The Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (VAS) and Additional Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (Addl. VAS) are crucial positions in the Odisha Veterinary Service, working under the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department of the Government of Odisha. These professionals play a key role in improving animal health, promoting livestock productivity, and supporting the rural economy through veterinary care and extension services.
The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has announced the OPSC Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (VAS) and Additional VAS Recruitment 2025, inviting applications for a total of 506 Group-A posts under the Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Department. This recruitment is an excellent opportunity for qualified veterinary graduates looking to join government service in Odisha.
📌 Overview of OPSC VAS Recruitment 2025
| Department | Fisheries & Animal Resources Development, Odisha |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Veterinary Assistant Surgeon / Additional VAS |
| Total Vacancies | 506 |
| Category of Post | Group-A (Junior Branch-II) |
| Advertisement Number | 04 of 2025-26 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Job Location | Odisha |
| Official Website | www.opsc.gov.in |
📅 Important Dates
- Start of Online Application: 1 July 2025
- Last Date to Apply: 31 July 2025 (till 5:00 PM)
- Tentative Exam Date: 31 August 2025
Applicants are advised to apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification:
- Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) or an equivalent degree recognized by the Veterinary Council of India (VCI).
Age Limit (as on 01.01.2025):
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 42 years
- Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen as per government rules.
💼 Vacancy Details
The total number of posts advertised is 506, and category-wise reservation will be applicable as per Odisha Government norms.
💰 Salary / Pay Scale
Selected candidates will be placed under the Level-12 pay matrix with a starting salary of ₹56,100/- per month, along with other admissible allowances as per Odisha state government rules.
📝 Selection Process
The selection process will consist of:
- Written Examination – Objective type questions based on veterinary subjects.
- Document Verification – Candidates who qualify the exam will be called for certificate verification.
- Merit List – Final selection will be based on marks obtained in the written test.
There is no interview for this recruitment.
📄 Documents Required
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- B.V.Sc. & A.H. Degree Certificate
- VCI Registration Certificate
- Age Proof (10th Certificate / Birth Certificate)
- Caste / Reservation Certificate (if applicable)
- Aadhaar Card / ID Proof
❌ Application Fee
- No application fee is required for this recruitment. The application process is completely free for all categories.
🧠 Tips for Candidates
- Double-check eligibility before applying.
- Prepare veterinary subjects thoroughly as the written test is the only selection stage.
- Keep scanned copies of all documents ready in advance.
- Regularly check the OPSC website for admit card and exam updates.
Read The Full Detail Notification Before Apply
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🏛️ Understanding the OPSC VAS Role
The OPSC VAS is a Group-A (Junior Branch-II) officer-level post in the Odisha state government service. Appointed through the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC), these officers are responsible for implementing government animal health and welfare programs across districts, blocks, and rural areas.
A Veterinary Assistant Surgeon’s role is not limited to clinical treatment; it extends to disease prevention, livestock development, and promoting animal husbandry as a sustainable livelihood for farmers.
🩺 Key Duties and Responsibilities
| Area | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Animal Healthcare | Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in cattle, goats, poultry, pigs, and other domestic animals. |
| Vaccination & Disease Control | Organizing vaccination drives, deworming, and disease eradication programs at the village level. |
| Livestock Management | Advising farmers on feeding, breeding, and management for better milk, meat, and egg production. |
| Public Health | Ensuring food safety, meat inspection, and zoonotic disease control (diseases transferable from animals to humans). |
| Artificial Insemination (AI) | Promoting genetic improvement through AI programs in rural and semi-urban areas. |
| Extension & Awareness | Conducting awareness camps on animal welfare, biosecurity, and government schemes. |
| Data & Reporting | Maintaining records of livestock health, vaccination coverage, and disease outbreaks. |
🎓 Qualification & Training
A Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) from a recognized university is essential. After selection, candidates undergo induction training covering:
-
Veterinary hospital management
-
Rural veterinary extension work
-
Disease surveillance & reporting
-
Use of digital tools for livestock data
They may also attend refresher and specialized training programs at state veterinary training institutes.
🐂 Work Environment
Veterinary Assistant Surgeons are posted at veterinary hospitals, dispensaries, and livestock aid centers across Odisha. Many serve in rural and tribal regions, where they act as the primary point of contact for animal healthcare. They work closely with farmers, local panchayats, and self-help groups (SHGs) to promote sustainable animal husbandry practices.
💼 Career Growth and Promotion
The Odisha Veterinary Service offers clear promotion channels based on performance and service duration.
Career progression typically includes:
-
Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (VAS)
-
Additional Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (Addl. VAS)
-
Chief District Veterinary Officer (CDVO)
-
Deputy Director / Joint Director (Animal Husbandry)
-
Director / Additional Director, Animal Resources Development
Promotions bring not only higher pay scales but also administrative responsibilities and opportunities to lead veterinary and animal husbandry initiatives at the state level.
💰 Pay Scale & Benefits
A VAS or Addl. VAS officer serves at Level-12, Cell-1 of the ORSP Pay Matrix (₹56,100 per month) plus allowances such as:
-
Dearness Allowance (DA)
-
House Rent Allowance (HRA)
-
Medical Allowance
-
Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
-
Pension and other retirement benefits
They also enjoy job stability, government housing (where available), and opportunities for higher education and departmental training.
🌱 Importance of Veterinary Services in Odisha
Odisha’s rural economy depends heavily on livestock and dairy farming. The VAS and Addl. VAS officers ensure:
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Healthy livestock for better productivity
-
Disease-free food of animal origin
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Increased rural income through improved breeds and animal health
-
Quick response to epidemics like foot-and-mouth disease or avian flu
Their role directly impacts food security, public health, and rural livelihoods — making veterinary services a vital component of state development.
The OPSC VAS / Additional VAS position represents a blend of service, science, and compassion. Beyond treating animals, these professionals shape the future of animal husbandry and rural prosperity in Odisha. With commitment and dedication, they help bridge the gap between modern veterinary science and the needs of rural farmers — ensuring better animal health and a stronger agricultural economy.
