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Group A services – Should or should not prepare for the Examination

By on August 15, 2013

There are four groups of services in Indian Railways namely Group A, B, C & D in descending order of hierarchy. In this chapter Group A service is talked upon

Group A services

This is the most sought after service. This group is responsible for the overall administrative, technical and managerial function associated with the Rail transport. The recruitment is through UPSC involving written examination and interview. As on date, there is two examination system for entry in Railways namely 1. IAS and allied services 2. Indian Engineering Services

IAS allied services

This examination is conducted by UPSC. This is the most prestigious Govt. Services in India.  This examination is for large numbers of Govt. Services and priority generally given by candidates are  IAS (Indian Administrative Services), IPS (Indian Police Service), IFS (Indian Foreign Services), IRS ( Indian Revenue Services), IRTS ( Indian Railway Traffic Services), IRAS  (Indian Railway Account Services), IRPS (Indian Railway Personnel Services) etc. Indian Railway commands a reasonable priority position of choice. The role and responsibilities attached to different  Railway services are as follows:

Latest Update: The eight Group A services will be merged into a central service called the Indian Railway Management Service. As explained below, earlier Indian Railways is organised into departments such as traffic, civil, mechanical, electrical, signal & telecom, stores, personnel, and accounts. These departments are vertically separated and are each headed by a secretary-level officer (member) in the Railway Board. They are bound together at Divisional and Zonal Railway through Divisional Railway Manager at Division and General Manager at Zonal Railway. The intention behind merging is that each vertically separated cadre works more for departmental interest and not for the overall interest of the Railways. This has called for restructuring the Railway Board with five members consisting of Chairman Railway Board (CEO), Member-Finance, Member-Infrastructure, Member-Rolling Stock, Member-Operation and Business Development.

Indian Railways and UPSC are in discussion about how to conduct the examination and to select the candidates with a specialised field of educational background.

However, to know what it exists today, one should continue to read as under.

Indian Railway Traffic Services (IRTS):

There are mainly two streams of this cadre namely operation and commercial. One of the functions of this cadre is public interfaces. The Traffic Department is responsible for the operation and running of trains.  The cadre of the Guard, Station Master, Controllers, administrative control of loco pilots at  HQ / Board level, etc. are under its control. The department is responsible for the utilization of fixed and rolling infrastructure. The commercial department is responsible for revenue collection, marketing, passenger interface, publicity, catering, etc. and Ticket Collector, Ticket sale, Reservation Clerk, Parcel and booking of freight under its control. This cadre commands a respectable position in the Indian Railway system because of the public interface, the responsibility of running of trains, attachment and movement of special coaches such as marriage, inspection carriages etc, the release of emergency quota for train reservation ticket etc.

The cadre commands respect in all areas of decision making connecting with rail transport. An officer selected for engineering services and if gets qualified for IRTS, prefers to join this service. In earlier days, the designation was ‘Superintendent’ like Divisional Operation Superintendent which later changed to managerial cadre with designation as Divisional Operation Manager etc. Power is always associated with responsibility, therefore, this is a 24×7 hour on-the-toe cadre. The cadre is one of the oldest cadres in Indian Railways and having a long list of distinguished officers who have contributed much in the development of Railways and strong fraternity. 

The highest position is Member(Traffic) equivalent to Ex-Officio Secretary to GOI for which IRTS officer is only entitled to occupy the position.

Indian Railway Personal Service (IRPS):

This cadre is responsible for the management and development of the human resource. The modern management has changed the function to Human Resource (HR) etc. whereas in Railways the function is still continuing as Personal Department. This service came into being in the year 1980 when the human resource was considered as a specialized function. Earlier, an officer from other cadres was drafted and posted as a Personnel Officer in the Division as well as in the Head Quarter. The human force works in different places and directly under the control of executive therefore, the real function of human resource development is primarily the responsibility of an executive department. The cadre is responsible for the assessment of manpower need, recruitment, selection, promotion, training,  payment, service records, vacancy assessment, negotiation with recognized labour unions, ensuring implementation of factory act, labour laws etc. Priority for this service is generally low unless a candidate has a specific passion for this type of profession. Power is less so is the responsibility and can have comfortable weekly off.

Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS):

The IRAS cadre of Indian Railways is responsible for the Finance and Accounting functions of the Railways. Core functions of this cadre include maintenance of accounts of Indian Railways and Financial Advice to the executive. At the zonal level, IRAS officers are designated as a Financial Adviser and Chief Account Officers while at the Division level, they are Divisional Finance Managers. Budget Management, Expenditure Control, Earnings Account, Financial scrutiny of various executive proposals are some of the functions performed by IRAS officers. Every expenditure in Indian Railways has to pass through Financial scrutiny. The IRAS cadre exercises substantial control over the affairs of the Indian Railway executives and therefore, derive power in its function and not much of the responsibility of 24×7 hours functioning and on toes management. The cadre came into being 1930 and having a very long list of fraternity to be proud of.

Till 80’s the cadre at the Division and HQ was not under the control of top management, i.e. Divisional Railway Manager or General Manager and executives are only running around to get their job done. Later on Account officers brought under the control of DRMs and GMs and the functioning changed in the interest of Railways. The priority for options to this cadre is also in line with IRTS.

Engineering Service Examination (ESE)

UPSC holds examination for all Group A services of Engineering of all Central Govt. Department like Railways, CPWD, Military Engineering Services, Defense Production etc. of which Indian Railways command the first priority in all streams of engineering functions like Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics and Communication etc. There are basically five engineering cadres recruited through UPSC  for Railways namely Indian Railway Service of Engineers, Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers, Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers, Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineers, Indian Railway Stores Service.

Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE):

Formation and laying of the track is the first job for any railway to start and therefore Civil Engineering is first engineering, to begin with, and therefore, it is called Engineering Department with assigning Civil along with it. The cadre is responsible for track and its formation, bridges, buildings, in-charge for all the land occupied by the Railways, water supply, etc. and occupies the prominent position in Railways. The cadre finds its root right from the inception of Railways, therefore, had a very strong fraternity of a maximum number of officers at any time.   The cadre is having a very strong say in all matters pertaining to Railway functioning. The cadre commands power because it owns responsibility for the maximum value of assets and also the responsibility requiring 24×7 hours duty with all the time on toes. There are a large number of Railways PSUs which gets its officer requirement from Indian Railways which offer the opportunity of working in a different type of environment. Head of most of the PSUs are officers from this cadre and has a strong fraternity. Mr S Shreedharan belongs to this cadre who retired as Member Engineering, the topmost post of engineering cadre in Railways before joining Konkan Railways and DMRC.

Signal and Telecommunication department was under Member/Engineering prior to its separation and coming under Member Electrical. This was for the reason that function of signalling and engineering depart goes together at ground level but with modern signalling, it was thought otherwise. But this later separated as a separate Member, but with the beginning of IRMS services, this will come under infrastructure cadre.

