The Indian Army has released an official recruitment notification for the year 2026 for the post of CSBO (Civilian Switch Board Operator) Grade-II. This recruitment offers a total of 190 Group C civilian posts in various units of the Indian Army.
This is a golden opportunity for candidates who have completed their 10th standard and are looking for a stable government job in the defense sector. Selected candidates will be responsible for handling communication systems, telephone exchanges, and switchboard operations in army establishments.
This article provides complete details including eligibility criteria, important dates, vacancy distribution, salary, selection process, exam pattern, and step-by-step application procedure.
📌 Table of Contents
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Overview of Recruitment
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Important Dates
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Vacancy Details (Category-wise)
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Educational Qualification
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Age Limit & Relaxation
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Application Fee
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Selection Process
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Exam Pattern
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Detailed Syllabus
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Salary Structure
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How to Apply (Step by Step)
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Required Documents
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Job Responsibilities
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Career Growth Opportunities
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Preparation Tips
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Sample Questions
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Recommended Books
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Important Links
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Conclusion
Overview of Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Name | Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026 |
| Post Name | CSBO (Civilian Switch Board Operator) Grade-II |
| Total Vacancies | 190 |
| Job Category | Group C Civilian Post |
| Organization | Indian Army |
| Job Location | Various Army Units across India |
| Application Mode | Email / Offline (PDF Application Form) |
| Selection Process | Written Exam + Practical Test + Interview |
| Salary | ₹21,700 + allowances per month |
| Official Website | https://indianarmy.nic.in |
Important Dates – Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026
Candidates must carefully note the official schedule. Do not wait until the last date to apply.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 02 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 31 May 2026 |
| Admit Card Release Date | To be announced |
| Written Exam Date | To be announced later |
| Practical Test Date | After written exam results |
| Interview Date | After practical test |
| Final Result | To be announced |
⚠️ Warning: Since application mode is email, ensure you send your application well before the deadline. Last-minute technical issues can cause delays.
Vacancy Details – Category-wise Distribution of 190 Posts
The 190 posts are distributed as per Government of India reservation rules:
| Category | Percentage | Number of Posts |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 49.47% | 94 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 22.63% | 43 |
| SC | 11.58% | 22 |
| ST | 6.32% | 12 |
| EWS | 10% | 19 |
| Total | 100% | 190 |
Posting Locations (Estimated):
| Region | Approx Posts |
|---|---|
| Northern Command (J&K, Ladakh) | 35 |
| Western Command (Punjab, Haryana) | 40 |
| Eastern Command (West Bengal, Bihar) | 35 |
| Southern Command (Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu) | 45 |
| Central Command (Uttar Pradesh, MP) | 35 |
| Total | 190 |
📌 Note: Exact posting locations will be mentioned in the official notification.
Educational Qualification – Eligibility Criteria
To apply for Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026, candidates must fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
Mandatory Qualifications:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Passed 10th Standard (Matriculation) from a recognized board |
| Experience Requirement | Minimum 6 months experience in Private Branch Exchange (PBX) handling |
| Technical Knowledge | Knowledge of telephone exchange or communication system operations |
| Citizenship | Must be an Indian citizen |
Why Experience is Required?
The CSBO role involves:
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Operating complex telephone switchboard systems
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Handling military communication lines
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Routing calls efficiently in army establishments
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Managing emergency communication protocols
⭐ Pro Tip: If you have experience in BPO/call center operations or telephone exchange work, you are eligible. Get an experience certificate from your employer.
Age Limit & Relaxation
Age requirements for this recruitment are as follows:
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 18 years | 25 years |
| OBC | 18 years | 28 years (+3 years relaxation) |
| SC/ST | 18 years | 30 years (+5 years relaxation) |
| EWS | 18 years | 25 years |
| PwD (Divyang) | 18 years | 35 years (as per rules) |
| Ex-servicemen | 18 years | As per government rules |
Age Calculation Date: As per official notification (usually 1st January 2026)
✅ Important: Age relaxation is applicable only for candidates with valid category certificates issued by competent authority.
