RRB Group D Recruitment 2026: Notification Out for 22,000 Level-1 Vacancies

RRB Group D Recruitment 2026

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has released the official short notification for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026, announcing around 22,000 Level-1 (Group D) vacancies across Indian Railways. This recruitment drive is one of the most significant government job opportunities for 10th pass and ITI-qualified candidates, offering permanent central government employment with attractive salary, allowances, and long-term career security.

Indian Railways is the largest employer in the country, and Group D employees form the backbone of its daily operations. From maintaining railway tracks to assisting in train movement and technical departments, Group D staff play a crucial role in ensuring safe and smooth railway services across India.

Overview of RRB Group D Recruitment 2026

RRB Group D recruitment is conducted through a centralized system under Centralised Employment Notice (CEN) No. 09/2025. Candidates selected through this recruitment are appointed to Level-1 posts as per the 7th Pay Commission.

Key Highlights

Particular	Details
Recruitment Name	RRB Group D Recruitment 2026
Conducting Authority	Railway Recruitment Boards
Total Vacancies	22,000 (Approx.)
Post Level	Level-1
Job Category	Group D
Pay Commission	7th CPC
Mode of Application	Online
Job Location	Across India
Selection Method	CBT, PET, DV, Medical

Number of Posts in RRB Group D 2026

Total Vacancies: 22,000 Level-1 Posts

As per the short notification issued by the Railway Recruitment Board, approximately 22,000 vacancies will be filled through the RRB Group D Recruitment 2026. These vacancies include both fresh and backlog positions across various railway zones and departments.

The number of vacancies makes this recruitment extremely competitive yet promising, as it significantly improves selection chances for eligible candidates.

Importance of Group D Vacancies in Indian Railways

Group D posts are essential operational roles within Indian Railways. Without Group D staff, basic railway services such as track maintenance, train movement, and station operations would not function efficiently.

The announcement of 22,000 vacancies is important because:

• It addresses long-pending manpower shortages
• It creates employment opportunities nationwide
• It strengthens railway infrastructure and safety
• It supports operational efficiency

Post-Wise Details Under RRB Group D Recruitment

RRB Group D includes multiple Level-1 posts, all falling under the same pay scale but involving different job responsibilities.

Track Maintainer Grade-IV

Track Maintainer is one of the most important and high-vacancy posts under Group D.

Key Responsibilities:

• Inspection and maintenance of railway tracks
• Repair of track defects
• Ensuring safety standards
• Working in outdoor and field conditions

This role requires physical fitness and readiness to work in shifts.

Pointsman

Pointsman plays a critical role in station operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operating railway track points
• Assisting in safe train movement
• Coordinating with station controllers
• Ensuring correct routing of trains

Pointsman posts are essential for preventing accidents and ensuring punctual operations.

Assistant (Engineering Department)

These assistants work under the civil engineering wing of Indian Railways.

Duties Include:

• Supporting construction and maintenance work
• Assisting in bridge and building maintenance
• Handling tools and materials
• Supporting engineering staff

Assistant (Mechanical Department)

Mechanical assistants support the maintenance of railway coaches and wagons.

Work Profile:

• Assisting in repair of rolling stock
• Supporting workshop activities
• Maintenance of mechanical equipment

Assistant (Electrical Department)

Electrical assistants support electrical and traction systems.

Responsibilities:

• Maintenance of electrical installations
• Assisting in traction power supply
• Supporting lighting and electrical equipment

Assistant (Signal and Telecommunication)

These posts deal with railway signaling and communication systems.

Key Duties:

• Maintenance of signaling equipment
• Supporting telecom installations
• Assisting in safety-related systems

Assistant Loco Shed

Assistant Loco Shed staff work in locomotive sheds.

Work Includes:

• Cleaning and maintenance of locomotives
• Assisting technicians
• Supporting inspections and repairs

Assistant Operations

These assistants help in operational departments.

Responsibilities:

• Yard-level assistance
• Supporting train operations
• Coordinating with supervisors

Assistant TL & AC

These posts involve maintenance of train lighting and air-conditioning systems.

Railway Zones Covered Under Group D Recruitment

Indian Railways is divided into several zones, and Group D vacancies are distributed among them.

Major zones include:

• Northern Railway
• Western Railway
• Central Railway
• Eastern Railway
• Southern Railway
• South Central Railway
• South Eastern Railway
• East Central Railway
• East Coast Railway
• North Central Railway
• North Western Railway
• North Eastern Railway
• West Central Railway
• Metro Railway Kolkata
• Railway Production Units

Vacancy distribution varies based on zone-wise manpower requirements.

Departments Included in Group D Posts

Group D employees are recruited for various departments, such as:

• Engineering
• Mechanical
• Electrical
• Signal and Telecommunication
• Operating Department
• Stores Department
• Medical Department (limited posts)

This wide departmental presence makes Group D recruitment one of the most comprehensive employment drives.

Why RRB Group D is a Preferred Government Job

RRB Group D jobs are highly preferred due to the following benefits:

• Permanent central government employment
• Pay as per 7th Pay Commission
• Regular increments and promotions
• Medical facilities for employees and dependents
• Railway travel concessions
• Job stability and retirement benefits

These factors make RRB Group D an attractive option for long-term career seekers.

