Centralized Employment Notice (CEN) No: 07/2024 – Recruitment for Ministerial and Isolated Categories
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced the Centralized Employment Notice (CEN) No: 07/2024, inviting online applications from eligible Indian nationals for various posts under Ministerial and Isolated Categories. This recruitment drive is aimed at filling vacancies across different Zonal Railways and Production Units of the Indian Railways. Interested candidates must carefully go through the detailed notification and ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Date of Publication: January 6, 2025
- Start of Online Registration: January 7, 2025 (00:00 Hrs)
- Closing Date for Online Application: February 6, 2025 (23:59 Hrs)
- Application Fee Payment Deadline: February 7–8, 2025
- Modification Window for Application Correction: February 9–18, 2025
The dates for Computer-Based Tests (CBTs) and other stages will be announced on RRB websites. Candidates should regularly check the official websites for updates.
Eligibility Criteria and Important Instructions
1. Educational Qualification
Candidates must possess the prescribed educational qualification as of the closing date (February 6, 2025). Those waiting for final results should not apply.
2. Registration Process
- Candidates must register online on the official RRB websites (as listed in Para 15.0 of the notice).
- Candidates must have a valid email ID and mobile number throughout the recruitment process.
- Those who have already created an RRB account in 2024 should use the same credentials.
- Only one application per candidate is allowed. Applying to multiple RRBs will lead to disqualification.
- Once an account is created, the mobile number and email ID cannot be changed.
3. Application Submission
- Applications are to be submitted online only.
- Candidates must refer to Annexure-A (Post Parameter Table) and Annexure-B (Vacancy Table) before applying.
- Selection of RRB cannot be changed after submission.
4. Medical Fitness
- Candidates must meet the prescribed medical standards.
- If found medically unfit, no alternate appointment will be provided.
5. Examination Centers
- Exam centers will be allocated based on technical and logistical feasibility.
- Candidates may be required to travel to other cities/states for exams.
- Requests for a change of exam center will not be entertained.
Examination Process and Selection Criteria
1. Stages of the Examination
The recruitment process will consist of the following stages:
(a) Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- A single-stage CBT will be conducted.
- The marks will be normalized for multi-session exams.
- Negative marking of 1/3rd mark per incorrect answer will apply.
(b) Additional Tests
- Translation Test (TT), Performance Test (PT), or Teaching Skill Test (TST) may be conducted for specific posts.
- These tests will be shortlisting criteria based on CBT performance.
- Shortlisting ratio: 10 times the number of vacancies.
(c) Document Verification (DV) and Medical Examination
- Shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification.
- Medical fitness tests will be conducted to ensure candidates are fit for duty.
2. Admit Card and Exam Details
- Candidates must download E-Call Letters from the RRB website.
- Exam dates and city information will be available before the CBT.
3. Malpractices and Exam Conduct Rules
- Candidates found using unfair means (impersonation, cheating, or misconduct) will be permanently debarred.
- Electronic devices (mobile phones, Bluetooth, laptops, watches, calculators, etc.) are strictly prohibited.
- Misuse of free travel authority for SC/ST candidates will result in cancellation of candidature.
Application Fee Details
Candidates must pay the application fee as per the following structure:
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General / OBC | ₹500 |
| SC / ST / Ex-Servicemen / PwBD / Female / EBC | ₹250 |
- The application fee is refundable (after appearing in CBT) for SC/ST, EBC, PwBD, and female candidates.
- Fees can be paid via debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI.
Post Details and Vacancies
A detailed list of posts along with pay scale, age limits, qualifications, and vacancies is available in Annexure-A and Annexure-B of the official notification. Some of the common positions under Ministerial and Isolated Categories include:
- Junior Stenographer (Hindi/English)
- Junior Translator (Rajbhasha)
- Staff and Welfare Inspector
- Chief Law Assistant
- Lab Assistant
- Cook and Catering Supervisor
- School Teachers (Various Subjects)
The total number of vacancies may increase or decrease based on the requirement of Indian Railways.
Reservation and Age Relaxation
The reservation policy is as per the Government of India’s guidelines. The following relaxations apply:
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC-NCL | 3 years |
| PwBD (UR) | 10 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per Government norms |
Free Travel Authority for SC/ST Candidates
- SC/ST candidates can avail free sleeper class railway pass.
- The free travel pass will be part of the E-Call Letter.
- Candidates must carry their original caste certificate when traveling.
General Instructions
- Provisional Admission: Selection is purely provisional based on eligibility criteria.
- No Claim for Transfer: Candidates selected will be posted in the same Railway Zone for at least 5–10 years.
- Employment Conditions: Appointed candidates are liable for active service in Railway Engineers’ Unit of Territorial Army.
- Information Sharing: With candidate consent, marks obtained may be shared with other organizations.
How to Apply
- Visit the official website of the chosen RRB.
- Click on the “Apply Online” link under CEN 07/2024.
- Create an Account (or log in if already registered in 2024).
- Fill in the application form carefully.
- Upload required documents (photo, signature, caste certificate, etc.).
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit and take a printout for reference.
Conclusion
The Centralized Employment Notice (CEN) No: 07/2024 is a great opportunity for candidates seeking railway jobs under Ministerial and Isolated Categories. With an extensive selection process, including CBTs, skill tests, and document verification, candidates must prepare diligently to secure a position. Aspirants are advised to read the official notification carefully, ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, and apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. For the latest updates, candidates should regularly visit the official RRB websites. Good luck!
