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Railways are considered the most commonly used means of travel all around the world. Millions travel by train every day. India also has one of the longest railway networks in the world, stretching across thousands of miles and connecting every area within the country. In India, with over a billion population, the railway is not only the backbone of the economy, but it is also India’s biggest source of employment. Millions of people across India work in railways. To work in the railways, the important step is to undertake the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) exams that help a person qualify for these wide-ranging job opportunities. This blog provides a comprehensive guide to a list of the most popular railway exams along with their eligibility criteria, exam pattern and related details.
This Blog Includes:
About Railway Exams
Railway exams hold immense significance for aspiring candidates who dream of a fulfilling career in the railway sector. These exams are not just a pathway to secure a job; they represent hope, determination, and countless hours of hard work. Behind the scenes, there are countless individuals who burn the midnight oil, poring over books and practice papers, fueled by their passion for trains and a desire to serve the nation. The anticipation and nervousness on the day of the exam are palpable, as candidates arrive with hopes and dreams in their hearts. Railway exams bring together people from diverse backgrounds, united by a common goal – to embark on a journey that promises stability, growth, and a chance to contribute to the country’s vast railway network.
History
Railway exams have a captivating history that intertwines with the aspirations and dreams of countless individuals. Since their inception, these exams have been a gateway for many to secure a promising career in the railways. Picture the anxious faces of hopeful candidates, clutching worn-out textbooks and brimming with anticipation. Over the years, railway exams have evolved, adapting to changing times and technologies. From traditional pen-and-paper tests to computer-based examinations, they have remained an emblem of opportunity for aspiring railway personnel. Behind the cold statistics and pass/fail ratios lie the stories of triumph, perseverance, and dedication, as individuals strive to embark on a journey that fuels their dreams and connects the nation.
Popular Railway Exams
In India, railway examinations are also conducted across a wide range of posts and profiles in different branches of Indian railways. Glance through some of the popular railway exams conducted in India every year.
- RRB JE Exam
- RRB Paramedical Recruitment
- RITES Recruitment
- RPF Constable Exam
- RRB ALP
- RPF SI Exam
- RRB NTPC Exam
- RRB Group D
Now, let’s explore the key details of these railways exams, including their eligibility requirements, prospective vacancies and more!
Railway Recruitment Board Junior Engineer
Conducted to select the best candidates for the post of Junior Engineer and related vacancies in the Indian Railways. this is one of the sought-after railway jobs among new graduates in engineering. The examination is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board for hiring at different posts such as Junior Engineer, Chemical and Metallurgical Assistance, Chief Depot Material Superintendent as well as Senior Selection Engineer.
Exam Pattern
The junior engineer exam consists of a total of 150 multiple-choice questions. A candidate has to complete the exam in 2 hours. Questions are generally asked about technical subjects, aptitude, general knowledge, and reasoning.
Eligibility Criteria
It is mandatory that candidates are of Indian origin having an engineering degree or diploma in engineering from a recognized university in one of these subjects mentioned: Mechanical/Production Engineering/Electronics/Electric/Manufacturing/Tools & Die Making/Industrial/Machining/Instrumentation/Automobile & Machining/Civil and Control/tools engineering or B.Sc. (three years) degree in civil engineering or a background in any allied stream of civil engineering. The age limit to appear for this railway exam is above 18 years.
Railway Recruitment Board Non-Technical Popular Categories (RRB NTPC)
| RRB NTPC Exam Update 2023 | |
| RRB NTPC Notification release | Last week of February 2023 |
| RRB NTPC Application Process 2023 | March 2023 |
| RRB NTPC last date of application | April 2023 |
| Last day/date for payment | April 2023 |
| RRB NTPC 2023 Admit Card release | May 2023 |
| RRB NTPC 2023 CBT-1 | June 2023- December 2023 |
| RRB NTPC 2023 CBT-2 | June 2023- December 2023 |
It is one of the popular railway examinations for non-technical jobs. This is a lucrative option for anyone looking to establish a stable career in the public sector. Listed below are some of the pivotal posts for which individuals are recruited by the Railway recruitment board:
- Traffic Assistance
- Traffic Apprentice
- Commercial Apprentice as well as Assistant Station Master.
