Revised Recruitment Guidelines for Railway Protection Force Positions

Significant Updates to RPF Recruitment Process

The recruitment framework for Sub-Inspector (SI) and Constable (Executive) roles within the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has undergone substantial revisions. The Ministry of Railways has recently introduced new regulations that encompass crucial details about age limits, physical standards, and the examination process. These modifications are intended to align RPF recruitment with the standards of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). The updated guidelines have been officially published in the Gazette of India and are now active.

Revised Age Limits and Educational Requirements

As per the updated regulations, candidates applying for the Constable position must be aged between 18 and 23 years, a reduction from the previous range of 18 to 25 years. For the Sub-Inspector roles, the age limit is now set between 20 and 28 years.

The educational qualifications remain largely unchanged. A minimum of a 10th-grade education is necessary for Constable applicants, while candidates for the SI position must hold a degree from a recognized university.

Enhanced Physical and Medical Standards

The new guidelines have also tightened physical standards. The minimum height requirement has increased from 165 centimeters to 170 centimeters. Additionally, chest measurements must now be 80 centimeters without expansion and 85 centimeters with expansion.

The medical examination process has been revised as well. Candidates will now be assessed by CAPF medical officers or Grade-1 government medical officers instead of RPF medical personnel.

Increased Transparency in RPF Recruitment

These updates aim to enhance the transparency and standardization of the RPF recruitment process. The Railways assert that these changes will lead to a more efficient recruitment system for security forces.