Who Should Apply for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026?

This recruitment is suitable for:

• 10th pass candidates
• ITI certificate holders
• Candidates seeking stable government jobs
• Aspirants from rural and semi-urban backgrounds
• Youth aiming for long-term employment security

Important Advisory for Candidates

Applicants are advised to:

• Carefully read the official notification
• Verify eligibility conditions
• Start basic exam preparation early
• Focus on physical fitness along with written exam

Eligibility Criteria for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026

Candidates applying for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 must satisfy the educational qualification, age limit, and nationality requirements prescribed by the Railway Recruitment Board. Eligibility is strictly verified during document verification and medical examination, so applicants must ensure compliance before submitting the application form.

Educational Qualification

The minimum educational qualification required for RRB Group D Level-1 posts is as follows:

• Matriculation (Class 10 pass) from a recognized board
  OR
• ITI certificate from institutions recognized by NCVT or SCVT
  OR
• National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) granted by NCVT

Candidates possessing higher qualifications such as diploma or degree are also eligible, provided they meet the minimum qualification requirement.

⚠️ Candidates awaiting results or without final certificates are not eligible.

Age Limit

The age limit is calculated as per the cut-off date mentioned in the official notification.

Category	Age Limit
General / UR	18 to 33 Years
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)	18 to 36 Years
SC / ST	18 to 38 Years
PwBD	Additional relaxation up to 10 years
Ex-Servicemen	As per government rules

Age relaxation is applicable only on submission of valid supporting documents.

Nationality Criteria

A candidate must be:

• A citizen of India
  OR
• A subject of Nepal or Bhutan
  OR
• A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1 January 1962
  OR
• A person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries with intention of permanent settlement

RRB Group D Salary Structure 2026

RRB Group D posts fall under Level-1 of the 7th Central Pay Commission, offering a stable income along with multiple allowances.

Pay Scale Details

• Pay Level: Level-1
• Basic Pay: ₹18,000 per month

Allowances Included

• Dearness Allowance (DA)
• House Rent Allowance (HRA)
• Transport Allowance
• Night Duty Allowance
• Overtime Allowance
• Medical Allowance

➡️ Approximate In-hand Salary: ₹22,000 to ₹25,000 per month (depending on posting city and allowances)

Additional Benefits

• Free or concessional railway passes
• Medical facilities for employee and dependents
• Pension benefits under National Pension System (NPS)
• Job security with permanent employment
• Annual increments and promotions

Selection Process for RRB Group D Recruitment

The selection process is conducted in multiple stages to ensure transparency and merit-based recruitment.

Stages of Selection

1. Computer Based Test (CBT)
2. Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
3. Document Verification
4. Medical Examination

Only candidates qualifying each stage are considered for final appointment.

Computer Based Test (CBT) – Exam Pattern

The CBT is an objective-type online examination designed to test basic academic knowledge and aptitude.

CBT Structure

Subject	No. of Questions	Marks
Mathematics	25	25
General Intelligence & Reasoning	30	30
General Science	25	25
General Awareness & Current Affairs	20	20
Total	100	100

• Exam Duration: 90 minutes
• Negative Marking: ⅓ mark deducted for each wrong answer
• Mode: Online (Computer Based)

Detailed Syllabus for RRB Group D Exam

Mathematics Syllabus

• Number System
• BODMAS
• LCM & HCF
• Decimals and Fractions
• Ratio and Proportion
• Percentage
• Time and Work
• Time, Speed and Distance
• Profit and Loss
• Simple and Compound Interest
• Mensuration
• Algebra
• Geometry
• Trigonometry (basic)

General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus

• Analogies
• Coding and Decoding
• Mathematical Operations
• Relationships
• Alphabetical and Number Series
• Syllogism
• Venn Diagrams
• Directions
• Blood Relations
• Data Sufficiency
• Logical Reasoning
• Statement and Conclusions

General Science Syllabus

Based on Class 10 level syllabus:

Physics

• Motion
• Force and Laws of Motion
• Work, Energy and Power
• Electricity
• Magnetism

Chemistry

• Matter and its Nature
• Acids, Bases and Salts
• Metals and Non-metals
• Chemical Reactions
• Fuels

Biology

• Life Processes
• Human Body Systems
• Nutrition
• Diseases
• Environment and Ecology

General Awareness & Current Affairs Syllabus

• Current Events (National & International)
• Indian History
• Indian Geography
• Indian Polity and Constitution
• Indian Economy
• Environmental Issues
• Sports
• Science & Technology
• Awards and Honors
• Railways-related knowledge

Minimum Qualifying Marks

The minimum qualifying percentage in CBT is as follows:

Category	Qualifying Marks
UR / EWS	40%
OBC	30%
SC	30%
ST	30%

Qualifying marks do not guarantee selection; final merit is prepared based on performance and vacancy availability.

Normalization of Marks

Since CBT is conducted in multiple shifts, normalization of marks is applied to ensure fairness across sessions. Final scores are calculated after normalization.

