The Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), a premier unit of the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), has announced its apprenticeship program for the 2026-27 session. This recruitment drive represents a strategic career entry point into one of India’s most prestigious Maharatna PSUs, offering aspirants hands-on technical exposure in the heavy industries sector.
For candidates looking to bridge the gap between academic theory and industrial mastery, this is an unparalleled opportunity for professional skill development. This article provides a comprehensive recruitment update for eligible Indian citizens. With a total of 1110 vacancies across trade, diploma, and degree categories, the scale of this opportunity is significant.
2. Key Highlights of SAIL RSP Recruitment 2026
The following table provides a high-level summary of the recruitment notification for quick reference:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Rourkela Steel Plant (SAIL), Learning & Development Department |
| Ref. No. | L&D/Adv./APP/158 dated 17.07.2026 |
| Post Names | Trade, Graduate, and Technician (Diploma/Degree) Apprentices |
| Total Vacancies | 1110 |
| Mode of Application | Online (NAPS/NATS Portals) followed by Walk-in |
| Job Location | Rourkela, Odisha |
| Official Website | apprenticeshipindia.org / nats.education.gov.in |
3. Important Dates & Timeline
Timing is critical for government recruitment. Aspiring candidates must complete their online registration before the window closes.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 17th July 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply on Portal | 26th August 2026 |
| Age Reckoning Date | 31st August 2026 |
| Walk-in Process Period | 1st Sept 2026 to 26th Sept 2026 |
4. Comprehensive Vacancy Breakdown
Table A: Trade Apprentices (ITI Holders)
| Trade/Discipline | Vacancy | Trade/Discipline | Vacancy |
|---|---|---|---|
| AOCP | 10 | COPA | 56 |
| Diesel Mechanic | 10 | Electrician | 100 |
| Fitter | 100 | Tool & Die Maker | 10 |
| Electronics Mechanic | 15 | Instrument Mechanic | 10 |
| LACP | 10 | Machinist | 10 |
| Mechanic Motor Vehicle | 10 | Mechanic Ref. & AC | 10 |
| Turner | 15 | Welder | 15 |
| ICTSM | 10 | Central AC Plant Mech | 10 |
| Technician Mechatronics | 10 | Mfg. Process Control | 10 |
| Total Trade | 421 |
Table B & C: Engineering, Non-Engineering & Healthcare
| Branch/Discipline | Diploma | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical/Mechatronics | 90 | 30 |
| Electrical | 90 | 15 |
| Civil | 40 | 10 |
| IT / Computer Science | 40 | 20 |
| Metallurgy | 20 | 10 |
| Electronics branches | 40 | 30 |
| Ceramic / Chemical | 15 | 15 |
| Nursing (B.Sc/GNM) | 40 | 20 |
| BA / B.Sc / B.Com / BCA / BBA | – | 85 |
| Other Healthcare/Data Entry | 44 | – |
| Sub Total | 414 | 275 |
5. Eligibility Criteria and Age Limits
- Trade Apprentices: ITI in relevant trade from a Govt. recognized institute.
- Graduate & Technician: Degree or Diploma in respective discipline.
- Regular Status: Only full-time regular students are eligible.
- Passing Years: Must have passed in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026.
- Age Limit: 18 to 28 years (as of 31.08.2026). Relaxations apply for SC/ST/OBC/PH.
6. Monthly Stipend Structure
| Category | Stipend Per Month |
|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentices | Rs. 12,300/- |
| Diploma Apprentices | Rs. 10,900/- |
| Trade Apprentices (Standard) | Rs. 10,560/- |
| Trade Apprentices (COPA & Welder) | Rs. 9,600/- |
7. Step-by-Step Application Process
For ITI (Trade) Candidates:
- Visit apprenticeshipindia.org and register as a “Candidate.”
- Search for Establishment: SAIL ROURKELA STEEL PLANT.
- Select your trade and click “Apply.”
For Degree/Diploma Candidates:
- Register on the NATS portal: nats.education.gov.in.
- Go to “Establishment Requests” and search for Steel Authority of India Limited, Rourkela Steel Plant.
- Apply for your respective branch.
8. Selection Process & Merit Calculation
Selection is based entirely on academic merit. No written exam will be conducted.
- 30% Weightage: Marks in Class-X (Matriculation).
- 70% Weightage: Marks in professional qualification (ITI/Diploma/Degree).
9. Walk-in Schedule & Venue
Candidates must report between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM at the venue on allotted dates.
Venue: Central Recreation Room, Trainees’ Hostel, Sector-5, Rourkela-769002, Dist: Sundargarh (Odisha).
| Dates (2026) | Trades/Branches |
|---|---|
| 01.09 to 03.09 | AOCP, COPA, Diesel Mech, Electrician |
| 04.09 to 08.09 | Fitter, Tool & Die, Electronics, Inst. Mech, LACP |
| 09.09 to 11.09 | Machinist, MMV, RAC, Turner, Welder |
| 12.09 to 15.09 | ICTSM, Central AC, Mechatronics |
| 16.09 to 18.09 | Ceramic, Chemical, Civil, CS, EEE, Electrical |
| 19.09 to 26.09 | Mechanical, Metallurgy, Healthcare, BA/B.Sc/B.Com |
11. Important Links Table
| Trade Apprentice (NAPS) Portal | Register Here |
| Graduate/Technician (NATS) Portal | Register Here |
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When was the notification released?
It was released on July 17, 2026.
2. What is the last date to apply?
The last date for portal registration is August 26, 2026.
3. Is there an application fee?
No, there is no application fee for SAIL RSP Apprentice recruitment.
4. Are distance education students eligible?
No, only regular (full-time) students are eligible.
