Indian Railway Protection Force Service (IRPFS)

01. What is Indian Railway Protection Force Service (IRPFS)?

The Indian Railway Protection Force Service (IRPFS) is a Group ‘A’ Central Civil Service under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. The primary role of IRPFS is to ensure the safety and security of passengers, railway property, and railway infrastructure. Members are recruited through the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

 

02. Education Eligibility

To be eligible for IRPFS:

  • Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university or equivalent.

03. Handicapped Eligibility

Candidates with physical disabilities are generally not eligible for IRPFS due to its stringent physical fitness requirements. Specific eligibility criteria for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) may be outlined in the UPSC notification.

04. Age

  • Minimum Age: 21 years

  • Maximum Age: 30 years (as of August 1 of the examination year)

  • Age Relaxation:

    • SC/ST: 5 years

    • OBC: 3 years

    • PwD: 10 years

    • Ex-servicemen: As per government norms

05. Physical Eligibility

Male Candidates:

  • Height: Minimum 165 cm (relaxable for certain categories like SC/ST and Hill Tribes)

  • Chest: Minimum 84 cm (expansion of 5 cm required)

  • Vision: 6/6 or 6/9 distant vision without glasses; no night blindness

Female Candidates:

  • Height: Minimum 157 cm (relaxable for certain categories)

  • Vision: Same as above

Candidates must also pass a medical fitness examination conducted by the Railway Medical Board.

06. Pay Grade

  • Pay Scale: Level 10 of the 7th Pay Commission

  • Initial Basic Pay: ₹56,100

  • Additional benefits include:

    • Dearness Allowance (DA)

    • House Rent Allowance (HRA)

    • Travel Allowances (TA)

    • Other benefits like medical, pension, and gratuity

07. Ex-Soldier Eligibility

Ex-servicemen are eligible for reservation in IRPFS recruitment as per government norms. