Indian Railways Opens Doors for Cultural Talents: Exciting Recruitment Opportunity at Chittaranjan Locomotive Works

A Unique Chance for Dramatists and Percussionists to Serve the Nation

Indian Railways has announced a golden opportunity for talented cultural artists seeking government employment. The Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW), located in West Bengal, is recruiting two positions under its Cultural Quota for 2025-2026—one for a Dramatist and one for a Drummer/Octa Pad Player. This rare recruitment initiative celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage by integrating performing artists into government institutions.

About the Positions

The positions are classified under Tier-II Group ‘C’ at Level-02 of the Pay Matrix, following the RS(RP) Rules 2016. These are permanent government jobs offering job security, benefits, and the prestige of serving India’s iconic railway system. The selected candidates will be expected to continue performing in cultural programs as part of their duties, making this an ideal opportunity for dedicated artists.

Eligibility Criteria: Do You Qualify?

To apply, candidates must meet the following essential requirements:

Educational Qualification:

All applicants must have passed their 12th standard (10+2) examination with at least 50% marks in aggregate. (Note: SC/ST candidates, Ex-Servicemen, and those with higher qualifications are exempt from the 50% marks requirement.) The certificate must be issued by a recognized board.

Professional/Cultural Qualification:

Candidates must possess a Degree or Diploma certificate in the specified cultural discipline from a government-recognized institution. This is non-negotiable—candidates without proper cultural qualifications should not apply.

Desirable Qualifications:

While not essential, these qualifications strengthen your application:

• Professional experience and prior performances on AIR (All India Radio) or Doordarshan
• Awards and prizes won at the national level
• For Dramatists: Additional proficiency in dance forms
• For Percussionists: Enhanced percussion skills across multiple instruments

Age Limits: Know Your Eligibility

Age eligibility is determined as of January 1, 2026, and varies by category:

Ex-Servicemen receive age relaxation equivalent to their defense service tenure plus three additional years, provided they have at least six months of verified military service.

Selection Process: What to Expect

The recruitment follows a three-stage merit-based assessment:

Stage 1: Written Test (50 marks)
A comprehensive objective-type examination covering:

• General Knowledge and General Science
• General Mathematics
• General English and Hindi Language
• Professional knowledge related to your cultural discipline
• Reasoning and Aptitude

Qualifying Score: Candidates must score at least 40% (20 marks out of 50) to advance to the next stage. This is a crucial threshold—focus your preparation here.

Stage 2: Practical Demonstration (35 marks)
Only candidates who qualify the written test are called for practical assessment. This is where you showcase your talent directly through live performance in your respective discipline.

Stage 3: Testimonials and Awards Evaluation (15 marks)
Assessment based on previous performances, prizes, certifications, and documented achievements in your cultural field.

Total Marks: 100

The final merit list is prepared purely on the basis of aggregate performance across all three stages.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Important Dates:

• Issue Date: January 3, 2026
• Closing Date: January 28, 2026 at 5:00 PM IST
• Extended Closing Date: February 5, 2026 (for candidates in North-Eastern states, J&K, Ladakh, island territories, and those residing abroad)

Application Submission:

1. Fill the Form Carefully
   Download the prescribed application format (Annexure-A) from the CLW website or obtain it in person. Read all instructions thoroughly before starting.
2. Handwritten Application
   The entire application must be filled in your own handwriting using blue or black ball-point pen in English or Hindi. Typed applications or signatures in capital letters will be summarily rejected. This requirement ensures authentication and prevents forgery.
3. Photograph Requirements

• Attach one recent color passport-size photograph (taken within one month) with a white background
• Ensure your full face is visible without cap or colored glasses
• Photos must be clear and legible—blurry or faded photos lead to rejection
• Sign partially on the application and partially on the photograph
• Additional signatures on the back of two copies must be included
• Keep at least five more copies for future interviews

1. Supporting Documents
   Enclose legible photocopies (attested by a Gazetted Officer or self-attested) of:

• 12th standard or equivalent certificate
• Cultural Degree/Diploma certificates
• Age proof document
• Caste certificate (if applicable for age/fee relaxation)
• Disability certificate (if applicable)
• Any other relevant documentation (awards, performance records, etc.)

1. Application Fee Category Fee SC/ST, Ex-Servicemen, Persons with Disabilities, Women, Minorities, Economically Backward Classes ₹250 All Other Candidates ₹500 Payment Method: Submit a Bank Demand Draft (DD) drawn in favor of “PFA, Chittaranjan Locomotive Works” payable at Chittaranjan. Enclose the DD with your application.
2. Complete All Columns
   Leave no field blank. Incomplete applications will be rejected. Double-check every detail for accuracy.

