Indian Railways is one of the largest employers in the world, and every year thousands of young aspirants look forward to joining this prestigious organization. For 2025, Southern Railway has officially announced 3,518 apprentice vacancies across different trades. This recruitment drive offers a golden opportunity for students who have completed 10th, 12th, or ITI to start their careers with real technical exposure and a secure government setup.
This article covers everything you need to know about the Southern Railway Recruitment 2025: the number of posts, trade-wise vacancies, eligibility, important dates, selection process, salary expectations, and why this apprenticeship can be a game-changer for your future.
Total Vacancies – 3,518 Apprentice Posts
The recruitment includes a wide variety of trades, ranging from mechanical to electrical, technical, and support roles. Below is the detailed distribution:
| Trade/Discipline | Number of Posts |
| Fitter | 1,070 |
| Welder | 503 |
| Painter | 123 |
| Laboratory Technician – Radiology | 3 |
| Laboratory Technician – Pathology | 8 |
| Laboratory Technician – Cardiology | 9 |
| Carpenter | 92 |
| Motor Mechanic Vehicle (MMV) | 34 |
| PASAA (Programming & System Assistant) | 96 |
| MMTM | 20 |
| Machinist | 77 |
| Turner | 49 |
| Electrician | 711 |
| Advanced Welder | 2 |
| Electronics Mechanic | 124 |
| Diesel Mechanic | 117 |
| Mechanic (Refrigeration & AC) | 83 |
| Wireman | 55 |
| Trimmer | 15 |
| COPA (Computer Operator & Programming) | 137 |
| Plumber | 50 |
| Block Smith | 30 |
| ICTSM (Information & Comm. Tech. Maint.) | 40 |
| SAA (Storekeeping & Accounting Asst.) | 60 |
| Draughtsman (Civil) | 10 |
Total Posts: 3,518
This wide coverage means candidates with different skill sets—mechanical, technical, electrical, or IT-related—can find a suitable position.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the basic requirements.
Educational Qualification
- Candidates should have passed 10th or 12th standard under the 10+2 system.
- Those holding an ITI certificate in the relevant trade are also eligible.
Age Limit (as on 25 August 2025)
- Minimum Age: 15 years
- Maximum Age: 24 years
Age Relaxation
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years
- SC/ST: 5 years
- Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD): 10 years
- PwBD + OBC: 13 years
- PwBD + SC/ST: 15 years
This relaxation ensures that students from various categories get a fair chance.
Application Fees
- General / OBC candidates: ₹100
- SC / ST / PwBD / Women candidates: No Fee
This fee structure makes the process affordable and inclusive.
Important Dates
- Application Start Date: 25 August 2025
- Last Date to Apply: 25 September 2025
Candidates are advised not to wait until the last day, as technical issues or internet problems can cause unnecessary stress.
Selection Process
The selection process is simple and transparent.
- Merit List – Based on marks obtained in 10th/12th/ITI.
- Document Verification – Shortlisted candidates will be called to verify their original documents such as certificates, age proof, caste certificate (if applicable), and ID proof.
There is no written exam or interview, which makes this process very straightforward.
How to Apply Online
Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is submitted successfully:
- Visit the official Southern Railway recruitment portal.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in the required personal, educational, and trade details.
- Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, and relevant certificates.
- Pay the application fee online (if applicable).
- Submit the form and note down your application/registration number.
Salary / Stipend During Apprenticeship
Apprentices are entitled to receive a monthly stipend during their training period. While the exact amount may vary by trade, it generally ranges between:
- ₹6,000 – ₹7,000 per month for most trades.
- Some technical trades may have slightly higher stipends depending on training hours.
Although this may seem modest, the apprenticeship is designed for skill development, and completing it successfully often opens doors to permanent employment in future recruitment drives.
Benefits of Joining Southern Railway as an Apprentice
Working with Indian Railways brings several advantages beyond just a stipend.
- Practical Skill Development – You get hands-on experience in real railway workshops and departments.
- Job-Oriented Training – Apprenticeships are designed to prepare candidates for future employment opportunities.
- Resume Value – Being trained in a government institution like Railways adds credibility to your career profile.
- Stability and Security – Indian Railways is one of the most stable employers in India.
- Networking and Exposure – Apprentices interact with experienced railway staff, which broadens their learning.
Career Scope After Apprenticeship
Many students wonder what happens after completing the apprenticeship. Here’s what you can expect:
- Permanent Jobs in Railways – Completing apprenticeship makes you eligible to apply for future permanent job vacancies in Railways, where preference is often given to trained candidates.
- Private Sector Opportunities – Technical skills learned here (like welding, fitting, electrical, IT, etc.) are in high demand in private companies.
- Self-Employment – Trades like electrician, fitter, or plumber also provide opportunities for freelancing or starting your own business.
- Further Studies – Apprenticeship experience strengthens your profile if you wish to pursue higher technical education like diploma or engineering.
Tips for Applicants
To improve your chances and avoid mistakes, here are some useful tips:
- Check Trade Preference – Apply for the trade you are most comfortable with based on your educational background.
- Keep Documents Ready – Certificates, photos, and ID proofs should be scanned in advance to avoid last-minute rush.
- Apply Early – Don’t wait until the deadline; apply within the first two weeks.
- Cross-Check Application – Small errors like wrong date of birth or spelling of name can cause rejection.
- Prepare for Verification – Once shortlisted, keep originals and photocopies of certificates organized.
Why Southern Railway is a Great Place to Start
Southern Railway is one of the largest zones under Indian Railways, covering Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Apprentices here work in large workshops, depots, and technical centers, gaining exposure to massive railway operations.
- Modern Training – Railway workshops are equipped with the latest machinery.
- Diversity of Trades – From IT to mechanics, opportunities exist for almost every interest.
- Long-Term Opportunities – Many apprentices eventually secure permanent jobs within the railway network.
Important links
Official Notification
Click here
Apply online
Click here
Official website
Final Thoughts
The Southern Railway Recruitment 2025 for 3,518 apprentice posts is not just another job notification—it’s a career-building opportunity. With simple eligibility criteria, affordable application fees, and a transparent merit-based selection process, this drive gives thousands of young aspirants the chance to start their professional journey.
If you are between 15 and 24 years of age and have completed 10th, 12th, or ITI, this is your chance to step into the Indian Railways and learn directly from one of the country’s largest employers.
Mark the dates—apply between 25 August and 25 September 2025—and take the first step towards a bright and stable future.
