The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has released the RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 notification under CEN 05/2026 for 590 paramedical vacancies in Indian Railways. The recruitment includes Nursing Superintendent, Pharmacist, Radiographer, Health & Malaria Inspector, Lab Assistant, ECG Technician, Optometrist, Audiologist & Speech Therapist and Dialysis Technician posts.
Eligible candidates can submit their applications online from 15 September 2026 to 14 October 2026 through the official RRB application portal. The selection process will include a Computer-Based Test (CBT), Document Verification and Medical Examination. Candidates can check the post-wise vacancies, educational qualification, age limit, application fee, salary, syllabus, important dates and application process below.
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Quick Overview — RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Name | RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Railway Recruitment Board (RRB), Ministry of Railways |
| Notification Number | CEN No. 05/2026 |
| Notification Date | 12 September 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 15 September 2026 |
| Application Last Date | 14 October 2026 (23:59 hrs) |
| Fee Payment Last Date | 16 October 2026 |
| Modification Window | 17 October 2026 to 26 October 2026 |
| Scribe Details Submission | 27 October 2026 to 31 October 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 590 (across all RRBs) |
| Number of Posts | 9 paramedical categories |
| Pay Level | Level 3 to Level 7 (7th CPC) |
| Starting Salary | Rs 21,700 to Rs 44,900 |
| Age Limit (as on 01.01.2027) | 18 to 40 years (varies by post) |
| Application Mode | Online only |
| Application Fee (General) | Rs 500 (Rs 400 refunded after CBT) |
| Application Fee (Reserved) | Rs 250 (refunded after CBT) |
| Selection Process | CBT → Document Verification → Medical Examination |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 mark per wrong answer |
| CBT Medium | English, Hindi, and 13 regional Indian languages |
| Application Portal | rrbapply.gov.in |
| Helpline Email | rrb.help@csc.gov.in |
| Helpline Phone | 9592001188 / 01725653333 |
What Is RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 ?
RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 is a national-level examination conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. The notification (CEN 05/2026, dated 12 September 2026) invites online applications from eligible Indian citizens for 590 paramedical posts across Indian Railways. It offers permanent Group C positions with 7th CPC pay scales, job security, and associated central government benefits.
The recruitment covers nine paramedical categories, from Nursing Superintendent at Pay Level 7 to Lab Assistant Grade II at Pay Level 3. Candidates apply to one RRB only, which handles the entire process for that candidate — CBT, document verification, and medical examination. The earlier short notice (8 September 2026) mentioned 560 tentative vacancies; the detailed notification revised this to 590. This is a recovery from the previous cycle (CEN 03/2025), which had 434 vacancies.
RRB Paramedical 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Detailed notification published | 12 September 2026 |
| Online application start | 15 September 2026 |
| Online application last date | 14 October 2026 (23:59 hrs) |
| Fee payment last date | 16 October 2026 |
| Modification window | 17 October 2026 to 26 October 2026 |
| Scribe details submission | 27 October 2026 to 31 October 2026 |
| CBT exam date | To be notified on official RRB website |
| E-call letter download | 4 days before CBT exam date |
| Exam city intimation | 10 days before CBT exam date |
The application window is open for 30 days. Fee payment extends two days beyond the application deadline. The modification window allows corrections at Rs 250 per modification, but the mobile number, email ID, and chosen RRB entered during account creation cannot be changed at any stage.
