In a massive recruitment drive, the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) have conducted Computer-Based Tests (CBTs) for more than 1.86 crore candidates since November 2024, across seven notifications covering 55,197 vacancies, paving the way for over 50,000 appointments in the current financial year 2025–26.

According to official updates, more than 9,000 candidates have already received appointment letters in the first quarter of the ongoing financial year.

More vacancies and tech-driven reforms

The RRBs have also issued 12 recruitment notifications since 2024, totalling 1,08,324 vacancies, as per their annual calendar. Another 50,000+ appointments are projected for the upcoming financial year 2026–27.

Given the scale of recruitment, conducting CBTs is a highly coordinated effort requiring extensive logistical planning. In a recent move to improve accessibility and inclusivity, exam centres are now being allocated closer to candidates' home locations, with special preference given to female and PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) candidates. This has required onboarding additional exam venues and manpower to ensure a smooth and transparent examination process.

E-KYC, jammers to ensure transparent exams

In a first for such large-scale exams, e-KYC-based Aadhaar authentication was introduced to verify candidates' identities, achieving over 95% success. Additionally, electronic jammers are now being deployed across 100% of RRB exam centres to prevent cheating through electronic devices, further strengthening the integrity of the examination process.

West Central Railway introduces Aadhaar app for passenger ID checks

In a parallel development, the West Central Railway (Bhopal Division) has started using the mAadhaar mobile application to verify passenger identities, following the latest directives from the Railway Board.

The new system is aimed at curbing unauthorised travel and preventing misuse of fake Aadhaar cards or tickets booked under someone else’s name. Developed by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the mAadhaar app enables QR code-based identity verification for swift and reliable authentication.

The app will soon be integrated into Handheld Terminals (HHT devices) used by railway staff, helping to verify passenger details in real-time, reduce ticket fraud, and ensure transparency in identity-based ticket bookings.

ANI inputs