Looking to start a career with the Indian Railways? The Southern Railway Apprentices Recruitment 2025 might just be the golden opportunity you’ve been waiting for. With 2,438 vacancies open across various trades, this recruitment drive is ideal for 10th pass, ITI-certified candidates looking to gain hands-on experience and a stable pathway into the Indian Railways workforce.
If you’re interested in railway jobs but not sure where to begin, apprenticeships are a smart starting point. They offer valuable training, a monthly stipend, and a foot in the door to future permanent employment.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about this massive recruitment campaign.
Why Southern Railway Apprenticeship is a Career Starter
Southern Railway, one of the major zones of Indian Railways headquartered in Chennai, offers apprenticeships every year across several railway workshops and divisions. These aren’t just temporary roles. Many apprentices go on to secure permanent jobs through departmental promotions or future recruitment drives.
Ravi Kumar, a former apprentice from the Golden Rock Workshop, recalls his journey, “I started with zero experience. But the structured training helped me learn a trade, earn while learning, and later apply for permanent technician posts. It changed my life.”
Number of Vacancies and Trade Details
| Division/Workshop | Popular Trades |
|---|---|
| Chennai Division | Fitter, Electrician, Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Welder |
| Trichy (Tiruchirappalli) Division | Carpenter, Painter, Machinist, Wireman |
| Madurai Division | Turner, Plumber, Fitter, Welder |
| Salem Division | Electrician, Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Carpenter |
| Palakkad Division | Fitter, Welder, Machinist, Electrician |
| Thiruvananthapuram Division | Wireman, Plumber, Painter, Turner |
| Central Workshop, Golden Rock | Fitter, Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Carpenter |
| Carriage & Wagon Workshop, Perambur | Welder, Machinist, Electrician, Painter |
| Total Vacancies | 2,438 apprentice seats |
These trades are highly relevant to railway operations and offer long-term employment opportunities in India’s largest employer — Indian Railways.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. While these are entry-level roles, Southern Railway has set specific educational and age guidelines.
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Educational Qualification
- Must have passed 10th class (Matriculation) with at least 50% marks
- Should have ITI certification in the relevant trade from a recognized NCVT/SCVT institute
Age Limit
- Minimum age: 15 years
- Maximum age: 24 years (as on cut-off date mentioned in notification)
- Age relaxation:
- OBC: 3 years
- SC/ST: 5 years
- PwD: 10 years
Application Fee
- General/OBC candidates: ₹100
- SC/ST/PwD/Women: No fee
Monthly Stipend and Benefits
While this apprenticeship is not a full-time job, apprentices are paid a stipend based on prevailing central government rules.
- Monthly stipend: ₹7,000 – ₹9,000 (depending on trade and location)
- Training certificate issued after successful completion
- Priority consideration in future railway recruitment (under Apprentice quota)
- Hands-on skill development in government-certified workshops
Selection Process: No Written Exam
One of the biggest advantages of this recruitment is that there is no written test. Selection is based entirely on merit, calculated from:
- Percentage marks in 10th class
- ITI marks in the relevant trade
- Document verification
- Medical fitness test
This makes it easier for candidates to apply without needing to prepare for competitive exams.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for Southern Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2025 is entirely online. Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Register on Apprenticeship Portal
Before applying to Southern Railway, you must register on the official Apprenticeship India portal.
Step 2: Online Application
Visit the official Southern Railway recruitment website and navigate to the apprenticeship section. Fill in the application form with accurate details.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Ensure you have scanned copies of:
- 10th mark sheet
- ITI certificate and mark sheets
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Aadhaar card
Step 4: Pay the Fee
Use digital payment methods to pay the application fee, if applicable.
Step 5: Submit and Print
Double-check your application before submitting. Download and print a copy for future use.
Important Dates to Keep in Mind
- Online application begins: May 20, 2025
- Last date to apply: June 19, 2025
- Merit list announcement: July 2025 (tentative)
- Training start date: August/September 2025
These dates may change, so it’s good to stay updated by checking the official notification regularly.
Skills You’ll Gain from the Apprenticeship
Railway apprenticeships are designed to equip you with trade-specific knowledge, practical skills, and workplace discipline. During the training, you’ll learn:
- How to operate machinery and tools
- Technical problem-solving
- Safety protocols in a high-risk environment
- Time management and teamwork
These are not just useful for railway jobs but also open doors in other public and private sector industries.
Career Growth After Apprenticeship
Completing your apprenticeship doesn’t mean the journey ends. In fact, it opens up several paths:
- Apply for permanent railway technician posts under the Act Apprentice Quota
- Gain preference in other PSU (Public Sector Undertaking) recruitments
- Work in the private sector with a certified ITI + railway apprenticeship background
- Pursue higher technical education and appear in future competitive exams
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply if I don’t have an ITI certificate?
No, ITI in the relevant trade is mandatory for this apprenticeship.
Q2: Is there any interview?
No, there is no interview. Selection is based purely on merit.
Q3: Will I get a government job after the apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships do not guarantee permanent employment, but you’ll get preference in future recruitment drives.
Q4: Can I choose my preferred division or trade?
Yes, you can select your preference, but final allotment depends on merit and availability.
Q5: Is hostel or accommodation provided during training?
In most cases, no. Candidates need to make their own arrangements, though some workshops may offer basic facilities.
Final Thoughts: A Chance You Shouldn’t Miss
The Southern Railway Apprentices Recruitment 2025 is more than just a training program. It’s a stepping stone into the Indian Railways and a chance to build a solid career in technical trades. With no exams, straightforward eligibility, and a clear career path, it’s an ideal opportunity for young candidates looking to break into the workforce.
Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to build technical expertise with government certification, this apprenticeship program offers all the right ingredients for a successful future.
Prepare your documents, fill out the form, and take the first step toward a promising railway career today.