The Ultimate Guide: Railway Apprentice via Skill India Portal (2025)

 The Ultimate Guide: Railway Apprentice via Skill India Portal (2025)

Everything ITI Students Need to Know: Eligibility, Registration, Merit Calculation & Benefits

 

Introduction

Securing a permanent government job in Indian Railways is the ultimate dream for millions of Indian students, especially those from technical backgrounds (ITI). However, with rising competition, cracking the direct exams has become increasingly difficult. This is where the "Railway Course Completed Act Apprentice (CCAA)" program serves as a strategic backdoor entry.

Recently, Indian Railways has streamlined its apprenticeship recruitment process by integrating it with the Skill India (NAPS) portal. This move ensures transparency and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for stipends.

If you are an ITI holder confused about whether to join an apprenticeship or prepare for exams, or if you are struggling with the Skill India registration process, this detailed guide is for you. We will cover every single aspect—from the 'hidden' benefits of the 20% quota to a step-by-step application tutorial.

 

1. What is the Skill India Railway Apprentice Program?

Under the Apprentices Act, 1961, Indian Railways engages thousands of ITI pass-outs every year for a training duration of one year. Previously, students had to apply via various RRC websites. Now, the government is shifting the focus to the Skill India Digital / NAPS (National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme) portal.

Why this shift?

·        One-Stop Solution: Students don't need to visit 20 different RRC websites.

·        Direct Stipend: The government share of the stipend is transferred directly to the student's bank account linked with Aadhaar.

·        Digital Certificate: Upon completion, the National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) is generated digitally.

 

2. The "Big 3" Benefits: Why You Should Not Miss This?

Many students consider apprenticeship a "waste of time." This is a myth. Here is the mathematical advantage of completing a Railway Apprenticeship:

A. The 20% Reservation (The Game Changer)

Indian Railways reserves 20% of all Level-1 (Group D) vacancies exclusively for CCAA (Course Completed Act Apprentices).

·        Example: If Railways announces 1,00,000 vacancies for Group D, 20,000 seats are reserved only for apprentices. The cutoff for these seats is drastically lower than the general cutoff.

B. Exemption from PET (Physical Efficiency Test)

Regular candidates have to clear a tough physical test (Running 1000m + Carrying 35kg weight).

·        Benefit: Railway Apprentices are EXEMPTED from this. You just need to clear the written CBT (Computer Based Test), and you go straight to Document Verification.

C. The 1/3rd Marks Weightage Rule

This is the biggest advantage.

·        Formula: Final Merit = (CBT Marks) + (1/3rd of NCVT Apprentice Marks).

·        Scenario: If you score just passing marks in the written exam, your high apprentice marks (usually 80%+) will boost your final score, ensuring your selection.

 

3. Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Before you visit the Skill India portal, ensure you check these boxes:

1. Educational Qualification:

·        Matriculation (10th): Minimum 50% marks in aggregate from a recognized board.

·        Technical Qualification: NCVT/SCVT ITI Certificate in relevant trades (Fitter, Electrician, Welder, Machinist, Carpenter, Diesel Mechanic, etc.).

2. Age Limit (Crucial Details):

·        General: 15 to 24 Years.

·        OBC (NCL): 3 Years Relaxation (Up to 27 Years).

·        SC/ST: 5 Years Relaxation (Up to 29 Years).

·        PwBD: 10 Years Relaxation.

3. Medical Standard:

·        You must be medically fit as per Railway standards (specifically vision and physical ability to work in workshops).

 

4. How the Selection Works: The "Merit-Based" System

There is NO EXAM and NO INTERVIEW.

How is the Merit List prepared?

Railways calculate the average of your 10th % and ITI %.

Calculation Example:

·        Student Name: Rahul

·        10th Percentage: 70%

·        ITI Percentage: 80%

·        Total: 70 + 80 = 150

·        Average (Merit Score): 150 / 2 = 75%

Note: If two candidates have the same marks, the older candidate is given preference.

 

5. Step-by-Step Guide: Applying on Skill India Portal

This is where most students face technical issues. Follow this exact roadmap:

Step 1: Registration

·        Go to www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in.

·        Click on Register > Candidate.

·        Enter your Mobile Number and Email ID (Make sure they are active).

Step 2: Profile Completion (e-KYC is Mandatory)

·        Login to your dashboard.

·        Complete e-KYC: Link your Aadhaar card. This is mandatory for the stipend.

·        Bank Details: Update your bank account number correctly (for DBT).

·        Education: Upload 10th and ITI mark sheets (Clear Scans).

·        Profile Strength: Ensure your profile shows 100% Completed.

Step 3: Searching for Railway Establishments

·        Click on the "Apprenticeship Opportunities" tab.

·        In the "Search by Establishment Name" box, type the specific division name mentioned in the notification.

o   Keywords to try: "DRM Office", "Sr. DPO", "Carriage Workshop", "Wagon Repair Shop".

·        Pro Tip: Sometimes you need the Establishment Code (starts with E...). Check the official PDF notification for this code.

Step 4: Applying

·        Once the opportunity appears (e.g., "Fitter - DRM Office Nagpur"), click on Apply.

·        Choose the location (Primary) and submit.

·        Take a screenshot of the "Applied Successfully" message.

 

6. What Happens After Selection?

1.     Merit List Release: The Railway division will publish a PDF list of selected candidates on their official website.

2.     Document Verification (DV): You will be called to the division office with original certificates.

3.     Medical Test: You need to submit a Medical Fitness Certificate signed by a Government Doctor (Gazetted).

4.     Contract Generation: A contract will be generated on the Skill India Portal, which you have to digitally sign (accept).

5.     Training Starts: Your 1-year training begins.

Important Website/ Link-

www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in

https://t.me/zeroperiod17/6429

 

Video Link- https://youtu.be/3zWnfuIiYeM

 

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I do a Railway Apprenticeship twice?

A: No. As per the Apprentices Act, you can undergo apprenticeship training only once in your lifetime.

Q: Will I get a Railway Pass?

A: No, apprentices are not entitled to free Railway Passes for travel.

Q: Is the job permanent after 1 year?

A: No. After 1 year, your training ends. You are then released. You must then wait for RRC Group D (Level-1) vacancies to claim your 20% quota benefits.

Q: Can SCVT students register on Skill India?

A: Yes, the Skill India portal accepts both NCVT and SCVT data. However, ensure your result is updated on the NCVT MIS portal if possible, or upload documents manually.

Conclusion

The Skill India Railway Apprentice program is not just a training course; it is an investment in your career. While it doesn't offer immediate permanent employment, the 20% reservation makes it the easiest route to a government job in the long run.

If you are eligible, do not hesitate. Gather your documents, complete your profile on the Skill India portal, and apply for the latest vacancies today.

Did you find this guide helpful? Share it with your ITI friends!