East Coast Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026
Introduction
The East Coast Railway (ECoR), through its Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC) Bhubaneswar, has officially released the much-awaited notification for the engagement of Act Apprentices for the year 2026-27. This centralized notification brings a golden opportunity for ITI-qualified candidates across India to secure apprenticeship training under one of the most prestigious railway zones in the country. With a total of 1,599 apprentice vacancies distributed across multiple divisions and workshops, this recruitment drive is set to benefit thousands of aspiring technicians and craftsmen.
The official notification (No. ECoR/Pers/RRC/Act Apprentice/2026-27) dated 21st August 2026 has been published on the RRC Bhubaneswar official website www.rrcbbs.org.in. The online application window opens on 26th August 2026 at 17:00 hours and will remain active until 15th September 2026 at 17:00 hours. Candidates who have completed their Matriculation (10th Class) with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks and hold a valid ITI certificate in the relevant trade from NCVT/SCVT-recognized institutions are eligible to apply.
This recruitment is being conducted under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961, and selected candidates will undergo one year of rigorous apprenticeship training at various divisions and workshops under the East Coast Railway jurisdiction. The training will provide hands-on experience in trades such as Fitter, Electrician, Welder, Machinist, Carpenter, Painter, and many more, preparing candidates for future employment opportunities in the railway sector and beyond.
Quick Overview
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 21st August 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date & Time | 26th August 2026 @ 17:00 Hrs |
| Online Application Last Date & Time | 15th September 2026 @ 17:00 Hrs |
| Document Verification Schedule | To be Announced Later |
| Training Commencement | To be Notified |
Pro Tip: Candidates are strongly advised to complete their online application well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical glitches due to heavy website traffic. The RRC Bhubaneswar server often experiences high load during the final days of application.
Vacancy Details - Division/Workshop Wise
The total of 1,599 apprentice vacancies have been distributed across various divisions, workshops, and units under the East Coast Railway. The following table provides a comprehensive breakdown of vacancies category-wise for each unit:
| Division/Workshop/Unit | UR | SC | ST | OBC | EWS | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carriage Repair Workshop, Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar | 96 | 41 | 20 | 68 | 25 | 250 |
| RGDA Division | 114 | 45 | 21 | 80 | 32 | 292 |
| Khurda Road Division (ELS, Angul & IOH Depot) | 312 | 118 | 57 | 209 | 77 | 773 |
| Sambalpur Division (Coachin, BLGR) | 104 | 43 | 16 | 71 | 28 | 262 |
| Head Quarter, East Coast Railway, Bhubaneswar | 7 | 4 | 2 | 7 | 2 | 22 |
| GRAND TOTAL | 633 | 251 | 116 | 435 | 164 | 1,599 |
Note: The number of training slots shown in this notification are provisional and are liable to increase or decrease depending upon the actual needs of the Administration at the time of finalization of selection. There will be a horizontal reservation to the extent of 4% for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) and 3% for Ex-Servicemen. The quota slots in the said categories are included in the overall slots.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have passed Matriculation (10th Class) under the 10+2 examination system with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks from a recognized Board. Additionally, candidates must possess an ITI certificate in the relevant trade, affiliated to NCVT (National Council for Vocational Training) or SCVT (State Council for Vocational Training), as per the Apprentice Act 1961.
Important: Candidates whose SSC/Matriculation/10th and ITI results are awaited as on the date of notification (21st August 2026) are NOT eligible to apply. Similarly, candidates who have failed in ITI should not apply. Engineering Graduates and Diploma holders are not eligible for this apprenticeship as they are governed by a separate scheme.
Age Limit (as on 15.09.2026)
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 15 Years | 24 Years |
| OBC (NCL) | 15 Years | 27 Years (3 Years Relaxation) |
| SC | 15 Years | 29 Years (5 Years Relaxation) |
| ST | 15 Years | 29 Years (5 Years Relaxation) |
| PwBD | 15 Years | 34 Years (10 Years Relaxation) |
Medical Fitness
Candidates who are shortlisted and called for Document Verification (DV) must submit a Medical Certificate in the prescribed format (Annexure 'G'). The Medical Certificate must be signed by a Government-authorized (Gazetted) doctor, not below the rank of Assistant Surgeon, from a Central or State Government Hospital. For Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD), the maximum permissible level of disability has been specified category-wise and trade-wise in the official notification.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General (UR), OBC, EWS, Male Candidates | Rs. 100/- |
| SC, ST, PwBD, Women Candidates | Rs. 0/- (Exempted) |
The application fee must be paid online only through the payment gateway integrated with the online application process. Payment can be made using Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, or Internet Banking. Transaction charges for online payment, if any, will be borne by the applicant. Once the payment is successfully done, applicants will be redirected to the RRC/BBS website to complete the application process and download the application form.
