RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 40 Graduate & Diploma Engineer Trainee Vacancies

RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Overview & Key Opportunities

RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a Navratna Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, has officially released the RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification (No. RCIL/2024/P&A/27/1, dated 28.07.2026) inviting applications for engagement as apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961. This recruitment drive is a golden opportunity for engineering graduates and diploma holders to gain hands-on training in a premier government organization while earning a monthly stipend. The RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 aims to fill a total of 40 posts, comprising 32 Graduate Engineer Apprentice and 8 Diploma Engineer Apprentice positions, across various locations in India. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the eligibility criteria, vacancy details, selection process, stipend structure, and step-by-step application procedure. Whether you are a fresh graduate or a diploma holder, this apprenticeship can be a significant stepping stone in your career, offering valuable industry exposure and professional growth. Read on to understand all the essential details and ensure a successful application.

RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Notification Highlights

The RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification brings several key highlights that every aspiring candidate should know. Here is a quick summary of the most important aspects:

• Organization: RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RCIL), a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Railways.
• Notification Number: RCIL/2024/P&A/27/1, dated 28.07.2026.
• Total Vacancies: 40 (32 Graduate Engineer + 8 Diploma Engineer).
• Engagement Type: Apprenticeship Training under the Apprentices Act, 1961.
• Duration: 1 Year.
• Application Mode: Online through the NATS 2.0 portal (nats.education.gov.in).
• Last Date to Apply: 27.08.2026.
• Job Location: Corporate Office (New Delhi/Gurgaon) and various regional locations across India.
• Stipend: Graduate Apprentice – ₹14,000 per month; Diploma Apprentice – ₹12,000 per month.

These highlights provide a snapshot of the recruitment drive, but candidates must read the detailed sections below to understand the complete eligibility and application process.

About RailTel Corporation of India Limited & RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026

RailTel Corporation of India Limited is a Navratna Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. It is one of the largest neutral telecom infrastructure providers in the country, owning a pan-India optic fiber network. RailTel's expertise lies in providing broadband, VPN, and other telecom services to railways and various other sectors. The organization plays a crucial role in modernizing railway communication and IT infrastructure. Working as an apprentice at RailTel offers a unique opportunity to learn from industry experts, work on live projects, and understand the functioning of a major PSU. The work environment is professional, dynamic, and encourages skill development. This apprenticeship is designed to provide practical training to young engineers, making them industry-ready. With a presence across the country, RailTel offers exposure to diverse work cultures and technologies.

RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details & Post Breakdown

The RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 offers a total of 40 vacancies distributed across two main categories: Graduate Engineer Apprentice and Diploma Engineer Apprentice. The number of posts is tentative and may be subject to change based on organizational requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown of the vacancies:

Each post offers a unique learning experience, and candidates are advised to choose the category that matches their educational background. The apprenticeship will be for a duration of one year, providing intensive on-the-job training.

Category-Wise Vacancy Reservation for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026

The reservation policy for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 will be followed as per the Apprentices Act, 1961 and Apprenticeship Rules, 1992. While the official notification does not provide a detailed category-wise breakdown, it is important to understand the standard reservation norms that apply to such recruitments. Typically, reservations are provided for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PwD categories as per government guidelines. In case of non-availability of candidates in reserved categories, the vacancies will be filled from other categories. Candidates belonging to reserved categories must ensure they have valid caste/category certificates to claim the benefits. The final allocation will be done based on the merit list and reservation rules.

Educational Qualification & Eligibility Criteria for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026

To be eligible for the RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026, candidates must meet the following educational qualifications and experience conditions. It is crucial to note that only full-time regular courses from AICTE-approved institutions are considered valid. Distance learning or part-time qualifications are not eligible.

Graduate Engineer Apprentice

Candidates must have a full-time regular 4-year Graduation in Engineering/Technology from an AICTE-approved college with an aggregate of 60% marks. The eligible branches include Electronics & Telecommunication, Telecommunication, Computer Science & Engineering/Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or any combination where Electronics is one of the main branches (such as Electronics & Instrumentation). Alternatively, candidates who have passed Sections A and B of the Institution of Engineers (India) examinations in the relevant branches, or the Graduate Membership Examination of the Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers (India) in the relevant branches, are also eligible.

Diploma Engineer Apprentice

Candidates must have a full-time regular 3-year Diploma in Engineering/Technology from an AICTE-approved college with an aggregate of 60% marks in the same branches listed above.

Experience Condition

Any engineering graduate or diploma holder who has undergone or possesses training or job/work experience of one year or more after attaining the qualification is not eligible. Additionally, candidates who completed their graduation or diploma more than three years ago are also not eligible. Candidates who have already completed an apprenticeship, terminated one midway, or are currently pursuing an apprenticeship with another organization are not eligible.

Age Limit & Category Relaxations

The age limit for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is as follows:

The official notification does not specify the exact number of relaxation years for reserved categories, but standard government norms typically provide 3 years for OBC and 5 years for SC/ST. PwD candidates may get additional relaxation as per rules. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for any specific relaxations.