Key Points Candidates Must Remember

• CBT is the most crucial stage
• Accuracy is as important as speed
• Negative marking can significantly affect rank
• Syllabus is based on basic concepts
• Regular practice improves performance

Physical Efficiency Test (PET) for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026

The Physical Efficiency Test (PET) is a mandatory and qualifying stage in the RRB Group D recruitment process. Candidates who qualify the Computer Based Test are called for PET based on merit and vacancy ratios.

PET is designed to assess the physical fitness, stamina, and endurance of candidates, as Group D jobs involve fieldwork, outdoor duties, and physically demanding tasks.

PET Standards for Male Candidates

Male candidates must fulfill the following physical requirements:

• Weight Lifting:
  Lift and carry 35 kg weight for a distance of 100 meters in 2 minutes, without putting the weight down.
• Running:
  Run 1000 meters in 4 minutes and 15 seconds in one attempt.

PET Standards for Female Candidates

Female candidates must fulfill the following physical requirements:

• Weight Lifting:
  Lift and carry 20 kg weight for a distance of 100 meters in 2 minutes, without putting the weight down.
• Running:
  Run 1000 meters in 5 minutes and 40 seconds in one attempt.

Important PET Guidelines

• PET is qualifying in nature
• No marks are awarded for PET
• Failure in PET leads to disqualification
• Pregnant candidates are not allowed to appear
• PwBD candidates are exempted from PET, as per rules

Medical Examination Standards

Candidates qualifying PET are required to undergo a medical examination conducted by railway-authorized medical officers. Medical fitness is essential to ensure candidates can safely perform duties.

Key Medical Parameters

• Vision standards (as per post requirements)
• Hearing ability
• General physical fitness
• Absence of serious medical conditions
• Fitness for outdoor and shift duties

Candidates declared medically unfit are not considered for final appointment.

Document Verification Process

Document verification is conducted after PET and medical examination.

Documents Required

• Matriculation (10th) certificate
• ITI / NAC certificate (if applicable)
• Date of birth proof
• Caste certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
• PwBD certificate (if applicable)
• Ex-servicemen certificate (if applicable)
• Aadhaar card or valid photo ID
• Passport-size photographs

All documents must be original along with photocopies.

Application Process for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026

The application process is conducted online only through the official Railway Recruitment Board portal.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the official RRB recruitment website
2. Complete registration using mobile number and email ID
3. Fill personal, educational, and category details
4. Select preferred railway zones
5. Upload photograph and signature
6. Pay application fee
7. Submit application form
8. Download and print confirmation page

Application Fee Structure

Category	Fee
General / OBC / EWS	₹500
SC / ST / PwBD / Female	₹250

🔹 A portion of the fee is refunded after appearing in CBT, as per rules.

Preparation Strategy for RRB Group D Exam

A structured preparation plan increases the chances of success in RRB Group D recruitment.

Written Exam Preparation Tips

• Focus on Class 8–10 NCERT basics
• Practice previous year question papers
• Improve calculation speed
• Revise general science regularly
• Follow daily current affairs updates
• Take online mock tests

Physical Preparation Tips

• Start jogging and running practice early
• Strengthen legs and shoulders
• Practice weight lifting gradually
• Maintain a healthy diet
• Avoid last-minute physical strain

Career Growth and Promotion in Group D

RRB Group D offers excellent long-term career growth through departmental promotions.

Promotion Path

• Group D → Technician
• Technician → Senior Technician
• Senior Technician → Supervisor
• Opportunities to appear in departmental exams for Group C posts

With experience and exams, employees can move into higher technical and supervisory roles.

Work Environment and Posting

• Posting across India
• Field and indoor duties
• Rotational shifts including night duties
• Urban and rural postings
• Transferable job

Employees gain experience in multiple railway departments during service.

Why RRB Group D is a Secure Career Option

• Permanent central government job
• Fixed working rules and service conditions
• Timely salary and allowances
• Medical and retirement benefits
• Social respect and stability
• Family security

These benefits make RRB Group D one of the most trusted employment options in India.

Conclusion

The RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 with approximately 22,000 Level-1 vacancies stands out as one of the most promising government job opportunities for candidates seeking stable, long-term employment in Indian Railways. With eligibility limited to 10th pass and ITI-qualified applicants, this recruitment opens the door for a large section of aspirants across urban and rural India to secure a permanent central government job.

Group D posts play a vital role in the functioning of Indian Railways, covering track maintenance, operations, mechanical, electrical, and signal departments. Along with a 7th Pay Commission salary structure, candidates benefit from regular allowances, medical facilities, job security, and defined promotion avenues. The transparent selection process—based on CBT, physical efficiency, document verification, and medical standards—ensures fairness and merit-based appointments.

For aspirants, success in RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 depends on early preparation, strong basics, physical fitness, and consistent practice. Candidates are advised to carefully review eligibility conditions, follow the prescribed syllabus, and maintain physical readiness well in advance. With dedication and disciplined preparation, this recruitment can provide not only a respected job but also a secure future within the Indian Railways system.

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