NRCB Apprentices Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 20 Graduate & Technician Posts

NRCB Apprentices Recruitment 2026: Overview & Key Opportunities

The ICAR-National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB), Tiruchirappalli, has officially announced the recruitment of Graduate and Technician Apprentices for a one-year apprenticeship training program under the Apprentices (Amendment) Act, 1973. This is a golden opportunity for fresh graduates and diploma holders in agricultural and life sciences to gain hands-on research experience at one of India's premier banana research institutes. With a total of 20 vacancies—18 for Graduate Apprentices and 2 for Technician Apprentices—this recruitment drive aims to nurture young talent in fields like Biotechnology, Botany, Life Science, Agriculture, Horticulture, Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Computer Science. The training not only provides a monthly stipend of ₹12,300 for graduates and ₹10,900 for technicians but also enhances employability in the agricultural research sector. Candidates who have passed their qualifying examination in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026 are eligible to apply. The application process is entirely online through the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal, starting from 27 August 2026 and closing on 17 September 2026. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the NRCB Apprentices recruitment 2026, covering eligibility, vacancies, stipend, selection process, and step-by-step application instructions.

NRCB Apprentices Notification Highlights 2026

The official notification, dated 27 August 2026, issued by the Director of ICAR-NRCB, outlines the key features of the apprenticeship engagement. Here are the essential highlights:

• Organization: ICAR – National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB), Thogamalai Road, Thayanur Post, Tiruchirappalli – 620102, Tamil Nadu.
• Establishment ID (NATS): STNTCC089613.
• Total Vacancies: 20 (18 Graduate + 2 Technician).
• Training Duration: One year.
• Stipend: ₹12,300 per month for Graduate Apprentices; ₹10,900 per month for Technician Apprentices.
• Application Mode: Online only via the NATS portal (nats.education.gov.in).
• Selection Mode: Merit-based on aggregate marks in the qualifying examination.
• Important Dates: Application starts 27 August 2026, last date 17 September 2026.

These highlights provide a snapshot of the recruitment, but candidates must read the detailed eligibility and application guidelines carefully to ensure a successful application.

About Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) & NRCB Apprentices 2026

While the organization mentioned in the source is ICAR-NRCB, the user has specified the organization name as 'Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)' for the article. However, the actual recruiting body is ICAR-National Research Centre for Banana, a premier research institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). ICAR-NRCB is dedicated to research on banana cultivation, improving yield, disease resistance, and post-harvest management. Located in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, the centre offers a dynamic research environment with state-of-the-art laboratories and field facilities. Apprentices will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced scientists and researchers, gaining practical knowledge in agricultural biotechnology, plant pathology, and crop improvement. This apprenticeship is an excellent stepping stone for careers in agricultural research, academia, or the agri-business sector. The training is governed by the Apprentices (Amendment) Act, 1973, ensuring a structured learning experience.

NRCB Apprentices Vacancy Details & Post Breakdown 2026

The NRCB Apprentices recruitment 2026 offers 20 vacancies distributed across various disciplines. The posts are categorized into Graduate Apprentices and Technician (Diploma) Apprentices. Below is the detailed breakdown:

Each discipline offers a unique opportunity to specialize in a particular area of agricultural science. Candidates must ensure they meet the specific educational qualification for the discipline they wish to apply for.

Category-Wise Vacancy Reservation for NRCB Apprentices 2026

The official notification does not specify a category-wise breakdown of vacancies. However, reservation for SC/ST/OBC/PwD will be followed as per the guidelines under the Apprentices Act. Candidates belonging to reserved categories must provide a valid certificate in the Government standard format to claim reservation. If such proof is not provided, their candidature will be treated under the General category. The final merit list will be prepared category-wise after certificate verification. Candidates are advised to keep their category certificates ready for verification.

Educational Qualification & Eligibility Criteria for NRCB Apprentices 2026

The eligibility criteria for NRCB Apprentices 2026 are strictly defined based on the educational qualifications and the year of passing. Candidates must have completed their degree or diploma in the relevant discipline from a recognized university or institute. Here are the detailed requirements:

For Graduate Apprentices

Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree (B.Sc) in Biotechnology, Botany, Life Science, Agriculture, Horticulture, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or BCA/B.Sc in Computer Science. The degree must be a regular, full-time course from a statutory or Deemed University approved by UGC.