Joining Engineering cadre is like a dream coming true for every Civil Engineers.

There were 43 posts advertised in the year 2012 of which 6 posts reserved for Differently Able

Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers(IRSME) and Special Class Railway Apprentice (SCRA):

A train consists of an engine and coaches/wagon to transport passenger and freight. Mechanical department is responsible for locomotive, coaches and wagon for manufacturing, maintenance sheds, and workshop. It is also one of the oldest department of Indian Railways. There are two groups in Mechanical Cadre namely  Special Class Railway Apprentice (SCRA) and IRSME. In the case of SCRA, recruitment is though UPSC but with educational qualification of class XII with science and then training and providing a degree in Mechanical Engineering from some affiliated institute presently (BIT/Mesra). There is no purpose to continue with SCRA but for strong SCRA fraternity in Indian Railways.  As regards IRSME it is similar to any other engineering service. The cadre is headed by Member/Mechanical in Railway Board.

IRSME cadre is responsible for the manufacturing of Diesel locomotive(DLW), Coaches (ICF, RCF, Rai-Bareilly factory), maintenance of rolling assets at shed and workshop etc. There are two specialized functions i.e. Diesel Locomotive and other coaches and wagon. Chemical and Metallurgy is a small department in Indian Railways responsible for chemical and metallurgical testing of material and is under the Mechanical Department  Similarly, stores department which is a direct cadre from UPSC is also placed under Member/Mechanical

A young student preparing for IIT examination and if has the capability to qualify than it can as well qualify SCRA examination. The advantage is getting a stipend for years which otherwise you would have spent in any engineering college beside other benefits of free travel, medical etc. besides getting a degree from a recognized institute. The other major advantage is that of getting entry at the minimum age and thus benefit of rising to the highest level in the hierarchy.

As per the latest news, UPSC has proposed for discontinuation of SCRA exam reasoning that they already conducting examination for ESE (IRSME) for which they don’t have the required infrastructure. Indian Railway has given its consent to the proposal of UPSC. There is every possibility there will not any more recruitment for SCRA from this year. And finally, SCRA recruitment discontinued from 2017 onward.

Now with IRMS cadre coming into the system, the entire department will report to Member-Rolling Stock.

Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE)

IRSEE was a small cadre and was under Member/Mechanical till 1987 and, afterwards, under Member/Electrical who is from the cadre of IRSEE. Till the time of Steam Traction, the role of Electrical department was limited to electricity supply to railway establishment, railway station and train lighting and air conditioning and whatever little traction of about 500 RKM existing up to 50’s. With the introduction of Diesel and Electric locomotive, the scenario started changing with the Mechanical department responsible for Diesel Locomotive and Electrical Department responsible for Electric Locomotive. This led to departmental-ism and up-manship to prove the benefit of one traction over another. There is no difference in two locomotives except its source of powering i.e. Diesel engine or directly drawing power from overhead power. India is a net importer of crude oil, there is an obvious reason for electric traction to be economical, therefore, it started progressively introduced with all resistance possible and Electrical department making its position. Then, came the important day when it was decided to create the post of Member (Electrical) called ML,  to look after the management of electrical department along with Signal and Telecommunication department. Now Electrical and S&T departments are playing an important role of a major department and playing an important role of bringing new technologies to improve the transportation system. Air conditioning is also growing along with growth in the country and the day is not far when 60-70% coaches will be air-conditioned.

There are basically three specialized functions namely Electrical Locomotive/EMU Maintenance and Operation, Traction Distribution, Train Lighting and Air-Conditioning, General Services, Locomotive Manufacturing, Railway Electrification, Maintenance Sheds and Shops, Power Generation and use of renewable sources of energy where the role of the Electrical functioning growing day by day.

This is 24×7 hours a week service with the cadre officer remaining on his toes all the time to deliver trouble-free running of trains.

Due to Diesel versus Electric lobby affecting decision making, during 2016, Ministry decided to redistribute the work between Member Mechanical and Electrical and their designation changed as Member (Rolling Stock) and Member (Traction). Member Rolling Stock responsible for all rolling stock (powered like EMU or non-powered) and Member Traction responsible for all types of Locomotive. This change is done only at the top level without disturbing the cadre at a lower level, except that the reporting of electrical and mechanical officer changed accordingly.

With this, the S&T department shifted to Member Engineering for a short period and later on made independent and a new post of DG(Signal) created with a similar power of Member but not equivalent for Board Member.

This has certainly helping railways in streamlining decision making which earlier passing unnecessary delays.

There were 57 posts advertised in the year 2012 of which 08 posts reserved for Differently Able

In case you want to know the training institute for IRSEE visit this link.

Now with the coming of IRMS cadre, power supply and Traction distribution is likely to come under Member-Infrastructure and Electric Locomotive/EMU etc under Member-Rolling Stock.

Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineer(IRSSE):

Signalling is an important aspect of train operation. The permission for a train to start and stop for safe working is controlled through a logical signalling system. The signalling system was mechanical, to begin with, but the advancement of electrical and electronics system introduced Panel Interlocking, Root relay interlocking, Automatic Signalling system and many other developments in the field of signalling to increase sectional capacity. Similarly, telecommunication, train communication, automation in passenger amenities is advancing every day with new features. This has placed immense responsibility on S&T engineers. Presently S&T department is under Member Electrical with two Additional Members one each of Signal and Telecommunication at Board level. The cadre does not have an option to rise to the level of Member/Electrical. Now with cadre structure undertaking and post of MM and ML re-designated as MRS and MTR respectively, the S&T department also made independent under DG(Signal) in the Year 2016.

This is 24×7 hours a week service with the cadre officers remaining on his toes all the time.

There were 48 posts advertised in the year 2012 of which 07 posts reserved for Differently Able.

As on date, there is a separate Member for S&T, but with the restructuring of cadre under consideration, it will come under Member-Infrastructure.

Indian Railway Stores Services (IRSS)

Indian Railways were a technological giant organization up to 50’s and most of the manufacturing of major equipment like coaches, wagon, locomotive etc.  and its components were shop-manufactured. With the advancement of technologies and the specialized subject of procurement and its storage, it was decided to create a separate organization under Member/Mechanical for procurement and material management of stores. This service is open to all the cadres such as Engineering, Mechanical, S&T and Electrical. Normally this is the second choice after the main cadre. The importance of service lies in the fact that there is hardly any item not purchased by the Railways and therefore, the cadre acquires tremendous experience of procurement and its complexities. The job pressure is less and generally limited to office hours. For this reason, many are opting this as a first option.  The cadre provides opportunities to rise in all levels of professional ad general management like DRM/GM except for the highest post of Member/Mechanical.

Vacancies are distributed to ESE of main branches and for the Year 2012 it was as follows:

Civil: 11, Mech: 10.

Due to discontentment in stores cadre, the post of Member-Stores was also created. But now with the restructuring, it is likely to come under Member-Rolling Stock.

