NCL Apprentice Trainee Recruitment 2026 represents a significant opportunity for fresh graduates, diploma holders, and ITI-trained candidates seeking structured professional development with one of India’s largest coal mining enterprises. Northern Coalfields Limited, a subsidiary of Coal India Limited, is known for providing stable, long-term career pathways and robust employee welfare in the mining and energy sector. This apprenticeship program bridges academic learning and industry practice, offering candidates practical exposure under expert mentorship.
The recruitment drive opens 1607 positions across four disciplines – Graduate, Diploma, Trade (ITI), and Paramedical – with monthly stipends ranging from Rs. 9,600 to Rs. 13,700 depending on qualification level. Eligible candidates from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh must complete their qualifications between June 2022 and May 2026. Online applications will be accepted through the NATS portal (for Graduate and Diploma candidates) and NAPS portal (for Trade/ITI candidates) from 01-06-2026 to 15-06-2026. Candidates are advised to verify all details from the official notification and portal before applying.
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 | Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL), Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh |
| Advertisement Number | NCL/HRD/CETI/2026-27/168 |
| Post Name | Graduate Apprentice, Diploma Apprentice, Trade Apprentice (ITI), Paramedical Apprentice |
| Total Vacancies | 1607 Posts |
| Training Duration | One Year (as per Apprentice Act, 1961) |
| Application Mode | Online only – NATS & NAPS Portals |
| Official Website | https://www.nclcil.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 25-05-2026 |
| Age Cut-off Date | 01-06-2026 |
| Online Application Start | 01-06-2026 |
| Online Application Deadline | 15-06-2026 |
| Merit List Release | 20-06-2026 (Tentative) |
| Document Scrutiny & Joining | To be intimated via email |
Age Limit
| Category | Age Requirement | Relaxation |
|---|---|---|
| General / UR / OBC (Creamy Layer) | 18-26 years as on 01-06-2026 | Nil |
| SC / ST | 18-31 years | 5 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 18-29 years | 3 years |
| PwBD (General/UR) | 18-36 years | 10 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 18-41 years | 15 years |
| PwBD (OBC Non-Creamy Layer) | 18-39 years | 13 years |
Educational Qualification
| Discipline Category | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentices (11 streams) | Bachelor’s degree in a respective engineering or non-engineering discipline from a recognized university/institute (full-time regular course only) |
| Diploma Apprentices (9 streams) | Diploma in respective engineering or non-engineering discipline from a recognized institute (full-time regular course only) |
| Trade Apprentices / ITI (8 trades) | Matriculation (10th) + ITI Certificate in respective trade with National/State Trade Certificate |
| Paramedical Apprentices (12 courses) | Relevant degree or diploma in a paramedical discipline + valid state registration certificate |
Qualification Eligibility Window: Candidates must have qualified between June 2022 and May 2026. Qualifications obtained before June 2022 or via part-time, correspondence, or distance learning modes are not accepted.
Vacancy Details & Job Profile
| Apprentice Discipline | Total Positions |
|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentices | 322 |
| Diploma Apprentices | 305 |
| Trade Apprentices (ITI) | 906 |
| Paramedical Apprentices | 74 |
| Grand Total | 1607 |
The vacancy table above encompasses all four training streams. Detailed stream-wise and specialization-wise vacancy breakdowns are available in the official notification PDF, with positions spanning electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, mining engineering, civil engineering, nursing, pharmacy, electrician, fitter, welder, and other trades.
Role & Responsibilities
NCL Apprentice Trainees work under experienced technicians, engineers, and supervisors in operational coal mines and processing facilities, acquiring practical skills aligned to their chosen discipline. Graduate and diploma apprentices typically contribute to engineering design support, process optimization, equipment maintenance planning, and data analysis within specialized departments such as Mining, Electrical, Mechanical, or Administration. Trade apprentices gain hands-on proficiency in equipment operation, maintenance procedures, safety compliance, and troubleshooting in real workplace environments. Paramedical trainees provide healthcare support, patient care coordination, and occupational health services in NCL’s medical facilities and workplace health centers.
The apprenticeship role extends beyond routine task execution-trainees develop professional judgment, safety awareness, and understanding of industrial standards applicable to coal mining operations under the Mines Rules 1955. This practical exposure significantly enhances career prospects in government mining enterprises, and many apprentices transition into permanent positions within NCL or other organizations post-training. The one-year structured program balances mentored work experience with certification credits, making it highly valued by employers in the energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors.
