The Indian Railways’ Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi, has released a notification for the 47th Batch of Apprentice Recruitment 2025 under the Apprentices Act, 1961. This is a golden opportunity for ITI and Non-ITI candidates to secure an apprenticeship at one of India’s premier locomotive production units.
Important Dates
- Application Start Date: 5th July 2025
- Last Date to Apply Online: 5th August 2025 (till 4:45 PM)
- Last Date to Complete Form: 7th August 2025 (till 4:45 PM)
- Merit List / Result Date: To be announced later
- Apprenticeship Batch: 47th Batch (2025)
🧑🏭 Vacancy Details – 374 Total Posts
1. ITI Apprentice – 300 Posts
| Trade | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Fitter | 107 |
| Electrician | 71 |
| Machinist | 67 |
| Welder (Gas & Electric) | 45 |
| Painter (General) | 7 |
| Carpenter | 3 |
2. Non-ITI Apprentice – 74 Posts
| Trade | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Fitter | 30 |
| Electrician | 18 |
| Machinist | 15 |
| Welder (Gas & Electric) | 11 |
This totals 374 apprenticeship positions, distributed across six trades for ITI candidates and four for Non-ITI candidates
Eligibility Criteria
Age Limit (as on 05/08/2025):
- Minimum Age: 15 Years
- Maximum Age for Non-ITI Candidates: 22 Years
- Maximum Age for ITI Candidates: 24 Years
- Age relaxation as per government rules for SC/ST/OBC/PH candidates.
Educational Qualification:
- For ITI Posts:
- Passed Class 10th exam (High School) with minimum 50% marks.
- Must possess ITI certificate in relevant trade recognized by NCVT/SCVT.
- For Non-ITI Posts:
- Passed Class 10th exam (High School) with minimum 50% marks.
- No ITI certificate required.
Application Fee
- General / OBC / EWS: ₹100
- SC / ST / PH / Female Candidates: No fee
- Payment Mode: Online (Net banking, Debit/Credit Card, UPI)
Selection Process
- Selection will be based on merit list prepared from marks obtained in Class 10 and ITI (where applicable).
- No written test or interview is required.
- Final selection is subject to verification of documents and medical fitness.
Stipend
- Selected candidates will be paid a stipend during training as per the norms of the Apprentices Act, 1961 and guidelines of Indian Railways.
Required Documents for Online Application
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Class 10 Marksheet and Certificate
- ITI Certificate (for ITI trades)
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- PwD Certificate (if applicable)
- Aadhaar Card or any other valid ID proof
Key Instructions
- Incomplete forms or forms submitted after the last date will be rejected.
- Candidates must provide accurate and verified documents.
- Physical presence for document verification will be required before final selection.
- Apprenticeship does not guarantee employment after training.
Read The Detail Notification Before Apply
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The Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), formerly known as the Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW), is one of the most prestigious production units of Indian Railways. Situated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, this establishment plays a vital role in strengthening India’s railway network by manufacturing, overhauling, and upgrading locomotives that run across the country.
BLW was established in 1961 and became operational in 1964. Initially, it was created with technical collaboration from American Locomotive Company (ALCO), USA, for the production of diesel-electric locomotives. Over the decades, the facility has evolved into a world-class manufacturing unit that now produces both diesel and electric locomotives, catering not just to Indian Railways but also to international clients.
⚙️ Evolution from DLW to BLW
In October 2020, Diesel Locomotive Works was officially renamed Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) to mark its transformation from a diesel-focused plant to a multi-mode locomotive production unit. This change reflects Indian Railways’ push toward eco-friendly and energy-efficient operations, emphasizing electric traction over diesel to reduce carbon emissions and dependency on fossil fuels.
Today, BLW primarily focuses on producing electric locomotives, such as WAP-7 and WAG-9 series, which are known for their high speed, efficiency, and advanced technology. It continues to maintain and modernize diesel locomotives as well, ensuring a smooth transition during India’s electrification drive.
🏭 Production and Capacity
BLW has a massive state-of-the-art infrastructure equipped with modern CNC machines, robotic assembly units, and advanced quality testing labs. The plant can produce over 300 locomotives per year, including electric and diesel variants.
It manufactures several models such as:
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WAP-7 (Passenger Electric Locomotive) – Capable of hauling express trains at high speed.
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WAG-9 (Freight Electric Locomotive) – Used for heavy freight trains.
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WDM, WDG series (Diesel Locomotives) – Known for reliability in non-electrified routes.
BLW also exports locomotives and spare parts to countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Mozambique, and Tanzania, strengthening India’s presence in global railway manufacturing.
👩🏭 Skill Development and Apprenticeship
Banaras Locomotive Works is not only a manufacturing hub but also a center of technical excellence and skill training. It conducts a well-structured apprenticeship program under the Apprentices Act, 1961, offering training to ITI and non-ITI candidates in various trades such as fitter, electrician, machinist, welder, and carpenter.
These apprentices receive practical, hands-on training in locomotive assembly, machine operations, and industrial safety. Many of them later find employment in Indian Railways, defense services, or private industries. The program is a cornerstone in promoting Make in India and Skill India initiatives by empowering youth with real industrial experience.
🌿 Focus on Sustainability
As part of Indian Railways’ mission to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emission by 2030, BLW is actively transitioning toward green manufacturing. The unit has adopted several eco-friendly measures, including:
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Use of renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
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Rainwater harvesting and water recycling systems.
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Reduced waste through smart production planning.
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Energy-efficient machines to lower power consumption.
These initiatives underline BLW’s commitment to environmental sustainability while maintaining high industrial output.
🏅 Achievements and Recognition
Over the years, BLW has earned numerous accolades for its excellence in manufacturing, quality control, and innovation. It has achieved milestones like producing India’s first 100% indigenously designed electric locomotive and significantly contributing to the electrification drive of Indian Railways.
The unit is also ISO certified for quality management, occupational safety, and environmental standards, reflecting its dedication to maintaining global benchmarks.
The Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) stands as a proud symbol of India’s industrial growth and engineering excellence. From its origins as a diesel engine plant to its transformation into a modern electric locomotive powerhouse, BLW has continuously adapted to new technologies and environmental needs. It not only drives India’s trains but also fuels the dreams of thousands of skilled workers, engineers, and apprentices who contribute to the nation’s journey toward a cleaner, faster, and more self-reliant future.
