HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026 – Notification, Eligibility, Apply Online

About Important Dates of HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The timeline for the HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse recruitment is strict and candidates must adhere to it meticulously. The application window is open for approximately 22 days, from 12th February to 5th March 2026. A key date to note is the age cut-off of 1st January 2026, meaning your age as on this date determines your eligibility. After the application closes, a correction window will be active for 7 days, but this opens only after a gap of 3 working days. This gap is for the portal to process all submissions. Missing the correction window means you cannot alter any details later, which could lead to rejection if there are errors. The exam date will be announced later, but planning your preparation around the application deadlines is the first critical step.

About Application Fees for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The application fee for this recruitment is uniform at ₹800 for all categories. This is a significant departure from many government recruitments where SC/ST candidates pay a reduced fee. It is crucial to understand that this fee is mandatory for every applicant and must be paid only through the online payment gateway integrated into the HPRCA application portal. Cash, demand drafts, or UPI payments to personal accounts are not accepted and will result in an incomplete application. The fee is non-refundable, even if you are deemed ineligible later or decide not to appear for the exam. If you choose to make corrections during the designated window, an additional fee of ₹100 is applicable. Ensure your payment is successful and you receive a confirmation; incomplete payments lead to automatic rejection.

About Vacancy Details of HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The distribution of 390 posts across various categories is a crucial piece of information for candidates to gauge competition. The largest share is for the Unreserved (UR) category with 140 posts, followed by OBC (63) and SC (57). Notably, there are separate vacancies for SC (BPL) and ST (BPL) candidates, totaling 24 posts. This means candidates from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe categories who are also Below Poverty Line must carefully select the correct sub-category while applying. The presence of "FF" (Freedom Fighter) quotas indicates specific reservations. Candidates must apply under the exact category for which they possess a valid certificate. Applying under the wrong category, even by mistake, will lead to disqualification during document verification, as category change after submission is strictly not allowed.

About Eligibility Criteria for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The eligibility criteria form the foundation of your application. The 50% marks requirement in B.Sc. Nursing or GNM is non-negotiable. For GNM candidates, it's the aggregate marks in the diploma that count. The most critical and unique condition is the mandatory registration with the HPNRC, Shimla. Even if you are registered with nursing councils of other states, you must obtain HPNRC registration before applying. The requirement of being a "Bonafide Himachali" typically means you must possess a valid Himachal Pradesh domicile certificate. The upper age limit has been enhanced to 45 years, which is beneficial for experienced nurses. However, candidates must remember this is a female-only recruitment. Male candidates, even if they meet all other criteria, are not eligible. Ensure every eligibility box is ticked before paying the fee.

About Age Limit for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The age limit is a straightforward yet vital criterion. Your age is locked as of 1st January 2026, not the date of application. If you were born on or after 2nd January 2008, you are underage. If you were born on or before 1st January 1981 (for General category), you are overage unless you qualify for relaxation. The enhancement of the upper limit to 45 years (from a likely lower limit in the original policy) is a significant opportunity for many experienced nurses. The 5-year relaxation for SC/ST candidates is standard, but candidates must check the latest Personnel Department notifications for any additional relaxations (e.g., for widows, divorcees, etc.). It is your responsibility to calculate your age correctly and possess valid date-of-proof (10th certificate). Overlooking this can lead to rejection at the final stage, wasting all your effort.

About Caste Category-Wise Vacancies for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

Understanding the category-wise breakdown is essential for strategic application and setting realistic expectations. The vacancies are distributed across main categories (UR, OBC, SC, ST) and sub-categories (BPL, FF). Candidates belonging to SC/ST categories who also have a valid Below Poverty Line (BPL) certificate should apply under SC (BPL) or ST (BPL), as these have separate, smaller pools of candidates, potentially improving your rank within that specific quota. Similarly, candidates claiming benefits under the Freedom Fighter (FF) quota must have the requisite certificate. A common mistake is applying under 'UR' when you are eligible for a reserved category, or vice-versa. Choose your category during application with utmost care, based on the valid certificate you hold and intend to present during verification.

About Exam Pattern for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The selection hinges entirely on the 120-mark Computer Based Test. With no negative marking mentioned, it is a safe strategy to attempt all questions, as an unanswered question is a lost mark. The exam duration of 2 hours gives you an average of 1 minute per question, which is adequate for a well-prepared candidate. The inclusion of Z-Score normalization is important if you appear in a shift perceived as tougher; it ensures fairness by statistically equating scores across different shifts. The syllabus is broad, covering nursing subjects, HP GK, current affairs, and basic reasoning and language. This pattern tests not just professional knowledge but also general aptitude. Focus on speed with accuracy during practice, as managing time across diverse sections is key to scoring well.