The Indian Railway Protection Force (IRPF)

This service was formed in the year 1954. The cadre is

  • Responsible for the protection of Railway property.
  • Assist the state police in maintenance of law and order in various states at the time of elections and other emergencies.
  • Coordinates with the civil police and GRP (Government Railway Police of the respective states) in controlling crime
  • The cadre controlling authority is the Director-General, RPF.
  • Cadre size: 287 posts (direct recruitment – 50%, promotion – 40%, Lateral Entry – 10%).

The cadre is not involved directly in the running of train services except its security watch-dog, therefore not entitled for managerial posts such as DRM/GM.

Indian Railway Medical Services

The Indian Railway Medical Service (IRMS) is an organized Group ‘A’ service. The officers of this service are responsible for providing comprehensive health care to the serving railway employees, retired railway employees and their dependents as well as other categories of staff such as contractors, vendors and licensed porters. In 80’s, the service was Group b service but later on included as Group A service. With many of the up-gradation that came subsequently, the promotion prospect is now almost at par with other organised Group A services. The officer from this cadre does not have any direct role in train operation therefore, not considered for Ex-cadre managerial posts of DRM/GM.

Railway hospitals are equipped with excellent infrastructure for Railway doctors to excel in their field, higher education and respectful living in Railway environment.

General Management Cadre

There was a time up to 80’s when there were three major departments namely Traffic, Engineering ad Mechanical and all Managerial (DRM and GM) and Member posts were manned by these cadre officials only. The situation changed and quota for each department,  depending upon the staff strength in the respective department,  is now introduced for posting as DRM giving an opportunity to all the cadres except security/medical to show their excellence in management as well. All barriers were also removed for posting as GM which is now based on integrated seniority giving equal opportunities to officers of all cadres except security/medical. The important effect of this change was the development of the feeling of Railway-man-ship in all the cadres.

The top post is Chairman Railway Board and only one officer of two batches get the opportunity and read more how the different cadre dominated this post. Click here for details.

There is only one thing which sometimes is a cause for heart burning when the officer of the same batch gets promotion in one cadre but not in another cadre and this difference sometimes goes up to two years. There is hope that this aspect of the cadre will be taken care one day. The merging and restructuring of cadre may help in this regard but at what cost will only be known after passage of time.

If you are looking to join Indian Railways, this is best organized in Govt. sector for many challenging options.

Salary growth of Class I Officer (CSE Allied and ESE – Period 1977-2013)

What is my salary and how it will grow is the most important burning question in every aspirant having intention to prepare for the examination? The salary you get in the first three years is as follows:

Ist Year: Basic 15600/-, Grade Pay 5400/- DA 90% (increased to 100%) 18900/-, TPT/G 3040 = Rs. 42940/-
Second Year: Basic 16880/-, Grade Pay 5400/- DA 90% (increased to 100%) 20052/-, TPT/G 3040 = Rs. 43817/-
Third Year: Basic 16230/-, Grade Pay 5400/- DA 90% (increased to 100%) 1890019467/-, TPT/G 3040 = Rs.45372/-

It may not be possible to predict your salary in the future but one can certainly show the salary growth of a Class I officer joining in 1977 and superannuation in 2013. The same is as follows:

Salary Growth of Class I officer (CSE Allied and ESE)

Indian Railways provide great opportunities and one should decide

Why you should decide to join Govt. service

  1. Job satisfaction
  2. Genuine opportunity to serve
  3. To be part of such a large system which people from outside wonders how it works
  4. There is no field of Engineering or Management which get untouched providing you an opportunity to excel in the field of your liking and competency
  5. A salary graph of you and your colleague is similar, and therefore, there is no competition of comparing packages – mental satisfaction ( uski kamij bhi mera jaisee hi sunder hai)
  6. You are different as compared to business or private or PSU job.
  7. Respect in the society and friend circle
    1. You can help in getting emergency quota
    2. A large number of Engineers joining Railways had earlier worked in PSUs at double the package still preferred to join Railways, check from them. It is a higher rating of Railways job in society.
  8. Support of very large fraternity and network of Railwayman ready to support you and your family in an adverse situation
  9. You and your family feel homely and safe  in any part of the country in the Railway area
  10. You had an opportunity for higher studies like a post graduation / PhD in India or abroad
  11. A mediocre officer also gets his promotion at the same pace as that of others in his batch. You have the opportunity to excel because of deep desire and not for out of turn promotion. It makes a difference of positivity of the energy level in you.
  12. Even though you are tied with one organization for the entire 30-38 years of an active career still you can find your boss and place of posting changing almost every two years. 
  13. Job security even if you are mediocre, medical problem etc.

Why you should not join Govt Service?

  1. If you have the desire to earn more money and even ready to compromise conduct rules, you may be a successful one or two times, but if caught, the remaining life will be miserable
  2. If you are confident about your ability and  desire to fly and want to attain heights in your field with out-of-turn promotions
  3. In Govt. Organization and Railways no exception, a group of officers get promotion in one go,  and if you are unlucky and left behind, life will be miserable afterwards. In private organization, if one excels and gets out of turn promotion, the balance remains where they are, and if you are one of them, no pain. You can leave the organization if felt hurt or humiliated. It is not so easy to leave Govt. Organization when you are used to its working and may find difficult to adjust in working with Private organisation.
  4. No one likes boss but when you don’t know how to manage boss and  difficulty in adjusting with the boss
  5. Frequent transfer and disturbance in children’s education. Unable to get their admission in the school/college of your liking due to the place of posting which may be in a small town.
  6. Spouse working and no suitable job for her/him at the place of your  posting resulting into separate living
  7. You own your own house and strong desire to live in that house only
  8. You possess exceptional personal capabilities to succeed. In Govt. or Railway organisation, you succeed to achieve when hold position in the organisation.
  9. When you want to work actively for up to 80 years of age with a purpose

Remember, if you decide to join Group A services of Indian Railways or that matter any other services, decide when you are in last but one year so that you enter at the minimum age and will have the opportunity to rise to the top. This will give you an opportunity to rise to the top.

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There Are 405 Comments

  1. Dhanya says:

    salary, Quarters benefits, travleling benefits

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      There are practically no benefits attached except the salary and DA in a railway job. You get HRA if an accommodation is not provided to you. The travelling benefits are paid in the form of Daily allowance which is a meager amount of about Rs. 600/- per day. If you are looking for joining Railway or a Govt. job, your take home salary is much less as compared to even PSUs.

      • Anusha says:

        Dear sir,
        Its a great blog I have ever seen, its realy motivating for railway exams.

        1) How will be interaction among IES oficers ( IRSSE, IRSE, IRSS…).
        Is there any meeting ? Or common place to disscuss about development or fixing of some issue?

        2) When will an IES oficer will get bunglow , Car and workers?

        3) If I have given IRSS as second option and IRSSE as first and I got IRSS post. Is it possible to change to IRSSE , without taking IES again?

