Introduction: A Golden Opportunity Awaits at BLW Varanasi!
Are you ready to kickstart your career with one of India’s most prestigious organizations? The Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), a powerhouse of Indian Railways located in the historic city of Varanasi, has rolled out its much-awaited BLW Apprentice Recruitment 2025. This is your chance to secure one of the 374 coveted apprentice positions for both ITI and Non-ITI candidates. Imagine gaining invaluable hands-on experience, learning from the best in the industry, and earning a handsome stipend while you train. This recruitment drive is not just about a training program; it’s a stepping stone to a bright and successful future in the technical field. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! The application window is open, but it closes sharp at 16:45 Hrs on August 5, 2025. Read on to discover everything you need to know to join the esteemed 47th Batch of Act Apprentices at BLW.
About the Organization: Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW)
- Hiring Organization: Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Indian Railways
- Total Posts: 374 Vacancies
- Post Name: Act Apprentice (47th Batch)
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Application Mode: Online
Banaras Locomotive Works, formerly known as Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW), is a premier production unit of Indian Railways. Nestled in the spiritual heart of India, Varanasi, BLW is renowned for manufacturing state-of-the-art diesel-electric and electric locomotives. An apprenticeship here means you’ll be at the forefront of railway technology, contributing to the nation’s lifeline while honing your skills in a world-class industrial environment. This is more than just training; it’s an immersive experience in excellence and innovation.
BLW Apprentice Vacancy Breakdown 2025
BLW has meticulously distributed the 374 vacancies between ITI and Non-ITI candidates to provide opportunities for a wide range of aspiring technicians. The detailed breakdown is as follows:
ITI Seats (300 Vacancies)
| Trade | Total Seats |
|---|---|
| Fitter | 107 |
| Carpenter | 03 |
| Painter (Gen.) | 07 |
| Machinist | 67 |
| Welder (G&E) | 45 |
| Electrician | 71 |
Non-ITI Seats (74 Vacancies)
| Trade | Total Seats |
|---|---|
| Fitter | 30 |
| Machinist | 15 |
| Welder (G&E) | 11 |
| Electrician | 18 |
(Note: The number of vacancies is subject to change as per the requirements of the BLW administration. Reservations for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PWD/Ex-Servicemen are applicable as per government norms.)
Eligibility Criteria: Do You Have What It Takes?
Before you rush to apply, it’s crucial to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by BLW. The requirements are straightforward and have been detailed below.
Educational Qualification (as on 05/07/2025)
- For Non-ITI Candidates:
- You must have passed the 10th Class (Matriculation) examination or its equivalent under the 10+2 examination system.
- A minimum of 50% aggregate marks in the 10th standard is mandatory.
- For ITI Candidates:
- You must have passed the 10th Class (Matriculation) examination or its equivalent with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.
- Additionally, you must possess an ITI pass certificate in the relevant trade from a recognized institution (NCVT/SCVT).
- Relevant ITI Trades: Fitter, Carpenter, Painter (Gen.), Machinist, Welder (Gas & Electric), Electrician.
Important Note: Candidates who are awaiting their results (appearing) are not eligible to apply. You must have your final mark sheet/certificate issued on or before the notification date (July 5, 2025).
Age Limit (as on 05/08/2025)
- For Non-ITI: Candidates should have completed 15 years of age and should not be more than 22 years old.
- For ITI (Fitter, Machinist, Electrician, Painter): Candidates should have completed 15 years of age and should not be more than 24 years old.
- For ITI (Welder & Carpenter): The age limit is stricter for these trades. Candidates must be between 15 and 22 years of age.
Age Relaxation
The upper age limit is relaxable for reserved categories as per government rules:
- SC/ST Candidates: 05 Years
- OBC Candidates: 03 Years
- Persons with Disability (PWD): Up to 10 years for UR, 13 years for OBC, and 15 years for SC/ST.