Monthly Stipend
| Apprentice Category | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentices | Rs. 12,300 |
| Diploma Apprentices | Rs. 10,900 |
| Trade Apprentices – Electrician, Fitter, Turner, Machinist, Auto Electrician, COPA, Diesel Mechanic, Motor Mechanic | Rs. 10,560 |
| Trade Apprentices – Welder | Rs. 9,600 |
| Paramedical Degree Holders (Physiotherapy, Nursing, Ayurveda, Optometry, Yoga, Dietetics) | Rs. 13,700 |
| Paramedical Diploma Holders (Lab Technology, Pharmacy, ECG, Nursing & Midwifery, X-Ray, Ophthalmic Technology) | Rs. 12,700 |
Important Note on Stipend: The stipend for Graduate and Diploma Apprentices includes the Government of India share disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Trade apprentice stipends are disbursed directly by NCL. All payments occur monthly into the apprentice’s AADHAAR-linked bank account as per the signed apprenticeship contract. Stipend amounts are subject to statutory deductions for provident fund, income tax, or other applicable levies as per government rules.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| All Categories | Nil (Zero Fee) |
No application fee is applicable for this recruitment. Candidates apply online exclusively through the NATS portal (for Graduate/Diploma) or NAPS portal (for Trade/ITI) at no cost. Physical or postal applications are not accepted.
Selection Process
The selection process consists of three sequential stages:
Stage 1 – Merit-Based Shortlisting Merit lists are prepared based on marks obtained in the final qualifying examination. For graduate and diploma candidates, merit is calculated from the percentage scored in the final degree or diploma examination. For ITI/Trade candidates, merit is computed as the average of the passing percentage in Matriculation and the respective National or State Trade Certificate examination. Candidates are ranked in descending order of marks. When marks are identical (tie), the older candidate by date of birth receives priority; if dates of birth also match, alphabetical order of surname applies.
Stage 2 – Document Verification Shortlisted candidates are invited for document scrutiny on the notified dates and venues. Candidates must present all original certificates, degree/diploma/ITI certificates, matriculation certificate (for date of birth verification), caste/category certificate (if applicable), disability certificate (for PwBD candidates), and proof of address. Failure to appear, non-production of original documents, or submission of invalid certificates within the stipulated timeframe results in automatic rejection of candidature without further communication.
Stage 3 – Medical Fitness Examination. Final engagement is conditional on clearing a mandatory medical examination as per the Mines Rules 1955 standards. Candidates must obtain a fitness certificate from a Government Hospital medical officer (minimum rank: Assistant Civil Surgeon) in the prescribed format. The medical certificate must be issued on or after the notification release date (25-05-2026). Candidates unable to secure this certificate are ineligible for final engagement.
Eligibility Criteria – Key Points
Who Is Eligible:
- Indian nationals only
- Aged 18-26 years as on 01-06-2026 (relaxations applicable for reserved categories)
- Qualification obtained from a recognized, functional, and operational institute/university located in Uttar Pradesh or Madhya Pradesh
- Full-time regular course qualifications only (no part-time, correspondence, or distance learning)
- Qualified between June 2022 and May 2026
- No prior apprenticeship experience
- No current apprenticeship engagement
- No prior job experience exceeding one year
- For OBC candidates: non-creamy layer status only
- For PwBD candidates: a valid disability certificate as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rules 2017
Who Is Ineligible:
- Candidates with prior apprenticeship experience or currently enrolled in an apprenticeship
- Candidates with one year or more of employment experience
- Those who qualified before June 2022 or after May 2026
- Those with qualifications higher than the prescribed level for their chosen stream
- Those whose institution is not functional in UP/MP
- Those with part-time, correspondence, or distance learning qualifications
- OBC candidates with creamy layer status
- Multiple applicants (submitting more than one application results in disqualification)
- Candidates unable to produce valid medical fitness documents
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before applying for NCL Apprentice Trainee Recruitment 2026, candidates must carefully verify the following:
Registration & Application Errors: Ensure you have pre-registered on the NATS portal (if applying for Graduate/Diploma) or NAPS portal (if applying for Trade/ITI) and obtained your Enrolment ID before starting the application. Applying without a valid Enrolment ID will result in application rejection. Do not submit multiple applications across different disciplines-NCL explicitly disqualifies candidates submitting more than one application.