About Physical Eligibility Criteria for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

For this particular recruitment of Assistant Staff Nurses on a fixed honorarium, the Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog has not prescribed any physical standards such as minimum height, weight, or chest measurement. This is different from some paramilitary or uniformed nursing posts. The absence of physical criteria simplifies the eligibility process for many candidates. However, this does not imply that the job is without physical demands. Nursing is a profession requiring stamina, long hours of standing, and patient handling. While not a formal criterion, candidates should self-assess their fitness for the role's practical demands. The only official physical requirement is the ability to perform the duties, and in case of any dispute, the decision of the medical authorities appointed by the department would be final.

About Salary/Pay Scale for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

It is imperative to understand the nature of this appointment clearly. This is not a regular job with the Himachal Pradesh government. It is a contractual engagement under a specific policy, offering a fixed monthly honorarium of ₹25,000. This amount is consolidated, meaning no separate House Rent Allowance (HRA), Dearness Allowance (DA), or Travel Allowance (TA) will be added. The engagement is for a maximum tenure of 5 years and can be terminated with a 10-day notice from either side. Critically, the notification states there is "no right to regularization". This means you cannot later demand a permanent post. The benefits are minimal (only casual leave). Candidates should view this as a fixed-term work opportunity to gain experience in the government medical education system, not as a lifelong career with pension benefits.

About Syllabus for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The syllabus is a blend of professional knowledge and general aptitude. The core nursing subjects (from your B.Sc. or GNM course) will carry significant weightage, so revising your major textbooks is paramount. Alongside, you must prepare for Himachal Pradesh General Knowledge—focus on districts, chief ministers, important rivers, national parks, and recent state government schemes. For current affairs, concentrate on the last 6-12 months, especially in the field of health and medicine (e.g., new health missions, disease outbreaks). The English and Hindi sections are at the matriculation (10th standard) level, testing basic grammar and comprehension. Logical reasoning and everyday science are typically of easy to moderate difficulty. A balanced study plan covering all sections is essential, as the exam will test versatility, not just nursing expertise.

About How to Apply for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The application process is completely online and user-driven. The most critical step is the initial data entry. Any mistake in name spelling, date of birth, category, or qualification percentage can lead to disqualification. When uploading the photograph and signature, ensure they are clear, recent, and adhere to the specified size (usually photo: less than 50KB, signature: less than 30KB). The preference for district is important but not a guarantee; final posting will depend on vacancy at the time of joining. Do not wait for the last day to apply, as technical glitches or server overload are common. After payment and submission, download and print the final application form. This is your proof of application and contains your unique registration number needed for future correspondence. The correction window is a safety net, but it's best to get it right the first time.

About Mode of Selection for HPRCA Assistant Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026

The selection process is a two-stage filter: CBT followed by Document Verification. The Computer Based Test is the decisive stage, as the final merit list is prepared solely based on its scores. Since there is no interview, your performance on this single day determines your fate. The use of Z-Score normalization is a fair practice to account for difficulty variations across different exam shifts. Your goal should be to score as high as possible to secure a top rank in your category. Document verification is a qualifying stage where your claims are cross-checked with originals. Even if you top the CBT, you will be rejected if your documents (HPNRC registration, domicile, caste certificate, marksheets) are invalid, expired, or don't match the application details. The process is transparent and merit-based, placing the onus on you to perform well and have impeccable documentation.

Beyond the standard recruitment details, the notification and the appended policy document (Pages 13-18) contain critical clauses that every applicant must understand before applying. These define the very nature of the engagement and your rights and obligations.

Understanding the Fixed-Term Honorarium Policy

This recruitment is conducted under a specific "Policy for Engagement of Assistant Staff Nurse (ASN)" of the Medical Education & Research Department. It is crucial to understand that no regular posts have been created. The engagement is purely contractual and temporary, for a fixed period up to 5 years. The policy is marked 'confidential,' indicating its internal administrative nature. The honorarium of ₹25,000 is a consolidated amount with no statutory benefits like pension, provident fund, or medical coverage under HIMCARE. The engagement can be terminated by either side with a 10-day notice. Candidates must sign a contract agreeing to these terms. This is not a stepping stone to a permanent government job; it is a fixed-term work opportunity in the public health system.