Mark Your Calendar: Important Dates
Staying on top of deadlines is key to a successful application. Here are the crucial dates you cannot afford to miss:
- Notification Release Date: July 5, 2025
- Online Application Start Date: July 5, 2025
- Last Date for Online Application: August 5, 2025 (until 16:45 Hrs)
- Last Date for Online Fee Payment: August 5, 2025 (until 16:45 Hrs)
- Last Date to Upload Documents: August 7, 2025 (until 16:45 Hrs)
Salary & Benefits: More Than Just a Stipend
While the primary goal of an apprenticeship is skill acquisition, a healthy stipend makes the journey smoother. As a BLW Act Apprentice, you will receive a monthly stipend as per the directives of the Railway Board and the Ministry of Labour. This financial support allows you to manage your expenses while focusing entirely on your training.
But the real value lies beyond the stipend. An apprenticeship with Banaras Locomotive Works is an investment in your future. Here’s what you gain:
- Invaluable Practical Experience: You’ll work on real projects with cutting-edge machinery and technology, gaining practical skills that textbooks can never provide.
- Skill Development: Under the mentorship of experienced railway professionals, you will master your trade, learning industry best practices and safety protocols.
- Prestigious Certification: Upon successful completion, you will receive a National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) from NCVT, a qualification that is highly respected across industries in India and abroad.
- Edge in Future Recruitments: As per railway recruitment norms, apprentices trained in Railway establishments are often given preference or relaxation in physical efficiency tests during future Group D recruitments.
- Professional Networking: You will build a network of contacts within the railway ecosystem, which can be immensely beneficial for your future career growth.
- Personal Growth: The disciplined and professional environment at BLW will instill a strong work ethic, problem-solving skills, and a sense of responsibility.
The Selection Process: Simple and Merit-Based
Worried about complex exams? Relax! The selection process for the BLW Apprentice Recruitment is refreshingly straightforward and transparent.
- Merit List Preparation: The selection will be based purely on merit. A merit list will be prepared based on the percentage of marks you have obtained in your 10th Class (Matriculation) examination.
- No Weightage for ITI Scores: For ITI candidates, while possessing an ITI certificate is mandatory, the marks obtained in ITI will not be given any extra weightage in the merit calculation. The selection still hinges on your 10th-grade performance.
- Tie-Breaker Rule:
- If two candidates have the same marks, the candidate older in age will be given preference.
- If the date of birth is also the same, the candidate who passed the matriculation exam earlier will be ranked higher.
- Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification at BLW, Varanasi. You will need to produce all your original documents at this stage.
- Medical Examination: Finally, selected candidates must clear a medical examination as per the standards prescribed by the Railway administration.
How to Apply Online: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to submit your application successfully:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official BLW website (link provided below).
- Register: Click on the link for the “47th Batch Act. Apprentice/2024-25” notification. Register yourself by providing your basic details.
- Fill the Application Form: Log in and fill out the online application form with accurate details. Remember, you can only apply for one trade (either ITI or Non-ITI). Applying for both will lead to cancellation of your candidature.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload the required documents in JPG/JPEG format (size between 100-200 kb). This includes your photograph (20-50 kb), signature, 10th mark sheet, ITI certificate (if applicable), and category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PWD).
- Pay the Application Fee: Proceed to the payment gateway and pay the application fee using a debit card, credit card, or internet banking.
- Final Submission: Review your application form carefully before final submission. Once submitted, you cannot make any changes.
- Print Out: Take a printout of the final submitted application form and the fee receipt for your records.
Application Fees
- For General / OBC / EWS Candidates: ₹ 100/-
- For SC / ST / PWD / Women Candidates: No Fee (Exempted)
The fee is non-refundable and must be paid online.
Official Notification & Apply Link
- Download Official Notification PDF: Click Here
- Direct Link to Apply Online: Click Here
Official Links
- Official Website: blw.indianrailways.gov.in
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