Major public sector undertakings in India have launched significant recruitment drives, offering valuable career opportunities for students and early-career professionals. Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), and ITI Limited have collectively announced over 750 vacancies for apprenticeship and young professional programmes. These initiatives provide structured training and contractual roles across technical, non-technical, and development-focused domains in multiple locations.
Major Recruitment Drives: A Snapshot
The current recruitment notifications present a diverse range of opportunities with varying eligibility criteria and deadlines. Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has advertised for 501 apprentice posts, while NABARD seeks 44 young professionals and ITI Limited is recruiting for 215 young professional positions. The last dates to apply range from the end of December to January 12, 2026, depending on the organisation and specific post.
Summary of Ongoing Recruitments:
- IOCL: Trade, Technician & Graduate Apprentice (501 posts). Qualification: 10th with ITI, Diploma, or Any Graduate. Last Date: As per notification.
- NABARD: Young Professional Programme (44 posts). Qualification: Postgraduate. Last Date: January 12, 2026.
- ITI Limited: Young Professional (215 posts). Qualification: ITI, Diploma, Graduate, MBA, MCA. Last Date: January 12, 2026.
IOCL Apprentice Recruitment 2026: 501 Openings
Indian Oil Corporation Limited has published its Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification, aiming to fill 501 positions across three categories: Trade Apprentice, Technician Apprentice, and Graduate Apprentice. This programme is designed for students and fresh candidates seeking work-based training under the Apprentices Act in a premier government company.
The eligibility varies for each category. Candidates for Trade Apprentice roles must have passed Class 10 and hold an ITI certificate in the relevant trade. Technician Apprentice posts are reserved for engineering diploma holders, while Graduate Apprentice positions are open to degree holders in streams like BA, BSc, BCom, or BBA. The age limit is generally between 18 and 24 years, with standard relaxations for reserved categories. Selection will be based on marks in the qualifying examination, with no written test. The apprenticeship typically lasts one year, with a monthly stipend paid according to government norms.
NABARD Young Professional Programme 2025-26
The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development has commenced online registration for its Young Professional Programme for the 2025-26 period. This programme offers 44 openings in specialised fields including climate action, economics, data science, cyber security, finance, development management, information technology, and public relations.
The programme aims to provide hands-on exposure to policy research, programme evaluation, and strategic initiatives in agriculture and rural development on a contract basis. Eligible candidates must be Indian citizens aged between 21 and 30 years. Their educational qualifications and work experience must be valid as of November 1, 2025. Selected candidates will receive a consolidated monthly stipend of Rs 70,000. The engagement is for one year initially and can be extended up to three years based on performance and organisational needs.
ITI Limited's Young Professional Vacancies
ITI Limited, a Government of India undertaking, has issued a notification (Advertisement No. ITI/CRP/HR/2025/1534) for 215 Young Professional vacancies. These roles span various domains such as projects, telecom, information technology, production, HR, marketing, and finance, and include positions for graduates, technicians, operators, and generalists.
These are fixed-period contractual jobs offered for an initial term of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance. Eligibility criteria range from ITI certificates and diplomas to graduate and postgraduate degrees, depending on the specific role. The maximum age limit is 35 years, with relaxation for internal candidates. The consolidated monthly remuneration varies from Rs 30,000 to Rs 60,000 according to the post category. The selection process involves shortlisting followed by an interview, group discussion, or skill test as applicable.
Key Takeaways for Aspirants
These recruitment drives by leading public sector organisations represent a significant influx of entry-level and training opportunities in the government sector. They offer a structured pathway for skill development and professional exposure in core industries like energy, rural development, and manufacturing. With deadlines fast approaching, candidates are advised to check the official notifications carefully for precise eligibility details and application procedures. These programmes not only provide a stipend but also crucial industry experience that can enhance long-term career prospects in India's competitive job market.
