MPPSC Assistant Town Planner Recruitment 2026 - Complete Guide
Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MPPSC) has announced a prestigious recruitment notification for 39 posts of Assistant Town Planner in various urban development departments of Madhya Pradesh government. This recruitment, advertised under Advertisement Number 02/2026, presents an exceptional career opportunity for urban planning professionals, architects, and civil engineers who aspire to contribute to the planned development of cities and towns in Madhya Pradesh. The online application process started on 20 February 2026 and will continue until 19 March 2026.
The position of Assistant Town Planner is a crucial role in the urban development hierarchy of any state. These professionals are responsible for preparing development plans, zoning regulations, land use planning, heritage conservation, infrastructure planning, and ensuring sustainable urban growth. Working as an Assistant Town Planner with the Madhya Pradesh government offers not just an attractive salary package but also the satisfaction of shaping the future of cities and improving the quality of urban life for millions of citizens.
About Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission
MPPSC is a constitutional body established under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution, responsible for conducting examinations for recruitment to various civil services and posts under the Government of Madhya Pradesh. The Commission, headquartered in Indore, is known for conducting fair, transparent, and merit-based selections. MPPSC conducts numerous examinations annually including State Services Examination, Forest Service, State Engineering Services, and various departmental recruitments. The Commission follows stringent protocols to maintain the integrity and credibility of the selection process.
Role and Responsibilities of Assistant Town Planner
An Assistant Town Planner plays a vital role in urban and regional planning activities. The key responsibilities include preparing comprehensive development plans for towns and cities, conducting surveys and studies for urban planning projects, analyzing demographic data and urban growth patterns, preparing zoning plans and land use regulations, processing building permission applications as per development control regulations, monitoring implementation of approved development plans, coordinating with various government departments for infrastructure development, preparing GIS-based maps and spatial analysis, conducting public consultations and stakeholder meetings, ensuring compliance with Town and Country Planning Acts, heritage conservation planning, and assisting senior town planners in policy formulation.
The job also involves field visits to project sites, interaction with citizens and developers, attending meetings and workshops, preparing technical reports and presentations, and staying updated with latest trends in urban planning. Assistant Town Planners work in Town and Country Planning Department, Urban Development Authorities, Municipal Corporations, Development Authorities, and other urban governance bodies across Madhya Pradesh.
Detailed Vacancy Information
The total number of vacancies announced is 39 posts of Assistant Town Planner. These positions are distributed across various urban development departments and authorities in Madhya Pradesh including Town and Country Planning Department, Madhya Pradesh Housing and Infrastructure Development Board, various Development Authorities of cities like Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Ujjain, and other municipal corporations and urban local bodies.
The vacancies include reservations as per Madhya Pradesh government rules: Unreserved (General) category, Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Section (EWS) candidates. Horizontal reservations are also applicable for women, persons with benchmark disabilities, and ex-servicemen as per government norms. The exact category-wise distribution will be mentioned in the detailed recruitment rules available on MPPSC website.
Educational Qualification Requirements - Multiple Pathways
MPPSC has provided multiple educational pathways to apply for Assistant Town Planner position, recognizing different academic backgrounds in urban planning:
Pathway 1 - Bachelor's Degree in Planning (4 years): Candidates who have completed a 4-year Bachelor's degree in Planning (B.Plan) from a university or institution recognized by University Grants Commission (UGC) or All India Council for Technical Education (AICT) are eligible. The degree should be in Urban Planning, Town Planning, Regional Planning, or equivalent nomenclature. Candidates should have obtained this degree from a recognized institution offering accredited planning programs.
Pathway 2 - Master's Degree in Planning: Candidates holding a Master's degree in Planning (M.Plan) in specified fields are eligible. The acceptable specializations include Urban Planning, Regional Planning, Transport Planning, Environmental Planning, Housing, Infrastructure Planning, Urban Design, or any other planning specialization from UGC/AICTE recognized universities. The master's program should be of minimum 2 years duration after bachelor's degree.