Selection Process
The selection of candidates for the East Coast Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026 will be based on a merit-based system followed by Document Verification. The detailed selection process is as follows:
1. Merit List Preparation
A computerized merit list will be prepared based on the percentage of marks obtained in Matriculation (10th Class). In case two or more candidates have the same percentage of marks, the candidate with the older age will be given preference. If the dates of birth are also the same, the candidate who passed the matriculation examination earlier will be considered first.
2. Trade-Wise & Unit-Wise Allocation
The merit list will be prepared trade-wise and unit-wise (Division/Workshop). Candidates will be considered for only one combination of Unit-Department-Trade based on their academic merit and the preference order exercised in their application. Once selected against a higher preference, all lower preferences will automatically be treated as cancelled.
3. Document Verification (DV)
Shortlisted candidates will be called for Document Verification at the Headquarters of East Coast Railway, Bhubaneswar. Candidates must bring all original documents along with self-attested photocopies. Any discrepancy observed during DV will result in immediate disqualification.
4. Medical Examination
Candidates must submit a Medical Fitness Certificate as per the prescribed format signed by a Government-authorized Gazetted doctor.
5. Final Selection
The final selection will be subject to the verification of original testimonials/certificates and medical fitness. Candidates in the standby list will be issued call letters based on the details of absentees, medically unfit, and rejected candidates from the merit list.
How to Apply Online - Step by Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to complete your online application for the East Coast Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026:
- Visit Official Website Go to the official RRC Bhubaneswar website: www.rrcbbs.org.in and click on the "Act Apprentice 2026-27" application link.
- New Registration Click on "New Registration" and fill in your basic details including Name, Father's Name, Mother's Name, Date of Birth, Community, Address, Email ID, Mobile Number, and Aadhaar Number.
- Login & Fill Application After registration, login with your credentials and fill in all personal, educational, and technical qualification details carefully.
- Select Trade & Unit Preference Choose your ITI trade and select your preferred Division/Workshop from the available options. Remember, you can choose only ONE unit, and the option once exercised is final.
- Upload Documents Upload scanned copies of your photograph (3.5cm x 3.5cm, JPG/JPEG, 20-50 KB), signature (JPG/JPEG, 10-40 KB), and relevant documents (PDF, 50-200 KB).
- Pay Application Fee Pay the application fee of Rs. 100/- (if applicable) through Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, or Internet Banking.
- Final Submission & Print Review all details carefully and submit the application. Download and print the application form for future reference.
Crucial Warning: Candidates are allowed to submit only ONE application. Submission of more than one application will lead to summary rejection of all applications. Also, data once entered cannot be modified, so fill all details with extreme caution.
Documents Required for Upload
Candidates must keep the following documents ready in the prescribed format before starting the online application:
Training Period & Stipend
Selected candidates will undergo apprenticeship training for a period of One (1) Year at the respective Division/Workshop/Unit. During the training period, apprentices will be paid a stipend at the prescribed rate as per the extant rules governed by the concerned State Governments and instructions issued by the Railway Board from time to time.
The training will be conducted under the strict supervision of qualified instructors and will include both theoretical and practical components. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience in their respective trades, working with modern railway equipment and machinery. This training will significantly enhance their employability not only in the railway sector but also in various private industries.
Important Note: There is NO GUARANTEE OF EMPLOYMENT in the Railways on completion of the apprenticeship training. Candidates will be discharged on completion of the specified training period. However, candidates who complete apprenticeship training (CCAA) in Railway establishments and hold a National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) will be given preference for up to 20% of the vacancies in direct recruitment to Level-1 posts, subject to fulfillment of eligibility criteria.
Important Instructions & Guidelines
Before applying, candidates must carefully read and understand the following important instructions:
- Applications must be submitted online only through the RRC/BBS website. No offline or physical applications will be accepted.
- Candidates must have a valid personal email ID and mobile number which should remain active throughout the engagement process.
- The applicant's candidature will be considered solely on the basis of information provided in the online application form.
- Name, Father's Name, and Date of Birth must exactly match the Matriculation certificate. Any discrepancy may result in cancellation.
- Candidates must be in possession of an Aadhaar Card. The 12-digit Aadhaar number must be entered at the time of registration.
- Applicants are permitted to choose only one Division/Workshop. The option once exercised is final and binding.
- Applicants possessing ITI qualification in more than one trade can apply for different relevant trades separately.
- Any attempt to submit more than one application for the same trade with different particulars will lead to summary rejection.
- Beware of touts and job racketeers who may try to deceive candidates with false promises. RRC does not accept any payment other than the prescribed application fee.
- Any legal matter arising out of this notification shall fall within the jurisdiction of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Cuttack.