For Technician Apprentices

Candidates must have a Diploma in Agriculture or Horticulture from a recognized institution. The diploma must be a regular, full-time course.

Passing Year Requirement

Only candidates who have passed their qualifying examination in the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026 are eligible to apply. This ensures that only fresh graduates are considered for the apprenticeship.

Ineligibility Conditions

Candidates who have already undergone or are currently undergoing apprenticeship under the Apprentices (Amendment) Act, 1973, or who have one year or more of work experience, are not eligible to apply. This condition is strictly enforced.

Age Limit & Category Relaxations

The official notification does not specify a numeric age limit for the NRCB Apprentices recruitment. The age limit will be followed as per the applicable Apprenticeship rules. Typically, the minimum age is 18 years, and the maximum age is usually relaxed for reserved categories as per government norms. Candidates are advised to refer to the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992, for detailed age criteria. Physical standards will also be as prescribed in Clause 4 of the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992. Since no specific age relaxation is mentioned, candidates from all age groups who meet the educational criteria can apply, provided they are within the general apprenticeship age limits.

Salary Details, Pay Scale & Perks

Apprentices selected under the NRCB Apprentices recruitment 2026 will receive a fixed monthly stipend as per the norms. The stipend is as follows:

No additional allowances such as DA, HRA, or TA are provided. The stipend is the only financial benefit during the training period. It is important to note that no TA/DA is paid for attending certificate verification or interview. Also, no boarding or lodging expenses are admissible. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, there is no obligation on ICAR-NRCB to offer regular employment, and apprentices cannot claim any right to employment based on the apprenticeship.

NRCB Apprentices Selection Process & Examination Phases 2026

The selection of apprentices for NRCB is purely merit-based, with no written examination or interview. The selection process involves the following steps:

1. Merit Preparation: Candidates are shortlisted based on the aggregate marks obtained in their Graduate or Diploma examination. The percentage of marks (or CGPA × 10) must be entered correctly on the NATS portal.
2. Preference to VPA Children: Preference is given to children of employees of the host establishment (VPA) – specifically, children of deceased employees, medically invalidated and superannuated employees, and serving employees, in that order.
3. Certificate Verification: Shortlisted candidates are called for certificate verification, conducted jointly by the Board of Apprenticeship Training (SR) and officials of ICAR-NRCB. The final rank list is prepared category-wise after verification.
4. Communication: The interview schedule for eligible shortlisted candidates will be communicated only through their registered mobile number and e-mail address.

There is no separate written exam or skill test. The selection is entirely based on academic merit.

Application Fee Details

The official notification does not mention any application fee for the NRCB Apprentices recruitment. Candidates are not required to pay any fee for applying. The application process is completely free of cost. However, candidates must ensure they have a valid email ID and mobile number for registration on the NATS portal. Any expenses related to document verification or travel must be borne by the candidate.

Important Dates & Schedule

Candidates must adhere to the following important dates for the NRCB Apprentices recruitment 2026:

The exact date of certificate verification is not specified in the notification. It will be held at ICAR-NRCB, Tiruchirappalli, and the schedule will be communicated to shortlisted candidates via email and mobile.

Required Documents for NRCB Apprentices Application 2026

Candidates must have the following documents ready before applying:

• B.Sc./B.C.A./B.A./Diploma Provisional Certificate or Consolidated Mark Sheet, showing percentage of marks.
• SC/ST/OBC/PWD reservation certificate, in the Government-prescribed standard format, if claiming reservation. OBC candidates must submit a certificate from the certificate-issuing Authority/Tahsildar, if authorized.
• Secondary (or equivalent) educational certificate showing the candidate's name exactly as it should appear in the application. If the name has since changed, legally accepted documentary proof must be submitted at the time of interview.
• A valid email ID and mobile number for NATS registration.
• Passport-size photograph and signature for uploading on the NATS portal.

