Introduction – Why Railway Jobs Remain a Dream Career
For decades, securing a railway job has been one of the biggest aspirations for Indian youth. The Indian Railways, with its massive workforce and pan-India presence, is not just a transport giant but also one of the largest employers in the world. It symbolizes stability, recognition, and a chance to serve the nation.
Now, in 2025, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) – a Navratna PSU under the Government of India – has announced an exciting opportunity for freshers and graduates. The IRCTC South Central Zone (Secunderabad) is inviting applications for 24 Apprentice and Executive posts under the Apprenticeship Act. This railway job notification is a golden chance for young aspirants in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh.
Let’s break down the details, eligibility, stipend, and why you should consider applying.
Railway Job Notification 2025 – At a Glance
Here’s a quick snapshot of the available posts:
| Post/Trade | Department | No. of Positions | Eligibility | Duration | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COPA (Computer Operator & Programming Assistant) | All | 17 | Matriculation + ITI (NCVT/SCVT) | 12 months | 15–25 years |
| Executive (Procurement Catering) | Catering | 2 | Graduate pursuing Commerce/CA Inter/Supply Chain | 12 months | 15–25 years |
| HR Executive – Payroll & Data Management | Finance | 2 | Graduate in any discipline | 12 months | 15–25 years |
| Executive HR | HR | 1 | Graduate in any discipline | 12 months | 15–25 years |
| Human Resource Training | HR | 1 | Graduate pursuing | 6 months | 15–25 years |
| Media Coordinator | PR | 1 | Graduate pursuing (Any stream) | 12 months | 15–25 years |
👉 Total Vacancies: 24
This railway job notification is not limited to one trade—it covers ITI, graduates, and students currently pursuing degrees. That means opportunities exist for both technical and non-technical candidates.
Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?
- Educational Qualifications:
- COPA: Must have completed Matriculation and ITI (NCVT/SCVT).
- Executive/HR/Media roles: Graduate or pursuing graduation in relevant fields.
- Minimum Marks: Matriculation with at least 50% aggregate.
- Age Limit: 15–25 years (as on 01.04.2025).
- Relaxations:
- SC/ST: +5 years
- OBC: +3 years
- PwBD: +10 years
- Ex-Servicemen: +10 years
- Relaxations:
Reservation Policy:
- 4% seats for PwBD candidates.
- 10% seats for Ex-servicemen.
- EWS candidates (income below ₹8 lakh) also eligible under reservation.
This inclusive approach ensures fair representation for all communities.
Selection Process – Purely Merit-Based
Unlike many competitive exams that involve multiple stages, this railway job selection is simple and transparent:
- Merit List Preparation: Based on percentage of marks in matriculation.
- Tie-Breaker:
- Higher age preferred.
- If same, earlier matriculation pass-out preferred.
- No Exams or Interviews: A huge relief for candidates.
- Final Selection: Subject to document verification.
✅ This means your academic performance in school/college is your ticket to a railway career here.
Stipend & Training – Earn While You Learn
One of the highlights of this railway job notification is the structured stipend system. Candidates will receive monthly stipends depending on their qualification:
| Qualification Level | Monthly Stipend (₹) |
|---|---|
| Class 5th–9th pass | 5,000 |
| Class 10th pass | 6,000 |
| Class 12th pass | 7,000 |
| ITI (National/State Certificate holders) | 7,700 |
| Diploma holders | 7,000–8,000 |
| Degree/Graduate Apprentices | 9,000 |
👉 Apprenticeships last 6–12 months depending on trade.
👉 While it’s not a permanent job, it offers practical experience + financial support.
Application Process – Step by Step
If you’re planning to apply, here’s what you need to do:
- Visit the Apprenticeship Portal: https://www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in
- Register Online: Fill in personal, academic, and trade details.
- Upload Documents:
- 10th & ITI mark sheets
- Graduation certificates (if applicable)
- Proof of DOB (10th certificate/School Leaving Certificate)
- Caste certificate (for SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
- PwBD certificate (if applicable)
- Photograph (recent, clear, 20–70 kb, JPG/JPEG format)
- Important Dates:
- Applications Open: 18th August 2025
- Last Date to Apply: 3rd September 2025
⚠️ Pro Tip: Ensure your name, father’s name, and DOB match exactly with your official documents. Any mismatch can lead to rejection.
Why Choose a Railway Job? – Beyond Stipend
A railway job is more than just employment; it’s a legacy. Here’s why aspirants prefer it over other jobs:
- Stability: Indian Railways is one of the most secure career paths.
- Learning Curve: Apprenticeships provide real-world exposure.
- Recognition: Being part of a Navratna PSU like IRCTC adds prestige.
- Networking: Apprentices get to interact with seniors and officers, helping them in future job opportunities.
- Stepping Stone: Many apprentices later qualify for permanent posts via departmental or open exams.
Challenges & Tips for Aspirants
Every opportunity comes with challenges. Here’s how to tackle them:
- Short Training Period: Focus on learning practical skills rather than just completing the tenure.
- Competition: Since selection is purely merit-based, ensure your documents and marks are in order.
- Document Verification: Double-check your certificates—errors here can cost you the job.
- Future Planning: Use the apprenticeship period to prepare for permanent railway recruitment exams (RRB/IRCTC exams).
Comparison – Railway Apprenticeship vs Other Jobs
| Criteria | Railway Apprenticeship (IRCTC) | PSU Internship | Private Fresher Job |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stipend | ₹5,000–₹9,000 | ₹7,000–₹12,000 | ₹12,000–₹20,000 |
| Job Security | Moderate (future exams required) | Moderate | Low |
| Exposure | Govt systems + operations | PSU industry exposure | Corporate culture |
| Growth Path | Chance to apply for RRB, IRCTC exams | Depends on PSU openings | Depends on company |
| Recognition | High (Govt + PSU brand) | Moderate | Variable |
👉 While private jobs may offer higher stipends initially, a railway job provides stability, prestige, and long-term opportunities.
Conclusion – Grab This Opportunity Now!
The IRCTC South Central Zone’s railway job notification (2025) is a rare and golden chance for aspirants looking to step into the Indian Railways ecosystem. With 24 posts across technical and non-technical trades, this notification covers a wide pool of candidates—ITI holders, graduates, and even students still pursuing their degrees.
The selection process is simple, transparent, and merit-based, making it a fair opportunity for everyone. Add to this the stipend structure, hands-on experience, and the recognition of working with a Navratna PSU, and you have an opportunity you shouldn’t miss.
📢 Call to Action:
- Apply before 3rd September 2025
- Share this article with your friends and peers who might benefit.
- If you’ve been an apprentice in Railways before, drop your experiences in the comments—your insights can help future aspirants.
Job Notification link –Notification
Apply Link – Apply Now
Whatsapp Community Link – Join Community
Your dream railway job could be just one application away. 🚆✨