Rights, Restrictions, and Service Conditions

The policy outlines strict service conditions. ASNs will be required to perform night duty and any other duties as directed by the medical authorities. They are entitled to only 2 days of casual leave per month, which lapses if not used. Maternity leave is granted only after completing two years of continuous service. Importantly, ASNs are not government employees and thus cannot claim any benefits, transfers, or promotions available to regular staff. The policy also lists disqualification conditions, including conviction in a criminal case or practicing polygamy. The recruiting authority (HPRCA) or any other notified authority holds the right to engage candidates, and their decision on all matters is final.

Certification Validity and Verification Rigor

The notification places immense emphasis on the validity and authenticity of certificates at the time of document verification. For example, an EWS certificate must be valid for the current financial year (FY), and a BPL certificate must be valid on the date of verification. Category certificates must be issued by the competent authority of Himachal Pradesh. The HPNRC registration must be active and valid. Experience certificates, if submitted, must be on official letterhead with clear dates. The authorities will thoroughly verify all documents. Any discrepancy, expired certificate, or fake document will lead not only to cancellation of candidature but may also lead to legal action, including an FIR for impersonation or fraud. The message is clear: apply only if you possess genuine, valid documents.

Examination Conduct and Fairness Mechanisms

The selection process is designed to be fair and transparent. The use of Z-Score normalization for multi-shift exams is a statistically sound method to ensure no candidate is advantaged or disadvantaged by a particular shift's difficulty. The policy also includes strict warnings against misconduct: use of mobile phones or calculators in the exam hall is prohibited and can lead to debarment. Provisions for scribes are available for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) but require prior approval. The merit list will be prepared based on performance in the CBT only, ensuring an objective selection. Candidates should focus on honest preparation, as the systems in place are robust against malpractice.

1. Is this a permanent government job for Assistant Staff Nurse?

No. This is a contractual engagement on a fixed monthly honorarium under a specific government policy. The notification clearly states it is not a regular post and offers no right to regularization, pension, or other benefits of a permanent government employee.

2. I have a GNM diploma from Punjab. Can I apply?

Yes, your GNM from a recognized institution is valid. However, you must be registered with the Himachal Pradesh Nursing Registration Council (HPNRC), Shimla, and you must be a Bonafide Himachali (possess a valid HP domicile certificate).

3. What is the last date to apply online for HPRCA Staff Nurse 2026?

The last date and time to submit the online application is 05 March 2026, 11:59 PM. The application portal will close at this time, so complete all steps well before the deadline.

4. Is there any age relaxation for OBC candidates?

The notification mentions an upper age relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST candidates. For OBC and other categories, age relaxation will be as per the prevailing norms of the Personnel Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh. Check the latest state government rules for clarity.

5. What is the salary for the Assistant Staff Nurse post?

Selected candidates will receive a fixed monthly consolidated honorarium of ₹25,000/-. This is not a pay scale; no allowances like DA, HRA, or TA will be added. The amount is subject to applicable tax deductions.

6. Are male candidates eligible for this recruitment?

No. The notification explicitly states that only female candidates are eligible to apply for these Assistant Staff Nurse posts.

7. Is there negative marking in the Computer Based Test?

The official notification does not mention any provision for negative marking in the 120-mark CBT. However, candidates should wait for the detailed exam instructions or admit card for final confirmation.

8. How many posts are there for the General (UR) category?

There are 140 posts for the Unreserved (UR) category out of the total 390 vacancies for Assistant Staff Nurse.

9. Can I change my category after submitting the application form?

No. The notification clearly warns that no change in category is allowed after the final submission of the online application form.

10. What is the Z-Score normalization mentioned?

If the CBT is conducted in multiple shifts, Z-Score normalization is a statistical method used to equalize difficulty levels across different shifts. It ensures no candidate is unfairly advantaged or disadvantaged, making the merit list fair.

11. What happens if my BPL certificate expires before document verification?

Your certificate must be valid on the date of document verification. If your BPL (or EWS) certificate expires before verification, you will not be considered under that quota and may be disqualified if you don't have a valid one.

12. Is there an interview round after the written exam?

No. The mode of selection is only Computer Based Test (CBT) followed by Document Verification. There is no interview or viva-voce mentioned in the notification.

13. Can I get a posting in my preferred district?

You can indicate your district preference during the application. However, the final posting is subject to the availability of vacancies in that district at the time of joining. The authority reserves the right to post you anywhere in Himachal Pradesh.

14. What is the duration of the engagement?

The engagement is for a fixed term of up to 5 years, as per the policy. It is not a permanent appointment.

15. Where can I download the admit card?

The admit card for the Computer Based Test will be available for download from the official HPRCA website: http://hprca.hp.gov.in. The exact date will be announced later.