workforce required to support fish farmers, improve productivity, and enhance the implementation of fisheries development programmes.
Important Dates
- Online Application Starts: July 24, 2026
- Last Date to Apply: August 24, 2026
- Written Examination: September 26, 2026
How to Apply
Eligible candidates can apply through the official Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) online recruitment portal once the application window opens. Candidates are advised to carefully read Advertisement No. 05 of 2026–27 for the Assistant Fisheries Officer recruitment before submitting their online application to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and follow the prescribed application procedure.
For fisheries graduates seeking a career in the government sector, the recruitment provides an opportunity to contribute to fisheries development while working directly with farming communities and supporting the growth of aquaculture in Odisha.