1. Introduction

If you are a government job aspirant from Himachal Pradesh, it is natural to explore every recruitment notification across India. However, not every vacancy is meant for open competition. The APSSB CLDCE 2026 recruitment is one such case that requires careful understanding before applying.

This recruitment is a departmental competitive exam conducted by Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board for existing government employees, not fresh applicants from outside the state or open market candidates. For Himachal aspirants, this notification is important for awareness, but only a small, specific group of candidates will actually be eligible.

This article will help you clearly understand:

  • Who can realistically apply
  • Why most HP aspirants should not spend time preparing for this
  • What lessons HP candidates can draw from such departmental exams
  • Better alternatives within Himachal Pradesh

2. Key Details Table

CategoryDetails
Recruiting BodyArunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board
Exam NameCombined Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (CLDCE) 2026
PostsLDC, JSA, Driver
Total Vacancies205
Application ModeOnline
Start Date12 February 2026
Last Date25 February 2026
Salary LevelPay Matrix Level-4 (₹25,500 - ₹81,100)
Exam CentreItanagar
Eligibility TypeDepartmental Candidates Only

3. Post-Wise Eligibility (Understanding the Reality)

Lower Division Clerk (LDC) / Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA)

On paper, it says Class 12 pass with typing speed. But here is the critical reality:

This exam is only for:

  • Multi-Tasking Staff already working in Arunachal government departments with 8 years of service
  • Skilled contingency staff with 12 years of departmental experience

If you are a Himachal resident who is:

  • A fresher
  • A private employee
  • Preparing for government exams

You are not eligible.

Driver Post

This is also restricted to:

  • Existing departmental drivers
  • Handymen already serving in government offices

Even if you have a valid license and driving experience in Himachal Pradesh, you cannot apply unless you are already employed in Arunachal government departments.

4. Himachal-Specific Factors to Consider

Many HP aspirants assume that all state government jobs are open nationally. This is not true.

Key differences between Himachal and Arunachal recruitment systems:

  • Both states conduct departmental promotions internally
  • Such exams are meant for career progression of existing staff
  • Local administrative structures prioritize in-service employees

Himachal Pradesh also follows similar patterns in:

  • Clerical promotions
  • Secretariat internal exams
  • Driver cadre promotions

So, instead of viewing this as a missed opportunity, consider it as insight into how government hierarchies function.

5. How to Apply - Only If You Are Eligible

For the rare Himachal candidate already serving in Arunachal departments:

Step 1: Ensure your Head of Department certifies your eligibility
Step 2: Receive login credentials from your department
Step 3: Apply online before deadline
Step 4: Upload signature and photograph properly
Step 5: Pay fee online
Step 6: Track admit card from official website

Common mistakes candidates make:

  • Applying without departmental certification
  • Uploading incorrect photo format
  • Missing service eligibility criteria
  • Assuming eligibility without confirmation

6. Salary, Growth & Career Outlook

These posts fall under Level-4 pay scale, which is stable and respectable in state government structures.

Career growth includes:

  • Promotion to UDC or senior assistant roles
  • Long-term pension benefits
  • Administrative experience
  • Job stability

However, growth is slow and depends on departmental vacancies.

7. Preparation Plan - If You Are Eligible

The written exam focuses on:

  • General Awareness
  • Reasoning
  • Arithmetic
  • English
  • Technical section (for Driver)

Suggested approach:

  • 2 hours daily study
  • Focus on basic arithmetic accuracy
  • Practice typing daily for clerical roles
  • Revise state administration knowledge
  • Attempt mock papers

Remember: No negative marking, so accuracy with speed matters.

8. Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Stable government career
  • Internal promotion opportunity
  • No open competition from freshers
  • Clear career ladder

Cons

  • Limited to departmental employees
  • Posting depends on department needs
  • Exam centre fixed
  • No re-evaluation option
  • Vacancy subject to change

9. Checklist for Applicants

Before applying, confirm:

  • Departmental certification available
  • Required years of service completed
  • Educational documents ready
  • Typing speed eligibility
  • ID proof updated
  • Photograph and signature scanned correctly

10. Conclusion

For most Himachal Pradesh aspirants, this recruitment is not applicable. It is better to invest your energy in:

  • Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission exams
  • HPPSC notifications
  • State clerical recruitment
  • Police, education, and administrative roles within HP

Understanding eligibility early saves time and prevents frustration. Smart preparation always begins with choosing the right exam.

Government success is not about applying everywhere - it is about applying where you actually qualify.

11. FAQs

Q1. Can Himachal Pradesh residents apply for this recruitment?

Only if they are already working in Arunachal Pradesh government departments and meet service requirements.

Q2. Is this an open competitive exam?

No. It is strictly a departmental promotion exam.

Q3. Is there any age relaxation for outsiders?

No, because outsiders are not eligible.

Q4. Should HP aspirants prepare for this exam?

No, unless they are already employed in Arunachal government service.

Q5. What can HP candidates learn from this notification?

Understand how departmental promotions work and focus on entering government service first; promotions come later.