Exam Pattern
| Mode of Examination | Online-based |
| Phases | Mains and Prelims |
| Preliminary Examination- Total Marks | 100 |
| Mains Examination – Total Marks | 100 |
| Number of questions | 120 |
| Preliminary (Sections) | General Science, Arithmetic Ability, General Awareness, and Reasoning |
| Mains (Sections) | Arithmetic Ability, General Science, General Awareness, Reasoning and General Intelligence. |
RRB Exam Syllabus
| RRB NTPC Exam Syllabus 2023 | ||
| Mathematics | Reasoning | General Awareness |
| Number Systems | Analogies | National and international current events |
| Decimals | Completion of Number and Alphabetical series | Sports and Games |
| Fractions | Coding and Decoding | Art and Culture of India |
| LCM and HCF | Mathematical Operations | Monuments and Places of India |
| Percentage | Similarities and Differences | General and Life Sciences (Upto to 10th class) |
| Mensuration | Relationships | Indian freedom struggle |
| Geometry | Analytical Reasoning | Physical, Social and Economic Geography of India and the World. |
| Trigonometry | Jumbling | UN and other important world organizations |
| Ratio and Proportions | Syllogism | Indian polity and governance |
Eligibility Criteria
It is essential that the applicant holds a bachelor’s degree or has earned an equivalent degree from a recognized university. Candidates who are applying for senior clerk cum typist are required to meet an additional criterion of typing proficiency. For the post, the applicant’s age should not be more than 32 years.
RRB NTPC 2023 Exam Day Rules
- Electric devices like mobile phones, blue tooth, pen drives, laptops, calculators, wristwatches, etc are not permissible inside the examination centre.
- Pens, pencils, wallets/purses, belts, shoes, ornaments, etc. are also not permitted in the examination room.
- Applicants must carry RRB NTPC to admit card 2023 while obliging for the examination.
- Bring photo-identity records like a Voter Card, Aadhaar Card, a printout of e-Aadhaar (not a Xerox copy of Aadhaar), Driving License, PAN card, Passport, Identity Card issued by the employer, College / University Photo ID card.
- Applicants must also carry one colour photograph.
- Applicants must get to the examination centre an hour ahead before the initiation of the examination.
RRB NTPC Salary
RRB grants a considerable payroll ensemble along with other advantages. The pay is as per Seventh Pay Commission for UG and graduate positions. Here is an overview of the salary package for RRB NTPC jobs:
| Posts | Initial Salary (In Rs) |
| Junior Clerk cum Typist, Accounts Clerk cum Typist, Junior Time Keeper, Trains Clerk, | 19,900 |
| Commercial cum Ticket Clerk | 21,700 |
| Traffic Assistant | 25,500 |
| Goods Guard, Senior Commercial cum Ticket Clerk, Senior Clerk cum Typist, Junior Account Assistant cum Typist, Senior Time Keeper | 29,200 |
| Commercial Apprentice | 35,400 |
| Station Master | 35,400 |
Railway Protection Force Sub Inspector (RPF SI)
RPF SI exam for those aiming to join the Railway Protection Force and the qualifying candidates join as Sub Inspector. The job of SI is stimulating and involves tackling and overcoming multifarious challenges on a daily basis. Railway Protection Force board conducts this exam for the post of Constable and RSPF Sub Inspector.
Exam Pattern
SI exam is usually based on four subjects, which include, general intelligence and reasoning, numerical aptitude, general knowledge and general English. The exam duration is 3 hours. The paper is of 200 multiple-type questions with each question carrying the same marks.
Eligibility Criteria
The minimum age limit for one to be eligible for this SI exam is 20 years and the maximum age limit is 25 years for candidates of the general category. A candidate should be a graduate in any stream from a recognized institution or university. In addition to this, a candidate must fulfil the physical eligibility criteria in order to appear for the examination.
Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Group D
RRB Group D is one of the major railway exams held for various posts, such as helper, porter, pointsman, attendant, and gatekeeper. These posts provide an opportunity to join the Indian Railway Department and work in an organized sector with all the benefits of a government job.
