IGCAR Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026: The Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), one of India’s premier nuclear research institutions functioning under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India, has officially released the IGCAR Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Notification for the engagement of 200 ITI Trade Apprentices. This recruitment drive offers an excellent opportunity for ITI-qualified candidates who wish to gain practical industrial experience in a prestigious Government of India research organization.
The apprenticeship program will be conducted at the IGCAR campus in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961. Selected candidates will undergo one year of hands-on training in their respective trades while receiving a monthly stipend as per Government of India rules.
Unlike many competitive recruitment examinations, this apprenticeship selection does not involve a written test. Instead, candidates will be shortlisted based on their ITI academic performance, making it an attractive opportunity for deserving candidates with strong academic records.
The online application process begins on 20 July 2026 and will remain open until 19 August 2026. Candidates interested in building their technical careers with one of India’s leading nuclear research centres should ensure they meet all eligibility conditions before submitting their online application.
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IGCAR Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) |
| Department | Department of Atomic Energy |
| Advertisement No. | IGCAR/03/2026 |
| Post Name | Trade Apprentice |
| Total Vacancies | 200 |
| Job Location | Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu |
| Training Duration | One Year |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Online Application Starts | 20 July 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 19 August 2026 |
| Selection Process | Merit Based + Document Verification |
| Official Notification | IGCAR Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 |
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About Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR)
The Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) is one of India’s most prestigious scientific research institutions under the Department of Atomic Energy. Located in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, the institute plays a vital role in nuclear science, advanced engineering, reactor technology, and research related to India’s atomic energy programme.
Every year, IGCAR offers apprenticeship opportunities to ITI-qualified candidates to help them gain valuable industrial exposure in modern laboratories, workshops, and engineering facilities. During the apprenticeship period, candidates learn practical skills under experienced professionals, significantly improving their employability in both government and private industries.
Working as an apprentice at IGCAR provides an excellent platform for fresh ITI graduates to understand industrial practices, workplace discipline, and advanced technical operations.
Important Dates
Candidates should carefully remember all important dates to avoid missing any stage of the recruitment process.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | July 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | 20 July 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 19 August 2026 |
| Merit List | To be announced |
| Document Verification | To be notified |
| Training Commencement | As per IGCAR schedule |
Applicants are advised not to wait until the final day to complete the application process, as heavy traffic on the website may lead to technical issues.
IGCAR Trade Apprentice Vacancy 2026
A total of 200 apprenticeship seats have been announced across multiple ITI trades. The vacancies are distributed among various technical disciplines, allowing candidates from different educational backgrounds to participate.
| Trade | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Fitter | 46 |
| Electrician | 22 |
| PASAA | 19 |
| Instrument Mechanic | 18 |
| Electronic Mechanic | 15 |
| Welder | 14 |
| Draughtsman (Mechanical) | 12 |
| Process Plant Operator | 12 |
| Machinist | 10 |
| Mechanic Refrigeration & Air Conditioning | 9 |
| Turner | 7 |
| Wood Work Technician / Carpenter | 4 |
| Mason / Civil Mistry | 4 |
| Horticulture Assistant | 3 |
| Plumber | 2 |
| Mechanical Machine Tool Maintenance | 1 |
| Book Binder | 1 |
| Photography | 1 |
| Total | 200 |
The largest number of vacancies has been announced for the Fitter trade, followed by Electrician, PASAA, and Instrument Mechanic, giving candidates from these trades relatively better opportunities.
Category-wise Vacancy Distribution
The vacancies are reserved according to Government of India reservation rules.
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| UR | 86 |
| OBC (NCL) | 54 |
| SC | 38 |
| EWS | 20 |
| ST | 2 |
| Total | 200 |
In addition, eight vacancies have been identified for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) in eligible trades as per Government guidelines. Candidates claiming reservation under the PwBD category must possess the prescribed disability certificate.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must possess an ITI certificate in the relevant trade from a recognized institution. The certificate should correspond to the trade for which the candidate is applying.
Only candidates with the required ITI qualification in the specified discipline will be considered eligible. Applicants should ensure that their trade certificate is valid before submitting the application.
Some trades also require candidates to have passed Class 8 or Class 10 before completing the ITI course, as specified in the official notification. Candidates should carefully verify the educational requirements for their chosen trade before applying.
Age Limit
As per the official notification, candidates should satisfy the prescribed age criteria on 19 August 2026.
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Maximum Age: 24 Years
Age relaxation is available according to Government of India rules:
- SC/ST Candidates – 5 Years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) – 3 Years
- PwBD Candidates – 10 Years
Applicants claiming age relaxation should possess valid supporting documents during document verification.
Stipend Details
One of the biggest advantages of the IGCAR Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is that selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend throughout the apprenticeship period. The stipend is provided as per the Apprenticeship (Amendment) Rules, 2025 issued by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
The stipend amount depends on the duration of the ITI course completed by the candidate.
| ITI Qualification | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Two-Year ITI Course | ₹11,040 |
| One-Year ITI Course | ₹10,560 |
Although apprenticeship is primarily a training programme, the monthly stipend helps candidates manage their living expenses while gaining valuable industrial experience.
