Are you looking for a high-profile Punjab Govt Job 2026 in the field of economic research, statistics, and policy planning? The Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) has announced an excellent opportunity through the PPSC Research Officer Recruitment 2026.
PPSC has invited online applications for 16 posts of Research Officer (Group-A) in the Department of Planning, Government of Punjab. This Group-A level position is perfect for postgraduates who want to contribute to state-level economic planning and data analysis.
Quick Overview: PPSC Research Officer 2026
Applications for the PPSC Research Officer Recruitment 2026 started on 21 March 2026 and will close on 12 April 2026. Candidates are advised to apply early to avoid last-minute server issues.
PPSC Research Officer Vacancy Details 2026
- Economic Policy & Planning Board: 5 Posts (Advt No. 20262)
- State Directorate of Statistics: 11 Posts (Advt No. 20261)
- Total Vacancies: 16 Posts
PPSC Research Officer Salary & Pay Scale 2026
- Initial Basic Pay: â‚ą47,600 per month (Level-10 in Punjab Pay Matrix)
- Approximate In-hand Salary: ₹70,000 – ₹80,000+ (including Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, and other benefits)
- Maximum Pay Scale: Up to â‚ą1,51,100 with future increments and promotions
The Research Officer Salary in Punjab is quite attractive and comes with all government perks like job security, pension, medical facilities, and regular career growth.
Eligibility Criteria for PPSC Research Officer (Group-A) 2026
Educational Qualification:
Candidates must hold a Master’s Degree with at least 50% marks in any one of the following subjects:
- Economics / Agricultural Economics
- Commerce
- Statistics
Experience Required:
Minimum 1 year of relevant experience in economic planning, project appraisal, research work, data compilation, or statistical analysis (depending on the department).
Punjabi Language Requirement:
Punjabi must have been studied as a compulsory or elective subject up to Matriculation (10th) level.
Age Limit (as on 01.01.2026):
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 37 years
Age relaxation is available as per Punjab Government rules for SC/BC, PwD, Ex-Servicemen, and other reserved categories.
Selection Process for PPSC Research Officer Jobs 2026
Selection will be made through:
- Written Competitive Examination (Objective Type)
- Interview
- Document Verification
The exam will cover topics from Economics, Statistics, Research Methodology, Punjab Economy, and current affairs. Negative marking will apply.
Job Profile of Research Officer in Punjab Planning Department
Selected candidates will be responsible for:
- Conducting economic research and preparing policy reports
- Data collection, statistical analysis, and survey work
- Evaluating government schemes and development projects
- Assisting in evidence-based planning for Punjab’s economy
Selection Process for PPSC Research Officer Jobs 2026
Selection will be made through:
- Written Competitive Examination (Objective Type)
- Interview
- Document Verification
The exam will cover topics from Economics, Statistics, Research Methodology, Punjab Economy, and current affairs. Negative marking will apply.
Job Profile of Research Officer in Punjab Planning Department
Selected candidates will be responsible for:
- Conducting economic research and preparing policy reports
- Data collection, statistical analysis, and survey work
- Evaluating government schemes and development projects
- Assisting in evidence-based planning for Punjab’s economy
How to Apply for PPSC Research Officer Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official PPSC website: www.ppsc.gov.in
- Go to the “Online Application” or “Recruitment” section
- Complete One Time Registration (OTR) if you haven’t done it earlier
- Select the relevant advertisement (20261 or 20262)
- Fill the online application form carefully
- Upload required documents, photo, and signature
- Pay the application fee online
- Submit the form and take a printout for future reference
Preparation Tips to Crack PPSC Research Officer Exam 2026
- Download and study the official syllabus thoroughly
- Strengthen concepts in Economics, Statistics, and Research Methodology
- Focus on Punjab-specific economy, schemes, and current affairs
- Practice mock tests regularly to handle negative marking
- Keep your experience certificate and academic documents ready
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the last date for PPSC Research Officer 2026 application?
A: The last date is 12 April 2026.
Q2. How many vacancies are there in PPSC Research Officer (Group-A) Recruitment 2026?
A: Total 16 vacancies (5 in Planning Board + 11 in Statistics Directorate).
Q3. What is the salary of Research Officer in PPSC Punjab?
A: Total 16 vacancies (5 in Planning Board + 11 in Statistics Directorate).
Q4. Is Punjabi compulsory for PPSC Research Officer posts?
A: Yes, Punjabi at Matric level is mandatory.
Q5. When did the online application start?
A: Online applications started from 21 March 2026.
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