Exam Pattern
RRB Group D exam is conducted in four different phases or tests.
- Computer-based Test
- Physical Ability Test
- Document Verification
- Medical Fitness Test
Total Duration:
90 Minutes for Students of General Category
120 minutes for PwD candidates
The RRB Group D syllabus encompasses sections on General Science, General Awareness, Reasoning, and Mathematics. A total of 100 questions are asked in the computer-based test. Subsequently, a physical ability test of the candidate is conducted. In its last stage, document verification and medical fitness test are carried out.
Eligibility Criteria
A candidate should have qualified 10th from any recognized Board. The age limit for this exam is 18-31 for candidates under the general category.
Railway Recruitment Board Assistance Loco Pilot (RRB ALP)
The examination is conducted by the Railway recruitment board for posts like Assistant Loco Pilot. A driver carries a heavy responsibility of safely ferrying the passengers and is an integral part of the smooth functioning of the railway system. Candidates interested in driving a train can apply for this post. Assistant Locomotive Pilot is one of the best jobs in the Indian Railway.
Exam Pattern
RRB ALP mainly comprises two basic stages of Computer Based Test. Like other railway exams, it is also based on questions about science, reasoning, mathematics and current affairs. In the first stage of the exam, the total duration is 1 hour and the paper is constituted of 75 questions. The second stage of the exam consists of two parts. The duration for Part A is 1 hour 30 minutes with 100 questions whilst Part B is of 1 hour with 75 questions.
Eligibility Criteria
The minimum age to be eligible for this railway exam is 18 years and the maximum age limit is 28 years. It is imperative that candidates have Matriculation/ SSLC or have completed courses in Act Apprenticeship. Candidates with an engineering degree or a 3-year diploma in mechanical, electrical, electronics, Automobile Engineering are also eligible.
RRB Preparation 2023
Since there are so many candidates, competitiveness is going to be severe. Hence, applicants require to prepare well in order to crack it. Mentioned below are some of the strategies to relinquish the RRB exams in 2023.
- Go through the exam guide and syllabus well enough.
- Identify the variety of questions by going through the preceding years’ question exams
- Have a fair idea of each subject
- Go through ample RRB books
- Solve RRB sample question papers
FAQs
Here are the major Railway exams for Railway Recruitment Board jobs:
Railway Recruitment Board Non-Technical Popular Categories (RRB NTPC)
Railway Protection Force Sub Inspector (RPF SI)
Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Group D
Railway Recruitment Board Assistance Loco Pilot (RRB ALP)
Aside from English and Hindi, the RRB Examination recruitment is to be conducted using thirteen languages. These thirteen linguistics are Assamese, Bangla, Gujarati, Konkani, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Manipuri, Oriya, Punjabi, Telugu, Tamil, and Urdu.
An applicant must be at least 18 years of age to appear for any of the RRB exams but the upper age limit for different RRB exams is unique for various positions. The age limit for RRB NTPC is up to 30 years, the RRB ALP age limit is up to 28 years and RRB JE upper Age limit varies as per the positions.
The best RRB Books for the reasoning section are:
1. A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by RS Aggarwal.
2. Lucent’s General Intelligence and Reasoning.
3. Analytical Reasoning by MK Pandey
4. New Approach to Reasoning Verbal, Non-Verbal, and Analytical by BS Sijwali and Indu Sijwali.
5. Test of Reasoning by Edgar Thorpe
Here is the application process for RRB exams 2023:
1. Go to the official website of the RRB. Choose the particular RRB exam and click on the “apply now” alternative.
2. Fill in the required specifications, confirm the one-time password sent on your registered mobile number, and submit for registration.
3. Provide the details linked to education, gender, category, etc., and click on the submit button.
4. Upload the required photo and signature of the specified size.
5. Submit the payment. Save and download the RRB Online Application Form.
We hope this blog has given thorough details of Indian railway exams and the requisite eligibility criteria and other essentials. Worried about what the future holds and what course to pursue? Our experts at Leverage Edu are here to guide you in exploring the best courses and universities and finding the right one as per your interests and preferences! Sign up for a free career counselling session with us today!
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