Application Fee – Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100 |
| SC / ST | ₹100 (same as general) |
| PwD / Ex-servicemen | ₹100 (check official notification for exemption) |
⚠️ Note: Fee details should be verified from the official notification before submission. Payment mode will be mentioned in the notification (may be via Demand Draft or online).
Selection Process – How Candidates Are Selected
The selection process for Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026 consists of three stages:
Stage 1: Written Examination
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Objective-type multiple-choice questions
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Total 100 marks
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Subjects: General Intelligence, Numerical Aptitude, General Awareness, English
Stage 2: Practical Test
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PBX system handling demonstration
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Communication operation tasks
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Minimum qualifying marks required (usually 40%)
Stage 3: Personal Interview
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Technical knowledge assessment
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Communication skills evaluation
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Overall personality assessment
Final Selection Criteria:
| Stage | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Written Exam | 40% |
| Practical Test | 35% (Qualifying in nature) |
| Interview | 25% |
| Total | 100% |
✅ Note: Final merit list is prepared based on combined performance in all stages.
Exam Pattern – Written Examination
The written examination will consist of 100 marks with multiple sections.
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence | 25 | 25 | Easy to Moderate |
| Numerical Aptitude | 25 | 25 | Easy to Moderate |
| General Awareness | 25 | 25 | Moderate |
| English Language | 25 | 25 | Easy to Moderate |
| Total | 100 | 100 | – |
Important Exam Rules:
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Question Type | Objective (Multiple Choice Questions) |
| Negative Marking | Verify from official notification (usually none for Group C) |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours (120 minutes) |
| Exam Mode | Offline (OMR Sheet based) |
| Language of Paper | English and Hindi (Bilingual) |
Detailed Syllabus – Subject Wise
1. General Intelligence (25 Marks)
| Topics |
|---|
| Analogies |
| Similarities and Differences |
| Space Visualization |
| Problem Solving |
| Analysis |
| Judgment |
| Decision Making |
| Visual Memory |
| Discrimination |
| Observation |
| Relationship Concepts |
| Arithmetical Reasoning |
| Verbal and Figure Classification |
| Number Series |
| Coding and Decoding |
2. Numerical Aptitude (25 Marks)
| Arithmetic Topics | Advanced Topics |
|---|---|
| Number System | Simplification |
| Percentage | Ratio & Proportion |
| Profit & Loss | Average |
| Simple Interest | Time & Work |
| Speed, Distance & Time | Data Interpretation |
| LCM & HCF | Algebra (Basic) |
| Mensuration (Area, Volume) | Geometry (Basic) |
| Fractions & Decimals | – |
3. General Awareness (25 Marks)
| Topics |
|---|
| Current Affairs – National & International events (last 12 months) |
| Indian History – Ancient, Medieval, Modern |
| Indian Geography – Physical, Political, Economic |
| Indian Polity – Constitution, Parliament, President, PM |
| Indian Economy – Budget, GDP, Five Year Plans |
| Defense Related – Indian Army, Ranks, Missiles, Exercises |
| Sports – National & International tournaments |
| Awards & Honors – Padma Awards, Gallantry Awards |
| Science & Technology – Inventions, Space, ISRO |
| Important Days & Dates |
| Books & Authors |
| Rivers, Dams, Mountains |
4. English Language (25 Marks)
| Topics |
|---|
| Spotting Errors |
| Fill in the Blanks |
| Synonyms & Antonyms |
| One Word Substitution |
| Idioms & Phrases |
| Sentence Correction |
| Reading Comprehension |
| Active & Passive Voice |
| Direct & Indirect Speech |
| Para Jumbles |
| Cloze Test |
| Spellings Check |
Salary Structure – Indian Army CSBO Grade-II
Selected candidates will receive a competitive salary package as per 7th Pay Commission for Group C civilian posts.