        4) As there is no public involved in this system, how can officer be corrupted?
        Can we be strict without taking or involving in such activities? Is there any pressure from higher oficers.

        Thank you sir.

      • rupert says:

        MR MAHESH YOU APPEAR TO ME A COMPLETE IGNORANT. OFFICERS GET BUNGALOW AND BUNGALOW PEON.

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          I am unable to understand what you wanted to say. Every railway officer is getting bunglow and bunglow peon in his service in Railways. If you want to join Railways for attraction of this privilege, than you are likely to loose attraction of it very shortly and will only be cursing for what you don’t have. You have not seen the conditions of these bunglows built in 19th and 20th century and when you live only for a period of 2-3 years. The maintenance is OK only for the bunglows occupied by officers in position. Yes, bunglow peon is an attraction and this is a topic of discussion for compensating it by money, and you don’t know how long it will last. Join an organisation out of passon for doing something and not for the privileges alone.

          • rupert says:

            IRTS IS IAS OF RAILWAYS.EVEN IN SMALL DIVISIONS LIKE SOLAPUR ATLEAST 500 PEOPLE REPORT TO NEWLY JOINED IRTS OFFICERS.THEY WORK UNDER HIM/HER.IN JAG THEY GET VEHICLES ALSO.

          • RUPERT says:

            you appear to me one jealous guy.

          • rupert says:

            railway colonies are envy of all other services.irts can be compared to ias literally but irts people work for public cause more .they have hectic schedule and hard working.ias jealously guard their perks unlike irts.

          • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

            You ask me the syllabus of IRTS and I don’t know why making all these comments. You are at full liberty to opt for IRTS in your CSE examination.

  2. Shivani mishra says:

    Sir,

    What kind of project is to be submitted during probation training in indian railways ???

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      There is no specific laid down system of the requirement of submission of any project during probation period. All cadres are having their own institute and it depends on the respective institutes. It may vary for giving a presenation of the practical training taken, a presentation of the ideas or improvements on a visit to a site etc. There is no defined project for the purpose.

      • aman says:

        Hello Sir..I am following this site from some days.Have read almost all comments of u.Still I want a clear suggestion.
        I hv done engg in 2010 working in ntpc form 2011 aged 26.Fully frustrated with shift duty and work culture.Anyhow i want to get out of this and that too through ies and railways.I dont bother abt my age of joining and reaching top level in railways.I will be happy to join it and work for rest of my age there nly.

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          If you are looking for a job in railways through ese, the first loss will be a drop in your salary. I would like to suggest that you should learn to enjoy the job and the work culture of the organization. You will find similar thing in Railways also and frustration will continue. How long the shift working will continue? You will be appearing in 2015 examination, and if selected will join sometimes in Dec. 2016 and working post will be in July 2018. The privileges that appear from outside may not be so attractive when you join the organization. The is my expression from the talks with the probationary officers who have joined Railways? I suggest you to prepare for CSE, if you are so frustrated and ready to convert the frustration into energy for CSE, it will certainly go a long way for the satisfaction you are looking for.

  3. Rishab says:

    Syllabus of irts

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      There is no syllabus for IRTS. It is one of the allied services from the CSE held every year and conducted by UPSC.

  4. sanjeev mujumdar says:

    sir how about the timings for aee and amm after getting into actual service,,,,?? is saturday a holiday……??? thank u

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      The timings depends on the actual place of posting i.e. division or a shed or workshop. There are two timings in a shop or shed i.e. of the office and shop timings. The actual working hours expected is about 1-2 hours than the schedule time. Saturday is generally holiday, but not for the purpose of enjoying in the house. The day is used for inspection, clearing back log etc. AMM working is as per schedule and extra hours working is generally not called for. Job satisfaction in AMM job is limited.

      • sanjeev mujumdar says:

        sir how about the timings ie morning from what time and to what time in the evening for both amm and aee in both shed and division……..???

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          There are no fixed timings for the officers. In division, the officer follows the office timings whereas in shed and shop, the officers reaches after the shed/shop starts functioning and leaves at the close of the officer hours. The office hours are generally different to shed/shop hours.

          • sanjeev mujumdar says:

            sir i there a chance of change of pattern for ese 2016…. because i heard about it….?? will it b implemented this year……..??? thank u

  5. ashutosh shivam says:

    sir
    I wish to know about, entry wrt ese and ias allied groups.. how they are different?
    also, wrt long run which one has more power and better chance to reach higher positions?

    I have heard that initial training of all of them is the same.. please clarify.. thanks

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      ESE is engineering service and recruit engineers for most of the Central Govt. organisation. CSE is civil service in which Allied group ranks lower than IAS. Allied services are part of the administration of the Govt. of India towards a specific specialization like income tax, excise, Auditor, Postal, custom, Railways etc. IAS allied deals with the public directly and more visible in the society and therefore, commands respect and authority. ESE is look after the engineering requirement and responsible all the expenditure towards engineering function which is a major part. The work of ESE is not visible to the society and they normally work in the background. Both rises to the level of higher position but the visibility aspect remains the same. For example, a Station Master is visible to all the public of the city but he is group C employee and may command more respect and authority as compared to Engineer working in Railways with almost 5-6 years of service. It is also true that the person who is visible to the society is equally vulnerable to pressure, tension and to be always on his toes to serve the society.

  6. Ray says:

    How is an IRSSE/IRSS job with respect to the following aspirations:
    1.Scope of technical learning(i.e the kind of learning that would open up options of job switch in private/PSUs later on if I feel like moving out say 10-15 yrs later)
    2. Utilization of technical creativity.
    3. Peace of mind(less mission critical the better).
    4. Staying with members of family.
    5. Good money(only good enough needed, not expecting MBA type salaries).
    6. Fixed working hours. Lots of time for a life outside job(A very important requirement).
    7. Respect and obedience inside Railways from subordinates(responsibility without power would be a drawback).
    8. Corruption( No corrupt orders by superiors, no backstabbing bastards). How far resistance to it is possible here without blackmailing tactics like transfers/suspension for doing the right thing?

    I am sure all of these would not be possible but I want a best fit on the basis of these parameters.

  7. santosh says:

    Dear Sir,thank you for your post.I have once asked you about syllabus of “Staff welfare inspector”,you gave me some advice i am thankful to you for that.But unfortunately i could not get selected for that post,its because only 5 posts were there in my category.anyway I am now preparing for Civil services exams and going to attempt this year.please tell me one thing,among IRAS,IRTS,IRPS which is most sought after job.I have color blindness,because of that i already lost two jobs.But i have tremendous interest in working with Railways(as my father works with it,and i know its colorful life blended with responsibility).what is the prime difference b/w SCRA,IES,selection through UPSC civils and which channel will get opportunity to reach highest position?.My question is so long but kindly excuse me and solve my doubts.

