rrb section controller recruitment 2025 eligibility

RRB Recruitment 2025: A Deep Dive into the 5,800+ Vacancies for Section Controller, SM, and Goods Guard

rrb section controller recruitment 2025 eligibility  – In what is set to be one of the most significant recruitment notifications of the year for graduate job seekers, the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) have officially released the Centralised Employment Notification (CEN No. 04/2025). This notification invites online applications to fill 5,800 vacancies for highly sought-after Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) graduate-level posts within the Indian Railways.

A career in Indian Railways is a dream for millions, offering unparalleled job security, a handsome salary, and the pride of being part of the world’s fourth-largest railway network. This latest notification is particularly noteworthy as it includes a substantial number of vacancies for critical operational roles like Section Controller, Station Master (SM), and Goods Guard. The role of a Section Controller, in particular, is a high-responsibility position, often considered the “brain” of railway operations, managing train movements and ensuring the safety of the network.

The online application window for this massive recruitment drive will be active from October 1, 2025, to October 30, 2025. This guide provides a deep dive into every aspect of the notification, from detailed eligibility and application procedures to the multi-stage selection process and the nature of the job profiles.

Vacancy Breakdown and Detailed Eligibility Criteria

The recruitment aims to fill positions across two different pay levels of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC).

Post-Wise Vacancy and Pay Scale Distribution: | Post Name | Pay Level (7th CPC) | Initial Pay | Total Vacancies | Section Controller | Level 6 | Rs. 35,400 | 1,250 | | Station Master | Level 6 | Rs. 35,400 | 1,800 | | Goods Guard | Level 5 | Rs. 29,200 | 2,750 | | Total | | | 5,800 |

Before applying, it is imperative that candidates meticulously check their eligibility.

1. Educational Qualification

• Candidates must possess a Degree from a recognized University or its equivalent.
• Those who are in the final year of their graduation and are awaiting results are not eligible to apply. The educational qualification must be complete as of the closing date of the application (30.10.2025).

2. Age Limit (as of 01.07.2025)

• The age of the candidate must be between 18 and 33 years.
• Age Relaxation: The upper age limit is relaxable for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per the rules of the Government of India:

How to Apply Online: A Meticulous Step-by-Step Guide

The application is fully online and must be filled out carefully.

Prerequisites (Documents to Keep Ready):

• A valid personal Email ID and Mobile Number.
• Scanned copy of a recent passport-sized color photograph with a clear, light background.
• Scanned copy of your signature in running hand.
• Scanned copies of educational certificates, and caste/category certificate (if applicable).

1. Visit an Official RRB Website: Go to the website of any regional RRB (e.g., rrbchennai.gov.in, rrbmumbai.gov.in).
2. Find the CEN Link: Click on the link for “CEN 04/2025 – Recruitment for NTPC Graduate Posts.”
3. Create an Account: You will need to create an account by providing your name, date of birth, and contact details. This will generate a unique registration number.
4. Fill the Application Form: Log in and fill out the detailed application form, including your choice of RRB zone, post preferences, and educational details.
5. Pay the Application Fee: The fee structure has a refund policy.
   • For General/OBC candidates: Rs. 500. Out of this, Rs. 400 will be refunded to your bank account after you appear for the First Stage CBT.
   • For SC/ST/Female/Minorities/EBC/Ex-Servicemen: Rs. 250. This entire fee will be refunded after you appear for the First Stage CBT.
6. Final Submission: After payment, review your application, submit it, and take a printout for future reference.

Deconstructing the Multi-Stage Selection Process

The selection process is a comprehensive, four-stage journey.

1. First Stage Computer-Based Test (CBT-1)

This is a common screening test for all applicants.

• Pattern: 100 questions, 90 minutes.
• Syllabus:
  • Mathematics (30 Questions): Number System, Decimals, Fractions, LCM, HCF, Ratio and Proportion, Percentage, Mensuration, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Simple and Compound Interest, Profit and Loss, Elementary Algebra, etc.
  • General Intelligence & Reasoning (30 Questions): Analogies, Coding and Decoding, Syllogism, Jumbling, Venn Diagrams, Puzzles, Data Sufficiency, Statement-Conclusion, etc.
  • General Awareness (40 Questions): Current Events of National and International Importance, Games and Sports, Art and Culture of India, Indian Literature, History of India and Freedom Struggle, Physical, Social and Economic Geography of India and World, etc.

2. Second Stage Computer-Based Test (CBT-2)

Candidates who clear CBT-1 (shortlisted 20 times the vacancies) will appear for CBT-2.

• Pattern: 120 questions, 90 minutes. The syllabus is similar to CBT-1 but at a higher difficulty level.

3. Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)

This is a mandatory qualifying stage only for candidates who have opted for the Section Controller and Station Master.

• Purpose: The CBAT is a series of psychometric tests designed to assess a candidate’s cognitive abilities, such as concentration, reaction time, and decision-making skills, which are critical for these safety-sensitive roles.

4. Document Verification (DV) & Medical Examination

The final stage, where candidates who have cleared all the above rounds will have their documents verified and will undergo a stringent medical examination as per railway standards.

Job Profile of a Section Controller

The role of a Section Controller is one of the most critical in railway operations. Working from a control room, a Section Controller is responsible for:

• Managing Train Movements: They are in charge of a specific section of the railway track, and it is their job to ensure the smooth, safe, and punctual movement of all trains within that section.
• Quick Decision-Making: In case of any emergencies, signal failures, or track issues, they must make quick and accurate decisions to manage the situation and minimize disruption.
• High-Pressure Environment: It is a high-stakes, high-pressure job that requires immense focus and a calm demeanor.

This recruitment by the RRBs is a gateway to a challenging yet highly rewarding career. Eligible graduates are advised to read the notification carefully, apply well before the deadline of October 30, 2025, and begin their preparation immediately for this competitive examination.