| Salary Component | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Pay Level | Level 2 (as per 7th CPC) |
| Basic Pay | ₹19,900 – ₹21,700 |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | ₹4,200 (31% of basic) |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 (depending on city) |
| Transport Allowance (TA) | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
| Other Allowances | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Gross Monthly Salary | ₹27,000 – ₹32,000 |
| In-hand Salary (after deductions) | ₹24,000 – ₹28,000 |
Additional Benefits & Perks:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Security | Permanent government job after probation (2 years) |
| Pension | NPS (National Pension System) with 14% government contribution |
| Medical Benefits | Free treatment at Army hospitals |
| CSD Canteen Facility | Access to Army canteen for subsidized products |
| Leave Entitlement | 30 days annual leave + 10 days casual leave + sick leave |
| Annual Increment | 3% yearly increase in basic pay |
| Provident Fund | PF contribution by government |
| Festival Advance | Interest-free festival advance |
| Housing | Eligible for government quarters (subject to availability) |
| Transport | Army bus facility in many locations |
How to Apply – Step by Step Guide for Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026
Candidates must apply through email by following these steps:
Step 1: Download Official Notification
Visit the official website: https://indianarmy.nic.in
Find the “Recruitment” section and download the CSBO Grade-II notification.
Step 2: Download Application Form
Download the official PDF application form from the notification or website.
Step 3: Fill the Application Form
Open the form using Adobe Reader (not in browser).
Fill in all required details carefully:
| Section | Details Required |
|---|---|
| Personal | Name, Father’s Name, DOB, Gender, Marital Status |
| Contact | Address, Mobile Number, Email ID |
| Category | General/OBC/SC/ST/EWS |
| Educational | 10th Board, Year, Percentage, Roll Number |
| Experience | PBX experience details (employer, duration, certificate number) |
| Priority | Choose preferred posting locations |
Step 4: Attach Required Documents
Scan and attach the following documents in PDF format:
| Document | Size Limit |
|---|---|
| 10th Marksheet & Certificate | 500 KB |
| PBX Experience Certificate (6 months minimum) | 500 KB |
| Caste Certificate (if applicable) | 500 KB |
| Aadhaar Card / Voter ID | 200 KB |
| Passport size photograph | 100 KB |
| Signature scan | 100 KB |
Step 5: Save the File
Save the filled application form with naming convention:
CSBO_Application_[Your Name]_[Date]
Step 6: Send via Email
Send the completed application form to:
📧 sunshine.rise@nic.in
Email Format:
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Subject | Application for CSBO Grade-II Recruitment 2026 – [Your Name] |
| Body | Sir/Madam, Please find attached my application for CSBO Grade-II post. My details: Name: [Your Name], Category: [GEN/OBC/SC/ST], Mobile: [Number] |
| Attachment | Filled PDF application form + scanned documents |
Step 7: Confirmation
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Keep a screenshot of the sent email
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Note down the date and time of sending
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Keep a printout of the application form
⚠️ Important: Do not forget to take a printout of the application form and email sent copy for future reference.