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      For you having color blindness issue, IRAS and than IRPS. Indian Railways has two area of working Technical (Civil, electrical, mechanical, electronics and stores) and Non-Technical (Traffic, Personal and Accounts. Non-technical recruitment is through CSE (allied) whereas Technical is through ESE (Railways). It is most sought after in ESE whereas there are many more options in CSE-Allied. SCRA is part of mechanical cadre made its beginning long back to train young talent in mechanical engineers to meet the requirement of IR. With the development of good technical institute, there is no justification to continue with this category and may be phased out shortly. For this there are two sub cadre in Mechanical IRSME and SCRA. SCRA age profile is better as compared to IRSME and thus one finds them reaching higher positions.

  8. Anish says:

    Dear Sir ,
    Please confirm For Electronics & communication Engineering :

    My specific queries are :
    1.) Which departments are preferred . Please advise a choice between these two : IRSSE & ITS with reason.

    2.) What are the benefits & Facilities in these 2 department.

    3.) Where is the place of posting in these 2 departments. As I know , IRSSE can be posted anywhere whereas ITS shall be posted in metro city only.

    4.) What are promotion aspects in these 2 departments

    5.) Which out of these 2 is good for Girls. Whether any problem if girls take IRSSE

    Regards,
    Anish Bansal

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      The most important for girl is family stability. As IRSSE, the posting can be to any place, but as usual, due care is given at the time of posting of girl candidates so that their family life is not disturbed. There are many IRSSE female candidates in Railways and working happily. Male candidates generally give preference to IRSSE as compared to ITS. But I should say ITS provides large many opportunities to rise in the organisation and also enough of market value for the specialized knowledge you will be possessing. I suggest ITS may be a better option for you as compared to IRSSE.

      • anish says:

        Sir, Thanks for your reply , It is for my sister . She is ECE Engineer , Working as JTO currently. As per your advise we shall be opting for ITS . Kindly confirm :

        1.) At what level in ITS she will get Govt. Quarter and vehicle.

        2.) Since she is already working as JTO , Will she get any benefit for this.

        3.) What Authorities ITS have . like as you write 800 people shall be reporting to IRSSE at first posting . How much people report to ITS.

        4.) What is avg time it takes for 1st promotion .

        Regards,
        Anish Bansal

        • Anish says:

          Sir,
          Could you please advise on above matter.

          Regards,
          Anish Bansal

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          Your quarries are mixed up and does not coincide with the objective that your thought for your sister. I understand you are looking for stability, preferably office working with minimum running around for her. With BSNL not part of DOT, the work left with DOT is generally of technical and policy making. In case she opt for BSNL on deputation later, desire of sl. no. 4 may be fulfilled. In case she is working as JTO in DOT, she will get pay protection and if in BSNL, it may not be. Quarters are generally pooled with BSNL, and normally available due to hike in House Rent Allowance, and officers preferring own accommodation. First promotion is after about 4-5 years and shared/or independent vehicle eligibility will be after about 10 years when promoted to the level of Director. If in BSNL and having field working, the vehicle may be early.

  9. Anish says:

    Dear Sir ,
    kindly confirm For Electronics & communication Engineering :

    My specific queries are :
    1.) Which departments are preferred . Please advise a choice between these two : IRSSE & ITS with reason.

    2.) What are the benefits & Facilities in these 2 department.

    3.) Where is the place of posting in these 2 departments. As I know , IRSSE can be posted anywhere whereas ITS shall be posted in metro city only.

    4.) What are promotion aspects in these 2 departments

    5.) Which out of these 2 is good for Girls. Whether any problem if girls take IRSSE

    Regards,
    Anish Bansal

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  11. asp rao says:

    Sir, thanks for the article.
    Couldn’t inspire me less to join Indian Railways

  12. Dhanya S says:

    sir where is the training centre for irps irts and iras tofficers in indian raiway who selected by civil services exam

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      National Academy of Indian Railways, earlier called Railway Staff College located at Vadodra is centralised training center for IRPS and IRAS.

  13. alok says:

    Sir,
    Thanks for supporting so many young aspirants with your valuable views.

    I have been allocated IRTS through CSE-2014 and will be joining in december. Training schedule of IRTS is lengthy spanning over 78 weeks. I am married so wanted to know whether it is possible to get family accommodation in training institute. If no, what are alternative options available. Thanks.

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Family accommodation may be arranged at training institute. Almost half of the training is in the field where you will find difficulty in having rest house to accommodate your family. So whenever the training is at Lucknow and Vadodara, go with the family and rest of the period live a life of single.

    • raushan says:

      hello sir,,i too got irts through cse2014.and i m too giving this year cse2015,,i want to be in touch with u regarding irts training and all,since i m not known to any my senior in this field,so being in touch with u may give me sm infoes abt training nd all.plse mail me at
      raushan275@rediffmail.com.
      i will be thankful to you for this.thank you.

  14. Deepak says:

    Sir, I have a query about promotions in various engineering services departments. I know that promotions in railways are a lot faster than other departments. But, does that affect the salary/pay scale. Do the thresholds(time taken) for non functional promotions like SG and non functional SAG vary among departments.

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      The non-functional promotions are applicable at the level of SAG and HAG. One is eligible to get the Non-functional promotion after two years of the promotion of the same year batch of IAS cadre.

  15. Aks says:

    First of all thank you for all ur information. Further,I have some more queries sir. I got IRAS through CSE-2014 and wish to get some more info on IRAS as service vis a vis IRTS…

    1. Is IRTS better than IRAS or there is actually no comparison and they are two different units.
    2. How is training in IRAS..Being married will I be allowed to take my family along.
    3. As iam appearing for this year CSE too so if wish to take some leave during the training will I be allowed ( small leaves…for a week or two..)
    4. Is IRAS job 5-day a week or 6day ??
    5. How is over all life of IRAS vis a vis IRTS as I have heard in IRTS its too vigorous and its more or less 24X7..is it the same in IRAS too..??

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      How does it matter when you have already got IRAS, because you cannot change to IRTS. In any case my reply is as follows:
      1. In what sense? IRAS can reach to any level except Chairman, as things stands today. He is having a say in every thing but with not much of responsibility
      2. 40% part of the training will be at Vadodara and other training centers and you can keep yourself with family. Balance of the training will be in field where it depends on the situation of availability of accommodation.
      3. There may be a problem when you are at training center. As regards when training in field, there may be difficulty in getting a leave but you can find half of the day for your preparation.
      4. IRAS is completely 5 days a week and not more than working hours also.
      5. Every one wants to make friendship with IRAS cadre because he vets the financial proposal. But IRTS is on the forefront to command the running of trains with large cadre spread all over the place. That makes the cadre to be always on its forefront.

  16. karan says:

    hello sir
    i am having some queries
    1. do IRSE officers have 5 day week in training or after posting or in both??
    2. how much increment in salary we can expect after 7th pay ??? ..approx..
    3. about how much time i can have for CSE preparation in traning on daily basis??
    4. how many holidays we can take on monthly or yearly basis to visit home or else ??

    please reply sir
    thank you in advance !!!

