The Gujarat Subordinate Services Selection Board (GSSSB), Gandhinagar, has announced a recruitment drive for the position of Ophthalmic Assistant, Class-3, under the Health and Family Welfare Department. This initiative, part of the National Undergraduate Regulation Scheme, aims to strengthen ophthalmic care across Gujarat. A total of 261 vacancies have been released for eligible graduates and diploma holders in relevant fields. The recruitment process is fully online, ensuring a transparent and streamlined selection system. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the recruitment, including important dates, vacancy details, eligibility criteria, age limits, salary structure, application process, and general instructions for candidates.
Important Dates
Key Timelines
- Start Date for Online Application: 22nd September 2025, 19:00 hrs
- Last Date for Online Application Submission: 30th September 2025, 23:59 hrs
- Last Date for Online Examination Fee Payment: 2nd October 2025, 23:59 hrs
Candidates should submit their applications well before the last date to avoid any technical issues. It is essential to check eligibility, required documents, and educational qualifications before applying.
Vacancy Details
Total Vacancies
A total of 261 vacancies have been announced for the Ophthalmic Assistant Class-3 position. Vacancies are distributed across categories according to Gujarat government reservation policies.
Category-Wise Vacancy Distribution
| Category | Total Seats | Reserved Seats for Women | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unreserved (General) | 115 | 26 | Includes general male/female candidates |
| Early Weaker Sections | 26 | 10 | As per Gujarat reservation norms |
| Scheduled Castes (SC) | 41 | 69 | Seats reserved for SC candidates |
| Scheduled Tribes (ST) | 37 | 8 | Reserved for ST candidates |
| Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) | 13 | 22 | Reserved as per government rules |
| Ex-Servicemen | 0 | 26 | Reserved for eligible ex-servicemen |
Seats for differently-abled candidates are announced separately. Reservation for women ensures equal representation; unfilled seats will be transferred to male candidates of the same category.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree in Optometry
- Obtained from a recognized university under Central or State Act, or deemed university under the UGC Act, 1956, or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Government.
Diploma in Ophthalmic Science, Ophthalmic Technology, or Optometry
- From a government-recognized institution or an equivalent qualification.
- Minimum two years of experience in ophthalmic care services in government or recognized eye hospitals.
Computer Knowledge
- Basic knowledge of computer applications as per Gujarat Civil Services Classification and Recruitment Rules.
Language Proficiency
- Adequate knowledge of Gujarati or Hindi or both.
Citizenship
- Applicants must be citizens of India and comply with Gujarat Civil Services rules.
Age Limit
General Age Criteria
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 35 years (as of 2025)
Age Relaxation
| Category | Relaxation | Maximum Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Female Candidates (General) | +5 Years | 40 Years |
| Male Candidates (Reserved Category) | +5 Years | 40 Years |
| Male Candidates with Disabilities (General) | +10 Years | 45 Years |
| Male Candidates with Disabilities (Reserved) | +15 Years | 45 Years |
| Female Candidates with Disabilities (Reserved) | +20 Years | 45 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen | Up to 3 Years additional | As per service tenure |
Salary Structure
- Initial fixed monthly salary: Rs. 40,800 for the first five years.
- After satisfactory completion of five years, eligible for regular appointment under the Seventh Pay Commission: Rs. 29,200 – Rs. 92,300 (Level-5).
- Additional benefits and allowances as per government norms.
Application Fee
- A nominal examination fee is required.
- Reserved category candidates may have reduced fees or exemptions.
- Payment must be completed online by the last date for the application to be valid.
Selection Process
- Merit-based selection using normalized marks from prescribed qualifications.
- Reserved category candidates receive benefits as per government rules.
- Women candidates have reserved seats; unfilled seats transfer to male candidates of the same category.
- Differently-abled candidates must submit valid certificates for consideration.
- Final selection list will be published by GSSSB.
Application Procedure
Step-by-Step Process
- Application Form Completion: Fill online form carefully matching all original certificates.
- Document Verification: Keep educational, age, caste, disability, and experience certificates ready.
- Submission: Submit the form online before the deadline; a unique application number will be generated.
- Fee Payment: Pay the examination fee online before the due date.
Candidates should regularly check GSSSB announcements for updates.
General Instructions
- Only Indian citizens are eligible.
- Provide accurate personal and professional information.
- Reserved category applicants must have valid Gujarat government-issued certificates.
- False documents will lead to cancellation of candidature.
- Differently-abled candidates must ensure accurate documentation.
- Avoid relying on unofficial sources for updates.
Career Growth and Opportunities
The Ophthalmic Assistant position offers a secure career in government healthcare, providing professional exposure in eye care services. Selected candidates will assist in examinations, surgeries, and other ophthalmic procedures in government hospitals. This role provides:
- Practical experience in public healthcare
- Opportunities for further specialization and training
- Long-term career stability with government benefits
