NABARD Development Assistant Recruitment 2026 brings a golden opportunity for graduates to join a prestigious government institution. Check eligibility, vacancies, exam pattern, selection process, salary, and preparation tips.
NABARD Development Assistant Recruitment 2026
The NABARD Development Assistant Recruitment 2026 has created strong excitement among banking and regulatory exam aspirants. The short notice released on 15 January has confirmed new vacancies under Group B, making this an important opportunity for candidates who wish to work in rural and agricultural development.
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, commonly known as NABARD, is a fully Government of India–owned institution that plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s rural economy, agriculture, and allied sectors. Unlike NABARD Grade A recruitment, which is conducted more regularly, the Development Assistant post is not released every year, making this recruitment cycle especially valuable.
NABARD Development Assistant Vacancy Details
NABARD has announced recruitment for two different posts under Group B:
| Post Name | Category | Number of Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Development Assistant (Generalist) | Group B | 159 |
| Development Assistant (Hindi – Specialist) | Group B | 3 |
| Total Vacancies | 162 |
The majority of vacancies are for the generalist Development Assistant, while the Hindi post is a specialist role with limited seats.
Important Dates for NABARD Development Assistant 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Short Notice Release | 15 January |
| Online Application Start | 17 January |
| Last Date to Apply | 3 February |
| Phase I Exam (Expected) | March 2026 |
| Phase II Exam | To be announced |
| Language Proficiency Test (LPT) | After Mains |
Based on previous NABARD recruitment cycles, candidates can expect Phase I within 45–60 days of notification.
Eligibility Criteria for NABARD Development Assistant
Age Limit
- Minimum Age:Â 21 years
- Maximum Age: 35 years (as on 1 January 2026 – expected)
Age Relaxation:
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years
- SC/ST: 5 years
- PwBD: 10 years
Educational Qualification (Generalist – Development Assistant)
- Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline
- Minimum 50% aggregate marks for General category
- Pass class only required for SC/ST/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen
- Degree must be from a recognized university
Educational Qualification (Development Assistant – Hindi)
Candidates must fulfill one of the following:
- Bachelor’s degree (Hindi or English medium) with Hindi and English as compulsory or elective subjects and minimum 50% marks
OR - Bachelor’s degree with Hindi and English as main subjects and minimum 50% marks
SC/ST/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen candidates require pass marks only.
State Language Requirement
Candidates must be proficient in the official language of the state they apply for. Proficiency includes:
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
- Understanding
If the local language is mentioned in Class 10 or 12 mark sheets, candidates are exempted from LPT.
NABARD Development Assistant Selection Process
The selection process consists of three stages:
- Phase I (Prelims) – Qualifying only
- Phase II (Mains) – Merit-deciding stage
- Language Proficiency Test (LPT) – Mandatory, qualifying only
Marks from Phase I and LPT do not count in final merit. Final selection is based solely on Phase II marks.
Exam Pattern: NABARD Development Assistant (Generalist)
Phase I Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | 40 | 40 |
| Numerical Ability | 30 | 30 |
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
- Time Duration: 60 minutes
- Negative Marking: 1/4 mark
- Sectional + Overall Cut-off applicable
Phase II Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning | 30 | 30 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 30 | 30 |
| General Awareness (Agri, Rural Dev, Banking) | 50 | 50 |
| Computer Knowledge | 40 | 40 |
| English (Descriptive) | — | 50 |
| Total | 200 |
- Objective Test: 90 minutes
- Descriptive Test: 30 minutes
Exam Pattern: NABARD Development Assistant (Hindi)
Phase I
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | 40 | 40 |
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 |
| Hindi Professional Knowledge | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
Phase II
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning | 20 | 20 |
| Hindi Professional Knowledge | 50 | 50 |
| General Awareness (Agri, Rural Dev, Banking) | 50 | 50 |
| Computer Knowledge | 40 | 40 |
| English (Descriptive) | — | 50 |
| Total | 200 |
Salary and Pay Scale
As per previous recruitment data, the basic pay of a NABARD Development Assistant is approximately ₹32,000 per month, excluding allowances. With DA, HRA, and other benefits, the gross salary is significantly higher. Updated figures will be confirmed in the detailed notification.
Preparation Strategy for NABARD Development Assistant 2026
- Focus on speed and accuracy for Phase I
- Strengthen GA with Agriculture & Rural Development for Phase II
- Practice descriptive English writing regularly
- Revise Computer Awareness basics thoroughly
- Attempt mock tests and sectional tests weekly
Given the limited time (around 1.5 months), a disciplined and structured study plan is essential.
FAQs: NABARD Development Assistant Recruitment 2026
1. Is NABARD Development Assistant exam conducted every year?
No, this recruitment is not annual, making it a rare opportunity.
2. Are Phase I marks counted in final selection?
No, Phase I is qualifying only.
3. Is LPT compulsory?
Yes, unless exempted due to language mention in 10th/12th certificates.
4. Can engineering graduates apply?
Yes, graduates from any discipline are eligible.
5. Is the exam bilingual?
Yes, except for English Language sections.
6. What is the difficulty level of the exam?
Overall level ranges from average to moderate.
