The East Central Railway (ECR) has announced a major recruitment drive for 1,149 Apprentice posts across various divisions. The notification invites applications from eligible candidates who wish to undergo training under the Apprentices Act, 1961, in trades such as fitter, welder, electrician, machinist, and mechanic. Interested applicants can apply online through the official website before the last date mentioned in the notification. This recruitment aims to offer skilled training and employment opportunities in one of India’s key railway zones.
I am writing about this update because such apprentice recruitments in Indian Railways attract thousands of aspirants each year, especially from technical and vocational backgrounds. These opportunities not only help young people gain hands-on experience but also strengthen India’s railway workforce with trained professionals. The East Central Railway recruitment is one of the most sought-after openings for ITI-certified candidates, offering practical exposure, a stipend, and a chance to be part of the country’s vast railway network. Below, you’ll find all the key details—eligibility, selection process, application steps, and important dates—presented in simple terms for easy understanding.
Overview of East Central Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2025
The East Central Railway, headquartered in Hajipur, Bihar, is inviting online applications for apprenticeship training in various trades under its different divisions.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Organisation | East Central Railway (ECR) |
| Post Name | Apprentice |
| Total Vacancies | 1,149 |
| Job Location | Across ECR Divisions (Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Category | Indian Railways Jobs |
| Official Website | www.ecr.indianrailways.gov.in |
The training will be conducted in designated units and workshops across ECR divisions including Danapur, Dhanbad, Samastipur, Sonpur, and Plant Depot Mughalsarai.
Important Dates & Links
Candidates must keep track of the official schedule to ensure timely submission of the online application form.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Starting Date to Apply Online | 26/09/2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 25/10/2025 |
| Notification | Click Here |
| Apply Online | Click Here |
All applications must be submitted online within the given timeline. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Division-Wise Vacancy Details
The total 1,149 apprentice positions are distributed among various divisions and workshops of East Central Railway as follows:
| Division/Workshop | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Danapur Division | 345 |
| Dhanbad Division | 156 |
| Samastipur Division | 154 |
| Plant Depot Mughalsarai | 200 |
| Mechanical Workshop Samastipur | 100 |
| Sonpur Division | 194 |
| Total | 1,149 |
Each division will have multiple trade-wise vacancies as per their operational needs.
Trade-Wise Posts
The apprenticeship is open for candidates in multiple technical trades such as:
- Fitter
- Electrician
- Mechanic (Diesel / Motor Vehicle)
- Welder (Gas and Electric)
- Machinist
- Wireman
- Carpenter
- Refrigeration and AC Mechanic
- Painter
These trades are based on skill development and provide industry-standard training aligned with the Ministry of Skill Development guidelines.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet both the educational qualification and age criteria as specified in the notification.
Educational Qualification
- Candidates should have passed Matriculation (10th Class) or equivalent examination from a recognised board with minimum 50% marks in aggregate.
- They must also possess a National Trade Certificate (ITI) in the relevant trade issued by NCVT/SCVT.
Age Limit (as on 01 January 2025)
- Minimum Age: 15 years
- Maximum Age: 24 years
- Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC: 3 years
- PwD: 10 years
Candidates must ensure they fall within the prescribed age limit before applying.
Selection Process
Unlike competitive exams, the selection process for East Central Railway Apprentice 2025 is merit-based.
Selection Procedure:
- Preparation of a merit list based on marks obtained in Matriculation and ITI.
- No written test or interview will be conducted.
- Candidates will be called for document verification and medical examination.
The final list of selected candidates will be published on the official website after verification.
Training and Stipend
Selected candidates will undergo apprenticeship training for one year as per the Apprentices Act. During this period, they will receive a stipend at the rate prescribed by the Government of India for apprentice trainees.
The training will be conducted under skilled supervisors in the railway’s workshops and depots, ensuring a blend of theoretical and practical learning.
Application Fee
The application process includes a nominal registration fee.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 100/- |
| SC / ST / PwD / Female | Nil |
The fee must be paid online through credit card, debit card, or net banking.
How to Apply Online for East Central Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2025
Candidates can easily apply for the apprenticeship through the official ECR website by following these steps:
- Visit the official portal – www.ecr.indianrailways.gov.in.
- Go to the “Recruitment” section and click on “Engagement of Apprentices 2025.”
- Read the detailed notification carefully.
- Click on “Apply Online” and fill in all required details like name, address, and educational qualifications.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and relevant certificates.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit the form and download a copy for reference.
Ensure all details are accurate and documents are legible, as any mismatch may lead to rejection.