RRB Paramedical 2026 Post-Wise Vacancy Details
| S.No. | Post Name | Pay Level | Starting Salary (Rs) | Medical Standard | Age (as on 01.01.2027) | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nursing Superintendent | 7 | 44,900 | C1 | 20-40 | 365 |
| 2 | Dialysis Technician | 6 | 35,400 | B1 | 20-33 | 1 |
| 3 | Health & Malaria Inspector Grade II | 6 | 35,400 | C1 | 18-33 | 43 |
| 4 | Audiologist & Speech Therapist | 6 | 35,400 | B1 | 21-30 | 1 |
| 5 | Pharmacist (Entry Grade) | 5 | 29,200 | C2 | 20-35 | 118 |
| 6 | Radiographer (X-Ray Technician) | 5 | 29,200 | B1 | 19-33 | 25 |
| 7 | ECG Technician | 4 | 25,500 | C1 | 18-33 | 4 |
| 8 | Optometrist | 4 | 25,500 | B1 | 18-33 | 2 |
| 9 | Lab Assistant Grade II | 3 | 21,700 | B1 | 18-33 | 31 |
| Total (all RRBs) | 590 | |||||
Category-Wise Vacancy Breakup
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Unreserved (UR) | 255 |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 106 |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 69 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 113 |
| Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) | 46 |
| Total | 590 |
Additionally, horizontal reservation applies for Ex-Servicemen (49 vacancies) and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD). PwBD vacancies include 28 for Visual Impairment and 11 for Locomotor Disability, with the remainder as backlog. The detailed RRB-wise and zone-wise breakup is in Annexure B of the official notification.
RRB Paramedical 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
| Post Name | Qualification Required |
|---|---|
| Nursing Superintendent | 3-year GNM course from an INC-recognised institution with registration as Nurse and Midwife, OR B.Sc. Nursing. |
| Dialysis Technician | B.Sc. plus Diploma in Hemodialysis, OR 2 years in-house training/experience in Hemodialysis. B.Sc. in Dialysis Technology also accepted. |
| Health & Malaria Inspector Grade II | B.Sc. with Chemistry as main/elective subject, plus 1-year Diploma in Sanitary Health Inspector OR 1-year NTC in Health/Sanitary Inspector from NCVT. |
| Audiologist & Speech Therapist | Bachelor’s in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (BASLP) from a recognised university, with RCI registration. |
| Pharmacist (Entry Grade) | B.Pharm from a recognised institution with Pharmacist registration under Pharmacy Act, 1948. OR D.Pharm with registration. |
| Radiographer (X-Ray Technician) | 10+2 with Physics and Chemistry, plus Diploma in Radiography/X-Ray Technician (2-year course). B.Sc. in Medical Imaging Technology also accepted. |
| ECG Technician | 10+2 in Science or Science Graduate, plus Certificate/Diploma/Degree in ECG Lab Technology or Cardiology (minimum 1-year course). |
| Optometrist | B.Sc. in Optometry OR Diploma in Ophthalmic Technology (3-4 years), with council registration. |
| Lab Assistant Grade II | 10+2 in Science, plus Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (DMLT) or equivalent from a recognised institution. |
All qualifications must be obtained on or before 14 October 2026. Candidates awaiting final results are not eligible. Certificates must bear the date of issuance; if issued after the last date, mark sheets with result declaration dates must be produced at Document Verification.
Age Limit and Relaxations
| Category | Upper Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | +5 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | +3 years |
| Ex-Servicemen (UR and EWS) | +3 years (after deducting service period) |
| Ex-Servicemen (OBC-NCL) | +6 years (after deducting service period) |
| Ex-Servicemen (SC and ST) | +8 years (after deducting service period) |
| PwBD (UR and EWS) | +10 years |
| PwBD (OBC-NCL) | +13 years |
| PwBD (SC and ST) | +15 years |
| Railway employees with 3+ years service (UR/EWS) | Up to 40 years |
| Railway employees with 3+ years service (OBC-NCL) | Up to 43 years |
| Railway employees with 3+ years service (SC/ST) | Up to 45 years |
If a candidate qualifies for relaxation under multiple categories, only the maximum single relaxation applies — not cumulative. SC, ST, and OBC-NCL candidates applying for unreserved vacancies receive no age relaxation. The date of birth in the 10th class certificate is final; no changes are permitted.
Nationality
A candidate must be a citizen of India, Nepal, or Bhutan, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries, or Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India. Those falling under the latter categories must produce a Government of India eligibility certificate at Document Verification.
