Introduction to PPSC HDO Recruitment 2025
The Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) has announced a significant recruitment drive for agricultural graduates. The official notification for the PPSC HDO Recruitment 2025 has been released, inviting applications for 101 posts of Horticulture Development Officer (HDO), Group-A. This is a remarkable chance for candidates with a background in horticulture and agriculture to secure a prestigious government job in Punjab. The selected candidates will be offered a handsome salary package and numerous benefits. The application process is entirely online, and the window for submission is open until 14th November 2025. Read this article to get a complete and detailed guide on the vacancy, eligibility, selection process, and how to apply.
Key Highlights of the PPSC Horticulture Development Officer Recruitment
- Post Name: Horticulture Development Officer (HDO), Group-A
- Total Vacancies: 101
- Salary/Pay Scale: ₹44,900/- (Pay Level-7)
- Job Location: Punjab
- Application Start Date: Available Now
- Last Date to Apply: 14th November 2025
This recruitment is being conducted by the Punjab Public Service Commission to fill positions in the Department of Horticulture, Government of Punjab. It presents a stable and rewarding career path for individuals passionate about contributing to the state’s horticultural development.
PPSC HDO Vacancy Breakdown 2025
The commission has announced a total of 101 vacancies for the Horticulture Development Officer post, with reservations for various categories as per government norms.
| Category | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| General | 38 |
| Other Categories (SC/BC/EWS/ESM etc.) | 63 |
| Total | 101 |
Eligibility Criteria for PPSC HDO Recruitment
Before applying, candidates must carefully review the eligibility criteria regarding educational qualifications and age limits to ensure they qualify for the post.
Educational Qualification
- Candidates should possess a B.Sc. in Agriculture with a minimum of 50% marks, with Horticulture as an elective subject, OR a B.Sc. in Horticulture from a recognized University or Institution.
- Candidates must also hold a Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Horticulture from a recognized University or Institution.
- It is mandatory to have passed the Matriculation Examination with Punjabi as one of the compulsory or elective subjects.
Age Limit (as on 01-01-2025)
- The candidate’s age must be between 18 and 37 years.
- Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per the rules of the Punjab Government:
- Punjab Government Employees: Up to 45 years
- Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes of Punjab: Up to 42 years
- Widows, Divorcees, and certain other categories of women: Up to 42 years
- Persons with Disabilities of Punjab: Up to 47 years
- Ex-servicemen: As per government norms.
PPSC HDO Salary and Benefits
This position of Horticulture Development Officer is a Group-A post that comes with a very attractive salary and a host of benefits. The initial basic pay is set at ₹44,900/- as per Pay Level-7 of the 7th Central Pay Commission. This is not just the basic pay; the total in-hand salary will be significantly higher.
The salary structure includes several allowances that add to the overall compensation. These include Dearness Allowance (DA), which is revised periodically to offset inflation, House Rent Allowance (HRA) for accommodation, and Transport Allowance (TA) to cover travel expenses. Apart from these, employees are entitled to benefits under the National Pension System (NPS), medical facilities, and other perks as sanctioned by the Punjab Government. During the probation period of 3 years, selected candidates will receive fixed emoluments equal to the minimum pay without any allowances. This role offers not only financial stability but also immense professional growth and the pride of serving the state.
PPSC HDO Selection Process Explained
The selection of candidates for the Horticulture Development Officer posts will be a two-stage process designed to test their knowledge and suitability for the role.
Tier 1: Written Competitive Examination
The first stage is a written examination which will be pen-and-paper-based (OMR sheet). The exam will consist of 120 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), carrying a total of 480 marks. The question paper will cover subjects related to Horticulture, General Knowledge & Current Affairs, General Mental Ability, Logical Reasoning & Quantitative Aptitude, and Punjabi. There will be a negative marking of 1 mark for each incorrect answer.
Tier 2: Interview
Candidates who qualify in the written examination by securing the minimum required marks (40% for General, 35% for SC/BC) will be shortlisted for the interview. The interview will be for 60 marks. The final merit list will be prepared based on the combined marks obtained in the written test and the interview.
How to Apply Online: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to successfully submit your online application for the PPSC HDO Recruitment 2025. Before you begin, make sure you have scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and other required documents.
- Visit the official PPSC website.
- Click on the ‘Open Advertisement’ section on the homepage.
- Find the advertisement for “RECRUITMENT TO 101 POSTS OF HORTICULTURE DEVELOPMENT OFFICER” and click on it.
- Read the detailed instructions carefully and then click on the “Apply Online” link.
- Fill in the registration form with your basic details to get a Registration Number and Password.
- Log in and fill out the detailed application form with your personal, educational, and other required information.
- Upload your recent passport-sized photograph and signature in the specified format.
- Pay the application fee through the online payment gateway.
- Review your application form carefully before final submission.
- After submitting, take a printout of the application form for your future reference.
Important Dates for PPSC HDO Recruitment
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Starts | Active |
| Last Date for Online Application | 14th November 2025 |
| Written Exam Date | To be announced |
Application Fees
The application fee varies by category. Please check the table below for details.
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/Other Categories | ₹1500/- |
| SC/ST/Backward Classes of Punjab Only | ₹750/- |
| Ex-Serviceman/EWS/PWD/LDESM of Punjab Only | ₹500/- |
Essential Links
- Official Notification
- Apply Online
- Official Website
- Whatsapp Channel for Government Jobs
- Telegram Channel for Government Jobs
- Punjab Govt Jobs Telegram Channel
- Follow us on Our Indian App Arattai – Link
This is a wonderful opportunity for eligible candidates to build a career in the government sector in Punjab. Ensure you apply well before the deadline and start preparing for the examination. For more updates, keep visiting our website.