MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification has been officially released for 495 apprenticeship seats across 18 different trades at Aragon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates who have completed their 8th, 10th, or IT qualifications to join one of India’s premier defense and commercial shipbuilding organizations. The recruitment drive encompasses diverse skilled trades, including Fitter, Structural Fitter, Welder, Electrician, Draftsman, and many others, offering competitive stipends during the two-year training period and prospects for permanent employment.
MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 welcomes applications from eligible candidates across three distinct groups based on educational qualifications. Group A is for 10th Class passed candidates, Group B for ITI-qualified individuals, and Group C for 8th Class passed applicants. The online application window opened on 11 June 2026 and will close on 01 July 2026, with the selection process including an online examination scheduled tentatively for 25 July 2026. Candidates must visit https://mazagondock.in to complete their registration and application submission.
Note: All information is sourced from the official notification. Candidates are advised to verify all details from the official website before applying.
Notification Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) |
| Post Name | Trade Apprentice |
| Total Vacancies | 495 |
| Groups | Group A (10th Class), Group B (ITI), Group C (8th Class) |
| Number of Trades | 18 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Mode | Online Examination (CBT) + Document Verification + Medical Exam |
| Training Location | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Official Website | https://mazagondock.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Registration & Application Opens | 11 June 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Registration & Application | 01 July 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Fee Payment | 01 July 2026 |
| Declaration of Eligible / Not Eligible Candidate List | 10 July 2026 (Tentative) |
| Last Date to Submit Representation Regarding Ineligibility | 15 July 2026 (Tentative) |
| Release of Admit Card / Hall Ticket | 15 July 2026 (Tentative) |
| Online Examination (CBT) | 25 July 2026 (Tentative) |
Age Limit
| Particulars | Age Limit (as on 01-10-2026) |
|---|---|
| Group A (10th Class) | 15 to 19 years |
| Group B (ITI Passed) | 16 to 21 years |
| Group C (8th Class) | 14 to 18 years |
Age relaxation is applicable as per Government Rules for SC (upper age relaxed), OBC (upper age relaxed), and Diving/PWD candidates (upper age relaxed). Valid certificates from the Competent Authority are required to claim age relaxation benefits.
Educational Qualification
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Group A | Passed SSC (Class 10) with General Science and Mathematics; minimum 50% aggregate marks for General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/Divyang/AFC candidates; passing class only for SC/ST candidates. ITI-passed candidates are NOT eligible. |
| Group B | Passed relevant trade from the Government or a Government-recognized Industrial Training Institute; minimum 50% aggregate marks for General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/Divyang/AFC candidates; passing class only for SC/ST candidates. Candidates appearing in the final ITI exam may apply, but must pass on or before 01 October 2026. |
| Group C | Passed 8th Standard with Science and Mathematics; minimum 50% aggregate marks for General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/Divyang/AFC candidates; passing class only for SC/ST candidates. ITI-passed candidates are NOT eligible. |
Vacancy Details by Group and Trade
Group A – 10th Class Passed (Age: 15-19 years, Training: 2 Years)
| Trade | Total Seats | UR | OBC | SEBC | EWS | SC | ST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draftsman (Mechanical) | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Electrician | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Fitter | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Pipe Fitter | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Structural Fitter | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Group A Total | 100 |
Group B – ITI Passed (Age: 16-21 years, Training: 1 Year)
| Trade | Total Seats | UR | OBC | SEBC | EWS | SC | ST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fitter Structural (Ex. ITI Fitter) | 50 | 18 | 15 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 3 |
| Draftsman (Mechanical) | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Electrician | 50 | 18 | 15 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 3 |
| ICTSM | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Electronic Mechanic | 30 | 12 | 9 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| RAC (Refrigeration & Air Conditioning) | 30 | 12 | 9 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| Painter (General) | 25 | 10 | 7 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 1 |
| Pipe Fitter / Plumber | 30 | 12 | 9 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| Welder | 40 | 15 | 12 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 2 |
| COPA (Computer Operator & Programming Assistant) | 30 | 12 | 9 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| Wood Work Technician / Carpenter | 30 | 12 | 9 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| Group B Total | 355 |
Group C – 8th Class Passed (Age: 14-18 years)
| Trade | Total Seats | UR | OBC | SEBC | EWS | SC | ST | Training |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rigger | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 Years |
| Welder (Gas & Electric) | 20 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 Year 3 Months |
| Group C Total | 40 |
Women applicants will receive 30% horizontal reservation across all groups and categories. Persons with Disability (Diving) candidates are eligible under horizontal reservation as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (minimum 40% benchmark disability certified by a Medical Board). Deaf and Hearing Impaired category applicants will be considered for the Pipe Fitter trade only.