Academic & Document Verification: Verify that your qualifying institution is currently functional and operational in either Uttar Pradesh or Madhya Pradesh. Confirm that your qualification was obtained through full-time regular coursework; part-time, correspondence, and distance learning modes are not eligible. While entering marks in the online form, ensure accuracy of total marks obtained and maximum marks; NCL conducts document scrutiny and will reject candidature if figures are found incorrect or inflated during verification.
Qualification Timeline & Qualification Level: Your qualification should have been passed between June 2022 and May 2026. Check that you do not possess qualifications higher than the prescribed level for your chosen stream; higher qualifications render you ineligible. Understand that NCL will not permit any rounding off of percentages; a score of 49.99% is treated as failing the 50% threshold.
Application Document Quality & Communication Details: Upload a clear, colored photograph and black ink signature meeting portal specifications-blurred or unclear images will be rejected. Ensure you have an active email ID and a valid mobile number that will remain functional for at least one year, as NCL communicates all further updates (merit list, scrutiny dates, joining instructions) exclusively via these channels. Download and retain both a printed and digital copy of your submitted application immediately after submission.
How to Apply for NCL Apprentice Trainee Recruitment 2026
The recruitment operates exclusively through online portals. Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Visit the official NATS portal at https://nats.education.gov.in if applying for Graduate or Diploma Apprentice positions, or the NAPS portal at https://www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in if applying for Trade/ITI Apprentice positions.
- Complete the portal registration process with your basic personal information (name, date of birth, email, mobile number, and address) to obtain an Enrolment ID (registration reference number).
- Log in to the respective portal using your Enrolment ID and proceed to the NCL Apprentice Trainee Recruitment 2026 application section.
- Fill in the online application form with accurate personal, educational, and contact information as requested by the portal interface.
- Upload scanned documents as per portal specifications: a colored photograph (passport-size, minimum 200 KB, maximum 500 KB) and a signature in black ink on a white background.
- Enter your date of birth as recorded in your Matriculation (10th class) certificate for consistency and verification purposes.
- Input your academic performance: total marks or percentage obtained in your final qualifying examination (degree/diploma/ITI) and the maximum marks for that examination.
- If applicable, upload your caste/category certificate in the prescribed format (OBC Non-Creamy Layer, SC, ST, or EWS) or PwBD disability certificate as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rules 2017.
- Provide both your address for official correspondence and your permanent residential address as requested.
- Review all entered information for accuracy, then click Submit to finalize your application.
- Download and save your application confirmation receipt (containing your application reference number) immediately after submission. Print a hard copy for your records and future correspondence.
- If you require technical assistance during the application, contact the NCL HRD Department at [email protected] or visit the Career > Apprenticeship Training section on https://www.nclcil.in.
💡 Expert Tip: Before hitting the final Submit button, carefully cross-check all details, especially marks, category information, and date of birth, against your original certificates. NCL does not permit corrections after submission, and discrepancies discovered during document scrutiny can lead to disqualification. Keep your Enrolment ID, application number, and portal login credentials secure for future reference throughout the selection process.
Important Instructions for Candidates
Application Window & Submission Rules: Online applications are accepted exclusively from 01-06-2026 to 15-06-2026 through the NATS and NAPS portals. No paper-based, postal, or offline applications will be entertained under any circumstances. Each candidate is permitted to submit an application for only one apprentice discipline; submitting multiple applications across different trades or streams will result in immediate disqualification of all applications.
Non-Alterable Information: Information entered regarding date of birth, caste category, and educational qualification becomes final upon submission and cannot be altered, modified, or corrected at any subsequent stage. Candidates must therefore exercise extreme care while entering these details.
Stipend & Payment Structure: Monthly stipend for Graduate and Diploma Apprentices is inclusive of the Government of India’s share, which is disbursed via the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) infrastructure. Trade Apprentice stipends are remitted directly by NCL. All stipend payments occur directly into the AADHAAR-linked bank account of the trainee in accordance with the signed apprenticeship agreement. Statutory deductions for provident fund contributions, income tax, and other applicable levies will be applied as per government regulations.
Leave & Working Hours: Apprentices are entitled to 11 days of Casual Leave and 15 days of Medical Leave annually during the one-year training period. The standard engagement hours are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all working days. Apprentices are covered under the Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923, for workplace-related accidents or injuries sustained during the training period.