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      It is 5 days week during training but after posting it depends on the place of posting. In field, it is 24×7 hrs but at HQ, RDSO or Rly Bd. it is 5 days working but depending on the position you hold, it may change.
      No one can reply about the annual increment after 7th pay commission. But it is certain salary package will attract talent
      You may get 3-4 hours daily beside Holidays
      Leave is a relation between you and the boss. Long break of holidays may be difficult but in short spell of three four days, it may be possible to get 2 to 3.

      • karan says:

        Thank you for your replly sir…
        one more thing i want to ask …how it is decided whether one will be at HQ,,RDSO,RLY BD or at field???
        is it a personal choice to choose or it depends on boss ??

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          First 10-12 years will be in the field. Thereafter, it may be by administrative choice or you yourself perusing for particular post and administration agreeing for it.

  17. ramsingh says:

    sir I am passed student of 12th class.I want goes scra through in Indian railway .please give me your suggestion .

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      The advantage of joining Railways through SCRA is that you will be doing B.Tech free of cost. The competition is tough as the number of seats are less as compared to the number of candidates. If you are confidant of getting through IIT, the prospects for SCRA is equally good.

      • Chandan Kanti dhali says:

        Sir
        My self chandan Kanti dhali.I got selected as SSE in this Indian railway.my present age 27.I am also sc category.takeing my age mind can I prepare for ESE exam? Or should I continue work on current post.

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          There is substantial difference between the career you have after qualifying ESE as compared to SSE. Therefore, you have to decide you level of intelligence, capacity to do hard work, availability of time etc. But once you decided, than go full throttle. All the best.

  18. NARAVA PARIMALA says:

    Very useful information. Responsibilities of every individual in his role is very useful and mentioned properly in understandable manner.

    Thanks for the valuable information

  19. raushan kumar says:

    Sirs,,I am selected for IRTS and I want to know will they give me any salary during training period..and if yes then hw much??
    Thank you all.

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      During the probationer period you will get the full salary i.e. Basic+DA and increment after completion of one year.

      • raushan says:

        thank you sir for ur reply.i must say u r doing wonderful job .keep it up .hats off.
        i want to ask another query,i m 1993 born,22 years old,as u said in ur one of earlier comments tht to join railways or to be specific IRTS at young age would be more worthy some.may i know what kind of advantage i will get as an young IRTS officer wth respect to other older officers..
        it would be of great help if u can give career promotion graph of a normal IRTS officer nd whts r the possibilities and oppurtunities r lyng ahed for me.
        thank you again.

  20. Md AnwarvAli says:

    qualification for appearing IRPS

  21. Prateek says:

    Sir,
    I have got selected in IRSME and my joining will come around in December. I am working in a private start-up company and under bond obligation till January. Can I get extension so that I can get relieving letter without paying bond???

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Yes you should be able to get the extension. Apply for it in time and the proposed time of your joining

      • Prateek says:

        Sir,
        Along with extension application, do I need to submit any supporting documents ??

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          no harm in submitting the document

          • raushan says:

            thank you sir for ur reply.i must say u r doing wonderful job .keethank you sir for ur reply.i must say u r doing wonderful job .keep it up .hats off.
            i want to ask another query,i m 1993 born,22 years old,as u said in ur one of earlier comments tht to join railways or to be specific IRTS at young age would be more worthy some.may i know what kind of advantage i will get as an young IRTS officer wth respect to other older officers..
            it would be of great help if u can give career promotion graph of a normal IRTS officer nd whts r the possibilities and oppurtunities r lyng ahed for me.
            thank you again.

          • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

            It appears that you have cleared cse in your first attempt and also now planning for cse 2016 to get main IAS. The advantage of joining early is but natural that you will rise to the top most post because others will retire before reaching that post. This is true with every post. In an Govt. organisation, it is the age that matters for reaching to the top. As soon as your training starts and you understand the cadre of Railways, you will be aware of your career graph immediately. Now the job span is very long, and most important is the be careful to avoid adverse performance at any stage otherwise, the advantage of age will be lost in no time.

          • Prateek says:

            Sir,
            I have been denied extension by railway board as according to them they give extension only if the person is working in govt. company. Can i skip joining and attach medical to get extension??

  22. Prateek says:

    What is the minimum eligibility criteria to become DRM?? For example, min ‘x’ number of years of service before attaining maximum age of ‘y’ years. If someone joins training at the age of 24 years, is there any chance of becoming DRM?? How is seniority compared among different cadres for the general posts??

    • D R SARKAR says:

      Please discuss about Indian Railway Medical Services. Do the doctors get due recognition in the railways? What about salary, perquisites and other benefits, and promotional prospects ? Whether an MBBS joining IRMS gets opportunity (leave etc) to do post-graduation like MD/MS or DNB. What are the study leave rules, any bond etc and is there any chance of doing PG as a sponsored candidate ? Many doctor candidates are eagerly looking forward for getting this kind of information.

  23. Dhanya says:

    Sir Please explain IRTS, IRAS or IRPS is more better job. Is there any field work in IRTS job

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      More or best job is always as per one’s attitude towards the job. If you want to contribute towards to railway functioning in a meaningful manner, ready to taken challenges and 24×7 hours working with you being one of the most important functionality in the organisation, IRTS is more suiting. If you don’t want to work hard and on the front but with say in each of the railway functioning, IRAS is more suiting. IRPS is the last priority with more abuses than praises. In any way, IRTS, IRAS and IRPS is the general order of priority.

  24. Dhanya says:

    where is the training centre for IRTS officers. Is the Training centre family accommodation is possible

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Training center of IRTS is at Lucknow and family accommodation is possible because there is no doubling in any room. However, you may check before proceeding with the family before the start of the training.

    • raushan says:

      @dhnya,,sir hv u too alloted IRTS through cse 2014,,i want to ask wether u got any emails or letter from any authority.i didnt get such mails or emails except a confirmation letter frm dopt abt acceptance of my exemption from foundation course ,.should i worry??
      is there any group where i can contact the all other selected candidate of IRTS 2014.
      plse be in touch at raushan275@rediffmail.com

  25. Dhanya S says:

    Sir Please explain if the lady wearing saree is must at the time of training

  26. Dhanya S says:

    In training as probationary officer as IRTS IRPS IRAS saree wearing is must

  27. Prateek says:

    Is any NOC needed from my previous employer before joining IRSEE……..I have relieving letter already…would that suffice??

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      no unless it is govt. or psu job with conditions attached

      • Prateek says:

        It was a PSU and I have already resigned by serving notice period and paying bond amount. I have also got relieving letter many months back. So would i still need any NOC or not??

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          you are a free man now.

          • Gajendra says:

            Sir, Please tell about the powers, privileges, career prospects of IRPS. Do people try to do friendship with IRPS as with IRTS, as you said in earlier comment??

          • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

            There is no difference in privileges, career prospects of IRPS as compared to others like IRTS, IRAS etc. The difference is the authority one derives through his job profile. IRTS is responsible for running of trains and revenue. For this reason has more say in any area of policy making. This aspect makes him commanding more say in the management.

          • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

            Further as regards friendship, departments or cadre does not come in between. Friendship is beyond all these things and can make friends in any cadre or others will also come forward to make friends with you. Friendship plays an important role in your functioning in the management.

  28. Prateek says:

    Are the hostel rooms provided to probationers in IRIEEN Air conditioned???

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Not yet

      • Prateek says:

        That is disappointing….I hope officers get AC in their offices after joining as ADEE upon completion of training??

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          Not as an entitlement but by manipulation with friends in the concerned department. I am unable to understand, if your interest depends on these privelages or other matters. Not only this, but there are many more disappoints waiting for you after joining which may be there in most of the PSUs.

      • Prateek says:

        Railway runs AC trains but it has no ACs in its own buildings and hostels for its own officers

      • Prateek says:

        Do the rooms have only ceiling fan or at least Air cooler is provided???

  29. babu says:

    i am working in a navaratna PSU and my age is 32 years.is it better to join railway service ?

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      It is better to concentrate and utilize your energy in other functions to make your life and living happy rather than preparing for this examination

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  31. Dhanya S says:

    sir what is the minimum salary get at the time of training period for irts iras and irps officers

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Pay scale for the group A service is same for any category. you may check the take home salary after 7th pay commission from the relevant website.

      • Dr Rajesh says:

        Respected. Mahesh sir kindly help me with information about emoluments I.e vehicle, accommodation, ac pass and so on for which IRMS i.e assistant . Divisional. Medical. Officer. Is. Entitled to…..

  32. Deepak says:

    Sir, I have cleared ese 2015 and expecting railways. I have two queries
    1. in one of your previous comments you have written about the process of zone allotment of probationers.
    I want to know what is the general trend of vacancies of railway zones. Where can I find the zone wise tentative vacancies for ESE 2015 probationers.
    2. I am currently working in ongc and 23 years old. would it be a wrong decision to leave ongc if I am not likely to get my home zone in railways.

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      1. There is not trend. In fact, the allotment is decided after one year and distribution as per the situation available at that time in the each of the Railway.
      2. You should join Railways and it will not be a wrong decision. But I understand the perks in ONGC is very high, and immediately on joining Railways, you pay will drop considerably.

  33. Manish kumar singh says:

    Dear Sir , what is one third rule in zone allocation in any service like IRSE after training. And I also wanted to ask a obc selected in general rank will get the benefit of obc during zone allocation or will be treated as general.

  34. Payal says:

    If one of my eyes have vision beyond +4 -4….n another one is normal…
    M I eligible for IRSEE/IRSS?

  35. sathish says:

    is there any entrance exam for group a jobs

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      It is UPSC examination conducted once a year to recruit officers for all the group A job of Central Govt.

  36. remela says:

    sir my ambition is to became divisional railway maneger.now currently prepared for ESE 2016 .im ECE branch. is there possible to get DRM post?if i passed in 2016 which month IRSSE training starts?how many months they give training? what are the facilities they give?im a girl so i expecting day duty only?is they provide night duty? sir kindly reply me pls dont neglect my question plssss.im waiting

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      You have planned to appear for ESE 2016 for which the examination will be held on 27th may 2016 and interview will be in Feb 2017, result in April-May 2017 and joining at IRISTE Secunderabad in Dec.2017. You will complete your training in July 2019 and will be called ASTE/Probationer. On completion of the training you will be posted in one of the Division of the allotted Railway. Your career of progression will be ASTE(4 years)+DSTE(5 years)+Sr.DSTE/Dy.CSTE (8 years)+Head of the Department (8 years) and than you will have the opportunity to become DRM which is an ex-cadre post having managerial responsibility. As per the present practice, the tenure of DRM is fixed for 2 years only and thereafter you go back to your technical cadre. Therefore, madam, your ambitious of becoming DRM for a period of 2 years will get fulfilled after working for about 28 years of service.
      As regards facilities, the same has been explained in the post. The work schedule of officers is only during day time except they are required to conduct night inspection as per schedule. The working life for the lady candidates is not very tough except the place of posting, family compulsion, married life etc.

  37. pratik kumar says:

    Sir I’m pratik I just want to know that my age is 20 +2pass student nd just want to join Indian railway does I able to join it

  38. deepak says:

    Sir, is it true that this time joining for railways will come in july instead of december

  39. shivani says:

    Whether it is 5 day a week job or 6 day a week for IRSEE officers in different departments like TRD, Shed, TRO, General etc.???

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      It is 5 days job in every field of IRSEE except workshops where it is half a day more. But you are on duty call at any time of the day

  40. Rahul Gupta says:

    Is it advisable to move from IRSEE to IRAS losing one year seniority??

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Yes it may be

      • Rahul Gupta says:

        What are pros and cons of IRAS compared to IRSEE???

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          IRSEE is a technical cadre where you are likely to achieve job satisfaction by doing some constructive work in any field of work wherever posted. This requires long working hours, always to be on your toes, facing of problems etc. This is not so with IRAS where you are not likely to achieve the job satisfaction but no expenditure will be made with the consent of Finance, therefore in commanding position, with minimal responsibility, no botheration beyond office hours, no one looking for you in case of emergency etc. Now if you want calm and comfortable life, IRAS is better over IRSEE. But if want to take the challenges, IRSEE is better. However, there is one important factor, that IRAS offers good number of opportunities for ex-cadre posting.

  41. dennis jacob says:

    Dear sir,
    Greetings. Myself Dennis jacob a rail enthusiast and would like to join IRTS. Would like to know do IRTS officers enjoy the same facility like IAS officer? Like IAS officer get provision to avail medical benefits from abroad sponsored by govt. Do irts, iras also enjoy such facility ?

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      IRTS is not so a privillaged class as compare to IAS. However, it is one of the best amongst the different cadre of Railways.

      • nani says:

        Hello Sir….im preparing for ese 2017.pls provide new syllubus material of 1.design drawing and importance of safety 2.standards and quality in production…..im 27 yr which post better IRSSE or ITS at this age….pls reply me sir

  42. priyangshu says:

    Sir,i have heard IRPS is a sinecure job.is it true?would u please tell me how much time an IRPS has to work a day?what is the working hours?and does an IRPS officer get holidays in Saturdays and Sundays?

  43. Ravikant Singh says:

    Hello sir, there has been a revision of the policy of the IR in supporting their probationers for appearing in the CSE or ESE: the OM published on the Railway Board website dated 27.04.2016 asks the probationers to clarify their intention for appearing in the next/subsequent CSE or ESE.
    WRT can you please share your views. Also I request you to kindly answer the following questions:
    1. If a candidate opts for the EOL of 1 year and since the training program is supposed to commence from 1 Aug, 2016, this option will entitle the candidate for leave up to Aug 2017 but the mains of CSE is typically held in December. So how will the IRIEEN deal with this gap of 3-4 months?
    2. If the candidate opts for joining the training by immediate effect, does it mean he is not allowed to appear for CSE/ESE even after completion of training? (i.e. does next/subsequent exam imply that the candidate is not allowed to appear in the exam throughout his/her service in the IR).