Required Documents List – Keep Ready Before Applying
| Serial | Document | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 10th Marksheet & Certificate | Must be from recognized board |
| 2 | PBX Experience Certificate | Minimum 6 months, on company letterhead |
| 3 | Aadhaar Card | For identity proof |
| 4 | Voter ID / PAN Card | Alternative ID proof |
| 5 | Caste Certificate | For OBC/SC/ST/EWS candidates |
| 6 | Non-Creamy Layer Certificate | For OBC candidates |
| 7 | PwD Certificate | For Divyang candidates |
| 8 | Ex-serviceman Discharge Book | If applicable |
| 9 | Passport size photograph (4-5 copies) | White background |
| 10 | Signature scan | On white paper with black pen |
| 11 | Domicile Certificate | If required in notification |
| 12 | Valid Email ID & Mobile Number | For communication |
Job Responsibilities – What CSBO Grade-II Does
Selected Civilian Switch Board Operator candidates will be responsible for:
Core Technical Responsibilities:
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| 📞 Switchboard Operation | Operating EPABX/PBX telephone systems |
| 🔀 Call Routing | Connecting internal and external calls efficiently |
| 📡 Communication Management | Handling military communication lines |
| ⚡ Emergency Handling | Priority routing during emergencies |
| 🔧 Basic Maintenance | Minor troubleshooting of telephone equipment |
| 📋 Log Maintenance | Recording call details and communication logs |
Administrative Responsibilities:
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| 📝 Reporting | Daily communication reports |
| 👥 Coordination | Liaising with army officers and departments |
| 📱 Mobile Communication | Handling mobile communication devices when required |
| 🖥️ Computer Work | Basic data entry and email management |
Why This Role is Important:
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✅ Critical for military operations – Communication is the backbone of army functioning
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✅ Direct support to officers – Assists senior army personnel
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✅ Responsible position – Handles sensitive information with confidentiality
Career Growth Opportunities – Future Prospects in Indian Army
After joining as CSBO Grade-II, candidates can grow through departmental exams and seniority:
| Position | Approx Time to Reach | Promotion Basis |
|---|---|---|
| CSBO Grade-II (Entry) | 0-3 years | Direct recruitment |
| CSBO Grade-I | 5-8 years | Seniority + Limited Departmental Exam |
| Senior CSBO | 10-12 years | Promotion + Exam |
| Office Superintendent | 15-18 years | Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) |
| Administrative Positions | 20+ years | Seniority + Performance |
Promotion Criteria:
| Factor | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Years of service (seniority) | 60% |
| Departmental exam performance | 30% |
| Annual performance appraisal | 10% |
MACP (Modified Assured Career Progression):
Even without promotion, employees get financial upgrades after:
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10 years of service → 1st MACP
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20 years of service → 2nd MACP
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30 years of service → 3rd MACP
Preparation Tips – How to Crack Indian Army CSBO Exam
60-Day Study Plan:
| Week | Focus Area | Hours/Day |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1-2 | Numerical Aptitude Basics | 3 hours |
| Week 3-4 | General Intelligence & Reasoning | 3 hours |
| Week 5 | English Language + Grammar | 3 hours |
| Week 6 | General Awareness + Current Affairs | 4 hours |
| Week 7 | Mock Tests + Previous Year Papers | 4 hours |
| Week 8 | Revision + Practical PBX Practice | 5 hours |
Subject-wise Time Allocation:
| Subject | Weightage | Recommended Study Time |
|---|---|---|
| Numerical Aptitude | 25% | 25% of total time |
| General Intelligence | 25% | 25% of total time |
| General Awareness | 25% | 30% of total time |
| English Language | 25% | 20% of total time |
Top 10 Preparation Tips:
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ Master Basics First | Focus on 10th level mathematics and reasoning |
| 2️⃣ Solve Previous Year Papers | Last 5 years of Indian Army Group C exams |
| 3️⃣ Take Weekly Mock Tests | Simulate real exam environment |
| 4️⃣ Read The Hindu/Indian Express | For current affairs section |
| 5️⃣ Practice PBX System | Get hands-on practice if possible |
| 6️⃣ Make Short Notes | For last-minute revision |
| 7️⃣ Join Telegram Groups | For daily quizzes and updates |
| 8️⃣ Time Management | Solve 100 questions within 120 minutes |
| 9️⃣ Stay Consistent | Study 3-4 hours daily |
| 🔟 Avoid Overconfidence | Don’t skip any section |
Sample Questions – For Practice
General Intelligence Sample:
Q1. If ‘BOOK’ is coded as ‘CPPL’, then what is the code for ‘PEN’?
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(A) QFO
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(B) QFM
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(C) QFN ✅
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(D) QEM
Q2. Find the odd one out:
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(A) Apple
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(B) Mango
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(C) Banana
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(D) Carrot ✅ (Vegetable, others are fruits)
Numerical Aptitude Sample:
Q3. What is 15% of 200?