Role & Responsibilities
Trade Apprentices at Aragon Dock Shipbuilders Limited perform specialized, skilled work in shipbuilding, defense production, and marine engineering. Depending on the selected trade, responsibilities include fabrication, welding, electrical installation, piping work, structural fitting, drafting technical drawings, mechanical repairs, refrigeration systems maintenance, computer programming, and carpentry operations. These positions require precision, technical knowledge, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to work in a heavy industrial shipyard environment.
This apprenticeship program offers invaluable hands-on experience in one of India’s most respected defense undertakings with exposure to cutting-edge shipbuilding technology and processes. Successful completion leads to employment prospects within MDL or the broader defense and maritime sector, providing long-term career stability, job security, skill advancement, and the satisfaction of contributing to India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| UR / OBC / SEBC / EWS / AFC | Rs. 100/- + Bank charges (non-refundable) |
| SC / ST / Divyang (PwD) | Nil (valid caste/disability certificate upload mandatory) |
The application fee, once paid, is non-refundable under any circumstances. SC, ST, and Diving candidates must upload valid caste or disability certificates with their application; failure to do so will result in their application being treated as the General category and the fee exemption being rejected.
Stipend During Apprenticeship Training
Selected Trade Apprentices will receive a monthly stipend during their training period as per the Apprentices Act. The stipend amount is credited directly to the selected candidate’s savings bank account via ECS (Electronic Clearing Service). No checks will be issued by MDL. Candidates must have a savings account in a Public Sector or Private Sector Scheduled Bank with ECS facility and must possess a valid PAN Card; failure to provide a PAN Card will result in income tax deduction from the stipend as per prevailing rates.
No hostel accommodation will be provided by MDL. Candidates must make their own residential arrangements during the training period. Apprentices are entitled to leave and holidays as per the Apprentices Act.
Selection Process
Selection for MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 comprises three distinct stages: an Online Examination (Computer-Based Test), followed by Document Verification and Trade Allotment, and finally a Medical Examination. Candidates are shortlisted based on merit in the online examination, and there is no interview round. The tentative date for the online examination is 25 July 2026.
Stage 1 – Online Examination (Computer-Based Test – CBT)
The CBT consists of 100 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 2 hours. The syllabus differs based on the group applied for:
| Subject | Group A (10th Passed) | Group B (ITI Passed) | Group C (8th Passed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| English & General Knowledge | 25 Questions | 25 Questions | 25 Questions |
| Physics | 25 Questions | – | 25 Questions |
| Chemistry | 25 Questions | – | 25 Questions |
| Mathematics | 25 Questions | – | 25 Questions |
| Trade Theory | – | 25 Questions | – |
| Workshop Calculation & Science | – | 25 Questions | – |
| Engineering Drawing | – | 25 Questions | – |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 100 |
Note: For the COPY trade (Group B), 75 questions will be from Trade Theory and 25 from English & General Knowledge.
Candidates will be able to choose two preferred examination centers from the following tentative list while applying: Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad), Nagpur, Kolhapur, and Nashik. MDL reserves the right to cancel, add, or change examination centers. No requests for center change will be entertained after submission of the application.
Stage 2 – Document Verification and Trade Allotment
Candidates securing the highest marks in the CBT (group and category-wise) will be called for document verification and trade allotment on the same day. All original documents for age, caste, educational qualification, and other relevant certificates must be brought to this stage. Absence of originals will result in immediate cancellation of candidature. During Trade Allotment, candidates will be offered available trades based on merit order and merit seat availability. Absence at allotment or non-acceptance of the available merit seat will lead to rejection. Once a trade is accepted, no change will be permitted. Contract Registration must be filled in the presence of the candidate’s mother, father, or guardian.
Stage 3 – Medical Examination
Shortlisted candidates must be medically fit as per the Apprentices Rules 1992. If a specialist opinion (X-ray, blood test, etc.) is required, the cost will be borne by the candidate. Joining for an apprenticeship is subject to a declaration of fitness by the Medical Officer.
How to Apply for MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official MDL website at https://mazagondock.in.
- Navigate to Careers → Online Recruitment → Apprentice section.
- Click on “Create New Account” to register as a new user and note your login credentials immediately.
- Log in to your account and fill in the application form completely and correctly with all required information.
- Upload all required documents, including educational qualification certificates and caste/disability certificate (if applicable).
- Children of Armed Forces Personnel must upload a copy of the parent’s Service Certificate; otherwise, the application will be considered under the General category.
- Pay the application fee of Rs. 100/- plus bank charges online (if applicable). SC, ST, and Diving candidates must upload their valid certificates instead of paying the fee.
- Select your two preferred examination centers from the available list provided on the portal.
- If you wish to use a scribe during the examination, indicate this in the online application form itself. No subsequent request will be entertained.
- Submit the application before 01 July 2026. Applications can be edited and modified until this date.
💡 Expert Tip: Save your login credentials immediately after account creation. The portal may experience high traffic close to the deadline on 01 July 2026, which can cause slow account recovery processes. Apply and complete fee payment well in advance to avoid server errors or failed transactions on the final day.