Pathway 3 - A.I.T.P. Examination: Candidates who have passed the Associate Examination of Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI) are also eligible. ITPI is the national body for professional town planners in India, and its Associate membership examination is a recognized qualification for planning professionals. Candidates holding A.I.T.P. certification demonstrate professional competence in town planning practice.
Important: The degree/qualification must be from an institution recognized by appropriate statutory authorities. Candidates with foreign degrees must obtain equivalence certificate from Association of Indian Universities (AIU). Distance learning or correspondence degrees are acceptable only if the university/institution has specific approval from concerned regulatory bodies for offering such programs in Planning discipline.
Age Limit and Relaxation Provisions
The prescribed age limit for Assistant Town Planner position is 21 to 40 years as on 01 January 2026. This means candidates should have been born between 02 January 1986 and 01 January 2005 (both dates inclusive). The minimum age of 21 years ensures candidates have completed their graduation, while the maximum age of 40 years allows professionals with experience to also apply.
Age relaxation is provided as per Madhya Pradesh government rules and guidelines: SC/ST candidates of Madhya Pradesh get 5 years relaxation (maximum age: 45 years), OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates of MP receive 3 years relaxation (maximum age: 43 years), Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) get 10 years relaxation, Ex-servicemen receive age relaxation as per defense service rendered plus 3 years subject to maximum age limits, and Widows/Divorced/Women judicially separated from husbands and not remarried receive 10 years relaxation up to maximum age of 50 years.
Age relaxation is cumulative subject to maximum limits prescribed. Candidates seeking age relaxation must produce valid certificates at the time of document verification. For reserved category relaxation, candidates must be domicile of Madhya Pradesh and possess valid caste certificate issued by Madhya Pradesh competent authority.
Attractive Salary Structure and Benefits
The post of Assistant Town Planner carries a highly competitive salary package as per 7th Pay Commission recommendations. The pay scale is Rs. 56,100 - 1,77,500/- per month (Pay Matrix Level 10). This is the basic pay scale, which starts at Rs. 56,100/- for a fresh appointee and can go up to Rs. 1,77,500/- through annual increments and time-bound promotions.
In addition to basic pay, Assistant Town Planners are entitled to Dearness Allowance (DA), which is currently around 50% of basic pay and is revised twice a year. House Rent Allowance (HRA) or government accommodation is provided - HRA is 24% in X-class cities, 16% in Y-class cities, and 8% in Z-class cities, or officials can opt for government quarters at nominal rent. Transport Allowance for commuting expenses is also provided.
Other allowances include City Compensatory Allowance (CCA) for posting in metro cities, Special Allowance if any for difficult terrains or specialized assignments, and various reimbursements. The gross monthly salary including all components comes to approximately Rs. 85,000 to Rs. 95,000 per month initially, which increases with annual increments and promotions.
Beyond monetary compensation, government employees enjoy comprehensive benefits: Medical facilities for self and dependent family members through government hospitals and reimbursement schemes, Leave Travel Allowance (LTA) for vacation trips, Children Education Allowance for school-going children, New Pension Scheme (NPS) with 14% government contribution towards retirement corpus, Gratuity on retirement, Group Insurance coverage, subsidized housing through government housing schemes, loan facilities for vehicle purchase, house construction, and other purposes at concessional interest rates, and Festival Advance and other short-term advances.
Application Fee Structure
The application fee varies based on candidate's category and domicile status. For General Category (Unreserved) candidates of Madhya Pradesh, the application fee is Rs. 500/-. For General Category candidates from other states applying for unreserved vacancies, the fee is also Rs. 500/-. For OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates of MP, the application fee is Rs. 250/-. For SC/ST/PwBD candidates of Madhya Pradesh, there is no application fee - they are completely exempted.
Female candidates (daughters of Madhya Pradesh) from all categories get 50% reduction in application fee - they need to pay Rs. 250/- for unreserved category and Rs. 125/- for OBC category. The application fee must be paid online through MPPSC payment portal using credit card, debit card, or net banking. After successful payment, candidates will receive payment receipt with transaction ID which should be saved for future reference. Application fee once paid is non-refundable under any circumstances.