RRB Paramedical 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Fee | Refund After CBT |
|---|---|---|
| All candidates (UR, OBC, EWS) | Rs 500 | Rs 400 (bank charges deducted) |
| SC, ST, Ex-SM, PwBD, Female, Transgender, Minority, EBC | Rs 250 | Full Rs 250 (bank charges deducted) |
Payment is accepted only through Internet Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card, or UPI. No offline mode is available. The refund is credited to the bank account linked with the candidate’s Aadhaar. During application, candidates must authenticate their Aadhaar; if no bank account is linked, they will be redirected to the NPCI portal for real-time linking.
EBC candidates (annual family income below Rs 50,000) must possess a valid EBC income certificate, BPL card, or Izat MST card issued on or before 14 October 2026. EBC is distinct from EWS and OBC — it provides fee concession only, not job reservation.
How to Apply for RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026
- Create an account: Visit rrb.indianrailways.gov.in or rrbapply.gov.in. Click on the CEN 05/2026 link. New users click “Create an Account” and enter name (as per 10th certificate), parents’ names, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID. These cannot be changed later.
- Authenticate identity: Use Aadhaar or DigiLocker for faster verification. Alternative photo IDs trigger more stringent checks at each stage.
- Fill the application form: Enter personal details, educational qualifications, category, post and zone preferences. Select the exam medium (English, Hindi, or one of 13 regional languages). Choose your RRB carefully — it cannot be changed.
- Capture live photograph: The module takes a live photo via webcam or phone camera. Wear non-white clothes. Do not wear caps, masks, or glasses. This photo must match your appearance at all stages.
- Upload signature: Scanned signature in JPG/JPEG format, 30-49 KB, at least 140×60 pixels. Use black ink on white paper in running handwriting (not block capitals).
- Pay the fee: Pay Rs 500 or Rs 250 (as applicable) via online mode. Application is accepted only after successful payment.
- Print the confirmation: Take a printout of the completed application. No physical copy needs to be sent to RRB.
RRB Paramedical 2026 Selection Process
Stage 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
The first stage of the RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 selection process is a single-stage Computer-Based Test (CBT). The exam consists of objective-type multiple-choice questions covering post-specific technical subjects along with General Arithmetic, General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, and General Science up to the 10th standard CBSE level.
There is a negative marking of 1/3 mark for every incorrect answer. The question paper is available in English, Hindi and 13 regional Indian languages. Candidates can enter the examination hall only with the permitted e-call letter and required identity documents. Pens, pencils, calculators, mobile phones and other electronic devices are not allowed inside the exam centre. A pen will be provided at the examination centre.
Stage 2: Document Verification (DV)
Candidates who qualify in the CBT are shortlisted for Document Verification based on the vacancies available for the respective post. As per the recruitment process, candidates are called for DV in a 1:1 ratio against the available vacancies.
At the time of Document Verification, candidates must present their original educational, category, age and other required certificates along with two sets of self-attested photocopies. Required scanned documents also have to be uploaded through the prescribed DV portal before the scheduled DV date.
Candidates whose certificates are issued in a language other than English or Hindi must submit self-attested translated copies. Failure to produce the required original documents or remaining absent from Document Verification can result in cancellation of candidature.
Stage 3: Medical Examination (ME)
Candidates who successfully clear Document Verification are required to undergo a Medical Examination conducted by the Railway administration. The prescribed medical standard depends on the post, with B1, C1 and C2 standards applicable to different paramedical positions.
The medical examination includes assessment of visual acuity, general physical fitness and other requirements prescribed under the Indian Railway Medical Manual (IRMM), Volume I, Chapter 5. Candidates who do not meet the required medical standard for the post for which they are selected will not be empanelled, and no alternative appointment will be offered.
A medical appeal facility is available to eligible candidates on payment of the prescribed fee within the specified time. The decision taken after the medical appeal will be final and binding.
