Deendayal Port Authority Recruitment 2026: The Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), previously called the Kandla Port Trust, has issued an official recruitment notification (Advt. No. GA/PS/1736/Pilot(DR)/2025/2185) to hire qualified candidates for the post of Pilot (Class-I). Through this recruitment process, a total of 09 positions are planned to be filled for this important marine navigation and port operation role.
This position comes with an attractive salary package and is suitable for experienced maritime professionals. Applicants must possess a valid Certificate of Competency as Master of a foreign-going vessel, which is essential for handling large ships and ensuring safe port navigation. Eligible candidates meeting the qualification and experience requirements can apply as per the instructions given in the official notification.
Recruitment Key Details
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) |
| Post Name | Pilot (Class-I) |
| Advertisement Number | GA/PS/1736/Pilot(DR)/2025/2185 |
| Total Vacancies | 09 Posts (UR-03, SC-02, OBC-03, EWS-01) |
| Application Process | Online Application followed by Hard Copy Submission |
| Last Date for Online Application | 14 March 2026 |
This recruitment is being conducted to select skilled marine professionals for pilot operations at the port. Candidates must ensure they complete both online registration and document submission before the closing date.
Vacancy Details
A total of 09 positions are available under this recruitment process. The category-wise allocation of posts is as follows:
- Unreserved (UR): 03 Posts
- Scheduled Caste (SC): 02 Posts
- Other Backward Classes (OBC): 03 Posts
- Economically Weaker Section (EWS): 01 Post
Eligibility Requirements
1. Educational Qualification
Applicants must possess a valid Certificate of Competency as Master of a foreign-going vessel issued by the Ministry of Shipping, Government of India, or an equivalent qualification approved by the Ministry.
This certification confirms that the candidate is qualified to command and manage large ocean-going ships.
2. Experience Requirement
Candidates must have at least one year of work experience after obtaining the qualification. The experience should be in the role of Master or Chief Officer on a foreign-going ship, ensuring practical exposure to international maritime navigation and ship handling.
3. Age Limit (As on 01/02/2026)
- Upper Age Limit: 40 Years.
- Relaxation:
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC: 3 years
- PwBD: 10 years
- Ex-Servicemen: As per government rules.
Salary and Benefits
Selected candidates will receive a pay scale ranging from ₹70,000 to ₹2,00,000 under the IDA pay structure. Along with the basic pay, employees will also be eligible for multiple additional benefits as per port authority rules.
Major allowances and benefits include:
- Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) if official accommodation is not provided
- Cafeteria Allowance up to 47% of Basic Pay
- Gratuity benefits as per rules
- National Pension System (NPS) coverage
- Group Insurance protection
- Medical treatment facilities and other employee welfare benefits
These benefits make the position financially stable and attractive for experienced maritime professionals working with the Deendayal Port Authority.
Selection Procedure
The selection process will be conducted in multiple stages to ensure only suitable candidates are selected.
Written Examination:
If the number of eligible applicants is 20 or more, a written test may be conducted to shortlist candidates.
Interview Round:
Candidates will be shortlisted based on written test performance (if conducted). In case a written test is not required, candidates will be directly invited for an interview. Generally, candidates are called in the ratio of 1:5 against available vacancies.
Document Verification:
Final shortlisted candidates must undergo verification of original educational certificates, experience documents, identity proof, and background details before final appointment.
How to Apply
Step 1: Online Registration
Candidates need to visit the official website of the Deendayal Port Authority and open the Careers / Recruitment section. Applicants must complete the online application form carefully and submit it before 14 March 2026.
Step 2: Print Application Form
After submitting the online form, candidates should download and print the application copy. A recent passport-size photograph must be pasted on the form, and the candidate must sign it in the required space.
Step 3: Send Hard Copy of Application
Applicants must attach self-attested photocopies of required documents such as:
- Educational qualification certificates
- Experience certificates
- Age proof documents
- Identity proof (if required)
The completed application form along with documents must be sent through Speed Post or Registered Post to the following address:
The Secretary
Deendayal Port Authority
Post Bag No. 50, Administrative Office Building
Tagore Road, Gandhidham – 370201
Hard Copy Submission Deadline:
The application hard copy must reach the office on or before 24 March 2026.
Important Dates
The key dates related to this recruitment process conducted by the Deendayal Port Authority are listed below:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | 12 February 2026 |
| Closing Date for Online Application | 14 March 2026 |
| Last Date to Receive Hard Copy of Application | 24 March 2026 |
Important Links
| Official Notification | click here |
| Home Page | click here |
| Official Website | click here |
FAQs – DPA Pilot Recruitment
Q1. Which organization is conducting this recruitment?
This recruitment is being conducted by the Deendayal Port Authority.
Q2. How many vacancies are available?
A total of 09 Pilot (Class-I) posts are available.
Q3. What is the last date to apply online?
The online application must be submitted before 14 March 2026.
Q4. Is hard copy submission mandatory?
Yes, candidates must send the printed application form with documents by post.
Q5. What is the required qualification?
Candidates must hold a Certificate of Competency as Master of a foreign-going ship with required experience.