Help Desk & Contact Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Notification PDF | Download PDF |
| Official Website | www.rrcbbs.org.in |
| East Coast Railway Official | eastcoastrail.indianrailways.gov.in |
Related Articles from Barristery.in
- RRB Railway Recruitment 2026: Latest Railway Jobs with 40,787+ Total Vacancies
- Railway SECR Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online
- RRB ALP Salary 2026: In-Hand Salary, Pay Scale, Allowances & Promotion
- 12th Pass Government Jobs in July 2026 - Latest Vacancies
- Indian Railway Jobs | Railway Recruitment 2024 - Complete Guide
- Latest Government Jobs in India | Sarkari Jobs | Sarkari Naukri
Why Choose Railway Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship training under Indian Railways offers numerous advantages that make it one of the most sought-after training programs for ITI graduates:
- World-Class Infrastructure: Trainees get to work with state-of-the-art machinery and equipment used in modern railway operations.
- Practical Experience: Unlike theoretical classroom learning, apprenticeship provides real-world hands-on experience in actual working environments.
- Stipend During Training: Apprentices receive a monthly stipend as per government norms, making it financially viable.
- National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC): Upon completion, candidates receive NAC which is recognized across India and enhances employability.
- Preference in Railway Recruitment: CCAA candidates with NAC get up to 20% preference in direct recruitment to Level-1 posts in Indian Railways.
- Skill Development: The training significantly enhances technical skills, making candidates suitable for various private sector jobs as well.
- Job Security: Railway apprenticeship adds valuable credentials to your resume, opening doors to stable government employment.
- All-India Recognition: The NAC certificate is valid across all states and is highly valued by employers in manufacturing, construction, and maintenance sectors.
Previous Year Apprentice Recruitment Comparison
To understand the scale and importance of this year's recruitment, here is a comparison with previous ECoR apprentice recruitments:
| Year | Total Vacancies | Application Period | Workshops/Divisions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 756 | Feb - Mar 2022 | 4 Units |
| 2025 | 1,154 | Jan - Feb 2025 | Multiple |
| 2026-27 | 1,599 | Aug - Sep 2026 | 5 Units |
As evident from the table, the East Coast Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026-27 offers the highest number of vacancies in recent years, making it an unmissable opportunity for ITI-qualified candidates. The increase in vacancies reflects the growing infrastructure and operational needs of the East Coast Railway zone.
Tips for Successful Application
To ensure a smooth application process and maximize your chances of selection, follow these expert tips:
- Check Eligibility First Before applying, carefully verify that you meet all eligibility criteria including age, educational qualification, and ITI trade requirements.
- Keep Documents Ready Scan all required documents in the prescribed format and size well in advance. Ensure photographs are recent (not older than one month).
- Choose Unit Wisely Study the trade-wise vacancy table (Annexure A) carefully and select a Division/Workshop that has vacancies matching your trade and category.
- Double-Check Details Verify that your name, father's name, and date of birth match exactly with your Matriculation certificate. Even minor discrepancies can lead to rejection.
- Apply Early Don't wait for the last date. Submit your application at least 3-4 days before the deadline to avoid server issues.
- Save Registration Details Preserve your Registration Number, password, and application printout safely for future reference.
- Valid Contact Information Use an active email ID and mobile number that you will have access to throughout the selection process.
- Avoid Multiple Applications Never submit more than one application for the same trade. This will result in automatic rejection.
About East Coast Railway (ECoR)
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) is one of the 18 railway zones of Indian Railways, headquartered at Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It was established on 1st April 2003 and covers the states of Odisha, parts of Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. ECoR operates through three major divisions: Khurda Road (KUR), Waltair (WAT), and Sambalpur (SBP), along with the Carriage Repair Workshop at Mancheswar.
East Coast Railway plays a crucial role in the transportation of minerals, coal, and other goods from the eastern region to various parts of India. It also handles significant passenger traffic, connecting major cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Visakhapatnam, and Sambalpur. The zone is known for its modern infrastructure, efficient operations, and commitment to safety and passenger satisfaction.
With ongoing expansion projects and increasing freight and passenger traffic, ECoR consistently requires skilled technical personnel, making apprentice recruitment a vital component of its workforce development strategy.
Conclusion
The East Coast Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is a massive opportunity for ITI-qualified candidates to gain valuable training experience under the prestigious Indian Railways banner. With 1,599 vacancies across multiple trades and units, this recruitment drive offers a pathway to skill development, practical learning, and enhanced employability.
Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria should not miss this opportunity. Remember, the online application starts on 26th August 2026 and the last date is 15th September 2026. Ensure you have all documents ready, choose your unit preference wisely, and submit your application well before the deadline.
For the latest updates, keep visiting the official website www.rrcbbs.org.in and stay connected with Barristery.in for more government job notifications, exam preparation tips, and career guidance. We wish all applicants the very best for their application and future career in the railway sector!
COMMENTS