RRB Paramedical 2026 CBT Syllabus
Common Subjects (All Posts)
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| General Arithmetic | Number system, BODMAS, decimals, fractions, LCM/HCF, ratio and proportion, percentage, mensuration, time and work, time and distance, simple and compound interest, profit and loss, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, elementary statistics, calendar and clock, pipes and cistern |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | Analogies, alphabetical and number series, coding and decoding, mathematical operations, syllogism, Venn diagrams, data interpretation, conclusion and decision making, analytical reasoning |
| General Awareness | Current affairs, Indian geography, history of India including freedom struggle, Indian polity and constitution, Indian economy, environmental issues, sports, general scientific and technological developments |
| General Science | Physics, Chemistry, and Biology up to 10th class CBSE level |
Post-Specific Technical Subjects
Each post has a dedicated technical syllabus from the core subjects of the relevant qualification:
- Nursing Superintendent: Anatomy and Physiology, Fundamentals of Nursing, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Child Health Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, Midwifery and Obstetrical Nursing, Nursing Research and Statistics.
- Pharmacist (Entry Grade): Human Anatomy and Physiology, Pharmaceutical Analysis, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutics, Biochemistry, Pathophysiology, Computer Applications in Pharmacy, Forensic Pharmacy, Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics.
- Radiographer (X-Ray Technician): Anatomy and Physiology, Radiological Physics, Radiation Physics, X-Ray Machines and Equipment, Film Processing Technology, Diagnostic Radiography, Contrast and Special Radiography Procedures, Radiation Safety and Quality Control.
- Health & Malaria Inspector Grade II: Food and Nutrition, Environmental Sanitation and Sanitary Engineering, Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases (Prevention and Control), Health and Mortality Statistics.
- Lab Assistant Grade II: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Fundamentals of Medical Laboratory Technology, Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Pathology and Histopathology, Haematology and Blood Bank.
- ECG Technician: Anatomy and Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Heart Diseases overview, Basic and Advanced Cardiac Investigations.
- Optometrist: Physical and Geometrical Optics, Anatomy and Physiology of the Eye, Pharmacology, Pathology, Refraction, Binocular Vision, Low Vision Aids, Contact Lens, Public Health and Community Optometry.
- Audiologist & Speech Therapist: Speech and Language Development and Disorders, Audiology and Hearing Assessment, Diagnostic and Rehabilitative Audiology, Hearing Aids and Amplification Devices, Pediatric Audiology, Voice and Laryngectomy Management.
- Dialysis Technician: Anatomy and Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Kidney Diseases overview, Principles and Practice of Dialysis.
RRB Paramedical 2026 Medical Standards
| Standard | General Health | Distant Vision | Near Vision |
|---|---|---|---|
| B1 | Physically fit in all respects | 6/9, 6/12 with or without glasses (lens power not exceeding 4D) | Sn: 0.6, 0.6 with or without glasses |
| C1 | Physically fit in all respects | 6/12, 6/18 with or without glasses | Sn: 0.6, 0.6 with or without glasses |
| C2 | Physically fit in all respects | 6/12 with or without glasses (one eye can be nil) | Sn: 0.6 combined |
Candidates must also pass tests for colour vision, binocular vision, night vision, and mesopic vision. LASIK surgery candidates may qualify for B1 standard if they meet specific criteria: no post-surgery complications, surgery at least one year prior, residual corneal thickness of at least 425 microns on pachymetry, and normal fundus. Detailed medical standards are in the IRMM Volume I, Chapter 5, at indianrailways.gov.in.
Salary Structure and Allowances
Selected candidates receive pay as per the 7th Central Pay Commission, along with several allowances that significantly increase the in-hand salary. The basic pay for each post is given in the vacancy table above. Over and above basic pay, the following allowances apply:
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Currently around 50% of basic pay, revised every six months based on the Consumer Price Index. This is the largest component after basic pay.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Varies by city classification — 27% (Class X cities), 18% (Class Y cities), or 9% (Class Z cities) of basic pay. Railway quarters may be provided instead of HRA.
- Transport Allowance: Ranges from Rs 1,350 to Rs 3,600 per month plus DA thereon, depending on the posting location and pay level.
- Night Duty Allowance: Applicable for night shift duties, especially for nursing and technical staff.
- Uniform Allowance: Provided to Nursing Superintendents and other posts requiring uniform.