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(A) 30 ✅
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(B) 20
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(C) 25
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(D) 35
Q4. If a train runs at 60 km/h, how much distance will it cover in 2.5 hours?
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(A) 120 km
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(B) 150 km ✅
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(C) 180 km
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(D) 200 km
General Awareness Sample:
Q5. Who is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Army?
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(A) President of India ✅
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(B) Prime Minister of India
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(C) Defence Minister
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(D) Chief of Army Staff
Q6. What is the full form of EPABX?
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(A) Electronic Private Automatic Branch Exchange ✅
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(B) Electric Public Automatic Branch Exchange
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(C) Electronic Public Automatic Box Exchange
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(D) None of these
English Language Sample:
Q7. Choose the correctly spelled word:
-
(A) Recieve
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(B) Receive ✅
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(C) Receeve
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(D) Recive
Q8. Fill in the blank: “He _____ to the office every day.”
-
(A) go
-
(B) goes ✅
-
(C) going
-
(D) gone
Recommended Books for Preparation
| Subject | Book Name | Author/Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence | A New Approach to Reasoning | B.S. Sijwali |
| Numerical Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude | R.S. Aggarwal |
| General Awareness | Lucent’s General Knowledge | Lucent Publications |
| English Language | Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi |
| Current Affairs | Manorama Yearbook / Pratiyogita Darpan | – |
| Previous Year Papers | Indian Army Group C Solved Papers | Kiran Prakashan |
| PBX/Telephone Basics | Basic Telecommunication | Any ITI level book |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many vacancies are released in Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026?
Ans: A total of 190 posts are available.
Q2. What is the minimum qualification required?
Ans: 10th pass with minimum 6 months PBX handling experience.
Q3. What is the age limit?
Ans: 18 to 25 years (relaxation for OBC: 28 years, SC/ST: 30 years).
Q4. What is the salary of Indian Army CSBO?
Ans: Approximately ₹21,700 + allowances (in-hand ₹24,000 – ₹28,000).
Q5. How to apply for this recruitment?
Ans: Candidates must apply via email by sending the filled PDF application form to sunshine.rise@nic.in.
Q6. Is PBX experience mandatory?
Ans: Yes, minimum 6 months experience in PBX/telephone exchange handling is mandatory.
Q7. What is the selection process?
Ans: Written Exam → Practical Test → Interview.
Q8. Is there any negative marking in the written exam?
Ans: Verify from official notification (usually no negative marking for Group C posts).
Q9. When is the last date to apply?
Ans: 31 May 2026.
Q10. Can candidates from any state apply?
Ans: Yes, Indian Army recruitment is open to all Indian citizens.
Q11. What is the application fee?
Ans: ₹100 (to be verified from official notification).
Q12. Is there any hostel facility?
Ans: Government quarters may be available depending on posting location.
Q13. What is the exam mode?
Ans: Offline (OMR-based) written examination.
Q14. Will there be a practical test?
Ans: Yes, PBX system handling practical test is mandatory.
Q15. Is the job permanent?
Ans: Yes, after completion of probation period (usually 2 years).
Important Links
| Link Type | URL |
|---|---|
| Official Website (Indian Army) | https://indianarmy.nic.in |
| Recruitment Section | https://indianarmy.nic.in/recruitment |
| Official Notification PDF | Check website for 2026 notification |
| Application Form PDF | Download from official notification |
| Email for Submission | sunshine.rise@nic.in |
| Admit Card Download | To be updated |
| Result Download | To be updated |
Disclaimer
⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only based on previous Indian Army recruitment patterns and available information for 2026. Candidates are advised to visit the official Indian Army website (https://indianarmy.nic.in) for the latest updates, exact dates, and official notification. We are not a government organization.
Conclusion
The Indian Army CSBO Recruitment 2026 is a premier opportunity for 10th pass candidates looking for a stable government job in the defense sector.