Salary Details, Pay Scale & Perks

Selected candidates for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 will receive a consolidated monthly stipend for the one-year apprenticeship period. The stipend is shared between RailTel and the Government of India (DBT share). No other benefits, facilities, or allowances are payable apart from this consolidated stipend. The stipend structure is as follows:

This stipend provides financial support during the training period, helping candidates focus on their skill development without financial stress.

RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Selection Process & Examination Phases

The selection process for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is based on merit and does not involve a written examination. The detailed process is as follows:

• Merit List Preparation: A merit list will be prepared region/state/location-wise based on the receipt of online applications. Preference will be given to candidates who have passed out from Government Institutions.
• Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on the merit list prepared using marks obtained in the required qualification (minimum eligibility) and/or through an interview as required.
• Medical Fitness: Only candidates found medically fit as per RailTel's norms will be considered for engagement.
• Provisional Candidature: Candidature is provisional and subject to subsequent verification of certificates/testimonials at any stage. False or incorrect information can lead to cancellation of candidature or engagement.

It is important to note that merely meeting the eligibility criteria does not assure engagement. The final selection will be based on the merit list and medical fitness.

Application Fee Details

As per the official notification, there is no application fee for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026. Candidates can apply online through the NATS 2.0 portal without any payment. However, candidates are advised to check the official notification for any updates regarding application fees. Since no fee is mentioned, it is likely that the application process is completely free.

Important Dates & Schedule

Candidates must keep track of the following important dates for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026:

All applications must be submitted on or before the last date. Late applications will not be entertained.

Required Documents Application

While applying for RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026, candidates must have the following documents ready:

• Certificate showing CGPA or percentage, to be uploaded in the "Upload Certificate" column on the NATS portal.
• If only CGPA is mentioned on the certificate, candidates must also upload the CGPA-to-percentage conversion formula/certificate.
• The Undertaking (Annexure I, provided with the notification), duly filled and signed.
• The above documents must be uploaded together as a single PDF file of size less than 1 MB.

Ensure that all documents are clear and legible before uploading.

How to Apply Online

Eligible candidates must apply online through the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 portal. No other mode of application will be entertained. Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply successfully:

1. Visit the NATS 2.0 portal at https://nats.education.gov.in.
2. If you are not already registered on the NATS 2.0 portal, register yourself first by providing the required details.
3. After registration, log in to the portal using your credentials.
4. Search for the RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification and click on the apply link.
5. Fill in the application form with accurate personal, educational, and contact details.
6. Upload the required documents as a single PDF file (certificate showing CGPA/percentage, CGPA conversion certificate if applicable, and signed Undertaking) in the specified format.
7. Review all the details carefully before submitting the application.
8. Submit the application on or before the last date, 27.08.2026.
9. Take a printout of the submitted application form for future reference.

Important Instructions & Guidelines Applicants

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

• The numbers and locations of posts shown in the notification are indicative and may change without further notice.
• Apprentice engagement will be strictly for a period of one year, at locations across the Northern, Western, Eastern and Southern regions, or anywhere on a pan-India basis.
• The reservation policy as prescribed in the Apprentices Act, 1961 and Apprenticeship Rules, 1992 will be followed; in case of non-availability of candidates in reserved categories, the position will be filled from other reserved or general categories.
• Apprentices have no right to claim regular employment from RailTel at any point; the apprenticeship does not create any liability on RailTel for providing a job or placement.
• The decision of RailTel's management will be final and binding on all matters relating to eligibility, acceptance or rejection of applications, and the selection process; no correspondence will be entertained in this regard.
• Ensure that all uploaded documents are clear and in the specified format. Incorrect or incomplete applications may be rejected.

Job Location & Posting Details

Apprentices may be engaged at RailTel's Corporate Office in New Delhi/Gurgaon, or across various regional locations. The locations include:

• Northern Region: Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Bareilly, Amritsar, Rohtak, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Bikaner, Agra, Jhansi, Aligarh, Roorkee, Moradabad, Delhi/NCR, Kanpur, Banda, Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Mau.
• Eastern Region: Kolkata, Malda, Asansol, Patna, Dhanbad, Samastipur, Sonepur, Muzaffarpur, Gaya, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, and New Jalpaiguri.
• Southern Region: Secunderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, and Vijayawada.
• Western Region: Nagpur, Bhopal, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.

Candidates may opt for any location of their convenience, though allotment depends on RailTel's presence there. If RailTel has no presence at the chosen location, a nearby location may be allotted instead.

Final Summary & Advice for Candidates

RailTel Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for engineering graduates and diploma holders to kickstart their careers with a prestigious Navratna PSU. With 40 vacancies, a competitive stipend, and the chance to work on real-world projects, this apprenticeship can provide invaluable experience. Candidates are advised to carefully read the official notification, ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, and apply well before the last date. Keep all required documents ready and follow the application process meticulously. Since the selection is based on merit, focus on your academic performance and ensure your application is accurate and complete. Do not wait until the last day to apply, as technical issues may arise. We wish all candidates the very best in their application and future endeavors.

Senior Government Jobs Editor ✓

Career Content Specialist, SEO Strategist, and Fact-Checking Writer for Sarkari Job Finders

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

Fact-Checked & Verified