- Washing Allowance: For uniform maintenance.
- Medical Facility: Free medical treatment for self and dependant family members at Railway hospitals and dispensaries under the Railway Medical Attendance Rules.
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC): For travel to home town and other places within India.
- Pension: Coverage under the National Pension System (NPS) with employer contribution.
- Gratuity: Retirement gratuity as per railway rules.
- Education Allowance: Children’s education allowance and hostel subsidy.
For example, a Nursing Superintendent (Pay Level 7, basic pay Rs 44,900) would receive approximately Rs 67,000 as basic plus DA, plus HRA and transport allowance, bringing the gross monthly salary to roughly Rs 75,000–85,000 depending on the posting city. A Pharmacist (Pay Level 5, basic Rs 29,200) would receive approximately Rs 45,000–55,000 gross. These are indicative figures; actual amounts vary with DA revision, posting location, and other factors.
Normalisation of Marks
When the CBT is conducted in multiple sessions or shifts across different days, the marks obtained by candidates are normalised to account for variation in difficulty levels. The normalisation formula used by RRB is based on the percentile equivalence method. This ensures that no candidate is disadvantaged by being allotted a tougher shift. The normalised score is used for preparing the merit list. Candidates should not be concerned about which shift they are allotted — the normalisation process is designed to be fair across all sessions.
Exam Day Guidelines and Prohibited Items
The following items are strictly prohibited inside the examination centre: mobile phones, pagers, watches (including smart watches), earphones, Bluetooth devices, microphones, head-bands, calculators, books, pens, pencils, erasers, scales, writing pads, bags, handbags, cups, pouches, cameras, water bottles, and packaged or open food items. Candidates are also advised not to apply mehndi (henna) on hands or feet, as it interferes with biometric capture.
Only the e-call letter is permitted inside the exam hall. A pen will be provided at the centre. Candidates must carry a valid original photo identity proof (Voter ID, Aadhaar, e-Aadhaar printout, driving licence, PAN card, passport, or employer-issued photo ID for government employees) along with the e-call letter. A colour passport photograph not older than two months must also be brought and affixed at the designated space. No cloakroom facility is available at exam centres, so candidates should not bring valuable items.
Violation of these instructions will result in disqualification, legal action, and debarment from all future RRB and RRC examinations.
Scribe Facility for PwBD Candidates
Candidates with benchmark disabilities who are eligible for scribe assistance include those with blindness, locomotor disability (both arms affected — BA), and cerebral palsy. For other benchmark disability categories, scribe assistance is provided only if the candidate produces a certificate from a government health institution’s Chief Medical Officer or Civil Surgeon confirming a physical limitation in writing and the need for a scribe.
Candidates with less than 40% disability (who fall under Section 2(s) but not 2(r) of the RPwD Act, 2016) and have difficulty writing may also avail scribe assistance, subject to submitting the required certificate (Annexure V-D) and an undertaking (Annexure V-E) at the exam centre.
The scribe must be registered on the RRB portal at rrbapply.gov.in and possess a valid One Time Registration (OTR) number. The candidate must arrange the scribe themselves. The scribe’s educational qualification must be one level below the candidate’s qualifying examination. A scribe can assist only one candidate per CEN. If the scribe independently answers questions, the candidate’s exam session will be terminated and candidature cancelled.
Document Verification Checklist
Candidates called for Document Verification must bring the following original documents, along with two self-attested photocopy sets:
- 10th class (Matriculation/SSLC) certificate as proof of date of birth
- Educational qualification certificates (provisional or regular) with date of issuance
- Mark sheets of all semesters/years of the qualifying examination
- Caste or community certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS) in the prescribed format, issued by a competent authority
- OBC-NCL certificate issued on or after 1 April 2025, with self-declaration (Annexure II-A)
- EWS Income and Asset Certificate (Annexure III)
- Ex-Servicemen discharge certificate and service certificate (Annexure VI-A)
- PwBD disability certificate (as per RPwD Act, 2016)
- Aadhaar card
- Coloured passport photograph (not older than 2 months)
- Scanned signature (in original colour)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer, if applicable
- Minority community declaration on non-judicial stamp paper (Annexure V)
- EBC income certificate or BPL card or Izat MST card (for EBC fee concession claimants)
All certificates must be in English or Hindi. If in another language, self-attested translated versions must be provided. Candidates who fail to produce any original document will have their candidature cancelled with no additional time given.