Comprehensive Selection Process
MPPSC follows a multi-stage rigorous selection process for Assistant Town Planner recruitment to ensure only the most competent candidates are selected:
Stage 1 - Preliminary Examination: This is a screening test conducted to shortlist candidates for the main examination. The exam is of 2 hours duration, objective type with multiple choice questions. It covers General Studies (Indian History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Environment), General Knowledge (current affairs, Madhya Pradesh specific questions), and General Aptitude (reasoning, quantitative aptitude). The paper is qualifying in nature - candidates securing minimum qualifying marks are eligible for Main Examination. The cutoff marks are determined based on number of vacancies and difficulty level of exam.
Stage 2 - Main Examination: This is the most crucial stage carrying maximum weightage in final selection. The Main Exam consists of three papers: Paper I - Town Planning (200 marks): Comprehensive questions on urban planning principles, planning theories, development control regulations, urban design, infrastructure planning, GIS and remote sensing applications, environmental planning, traffic and transportation planning, housing and slum development, heritage conservation, and smart cities concepts. Paper II - General Studies (100 marks): Indian Constitution, governance and public policy, economy and development, science and technology, environment and disaster management, ethics and governance. Paper III - Hindi Essay and Precis Writing (50 marks): Essay writing on contemporary topics and precis writing to test Hindi language proficiency and expression.
The Main Examination is descriptive in nature requiring detailed answers. Total marks of Main Exam are 350. The exam tests not just theoretical knowledge but also analytical abilities, practical understanding, and answer writing skills.
Stage 3 - Interview/Personality Test: Candidates qualifying Main Examination are called for personal interview. The interview is conducted by a panel of senior government officials and subject experts. It carries 50 marks and assesses candidate's personality, communication skills, clarity of thoughts, general awareness, understanding of current urban planning issues in MP, knowledge of government policies and schemes, problem-solving approach, and overall suitability for the position. The interview is not merely a question-answer session but a comprehensive evaluation of candidate's persona and potential.
Final Merit List: The final selection is based on combined marks obtained in Main Examination (350 marks) and Interview (50 marks), totaling 400 marks. Candidates are selected strictly as per merit within their respective category reservation. In case of tie in marks, preference is given based on age (older candidate), then marks in Paper I, then marks in graduation.
Document Verification: Finally selected candidates are called for document verification where all original certificates are thoroughly checked. Any discrepancy or fake certificate leads to immediate disqualification and possible legal action.
How to Apply Online - Complete Step-by-Step Process
MPPSC has made the application process completely online. Candidates must follow these steps carefully:
Before You Start: Keep these ready - Valid email ID (active throughout recruitment process), Active mobile number (for OTP verification), Scanned photograph (JPG, 20-50 KB, white background, professional attire), Scanned signature (JPG, 10-30 KB, black ink on white paper), Educational certificates (degrees, mark sheets), Caste certificate (if claiming reservation), Domicile certificate of MP, PwBD certificate (if applicable), Aadhaar card and other ID proofs.
Step-by-Step Application Procedure:
Step 1: Visit MPPSC official website www.mppsc.mp.gov.in. On homepage, look for "Current Advertisements" or "Apply Online" section.
Step 2: Find the notification "Advertisement No. 02/2026 - Assistant Town Planner Recruitment". Download and read the complete official advertisement PDF thoroughly. Also download the detailed recruitment rules document.
Step 3: Click on "Apply Online" link which will redirect to the MPPSC online application portal.
Step 4: For first-time users, click "New User Registration". Provide your basic details - full name as per 10th certificate, father's name, mother's name, date of birth (as per 10th), gender, email ID, mobile number, and create a password. Click on "Register".
Step 5: An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile and email for verification. Enter the OTP to verify your registration. Your login credentials (application number/user ID and password) will be displayed and also sent via email.
Step 6: Login to the application portal using your credentials. The application form will have multiple sections: Personal Details (complete name, father/mother name, address, contact details, Aadhaar number, etc.), Educational Qualifications (10th, 12th, graduation, post-graduation details with board/university, passing year, percentage, roll number), Category Information (select category - General/OBC/SC/ST/EWS, sub-caste if applicable), Domicile Details (domicile state, district, residence certificate number), Disability Details (if applicable - type of disability, percentage, certificate number), Exam Center Choice (select preferred district for examination), and Declaration checkbox.
