The Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC) Central Railway is accepting online applications for 2 Cultural Quota Posts under the 2025-26 recruitment cycle.
Posts: Percussion Instrument Player & Classical Singer (Male/Female).
Total Vacancies: 02
Age Limit: 18-30 years (Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PWD up to 45 years).
Selection: Written Test (CBT) + Audition + Interview + Medical.
Application Fee: ₹250 (SC/ST/Ex-Servicemen/PWD) | ₹500 (Others).
Last Date: 30 Dec 2025, 23:59 Hours
The Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC), Central Railway has released an official notification for the recruitment of cultural talent under the Cultural Quota Recruitment 2025-26 scheme. The Central Railway Recruitment 2025 aims to fill 02 vacancies for specialized cultural posts including Percussion Instrument Player and Classical Singer.
This recruitment is part of the Ministry of Railways’ initiative to promote and preserve Indian classical art forms within the railway workforce. Unlike regular railway jobs, these positions are specifically designed for candidates with recognized expertise in classical music and dance forms. The Central Railway, headquartered in Mumbai, is one of the busiest railway zones in India, overseeing operations across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Gujarat. These recruitment drives offer excellent career growth opportunities for artists and musicians who wish to serve the nation while preserving cultural heritage.
Central Railway Recruitment 2025 Cultural Quota Vacancy Details
The recruitment is specifically for preserving and promoting classical Indian art forms within the railway organization. Here is the detailed vacancy breakdown:
| Post Name | Vacancies | Discipline | Qualification | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Percussion Instrument Player | 01 | Tabla, Mridangam, Ghatam, Pakhawaj, etc. | 12th Pass + Degree/Diploma in Classical Music | ₹25,000-₹35,000 |
| Classical Singer | 01 | Hindustani/Carnatic Classical Singing | 12th Pass + Degree/Diploma in Classical Singing | ₹25,000-₹35,000 |
Important Note: The final salary is subject to Railway pay scale norms and will be determined at the time of appointment. No application fee is required.
Location: These positions will be posted across the Central Railway network in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
Job Location & Posting Information for Central Railway Recruitment 2025
The selected candidates will be posted in the Central Railway region, which covers:
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Divisional Offices: Mumbai, Pune, Bhusawal, Nagpur, Solapur (Maharashtra) and other units in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat.
- Work Profile: Railway offices, cultural events, exhibitions, and platforms for national and international performance opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria for Central Railway Recruitment 2025
To apply for the Central Railway Recruitment 2025, candidates must fulfill these mandatory criteria:
- Educational Qualification:
- Must have passed 10th, 12th, Diploma, or Degree from a recognized board or university.
- Important: NO minimum percentage requirement (unlike regular railway jobs that require 50% marks). SC/ST candidates get the same consideration.
- Qualification proof: Original or attested copies of mark sheets/certificates.
- Cultural/Music Qualification (Mandatory):
- For Percussion Instrument Player: Must have a Degree, Diploma, or Certificate in Percussion Instruments (Tabla, Mridangam, Ghatam, Pakhawaj, Dholak, etc.) from a government-recognized university or institute (Sangeet Natak Academy affiliated bodies preferred).
- For Classical Singer: Must have a Degree, Diploma, or Certificate in Hindustani or Carnatic Classical Singing from a recognized institution.
- Certificate from private gurus MAY NOT be accepted unless recognized by national bodies like Sangeet Natak Academy.
- Age Limit (As on 01-01-2026):
- General Category: 18 to 30 years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 18 to 30 + 3 = 33 years
- SC/ST: 18 to 30 + 5 = 35 years
- PWD (UR): 18 to 30 + 10 = 40 years
- PWD (OBC): 18 to 30 + 13 = 43 years
- PWD (SC/ST): 18 to 30 + 15 = 45 years
- Ex-Servicemen: As per government rules (typically 5-10 years additional relaxation).
- Citizenship: Must be an Indian Citizen or eligible as per constitutional provisions.
- Physical Standards: Must be medically fit as per Railway recruitment norms. Normal hearing and vision required (corrective lenses allowed).
Selection Process for Central Railway Recruitment 2025
The selection process consists of 4 stages, not just audition. This is crucial information that many websites miss:
Stage 1: Written Test/CBT (Computer-Based Test)
- Format: Objective type multiple-choice questions.
- Subjects: General Knowledge, General Science, General Mathematics, English, Reasoning, Aptitude.
- Duration: 60 minutes.
- Total Marks: 50 marks.
- Qualifying Percentage: 40% (Candidates must score minimum 40% to pass).
- Negative Marking: Yes (typically 0.5 mark per wrong answer, check notification).
- Importance: Clearing this stage is mandatory to proceed to audition.
Stage 2: Audition/Skill Test
- Format: Live performance of classical music (15-20 minutes solo).
- Evaluation: A panel of expert judges will assess:
- Technical proficiency (notes accuracy, rhythm).
- Raga knowledge (for classical singers).
- Artistic expression and presentation.
- Stage presence and confidence.
Stage 3: Interview
- Duration: 10-15 minutes.
- Questions Cover:
- Musical background and training (duration, teachers, achievements).
- Knowledge of your specific classical art form.
- General awareness about Indian Railways.
- Personality assessment, communication skills.