Mailing Address

Send your application by ordinary postal mail (courier, registered post, or speed post are not accepted) to:

The Chief Personnel Officer
Chittaranjan Locomotive Works
Chittaranjan, District: Paschim Bardhaman
West Bengal 713331

Envelope Label: Write clearly on the envelope:
“APPLICATION FOR THE POST IN GROUP-C CATEGORY AGAINST CULTURAL QUOTA (DRAMATIST) FOR THE YEAR 2025-2026”

Alternatively, drop your application in person in the designated box at the GM’s Office, Administrative Building, between 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM on any working day.

Critical Terms and Conditions You Must Know

1. Qualifications as on Application Date
   You must possess all educational and cultural qualifications on the date you submit your application. Backdated or provisional qualifications are not accepted.
2. Railway Employee Protocols
   If you’re a serving government employee, notify your employer that you’re applying. You’ll need to produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) during the personality test/interview.
3. No Postal Delays Accepted
   The railway administration is not responsible for postal delays. Applications arriving after the deadline will be summarily rejected, regardless of circumstances.
4. Website Updates Only
   No individual call letters will be issued. Check the CLW website (www.clw.indianrailways.gov.in) regularly for updates on written test schedules, personality tests, and practical demonstrations. Failure to check the website does not exempt you from deadlines.
5. No Changes to Dates/Venues
   Once your test date and venue are notified, you cannot request changes under any circumstances. Plan accordingly.
6. Medical Standards
   Selected candidates must pass the requisite medical examination before final appointment.
7. Typing Proficiency (if applicable)
   If appointed as an Office Clerk, you must acquire typing proficiency of 30 words per minute in English or 25 words per minute in Hindi within two years of appointment.
8. Continuous Service in Cultural Programs
   Selected candidates must continue to participate in cultural programs as part of their job responsibilities.

Applications Will Be Rejected If:

• Received after the closing date and time
• Not in the prescribed format
• You lack required educational or cultural qualifications as of the application date
• You are underage or overage as of January 1, 2026
• You submit more than one application for the same post
• No photograph is attached or it’s poorly pasted
• The application is unsigned or signed in capital letters
• Required enclosures are missing
• Any section is left blank or the application is illegible
• Your name appears on the debarred list
• You fail to affix your date or thumb impression correctly

Important Cautions

Beware of Fraudsters: Indian Railways has not appointed any agents or coaching centers to facilitate this recruitment. Fraudulent individuals and agencies may approach you claiming they can guarantee selection through illegal means. Do not fall for these scams. If you encounter such persons, report them immediately to:

• Chief Personnel Officer, CLW, Chittaranjan
• SDGM and Chief Vigilance Officer, CLW, Chittaranjan

Why This Opportunity Matters

This recruitment represents Indian Railways’ commitment to integrating cultural arts into government institutions. Working at Chittaranjan Locomotive Works offers:

• Stable Government Employment: Permanent job security and pensionable position
• Recognition: Your cultural talents are valued and officially recognized
• Platform: Perform at a national institution, enhancing your credentials
• Career Growth: Access to government service benefits and advancement opportunities
• Cultural Contribution: Help preserve and promote India’s rich performing arts tradition

Final Checklist Before Applying

✓ Verify your age as of January 1, 2026
✓ Ensure you have the required educational qualification (12th pass with 50% marks)
✓ Confirm you possess a Degree/Diploma in your cultural discipline from a recognized institution
✓ Collect all required documents and get them properly attested
✓ Arrange the application fee (₹250 or ₹500 as applicable)
✓ Write your application neatly in handwriting
✓ Attach a recent, clear passport-size photograph
✓ Prepare the Bank Demand Draft for the application fee
✓ Plan your mailing timeline to meet the January 28 or February 5 deadline

Timeline for Action

• By January 20, 2026: Complete your application and gather all documents
• By January 25, 2026: Post your application via ordinary mail
• January 28, 2026, 5:00 PM: Final deadline for most candidates
• February 5, 2026, 5:00 PM: Extended deadline for special categories
• Follow-up: Visit www.clw.indianrailways.gov.in regularly for updates

Conclusion

This is a unique opportunity for culturally talented individuals to secure a prestigious government position while contributing to India’s railway heritage. The Cultural Quota system acknowledges that talent and dedication to the performing arts deserve recognition and support through government employment.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and possess genuine qualifications in drama or percussion, do not miss this chance. Start preparing your application immediately, gather all necessary documents, and submit by the deadline. Remember: your cultural talent is your asset—make sure it’s backed by proper qualifications and clear documentation.

For more information, visit the official CLW website: www.clw.indianrailways.gov.in