For registration help and support, contact: [email protected] or call 022-23764151 / 4155.
Documents Required
Candidates must upload the following documents during the online application process. At the time of document verification (Stage 2), all original documents must be produced. Missing originals will result in immediate disqualification:
- Educational qualification certificate and mark sheets (10th / 8th / ITI as applicable)
- Caste certificate in the prescribed format issued by the Competent Authority (for SC/ST/OBC/SEBC/EWS candidates)
- Valid Non-Creamy Layer (NCL) certificate for OBC candidates
- Disability certificate (for Divyang candidates) – mandatory upload; if not attached, application will be treated as General category
- Service Certificate of parent for children of Armed Forces Personnel (AFC) – mandatory upload; if not attached, application will be treated as General category
- Age proof document
- PAN Card (mandatory for stipend credit; income tax will be deducted if unavailable)
- Savings bank account details in a Scheduled Bank (Public or Private sector) with ECS facility
Important: School Leaving Certificate or Birth Certificate will NOT be accepted as proof of caste.
After selection, candidates must register on the National Apprenticeship Portal at https://www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in and submit a Police Verification Report (PVR) issued by the Commissioner of Police or Superintendent of Police of their area of residence within three weeks of joining. Failure to submit the PVR will lead to cancellation of admission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Understanding and avoiding these frequent errors will ensure your MDL Trade Apprentice application remains valid and competitive:
- ITI-passed candidates applying for Group A or C: This is explicitly prohibited. If discovered at any stage, the candidature will be cancelled without notice. Verify your group eligibility before applying based on your educational qualification alone.
- Not uploading caste/disability certificate for fee-exempt categories: SC, ST, and Divyang candidates who skip document upload will find their fee exemption rejected and their application treated as the General category. Upload the valid certificate before final submission.
- Leaving the scribe request for later: If you require a scribe for the online examination due to visual impairment or other disabilities, it must be indicated in the online application form itself. Requests submitted after application submission will not be considered.
- Not clearing ITI backlogs before 01 October 2026: Group B applicants appearing in their final ITI exam must pass on or before 01-10-2026. Passing after this date makes them ineligible regardless of application submission date.
- Not saving login credentials: After creating a new account on Mazagondock.in, note your User ID and password immediately. Recovery options on the last day can be slow and may cause missed deadlines.
- Applying on the last day: The portal may experience high traffic close to 01 July 2026. Complete your application and fee payment well in advance to avoid server errors or failed transactions.
- Not opening a savings bank account with ECS before joining: Stipends are paid only via ECS to a Scheduled Bank savings account. No cheques are issued. Open the account early to avoid disruption in stipend payments after selection.
- Forgetting to register on apprenticeshipindia.gov.in after selection: Registration on the National Apprenticeship Portal is mandatory for selected candidates. This is a separate and distinct step from the MDL application process and must not be overlooked.
- Not obtaining a PAN Card in time: Without a valid PAN Card, income tax will be deducted from your monthly stipend. Obtain it from the relevant tax authority as early as possible to avoid complications.
Important Links
| Particulars | Link |
|---|---|
| MDL ATS Rules & Regulation | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the last date to apply for the MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The last date for online registration and application submission is 01 July 2026. Candidates must also complete their fee payment by this date. Applications can be edited and modified until 01 July 2026, after which no changes will be permitted.
Q2. How many total vacancies are available in the MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
Ans. MDL has notified 495 total Trade Apprentice seats distributed across three groups and 18 different trades. Group A has 100 seats (10th Class), Group B has 355 seats (ITI), and Group C has 40 seats (8th Class).
Q3. What is the age limit for different groups in the MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The age limits (as on 01 October 2026) are: Group A (15-19 years), Group B (16-21 years), and Group C (14-18 years). Age relaxation is available for SC, ST, OBC, and Divyang candidates as per Government Rules with valid certificates from the Competent Authority.
Q4. What is the application fee for the MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The application fee is Rs. 100/- plus bank charges for UR, OBC, SEBC, EWS, and AFC category candidates. SC, ST, and Divyang (PwD) candidates are fully exempted from the fee, but they must upload valid caste or disability certificates with their application.
Q5. What documents are required during document verification at Stage 2?
Ans. Candidates must bring all original educational qualification certificates, caste certificates (if applicable), disability certificates (if applicable), age proof documents, PAN Card, and savings bank account details. Absence of originals will result in immediate cancellation of candidature.
Q6. Is hostel accommodation provided by MDL during the apprenticeship training?
Ans. No, MDL does not provide hostel accommodation during the training period. Candidates must make their own residential arrangements. However, apprentices are entitled to leave and holidays as per the Apprentices Act.
Q7. What happens if an ITI-passed candidate applies for Group A or Group C?
Ans. Applying for Group A or C as an ITI-passed candidate is explicitly prohibited in MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026. If discovered at any stage, the candidature will be cancelled without notice. ITI-passed candidates are eligible only for Group B.
