The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for UPSC Drug Inspector Recruitment 2026, inviting online applications for 186 Drug Inspector posts in the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Eligible candidates can submit their applications through the UPSC Online Recruitment portal until July 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM.
The recruitment offers an opportunity for candidates with qualifications in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Medicine to join the Central Government as Group ‘A’ Gazetted officers under Pay Level-8 of the 7th Central Pay Commission.
UPSC Drug Inspector Recruitment 2026: Key Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Authority | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Organization | Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) |
| Post Name | Drug Inspector |
| Total Vacancies | 186 |
| Advertisement No. | 07/2026 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Dates | June 27 to July 17, 2026 |
| Pay Level | Level-8 (7th CPC) |
| Job Location | Across India |
Category-wise Vacancy Details
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| UR | 55 |
| EWS | 41 |
| OBC | 39 |
| SC | 35 |
| ST | 16 |
| Total | 186 |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must possess any one of the following qualifications from a recognized university: Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy, Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Degree in Medicine with specialization in Clinical Pharmacology, or Degree in Medicine with specialization in Microbiology.
The upper age limit is 30 years for General and EWS candidates, 33 years for OBC candidates, and 35 years for SC/ST candidates. Age relaxation for PwBD applicants will be applicable as per Government of India rules.
Selection Process
The UPSC stated that candidates may be shortlisted based on applications received. If required, a Recruitment Test may be conducted before the interview stage. The final selection process includes shortlisting, Recruitment Test (if conducted), personal interview, document verification, and medical examination.
Official Statement
According to the official UPSC notification, eligible candidates are advised to carefully verify their eligibility, upload the required documents, and complete the online application before the closing date to avoid last-minute issues.
Background
The Drug Inspector post plays an important role in regulating the manufacture, sale, and quality of medicines under the CDSCO. Officers appointed through this recruitment will help ensure compliance with drug safety standards across the country.
Outlook
With 186 vacancies announced, this recruitment is expected to attract a large number of applicants from pharmacy and medical backgrounds. Candidates are advised to complete the One-Time Registration (OTR), submit their applications well before the deadline, and regularly monitor the UPSC website for updates regarding the recruitment test and interview schedule.
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