Indian Railways has officially released the Centralised Employment Notice (CEN) No. 01/2025 for the recruitment of Assistant Loco Pilots (ALPs). This massive recruitment drive offers 9970 vacancies across various Railway zones. If you are a young aspirant looking to build a career in the railways, this is your opportunity. Here’s a detailed overview of the notification to guide you through the application process.
Key Dates to Remember:
- Indicative Notice Release: 29 March 2025 (Employment News)
- Online Application Start Date: 12 April 2025
- Last Date to Apply Online: 11 May 2025 (11:59 PM)
- Last Date for Fee Payment: 13 May 2025
- Application Modification Window: 14 May to 23 May 2025
Vacancy Overview:
- Post: Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP)
- Total Vacancies: 9970
- Pay Level: Level 2 of 7th CPC
- Initial Pay: ₹19,900/-
- Age Limit: 18 to 30 years as of 1 July 2025 (Age relaxations available for reserved categories)
Eligibility Criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Matriculation / SSLC plus ITI from recognized institutions OR Diploma in Engineering.
- Medical Standards: Candidates must be physically fit in all respects with good visual standards (A-1 medical category).
- Nationality: Indian nationals and eligible citizens of Nepal, Bhutan, and others as specified in the notification.
Selection Process:
The recruitment will involve multiple stages:
- First Stage CBT (CBT-1) – Screening test with 75 questions.
- Second Stage CBT (CBT-2) – Divided into two parts:
- Part A (100 questions)
- Part B (Trade-specific, 75 questions)
- Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) – Only for shortlisted candidates.
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Exam Fee:
- General/OBC/EWS: ₹500 (₹400 refunded after appearing for CBT-1)
- SC/ST/Female/Ex-Servicemen/Minorities/EBC: ₹250 (Fully refundable after CBT-1)
Important Instructions:
- Apply to only one RRB and submit only one application.
- Aadhaar authentication is recommended for smoother verification.
- Candidates must upload a recent passport-size photo and signature as per strict guidelines.
- Use only the official RRB websites for application and updates.
Reservation & Relaxation:
- Vertical reservation is available for SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), and EWS candidates.
- Horizontal reservation is available for Ex-Servicemen.
- Candidates availing reservation must provide valid certificates in the prescribed formats during document verification.
How to Apply:
- Visit the official RRB website RRB Apply Online Portal https://www.rrbapply.gov.in
- Create an account (if not already registered).
- Fill in the online application form carefully.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit and save your confirmation for future reference.
Don’t wait until the last day! Apply early to avoid technical issues. Ensure all details are accurate, especially during the account creation stage, as changes will not be allowed later.