Anti-Fraud Measures and Public Examinations Act 2024
RRB has implemented strict anti-fraud measures under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 (effective from 21 June 2024, amended as of 31 July 2026). Any candidate found using unfair means — including impersonation, forgery, cheating, use of prohibited electronic devices, or submitting false documents — will be debarred for life from all RRB and RRC examinations, dismissed from service if already appointed, and may face legal prosecution.
The RRB conducts extensive post-examination analysis including login analysis, photograph and biometric verification, and CCTV footage review. Candidates found involved in any form of malpractice at any stage face cancellation of candidature and debarment from all future railway examinations.
The RRB does not authorise any agent, agency, or coaching centre for recruitment. Candidates are warned against individuals or entities claiming to offer railway jobs in exchange for money. Selection is based entirely on merit in the CBT. Candidates who attempt to influence the RRB through any means will be disqualified and face legal action.
Career Growth and Promotion Prospects
Paramedical staff recruited under CEN 05/2026 join Indian Railways as Group C employees with structured career progression. The promotion pathway typically follows departmental examinations and seniority-based increments:
- Nursing Superintendent (Level 7): Can progress to Senior Nursing Superintendent, Chief Nursing Superintendent, and higher administrative roles through departmental exams and seniority.
- Pharmacist (Level 5): Can be promoted to Senior Pharmacist, Chief Pharmacist, and Pharmacy Superintendent through departmental examinations.
- Health & Malaria Inspector (Level 6): Progression to Senior Health Inspector and Health Officer roles.
- Technical posts (Radiographer, ECG Technician, Lab Assistant, etc.): Can advance to Senior Technician and Chief Technician positions.
- MACP Scheme: The Modified Assured Career Progression (MACP) scheme grants financial upgradation after 10, 20, and 30 years of service if no regular promotion occurs, ensuring salary growth even without promotion.
- Departmental examinations: Conducted regularly by the Railways for eligible employees to move to higher grades within their cadre.
- Inter-departmental transfers: Possible for employees who complete minimum service periods and meet eligibility criteria.
Additionally, railway employees receive benefits such as free or concessional rail travel passes for self and family, subsidized housing in railway colonies, and access to railway schools and hospitals for dependants. The Railway Welfare Organisation and Sahyog Cooperative Credit Society provide further support.
Posting Location and Transfer Policy
Generally, a railway employee is posted to the railway or railway establishment where they receive their first appointment and serves there for their entire career. However, a competent authority may transfer an employee to another department or railway establishment within India or abroad based on administrative requirements.
New appointees cannot request transfer to another railway for at least 5 to 10 years of service (the minimum service period varies). Candidates are advised to choose their RRB carefully, considering their preferred zone and proximity to home. Once allotted a post and railway based on the options chosen during application, the candidate loses the right to be considered for any other post or category at the same pay level.
Selected candidates may be required to execute a security and/or indemnity bond at the time of joining, depending on the post. They are also liable for short-service commission in the Railway Medical Organisation’s military railway medical units, as applicable.
RRB Paramedical 2026 Reservation Policy
Vertical Reservation
CEN 05/2026 provides vertical reservation for SC, ST, OBC-NCL, and EWS categories where applicable. All candidates, regardless of community, are considered for unreserved vacancies. Reserved vacancies are filled only by candidates of the specific community. OBC candidates in the “Creamy Layer” are not eligible for OBC reservation and are treated as unreserved.
OBC-NCL certificates must be issued on or after 1 April 2025 and must not predate the application deadline. The caste must be in the Central OBC list at ncbc.nic.in. EWS candidates need an Income and Asset Certificate (family income below Rs 8 lakh, and no specified assets like 5+ acres agricultural land or 1000+ sq ft residential flat).
