RRB Group D Bharti 2026 Check dates, eligibility, salary, application process, and official RRB details.
The Ministry of Railways, Government of India, through the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs), has officially released a Centralized Employment Notice (CEN) No. 09/2025, dated 27 December 2025. This notification signals a massive Railway Group D recruitment drive, announcing approximately 22,000 vacancies for Level-1 posts under the 7th CPC Pay Matrix.
This is one of the largest government job opportunities in 2026, especially for candidates seeking secure, long-term employment in Indian Railways. Although the notice is indicative in nature, it clearly outlines timelines, eligibility expectations, and critical compliance requirements most notably Aadhaar-based verification.
Overview of Railway Group D Recruitment 2026
RRB Group D Bharti 2026 posts form the backbone of Indian Railways’ operational workforce. These roles include track maintainers, helpers, porters, and other essential support positions across railway zones.
What makes this recruitment special is:
- Large-scale intake (22,000+ posts)
- Centralised recruitment process
- Entry-level eligibility
- Strong job security with government benefits
For aspirants preparing for Railway Group D Recruitment 2026, this announcement provides a clear signal to start preparations immediately.
About CEN No. 09/2025 Notification- RRB Group D Bharti 2026
The CEN No. 09/2025 serves as a preliminary intimation to candidates. While detailed post-wise qualifications and medical standards will be published later, this notice helps applicants get “exam-ready” and document-ready.
Key highlights:
- Recruitment for Level-1 posts
- Pay Matrix Level 1 under 7th CPC
- Online applications only
- Aadhaar verification emphasized
Candidates must note that all final conditions will be governed by the detailed CEN, including corrigendums if issued.
Total Vacancies and Zone-wise Distribution
The Railway Recruitment Boards have announced approximately 22,000 vacancies (tentative) across all zones.
These vacancies will be distributed among:
- Central Railway
- Western Railway
- Northern Railway
- Southern Railway
- Eastern & North Eastern Railways
- South Central, South Western, and more
Exact zone-wise and category-wise vacancy breakup will be published in the detailed notification.
Important Dates and Application Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 21 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 20 February 2026 (23:59 hrs) |
| Mode of Application | Online Only |
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Online Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide
The Railway Group D application process is 100% online.
Step-by-step process:
- Visit https://www.rrbapply.gov.in
- Select your preferred RRB zone
- Register using basic details
- Complete Aadhaar-based verification
- Upload documents, photo, and signature
- Pay application fee (as applicable)
- Submit and download confirmation page
Candidates should avoid last-day rush to prevent technical issues.
Eligibility Criteria for Railway Group D Level-1
Age Limit (as on 01.01.2026)
- Minimum: 18 years
- Maximum: 33 years
Age Relaxation:
- OBC: +3 years
- SC/ST: +5 years
- PwBD: As per government norms
Educational Qualification
The exact educational qualification will be notified in the detailed CEN. However, traditionally, 10th pass / ITI / equivalent candidates are eligible for Group D posts.
Candidates must ensure:
- Certificates are valid
- Details match Aadhaar and 10th certificate
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, and Allowances
- Pay Level: Level 1 (7th CPC)
- Initial Basic Pay: ₹18,000 per month
Additional Benefits:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Travel Allowances
- Medical facilities
- Pension benefits (as per applicable rules)
This makes Railway Group D one of the most stable government jobs in India.
Medical Standards and Physical Fitness
Medical standards are critical in railway jobs due to operational safety.
Candidates must meet:
- Vision standards
- Physical fitness norms
- Zone/post-specific medical category requirements
Details will be clearly mentioned in the final notification.
Aadhaar-Based Verification – Mandatory Guidelines
RRBs have strongly emphasized Aadhaar verification.
Important Aadhaar rules:
- Name and DOB must 100% match with 10th certificate
- Aadhaar must have latest photo
- Biometrics (fingerprint & iris) must be updated
Failure to comply may lead to application rejection or delays.
Selection Process for Railway Group D Posts
The expected selection stages include:
- Computer Based Test (CBT)
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Final merit will be prepared based on CBT performance and eligibility compliance.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus (Expected)
Although the official syllabus is awaited, CBT generally includes:
- Mathematics
- General Science
- General Awareness
- Reasoning
Candidates should follow previous Group D exam trends for preparation.
Important Instructions and Official Warnings
BEWARE OF TOUTS, BROKERS, AND JOB RACKETEERS
RRBs clearly warn:
- No agent can secure a railway job
- Recruitment is purely merit-based
- Always rely on official websites only
Official RRB Websites – Region-wise List
Candidates must check updates only on official RRB sites, such as:
- Ahmedabad: www.rrbahmedabad.gov.in
- Ajmer: www.rrbajmer.gov.in
- Bangalore: www.rrbbnc.gov.in
- Mumbai: www.mbmumbai.gov.in
- Patna: www.rrbpatna.gov.in
For reference on government recruitment norms, you may also visit https://www.india.gov.in.
Why This Railway Recruitment is a Golden Opportunity
- Massive vacancies
- Low entry barrier
- High job security
- Nationwide postings
- Respectable government career
For freshers and experienced candidates alike, this is a once-in-a-year opportunity.
FAQs – Railway Group D Recruitment 2026
Q1. How many vacancies are announced in Railway Group D 2026?
Approximately 22,000 vacancies are announced across all RRBs.
Q2. What is the last date to apply?
The last date is 20 February 2026 (23:59 hrs).
Q3. What is the salary for Railway Group D posts?
The initial basic pay is ₹18,000 per month under 7th CPC.
Q4. Is Aadhaar mandatory for application?
Yes, Aadhaar-based verification is strongly advised.
Q5. What is the age limit?
Candidates must be between 18 to 33 years as on 01.01.2026.
Q6. Where can I apply online?
Only through https://www.rrbapply.gov.in.
Conclusion and Final Advice to Candidates
The Railway Group D Recruitment 2026 under CEN No. 09/2025 is a landmark opportunity for government job aspirants. With over 22,000 vacancies, transparent recruitment, and attractive pay, candidates should prepare diligently and ensure document accuracy, especially Aadhaar compliance.
Stay alert, follow official sources, and start your preparation early to secure your place in Indian Railways.