  44. praveena says:

    Sir I’m Praveena studying First MBA how I can apply for this job

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Yes you can. In case you have studied arts or science in graduation than go for civil service examination or if engineering, than go for civil or engineering service examination. Visit UPSC website for more information.

  45. raaju says:

    Dear sir ,

    Can you share training details and posting for SSE EE GS SWR ..

    Thank you

  46. Kk sharma says:

    Sir plz help me i am sse trd trainee and i have been absent for 4 months from headquarter at which i am posted . What pentalty they can impose me . Actually sir i am waiting for ese result which will come this nov end and i am sure that i will fetch good rank ,as soon as rslt will come i will resign but sir if at time of joining will they provide me chargesheet , will this hamper my ese upsc joining bcoz sir in attestation form there is a column of discplinary action related to prev organisation i hope u will understand my problem . Plz give me solution pf this problm sir plz

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Nov. end you will get the result of written examination. Are u sure you intend to resign by that time. The action of imposing penalty does not start immediately. It has long drawn procedure in which you will issued with a major penalty charge sheet, your reply during which you have the choice of replying that I am joining or I am resigning, so therefore, don’t worry for that. You may submit leave application without pay.

      • Kk sharma says:

        Sir i appeared in ese interview on 3rd nov 2016 and my board is vinay mittal (ex railway board chairman). And my interview went very well and sir result of ese 2016 will announce on nov end . And sir joining of irsee will be around in aug 2017 and sir my main prblm is that i have been absent for 4 months and sir i dont want to sse job further but sir i will have to resign sse .sir my que is that can railway deny my resignation just because i have been absent for 4 months. Sir i have fear that if they provide me chargesheet bcoz of absenteesim ,can this hamper my ies joining . Btw sir i have absent only for preparing interview of ese

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          No, resignation cannot be denied just because you were absent. It may be different thing that it will take a long time to advise you of the acceptance. In any case, you may submit your resignation and need not worry further. Just check, had you submitted any Bond, than there may be an issue. Check the content of the bond conditions.

          • Kk sharma says:

            Thanx sir for my help . Sir as u said earlier to me that in interview they can ask about loco functioning exactly mittal sir asked this que and i have answered almost 80 percent que of mittal sir just bcoz of ur wonderful site .

  47. Amita says:

    I have been selected for IRTS trough civil services examination 2015. I did not join on 12.12.2016 instead applied for extension on grounds of 03 months notice period requirement with previous employer(govt. Of Hmanchal pradesh).

    Since, i have resiged with my job and serving notice period. Is it possible that railways would DENY extension??

    How difficult is it to get extension in joining time?
    I am worried that as I have already resigned and if railways did not grant extension??

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      I don’t find reason for denial This much extension is usually given and when there is a valid reason. You should have applied for extension before the due date for joining, than by this time the extension should have been advised.

  48. Deepak says:

    Sir, In the zone allocation policy , if a person from obc category has occupied UR seat and falls in top 1/3 Un reserved, will he be considered in top 1/3 general or he will be placed in 1/3 obc after 1/3 general .

  49. Johnson Joseph says:

    Sir,
    Very informative website. Really a good work. I am not a person associated with railway or seeking a job at railway. I am working in a Central PSU as an Engineer for last 15 years (Joined as JE, now in Group A post). For curiosity while searching some railway related information, accidentally I landed in your site. Earlier I had total ignorance about the functioning of Railway. But after going through the most of your pages, now I have lot of knowledge. Thanks very much.
    Yes what you have mentioned about the charm of group A services in railway is true. I know most of the fresh engineers from my department trying for IES especially for railway.

    Previously i thought SSE was a powerful group A post, now only I came to know about the fact.
    I have few doubts too.
    1) Who is the actual controller of movement of train like ATC in Airport
    2) What is the promotion scope of JE and SSE i.e maximum level of promotion and normal duration for promotion?
    3)Who is the overall in charge or head of small, medium and big railway stations like Mangalore, Kannur, Chennai etc? Is there any such in charges available?

    Thanks and regards
    Johnson Joseph

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      1. The actual controller for movement of the train with the station master who initiate control to receive a train at a station and than either permits it run through his station or stops at that station. He does this for the passenger train as per the schedule time table or for the freight train based on the direction from the divisional control office. Divisional Control office is located in the Divisional HQ who monitors the movement of the train through section controller. Every sectional control charts the movement of each train and based on the running, congestion ahead, defects in the train etc. control the train for stoppage etc. Divisional Control Office gives advance intimation to the Divisional Control office ahead about the trains intend to handover in the next 4-6 hours so that planning can be done for changing of crew, sectional capacity etc. Now a days, the train information is also available through Freight Operation Information System (FOIS) to all concerned with the operation of freight train.
      2. The maximum level a JE/SSE can go is JA grade officer if clears Limited Departmental Competitive Examination or otherwise Senior Scale.
      3. The level of big station is either JS or SS officer of operating department. For all station, it is group C post. The public comes in contact with first tier of staff like station master, Ticket collector, Driver and Guard who are Group C staff and generally considers them of the Senior Management level but it so not so. The whole of the Railway is divided in zones and each zone is divided in Divisions. Every Division is headed by Divisional Railway Manager and Zone by General Manager.

      • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

        In fact there are more to the management system and cannot be replied on this post.

      • Johnson Joseph says:

        Thanks for the detailed reply.
        I have seen in most of the station hanging boards like “office of SSE or JEs” etc. Are they Group B officers?
        If not, who are the group B officers in railway?

        • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

          They are not Group B officer but Group C staff. When a Group C staff is promoted to officer’s cadre through departmental promotion, he is Assistant Officer and get attached to Divisional Office under Senior Officer of that department with Divisional Railway Manager being the Overall In-charge of all functions in that Division. After working for a minimum period of 5 years, he is entitled for placement in group A post and is processed through UPSC, however without any examination.

  50. anon says:

    Sir, It is and was never IES, IES name is a making of the coaching industry to add glamour to the service, it is ESE and a 24*7 thankless job where inspections, ill conceived drives, transfers etc will sap the officers energy to perform to his/her best potential

    • Mahesh Kumar Jain says:

      Your question is not very clear. It is your personal drive to work towards your best potential and not required to look at somebody else. If you keep looking towards higher ups and than drive your potential, than you are mistaken. Inspection is one of the important part of the job, wherein, you learnt the way the actually works as against laid standards. More the inspections, more it will be a learning for you. In case you have already joined the service, it will be in your interest to change your attitude and enjoy each and every moment otherwise, it will only frustrate you. If not satisfied, than better leave early otherwise it will become more and more difficult with each passing day.

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