Has Indian Railways Really Recruited 5.08 Lakh People in the Last Decade?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant development, Indian Railways has reported a 23.6% increase in recruitment over the past decade, hiring over 5 lakh individuals. This reflects a robust commitment to enhancing its workforce to adapt to technological advancements and operational needs. Discover the details of this recruitment surge and its implications.
Key Takeaways
- 5.08 lakh individuals recruited in the last decade.
- Recruitment surge represents a 23.6% increase.
- Focus on technological adaptation and operational needs.
- Various posts, including Assistant Loco Pilots and Technicians, are being filled.
- Transparent recruitment process with no reported misconduct.
New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Parliament on Friday that in the past decade (from 2014-2015 to 2024-2025), Indian Railways has successfully hired 5.08 lakh individuals, up from 4.11 lakh during the previous period from 2004-2005 to 2013-2014, marking a significant increase of 23.6 percent.
The recruitment process for 1,20,579 positions has been initiated in accordance with the annual calendar for 2024 and 2025.
“We ensure that adequate and suitable personnel are in place to meet regular operations, adapt to technological advancements, mechanization, and innovative practices. The vacancies are filled primarily through placement of indents by Railways with recruitment agencies based on operational and technological needs,” stated the minister in a written response to a query in the Rajya Sabha.
From January to December 2024, 10 Centralized Employment Notifications (CENs) were issued for 92,116 vacancies across a range of positions, including Assistant Loco Pilots (ALPs), Technicians, Sub-Inspectors, Constables in the Railway Protection Force (RPF), and Junior Engineers (JEs).
The minister added, “The computer-based test (CBT) for 32,438 vacancies in level-1 categories commenced on 27.11.2025 across 140 cities in 15 languages, and the Physical Efficiency Test (PET) for 4,208 Constable (RPF) vacancies started on 13.11.2025.”
“Panels for over 23,000 candidates across various roles, including Technicians, Junior Engineers, Paramedical Categories, Sub-Inspectors (RPF), and Assistant Loco Pilots, have been finalized, with most being in safety-related categories,” he noted.
Moreover, as per the annual calendar for 2025, seven Centralized Employment Notifications (CENs) have been released for 28,463 vacancies.
“The examinations conducted by the RRB are highly technical, requiring extensive mobilization of personnel and resources along with training. The Railways successfully navigated these challenges, conducting the recruitment transparently and adhering to all prescribed guidelines. There have been no reported instances of paper leakage or similar misconduct throughout the process,” the minister emphasized.
Additionally, as part of system enhancements, the Ministry of Railways has instituted an annual calendar from 2024 for recruitment of various Group ‘C’ posts.
Point of View
The recruitment surge in Indian Railways is a strategic move to enhance operational efficiency and address technological advancements. This initiative not only reflects the organization’s commitment to its workforce but also signifies its adaptability in a rapidly changing environment. It is essential for national progress that organizations like Indian Railways continue to evolve and meet the demands of modern transportation.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people has Indian Railways recruited in the last decade?
Indian Railways has recruited 5.08 lakh individuals from 2014-2015 to 2024-2025.
What percentage increase does this recruitment represent?
This recruitment represents a 23.6 percent increase compared to the previous decade.
What types of positions are being filled?
The recruitment includes positions such as Assistant Loco Pilots, Technicians, Sub-Inspectors, and Constables in the Railway Protection Force.
What measures have been taken to ensure recruitment transparency?
The recruitment process follows strict guidelines, and there have been no reported instances of paper leakage or misconduct.
What is the significance of the annual recruitment calendar?
The annual recruitment calendar helps streamline the hiring process for various Group ‘C’ posts within Indian Railways.