Training Duration and Location
The selected apprentices will undergo one year of practical training at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu.
During this period, apprentices will work under experienced engineers and technical professionals. They will receive practical exposure to advanced machinery, industrial safety standards, workshop practices, and modern technical operations.
Successfully completing the apprenticeship can significantly strengthen a candidate’s resume and improve future employment opportunities in both public and private sectors.
IGCAR Trade Apprentice Selection Process
The recruitment process is straightforward and does not include a written examination.
Step 1: Shortlisting Based on ITI Marks
Applications will first be shortlisted based on the percentage of marks obtained in the relevant ITI trade.
Step 2: Merit List
Separate merit lists will be prepared for each trade.
Step 3: Tie-Breaking Rules
If two or more candidates secure the same ITI percentage, preference will be given in the following order:
- Higher marks in Class 10 (or Class 8 for specified trades such as Welder, Carpenter, Mason, and Plumber).
- If the tie still continues, the older candidate (earlier date of birth) will be placed higher in the merit list.
Step 4: Document Verification
Candidates shortlisted in the merit list will be called for document verification. Original certificates must be produced during this stage.
Step 5: Medical Examination
After successful document verification, candidates must qualify the prescribed medical examination before joining the apprenticeship programme.
Application Fee
The official notification does not mention any application fee for submitting the online application. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification and online application portal for any updates regarding the fee, if applicable.
Required Documents
Candidates should keep the following documents ready before filling out the online application:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- ITI Trade Certificate (NCVT/SCVT)
- Semester-wise ITI Mark Sheets
- Consolidated ITI Mark Sheet
- Class 8 or Class 10 Mark Sheet (as applicable)
- Caste Certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL), if applicable
- EWS Certificate, if applicable
- PwBD Certificate, if applicable
- Police Verification Certificate (required during document verification)
- Apprenticeship India Registration Confirmation
- Savings Bank Passbook
- CGPA Conversion Certificate (if applicable)
How to Apply for IGCAR Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026
Candidates should complete the online application process carefully by following these steps:
Step 1
Visit the Apprenticeship India portal and complete apprentice registration.
Step 2
Complete Aadhaar-based e-KYC verification on the Apprenticeship portal.
Step 3
Keep your Apprentice Registration Number ready.
Step 4
Visit the IGCAR recruitment portal during the application period.
Step 5
Open the Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 application link.
Step 6
Select your eligible ITI trade.
Step 7
Enter all personal, educational, and communication details carefully.
Step 8
Upload all required documents in PDF format.
Step 9
Review every detail before final submission.
Step 10
Submit the application and download the confirmation page for future reference.
Candidates should remember that applications submitted without Apprentice Registration or mandatory documents may be rejected.
Important Instructions
Applicants should carefully follow all instructions mentioned in the notification to avoid rejection.
- Apply for only one trade.
- Only online applications will be accepted.
- Candidates who have already completed or are currently undergoing apprenticeship training under the Apprentices Act are not eligible.
- Keep the registered email ID and mobile number active until the recruitment process is completed.
- Carry all original documents during document verification.
- False information or fake certificates may result in cancellation of candidature.
- Hostel accommodation may be provided on a chargeable basis, subject to availability.
- No TA/DA will be paid for attending document verification or medical examination.
- Completion of apprenticeship does not guarantee permanent employment at IGCAR.
Why Should You Apply for This Apprenticeship?
The IGCAR Trade Apprentice programme offers much more than a monthly stipend. It provides an opportunity to learn in one of India’s most respected scientific research organizations.
Key benefits include:
- Government apprenticeship certificate after successful completion.
- Hands-on industrial training.
- Experience in advanced engineering and research facilities.
- Improved employability in PSU and private sector companies.
- Opportunity to work with experienced scientists and engineers.
- Strong addition to your professional resume.
For fresh ITI graduates, this apprenticeship can serve as an excellent stepping stone toward a successful technical career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many vacancies are available?
A total of 200 Trade Apprentice vacancies have been announced.
2. What is the last date to apply?
The last date to submit the online application is 19 August 2026.
3. What is the minimum educational qualification?
Candidates must possess an ITI certificate in the relevant trade.
4. Is there any written examination?
No. Selection is based on ITI merit followed by document verification.
5. What is the age limit?
Candidates should be between 18 and 24 years as on the closing date, with relaxation for reserved categories as per Government rules.
6. What stipend will apprentices receive?
₹11,040 per month for two-year ITI holders and ₹10,560 per month for one-year ITI holders.
7. How long is the apprenticeship?
The apprenticeship duration is one year.
8. Where will the training be conducted?
Training will be conducted at IGCAR, Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.
9. Is Apprentice Registration mandatory?
Yes. Candidates must register on the Apprenticeship India portal before applying.
10. Will apprentices receive permanent jobs after training?
No. Completion of the apprenticeship does not guarantee employment at IGCAR.
11. Can candidates who have already completed apprenticeship apply?
No. Such candidates are not eligible.
12. Is hostel accommodation available?
Yes, hostel accommodation may be provided on a chargeable basis, subject to availability.