Accommodation & Travel: No residential accommodation, food provisions, lodging, or transport facilities will be provided by NCL during the training period. Trainees are responsible for their own commute, meals, and accommodation arrangements. Travel allowance (TA) and daily allowance (DA) are not provided for attending document scrutiny sessions or post-scrutiny processes.
Nature of Employment & Rights: Apprenticeship Training is temporary and statutory in nature under the Apprentice Act, 1961. Successful completion of the one-year training does not confer any automatic right, guarantee, or claim for regular, permanent, or contractual employment with NCL. Employment beyond the training period is subject to business requirements, performance evaluation, and organizational decisions made by NCL management.
Malpractice & Dispute Resolution: Canvassing, lobbying, or any form of unethical conduct at any stage of recruitment will lead to disqualification and cancellation of candidature. All disputes or grievances arising from this recruitment process are subject exclusively to the jurisdiction of courts and tribunals located in Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh. Dates and schedules mentioned in the notification are tentative and may be subject to alteration or amendment as per NCL’s discretion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the last date to apply for the NCL Apprentice Trainee Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The final date to submit online applications is 15-06-2026. Candidates must complete and submit their applications through either the NATS portal (for Graduate/Diploma) or the NAPS portal (for Trade/ITI) by this deadline. No applications will be accepted after this date.
Q2. How many total vacancies are available in the NCL Apprentice Trainee Recruitment 2026?
Ans. A total of 1607 apprentice positions are available across four training categories: 322 Graduate Apprentices, 305 Diploma Apprentices, 906 Trade Apprentices (ITI), and 74 Paramedical Apprentices. These positions span multiple engineering disciplines, trades, and paramedical specializations.
Q3. What is the age limit for applying to this recruitment?
Ans. Candidates must be aged 18-26 years as on the cut-off date of 01-06-2026. Age relaxations are available for reserved category candidates: SC/ST candidates get 5 years relaxation (18-31 years), OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates get 3 years relaxation (18-29 years), and PwBD candidates receive 10-15 years relaxation depending on their category combination.
Q4. Is there any application fee for NCL Apprentice Trainee Recruitment 2026?
Ans. No application fee is charged. This recruitment is entirely fee-free. Candidates apply online through government portals (NATS/NAPS) without any cost or charges.
Q5. What is the monthly stipend for different apprentice categories?
Ans. Monthly stipends vary by qualification level: Graduate Apprentices receive Rs. 12,300, Diploma Apprentices receive Rs. 10,900, Trade Apprentices receive Rs. 9,600-Rs. 10,560 depending on trade, and Paramedical Apprentices receive Rs. 12,700-Rs. 13,700 depending on degree/diploma qualification. Stipends are disbursed monthly into the apprentice’s bank account linked to Aadhaar.
Q6. Can I apply for more than one apprentice discipline or trade?
Ans. No. Each candidate is strictly limited to applying for only one apprentice discipline. Submission of multiple applications across different trades, streams, or specializations will result in the disqualification of the candidate and rejection of all applications submitted by that individual.
Q7. What documents must I upload during the online application?
Ans. Required documents include: your Enrolment ID from the NATS/NAPS portal, a scanned colored photograph, a scanned signature in black ink, a copy of your qualifying degree/diploma/ITI certificate, your Matriculation certificate (for date of birth), and, if applicable, a category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) or PwBD disability certificate. Address proof for correspondence is also required.
Q8. When will the merit list be released?
Ans. The merit list of shortlisted candidates is expected to be released on 20-06-2026 (tentative). The exact date may be subject to change. Candidates will be notified via email and through the respective portal once the merit list is finalized and published.
Q9. Is accommodation provided during the apprenticeship training period?
Ans. No. NCL does not provide residential accommodation, food, lodging, or transport facilities during the one-year training period. Apprentices are entirely responsible for arranging their own accommodation, meals, commute, and related personal expenses.
Q10. Can candidates with higher qualifications (e.g., a postgraduate degree) apply?
Ans. No. Candidates possessing qualifications higher than the prescribed level for their chosen discipline are ineligible. For example, candidates with a Master’s degree cannot apply for Graduate Apprentice positions if the requirement is a Bachelor’s degree. This is a strict eligibility criterion.
Important Links
| Particulars | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online (Graduate/Diploma) | Apply Here |
| Apply Online (Trade/ITI) | Apply Here |
| Official Notification PDF | Download Here |
| Official Website | Visit Here |
