RRB Paramedical Staff

RRB Paramedical: A Career in Healthcare with Indian Railways

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts recruitment for various Paramedical Categories to staff its extensive network of hospitals and health units across the country. This recruitment drive is a golden opportunity for individuals with qualifications in nursing, pharmacy, and other allied health sciences to secure a stable and prestigious government job. Posts include Staff Nurse, Pharmacist, Health & Malaria Inspector, and Lab Assistant. A career with Indian Railways offers not only job security but also a chance to serve the community, with excellent pay, benefits, and a structured career path.

Salary, Benefits, and Career Growth in RRB Paramedical

Working in the paramedical wing of Indian Railways is a highly rewarding experience.

Salary and Allowances: The salary for RRB Paramedical posts is based on the 7th Pay Commission pay levels, which vary by post. For instance, a Staff Nurse is typically placed in Level-7 with a starting basic pay of ₹44,900. In addition to the basic pay, employees receive Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and other special allowances, leading to an attractive monthly salary.

Comprehensive Benefits: Indian Railways is known for its extensive employee benefits, which include:

• Free and concessional railway passes for travel.
• Comprehensive medical facilities for the employee and their dependents.
• Pension benefits under the National Pension System (NPS).
• Accommodation in railway quarters (subject to availability).

Career Progression: The Indian Railways has a well-established system for promotions. Paramedical staff can advance to senior and administrative positions within the medical department through seniority and by clearing departmental examinations, ensuring steady career growth.

RRB Paramedical Selection Process

The selection is primarily based on a single-stage computer-based test, followed by document verification.

• Computer-Based Test (CBT): A single online examination is conducted for all posts. The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 90 minutes. The syllabus is divided into two parts: a professional ability section related to the specific paramedical discipline, and a general section covering General Awareness, Arithmetic, and Reasoning. There is a negative marking of 1/3rd for every incorrect answer.
• Document Verification: Candidates who qualify the CBT are called for document verification, where their original certificates and eligibility are confirmed.

Key Eligibility Criteria

• Education: Varies by post. For example, a B.Sc. in Nursing is required for Staff Nurse, a Diploma in Pharmacy for Pharmacist, and relevant degrees/diplomas for other technical posts.
• Age Limit: Generally ranges from 18 to 40 years, depending on the post, with relaxations for reserved categories.

How to Apply for the RRB Paramedical Exam

The application process is managed online through the official RRB websites.

1. Visit Official RRB Website: Candidates must visit the website of the RRB zone they wish to apply to (e.g., rrbchennai.gov.in, rrbald.gov.in).
2. Find the CEN Notification: Look for the Centralized Employment Notification (CEN) for Paramedical Categories and read it thoroughly.
3. New Registration: Click on the 'New Registration' link. Fill in your basic details like name, date of birth, and contact information to generate a Registration ID and password.
4. Fill the Online Application: Log in and complete the detailed application form, including educational qualifications and post preference.
5. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and required certificates as per the specifications.
6. Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online. The fee is ₹500 for General/OBC candidates (with ₹400 refundable after appearing in the CBT) and ₹250 for SC/ST/Women/Ex-Servicemen (fully refundable).
7. Final Submission: Verify all details and submit the application. Keep a printout of the application form for future reference.