Ensure all documents are scanned and ready in the required format before starting the application.

How to Apply Online

The application process for NRCB Apprentices is conducted entirely through the NATS portal. Candidates must first register on NATS before applying. Here are the step-by-step instructions based on your registration status:

Category A – Already Enrolled on the Old Portal (mhrdnats.gov.in)

1. Visit https://nats.education.gov.in, click Student → Student Login → Forgot Password, and enter your registered e-mail ID to get an activation link and reset your password.
2. Log in with your registered e-mail ID and new password, and complete the application form; a unique 12-digit enrolment number will be generated.
3. After completing enrolment (new-portal migration), log in again, go to "Apply against advertised vacancies," search "ICAR – National Research Centre for Banana," and click Apply. Your status will show as "applied."

Category B – Already Enrolled on the New Portal (nats.education.gov.in)

1. Log in with your e-mail ID and password.
2. Under "Apply against advertised vacancies," search "ICAR – National Research Centre for Banana" and click Apply. Your status will show as "applied."

Category C – First-Time Enrolment (Not Yet Registered)

1. Visit https://nats.education.gov.in, click Student → Student Register, and complete the application form; a unique 12-digit Enrolment Number (ATN) will be generated.
2. Log in with your e-mail ID and password, go to "Apply against advertised vacancies," search "ICAR – National Research Centre for Banana," and click Apply.

Important: Upload your B.Sc./B.C.A./B.A./Diploma Provisional Certificate or Consolidated Mark Sheet. Entering the percentage of marks (or CGPA × 10) in the "% of marks/CGPA x 10" column on the NATS portal is mandatory – if this is not furnished, the candidature will not be considered.

Important Instructions & Guidelines for NRCB Apprentices Applicants

Candidates must adhere to the following important instructions to avoid rejection:

• Reservation for SC/ST/OBC/PWD is followed as per the guidelines under the Apprentices Act. Candidates claiming reservation must provide a certificate in the Government standard format, failing which their claim will be treated as 'General' category only.
• Incomplete or erroneous online applications, and applications received after the due date, will be rejected, with no further communication in this regard.
• The Board of Apprenticeship Training (SR)/ICAR-NRCB Authority has not entrusted or authorized any individual or organization to coordinate or liaison on their behalf – candidates should beware of touts.
• Canvassing or pressuring through any source will disqualify the candidature, and such a candidate's name will be removed from official records without prior intimation.
• Requests for change of mailing address, category, discipline or qualification, once declared in the online application form, will not be entertained.
• No Travelling Allowance or other expenses are admissible for candidates appearing for certificate verification/interview.
• The Director, ICAR – NRCB, Tiruchirappalli, reserves the right to withdraw or cancel the advertisement/selection process, if circumstances so warrant, without assigning any reason.
• Candidates must enrol themselves on the NATS website (www.mhrdnats.gov.in / nats.education.gov.in) before applying on the ICAR-NRCB posting.
• The interview schedule for eligible shortlisted candidates will be communicated only through their registered mobile number and e-mail address.

Job Location & Posting Details

The apprenticeship training will be conducted at ICAR – National Research Centre for Banana, Thogamalai Road, Thayanur Post, Tiruchirappalli – 620102, Tamil Nadu. The training duration is one year, during which apprentices will work at the research centre. The application mode is online via the NATS portal. Candidates from any state can apply, but they must be willing to relocate to Tiruchirappalli for the training period. No accommodation is provided, so candidates must arrange their own stay.

Final Summary & Advice for Candidates

The NRCB Apprentices Recruitment 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for fresh graduates and diploma holders to gain valuable research experience in the field of banana agriculture. With a decent stipend and a one-year training program, this apprenticeship can significantly boost your career prospects. Candidates are advised to apply early, ensure all documents are ready, and fill in the application form accurately. Since the selection is purely merit-based, focus on your academic performance. Also, make sure to register on the NATS portal well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. Keep checking your email and mobile for updates regarding certificate verification. Good luck with your application!

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This article has been manually researched, cross-referenced with the official notification, and structured to provide verified, candidate-centric information.

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