Upper age limit hiked to 60 for BSF language post

Significant changes have been introduced to the hiring process for the Border Security Force (BSF) by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The Ministry has notified fresh amendments to the recruitment rules for the post of Assistant Commandant (Official Language), aiming to bring in more experienced personnel.

These changes, officially titled the "Border Security Force, Assistant Commandant (Official Language) Group 'A' Combatised Post Recruitment (Amendment) Rules, 2026," came into effect on February 3.

Age Limit Increased to 60

One of the most crucial updates in the BSF Assistant Commandant recruitment process is the revision of the upper age limit. Under Rule 7 of the previous 2015 regulations, the limit stood at 57 years. This has now been substituted with "sixty years." This strategic move allows seasoned professionals up to the age of 60 to be considered under the revised provisions, widening the pool of eligible candidates.

Deputation and Eligibility Criteria

The notification outlines clear guidelines for candidates seeking deputation. Officers currently serving in the Central government, state governments, Union Territories, public sector undertakings (PSUs), or recognized universities are eligible to apply. However, they must hold analogous posts on a regular basis or possess specific years of service in Level-9 or Level-8 of the pay matrix.

For those interested in these central government jobs 2026, educational qualifications remain stringent. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree from a recognized university in Hindi or English. Alternatively, a degree in any subject is acceptable provided Hindi and English were compulsory or elective subjects.

Experience Required

Beyond academic degrees, practical experience is mandatory. Candidates need at least three years of experience in translation work (Hindi to English and vice versa) or a background in teaching or research in these languages.

Departmental Subedar Majors (Hindi Translator) with four years of regular service in Level-8 are also eligible for consideration.

Why the Change?

Officials state that raising the age limit and broadening eligibility for the Official Language post eligibility will help attract seasoned academicians and translators. The BSF requires a robust official language cadre to effectively implement the Government's Rajbhasha policy and manage bilingual correspondence across India's diverse borders.

With Agency Inputs, Image Source: File Photo - ANI