What is DLW and what do apprentices do there?

Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW) in Varanasi is a production unit of Indian Railways that manufactures diesel and electric locomotives. Trade Apprentices at DLW undergo practical training in their ITI trade for one to two years under the Apprentices Act 1961. They work in manufacturing shops, maintenance bays, and quality control departments. Completing the apprenticeship earns the National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC), which is widely recognised.

What trades are recruited at DLW Varanasi?

DLW typically recruits Trade Apprentices in trades such as Fitter, Turner, Machinist, Electrician, Welder, Electronics Mechanic, Mechanic Diesel, Painter, and Attendant Operator (Chemical Plant). The number of seats per trade varies each year. Candidates must hold an ITI certificate in the relevant trade from an NCVT or SCVT-recognised institution. Some trades may also accept Class 10 pass candidates with additional conditions.

What stipend do DLW Trade Apprentices receive?

Under the Apprentices Act, Trade Apprentices at DLW receive a monthly stipend as fixed by the Government of India. For first-year apprentices, the stipend is typically ₹6,000–₹7,700 per month depending on the trade and duration. The stipend increases slightly for second-year apprentices. While this is not a permanent job, the training experience and NAC certificate significantly enhance employment prospects in both public and private sectors.

Does completing DLW apprenticeship guarantee a permanent job?

No, completing the Trade Apprenticeship at DLW does not guarantee a permanent government job. The apprenticeship is a training programme under the Apprentices Act, not a regular recruitment. However, ex-apprentices get additional marks (typically 10 marks) in RRB Group D and similar railway technical recruitment exams. They can also apply for Act Apprentice quotas in future RRB technical recruitments. The NAC adds value to any skilled worker's resume.

What medical standard is required for DLW apprentice?

DLW Trade Apprentices must pass a basic fitness medical examination conducted at the works hospital before joining. The standard is not as stringent as A1 or B1 for permanent railway posts. Candidates must be physically fit to perform workshop duties, which involves working with heavy machinery. Colour vision is checked for certain trades involving electrical work. A clean fitness certificate from a registered medical practitioner is typically required at the time of document verification.

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DLW Trade Apprentice Preparation Guide

Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW), Varanasi

Your Complete Preparation Guide for DLW Trade Apprentice 2027 — strategy, study plan, tips & more.

DifficultyModerate

Total Marks100

Duration90 min

Start Practising Now →Free Mock Tests

Exam Overview

Mode

Written Test + Trade Test

Frequency

Annual apprenticeship intake

Next Exam Date

2025-11-01

EEligibility Criteria

ITI in relevant trade (Fitter/Turner/Machinist/Electrician/Welder) passed; Age 15–24 years (as per Apprentices Act 1961)

ANumber of Attempts

Single selection per apprenticeship cycle

Study Plan by Subject

ITI Trade Knowledge

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

Mathematics

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

General Science

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

Reasoning

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

Expert Preparation Tips

Revise your ITI trade theory thoroughly — approximately 50–60 questions will directly test your trade knowledge.

Practise basic Mathematics including percentages, ratios, simple interest, and mensuration for the Maths section.

General Science questions focus on Physics and basic Chemistry relevant to workshop operations and engineering.

Attempt previous-year apprentice recruitment papers from DLW and other railway production units for practice.

Exam Pattern at a Glance

Section	Questions	Marks	Duration (est.)
ITI Trade Knowledge	25	25	23 min
Mathematics	25	25	23 min
General Science	25	25	23 min
Reasoning	25	25	23 min
Total	100	100	90 min

Important Dates

Registration Opens

2025-08-01

Next Exam Date

2025-11-01

Conducted By

Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW), Varanasi

Frequently Asked Questions

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