Step 7: Fill all sections carefully with accurate information. Any error might lead to rejection. Cross-verify dates, spellings, percentages multiple times.
Step 8: Upload scanned documents: Photograph (recent, colored, white background, JPG format, 20-50 KB), Signature (black ink, white paper, JPG, 10-30 KB), Ensure images are clear and meet size specifications.
Step 9: After filling all details, click "Save & Continue" to proceed to payment section. Review the complete filled form once more. If satisfied, proceed to fee payment.
Step 10: Select payment mode - Credit Card/Debit Card/Net Banking. Enter card details and complete the payment. After successful transaction, a payment receipt with transaction ID will be generated. Save this receipt.
Step 11: After payment confirmation, your application form will be generated with a unique Application Number. Download the application confirmation page which contains your photograph, signature, and all filled details.
Step 12: Take multiple printouts of the application form and payment receipt. Keep them safely for examination day and future correspondence. Note down your Application Number - this will be required for all future communications, downloading admit card, and checking results.
Important Documents Checklist
Keep photocopies and originals of following documents ready for verification stage: 10th mark sheet and certificate (for age proof and basic education), 12th mark sheet and certificate, Bachelor's degree in Planning (4-year B.Plan) OR Master's degree in Planning (M.Plan) OR A.I.T.P. certificate - ALL semesters/years mark sheets and degree/provisional certificate, If claiming category reservation: Caste certificate issued by competent authority of MP (SC/ST/OBC certificate with validity), Income certificate for EWS/OBC creamy layer exemption (issued within financial year), Domicile certificate of Madhya Pradesh (for claiming category benefits), PwBD certificate issued by authorized medical board (if claiming disability reservation), Ex-servicemen discharge certificate (if applicable), Character certificate from last attended educational institution or employer, Recent passport-size photographs (multiple copies), Aadhaar card, PAN card, and Voter ID or other address proof, Migration certificate and provisional certificate (if applicable), Gap certificate (if any gap in education/employment).
Preparation Strategy and Syllabus
For Preliminary Exam, focus on General Studies and General Knowledge. Study NCERT books for History, Geography, Polity, Economy. Read daily newspapers for current affairs. Practice previous year MPPSC question papers. For Main Examination, Paper I on Town Planning is crucial. Study standard textbooks on urban planning, development control regulations, MP Town and Country Planning Act, National Urban policies like JNNURM, AMRUT, Smart Cities Mission, Housing for All. Practice answer writing regularly with proper structure and diagrams. For Paper II, cover Indian Constitution, governance issues, MP specific development schemes and policies. For Paper III, practice Hindi essay writing on contemporary topics, develop good vocabulary, and work on precis writing technique. For Interview, stay updated with current urban planning issues in MP, recent government policies, urban development challenges, and solutions. Read about successful case studies of urban planning projects.
Important Tips and Instructions
Apply before deadline - don't wait for last day as server might get overloaded. Ensure you meet eligibility criteria before applying - ineligible applications will be rejected at any stage without refund. Fill form carefully - no correction is allowed after final submission. Keep registered email and mobile number active throughout recruitment process - all communications will be through email/SMS only. Regularly check MPPSC website for updates, admit card, results. Take printout of application form immediately after submission. Do not share your login credentials with anyone. Beware of fraudulent websites and agents - MPPSC never asks for payment through unauthorized channels. For any query, contact MPPSC helpdesk mentioned in official notification. Prepare systematically for exams - this is a highly competitive recruitment. MPPSC decision will be final in all matters related to eligibility, selection, and other aspects.
This MPPSC Assistant Town Planner recruitment is an excellent opportunity for urban planning professionals to serve Madhya Pradesh government and contribute to sustainable urban development. With attractive salary, job security, and meaningful work, this position offers a fulfilling career. Eligible candidates should prepare well and apply before 19 March 2026. Best wishes for your MPPSC journey!