Stage 4: Document Verification & Medical Examination
- Verification of educational certificates, caste certificate (if applicable).
- Medical test by Railway doctor to confirm fitness standards.
Application Fee for Central Railway Recruitment 2025
Central Railway Cultural Quota recruitment REQUIRES an application fee:
| Category | Fee Amount | Refund Provision |
|---|---|---|
| SC/ST Candidates | ₹250/- | Refundable if eligible and appear in Written Test |
| Ex-Servicemen | ₹250/- | Refundable if eligible and appear in Written Test |
| PWD (Persons with Disability) | ₹250/- | Refundable if eligible and appear in Written Test |
| Women Candidates | ₹250/- | Refundable if eligible and appear in Written Test |
| All Other Categories | ₹500/- | Non-Refundable |
| EBC (Economically Backward Class) | ₹250/- | Refundable if eligible and appear in Written Test |
Payment Methods: Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
Important: Fee must be paid by 30 December 2025 (same as application closing date).
How to Apply Online for Central Railway Recruitment 2025
Step 1: Visit Official Portal
- Go to www.rrccr.com (Official RRC Central Railway website).
- Click on “Cultural Quota 2025-26” or “Cultural Quota Recruitment” link.
Step 2: Register for New Users
- Click “New User? Register Here” or “Click here to register and apply.”
- Provide your email address.
- Create a strong password (minimum 8 characters with numbers and special symbols).
- Verify your email through the confirmation link.
Step 3: Login to Your Account
- Use your registered email and password to login.
- Keep your username and password safe; you’ll need them if you want to update your application.
Step 4: Fill the Application Form
- Personal Details: Name, Father’s Name, Date of Birth, Gender, Contact Number, Email.
- Address: Permanent and Correspondence address.
- Educational Qualification: 10th/12th/Degree marks and board/university.
- Music Qualification: Degree/Diploma/Certificate details (Institute name, Year of passing, Field).
- Post Applied For: Select “Percussion Instrument Player” or “Classical Singer.”
When can I apply for Central Railway Recruitment 2025?
Application Start Date: 01 December 2025 (Monday)
Application End Date: 30 December 2025 (Sunday) at 23:59 Hours
You can apply anytime within this window. It’s recommended to apply at least 2-3 days before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Can late applications be accepted after 30 December?
No. The portal closes automatically at 23:59 hours on 30 December 2025. No late applications are accepted under any circumstances. Therefore, submit well before the deadline.
Is the application fee refundable?
For SC/ST/Ex-Servicemen/PWD/Women (₹250): Refundable if you are found eligible and appear in the Written Test.
For All Other Categories (₹500): Non-Refundable in all cases.
If you don’t appear in the written test, even SC/ST candidates forfeit the fee.
I’m 31 years old. Can I apply if I’m SC/ST?
Age is calculated as on 01 January 2026. If you will be 31 on that date:
• General: NOT eligible (limit is 30)
• SC/ST: YES, eligible (limit is 35)
• OBC: YES, eligible (limit is 33)
So yes, if you’re SC/ST, you can apply!
Do I need a Bachelor’s degree in music?
No. For educational qualification, 12th pass is enough. For music qualification, you need a Degree, Diploma, OR Certificate in your classical art form. A 2-3 year music diploma from Sangeet Natak Academy is sufficient; you don’t need a Bachelor’s degree.
I learned from a private guru without any certificate. Can I apply?
Risky. The notification requires a recognized degree/diploma/certificate. Without official certification, your application will likely be rejected during document verification. Contact cultural@rrccr.com before applying to check if your guru’s affiliation with recognized bodies can help.
Is there really a written exam for Cultural Quota?
YES. This is critical info many websites miss. The selection includes:
1. Written Test/CBT (50 marks, 60 min) – Qualifying: 40%
2. Audition (15-20 min performance)
3. Interview
4. Document Verification & Medical
Failing the written test means disqualification, even if you’re a great musician.
What’s the written exam syllabus?
Subjects: General Knowledge, Science, Mathematics, English, Reasoning, Aptitude, Professional Knowledge.
Duration: 60 minutes
Marks: 50
Passing: 40% (20 marks minimum)
Negative Marking: Yes (typically 0.5 mark per wrong answer)
Start preparing from today to score well.
When will exam dates be announced?
The written test date will be announced after 30 December 2025 (application deadline). Typically, the exam is conducted 4-8 weeks later. Check rrccr.com regularly for updates.
Will auditions be in-person or online?
Based on past practice, auditions are typically in-person at Mumbai headquarters (or designated centers). You’ll perform a 15-20 minute solo before expert judges. Some railways may offer online video submission – check your admit card for exact details.
Can I submit original documents during online application?
No. Online application requires scanned copies only. Original documents must be brought during Document Verification stage (after you pass written test and audition). Your originals will be verified against the scanned copies you uploaded.
What file size and format should I use for document uploads?
Format: PDF or JPG
Max Size: 2 MB per file
Image Resolution: At least 100 DPI
Tip: Use an online image compressor if files are too large. Ensure text is legible when zoomed.
Is this a permanent job or contract position?
Permanent Government Job. Selected candidates become permanent railway employees with full government benefits including pension, health insurance, leave, and provident fund. This is NOT a contract position.
What’s the salary for this position?
Pay Scale: ₹19,900 to