Horizontal Reservation
Ex-Servicemen and PwBD candidates receive horizontal reservation irrespective of community. Ex-Servicemen can also apply for unreserved vacancies with age and fee concessions. PwBD candidates can apply for regular vacancies if the post is suitable for their disability type. Benchmark disabilities under the RPwD Act, 2016 include blindness and low vision, deaf and hard of hearing, locomotor disability, autism, intellectual disability, specific learning disability, mental illness, and multiple disabilities.
Application Modification Window
After submitting the application, candidates can modify certain details by paying Rs 250 per modification. The window opens on 17 October 2026 and closes on 26 October 2026. The mobile number, email ID, and chosen RRB cannot be changed. If a candidate changes category from SC/ST to UR/OBC/EWS or from Ex-Servicemen/PwBD to non-reserved, they must pay the fee difference of Rs 250 in addition to the modification fee. No modification requests are accepted after 26 October 2026.
Previous Year Vacancy Trends
| CEN Number | Total Vacancies | Number of Categories |
|---|---|---|
| CEN 04/2024 | 1,376 | Multiple |
| CEN 03/2025 | 434 | 7 |
| CEN 05/2026 | 590 | 9 |
The 2026 cycle shows a recovery from the 2025 low of 434 vacancies and adds two more post categories compared to the previous cycle. However, it remains well below the 2024 level of 1,376 posts. Candidates should treat these as indicative trends, not guarantees of future vacancy counts.
Important Link for RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026
| Link Description | Direct Link |
| Direct Official Apply Link (Active : 15 September 2026) | Log In Create an account |
| RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 Official Notification PDF | Download Now |
| Official Website | Visit Website |
| For Any Educational Updates Join Telegram Channel | Notify U |
| For Study Material Subscribe YouTube Channel | Subscribe Notify U |
| For Any Educational Updates On Whatsapp | Join Whatsapp Channel |
RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
What is RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 ?
It is a Centralised Employment Notice (CEN 05/2026) by the Railway Recruitment Board for 590 paramedical posts in Indian Railways. Applications are open from 15 September to 14 October 2026.
How many vacancies are there in RRB Paramedical 2026 ?
There are 590 total vacancies across 9 posts. Nursing Superintendent has 365, Pharmacist has 118, Health and Malaria Inspector has 43, Lab Assistant has 31, Radiographer has 25, ECG Technician has 4, Optometrist has 2, Audiologist has 1, and Dialysis Technician has 1.
What is the application fee for RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 ?
The fee is Rs 500 for general candidates (Rs 400 refunded after CBT) and Rs 250 for SC, ST, Ex-Servicemen, PwBD, Female, Transgender, Minority, and EBC candidates (refunded after CBT).
What is the last date to apply for RRB Paramedical 2026 ?
The last date is 14 October 2026 at 23:59 hrs. The fee payment deadline is 16 October 2026.
What is the selection process for RRB Paramedical 2026 ?
Selection involves a CBT with negative marking (1/3 per wrong answer), followed by Document Verification and a Medical Examination. Final selection is based on CBT merit subject to clearing DV and ME.
What is the age limit for RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 ?
The age limit ranges from 18-33 to 20-40 years as on 01 January 2027, depending on the post. SC/ST get 5 years, OBC-NCL 3 years, and PwBD 10-15 years relaxation.
Where can I apply for RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 ?
Apply online at rrb.indianrailways.gov.in or rrbapply.gov.in from 15 September 2026.
Conclusion
The RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2026 under CEN 05/2026 is a significant opportunity for healthcare professionals to join Indian Railways as permanent Group C employees. With 590 vacancies across 9 paramedical categories, pay levels from Level 3 to Level 7, and the full range of central government allowances and benefits, this recruitment offers a stable and rewarding career path. The application window is open from 15 September to 14 October 2026, and candidates should apply well before the deadline. Verify your eligibility for the chosen post, prepare the required documents, and visit rrb.indianrailways.gov.in to begin the application process.
