Karnataka Prisons Department Recruitment 2026: Overview
The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA), Bengaluru has officially released notification numbers ED/KEA/22/Ne.Vi/2026(R.P.C.) and ED/KEA/23/Ne.Vi/2026(K.K.) on behalf of the Karnataka Prisons and Reforms Services Department. This recruitment drive aims to fill 869 vacancies for various regular positions including Jailor, Warder (Vikshakaru), Warder cum Nursing, and Second Grade Teacher / Instructor Grade-II across the state. Candidates seeking career opportunities in the defense and police sector can explore all latest Karnataka Government Jobs to find matching profiles.
Eligible and interested candidates must submit their applications through the online portal within the specified timeline. The recruitment process is structured to select competent individuals through a competitive written examination, physical standards tests, and endurance evaluations. Aspirants should review the eligibility parameters carefully before submitting their applications.
Vacancy Details & Educational Qualifications
A total of 869 positions are distributed among multiple designations. Candidates who have passed matriculation can check more 10th Pass jobs in Karnataka alongside evaluating these specific opportunities in the prison services.
- Jailor: Requires a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized university.
- Warder (Vikshakaru): Requires SSLC (Class 10th) or equivalent qualification.
- Second Grade Teacher / Instructor Grade-II: Requires SSLC or equivalent with a Diploma or Certificate in Mechanical, Electrical, Carpentry, Tailoring, Textile, Weaving, Carpet-making, or a similar trade from a government-recognized institution.
- Warder cum Nursing: Requires SSLC or equivalent along with a valid First Aid certificate.
Age Limit & Relaxations
Candidates must meet the prescribed age parameters as on the closing date of application submission, which is 15 October 2026.
- Minimum Age Limit: 20 years for all candidates.
- Maximum Age Limit (General Merit): 31 years.
- Maximum Age Limit (SC / ST / Category-1 / 2A / 2B / 3A / 3B): 33 years.
- Ex-Servicemen: 3 years relaxation plus additional military service relaxation as per state government rules.
Salary Structure & Remuneration
Selected candidates will receive competitive pay packages under regular employment terms according to the designated post scales:
- Jailor: Rs. 61,300 - 1,12,900
- Warder / Instructor Grade-II: Rs. 37,500 - 76,100
- Warder cum Nursing: Rs. 34,100 - 67,600
Application Fee & Payment Mode
Application fees must be paid online through net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI. Fees are non-refundable once successfully processed.
Selection Process & Exam Pattern
The recruitment process is multi-staged to ensure candidates possess the requisite mental and physical aptitude for prison administration and security duties.
- Stage 1: Competitive Written Examination
- Stage 2: Physical Standard Test (PST)
- Stage 3: Endurance Test
- Stage 4: Document Verification
- Stage 5: Medical Examination
Written Examination Pattern
The written test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions carrying 100 marks, to be completed within a duration of 90 minutes. The question paper covers General Knowledge, Science, Geography, History, Indian Constitution, National Freedom Struggle, Current Affairs, and Mental Ability. There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Applicants must apply online through the official KEA web portal by following these steps:
- Step 1: Navigate to the official KEA application portal at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/.
- Step 2: Select and open the relevant notification link for RPC or KK cadre under the Prisons Department recruitment section.
- Step 3: Complete the initial registration by providing personal and contact details.
- Step 4: Fill out the detailed application form with educational qualifications and category information accurately.
- Step 5: Upload scanned copies of required documents, photographs, and signatures as per specified dimensions.
- Step 6: Pay the required application fee online before 16 October 2026.
- Step 7: Submit the final application form and print a copy for future reference.
Required Documents Checklist
Candidates must keep the following documents ready for uploading during online registration and for verification stages:
- Valid Photo Identity Card (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, or Driving License)
- SSLC / Class 10th Certificate or Graduation Degree Certificate as applicable
- Category or Caste Certificate (if claiming reservation benefits)
- Recent passport-sized color photographs
- First Aid Certificate (specifically for Warder cum Nursing post)
Candidate Advisory & Application Warnings:
- Verify all eligibility conditions thoroughly before initiating registration; academic qualifications must be fully completed by the closing date of 15 October 2026.
- Application form entries cannot be modified or corrected once final submission is completed.
- Ensure fee payment is finalized prior to the deadline to prevent automatic rejection of incomplete applications.
- Retain a printed physical copy of the submitted application and payment receipt until the recruitment cycle concludes.
Important Official Links
