1. Introduction

The Railway Recruitment Cell, Southern Railway (RRC SR) has announced over 790 apprentice vacancies for 2025, offering ITI-qualified candidates a golden opportunity to receive hands-on training in India’s prestigious rail network. This drive aims to equip young technicians with real-world skills, paving the way for a rewarding railway career.

2. Vacancy Overview

• Total Vacancies: 790+ Apprentice posts
• Regions Covered: Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, Palakkad, Thiruvananthapuram divisions and other Southern Railway units
• Job Type: Apprenticeship under the Apprentice Act, 1961

3. Post Details

• Post Name: Act Apprentice
• Training Locations: Various Southern Railway workshops and sheds across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka
• Departments/Trades:
  • Mechanical
  • Electrical
  • Fitter
  • Carpenter
  • Welder
  • Electronics Mechanic
  • Turner
  • Machinist

4. Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification:
  • Class 10 (Matric) pass with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks
  • National Trade Certificate (ITI) in the relevant trade from a recognized institute
• Age Limit:
  • Minimum: 15 years
  • Maximum: 24 years
  • Age relaxations as per Government of India norms for SC/ST, OBC, and other reserved categories

5. Application Process

• Mode of Application: Online only
• Official Website: sr.indianrailways.gov.in
• Steps to Apply:
  1. Register on the RRC Southern Railway portal.
  2. Fill in personal, educational, and ITI trade details.
  3. Upload scanned photograph, signature, matriculation certificate, ITI certificate, and category certificate (if applicable).
  4. Verify all entries and submit the form.
  5. Print the confirmation page for future reference.

6. Important Dates

• Notification Release: June 2025 (exact date to be published)
• Application Start Date: Within one week of notification
• Application End Date: 30 days from start date
• Merit List Declaration: Typically 4–6 weeks after application deadline on the official website

7. Selection Process

• No Written Examination: Selection is purely merit-based.
• Merit Calculation: Aggregate of Class 10 marks and ITI trade marks, weighted equally.
• Final Merit List: Published on the RRC SR website; candidates called for document verification in order of merit until vacancies are filled.

8. Stipend and Training

• Monthly Stipend:
  • 1st year: ₹7,000
  • 2nd year: ₹7,500
  • 3rd year: ₹8,000 (varies by trade as per Apprentice Act norms)
• Training Duration: 1–2 years depending on the trade syllabus
• Post-Training Placement: Certificate awarded on successful completion; apprentices may be considered for employment in Southern Railway based on performance and vacancy.

9. Tips for Aspiring Applicants

• Verify Documents: Ensure your ITI certificate trade matches exactly with the vacancy trade.
• Practice Time Management: Though there’s no exam, having clear, well-scanned documents speeds up verification.
• Stay Updated: Regularly check the RRC SR portal for corrigenda, updated dates, and merit list announcements.
• Prepare Ahead: Keep your academic records and category certificates (if applicable) in order to avoid last-minute hassles.

10. Conclusion

The RRC Southern Railway Apprentice 2025 drive is an excellent entry-point for ITI-qualified youth to join Indian Railways, gain practical expertise, and build a stable career. Eligible candidates should prepare their documents, watch for the official notification, and apply promptly to secure their spot in this hands-on training program.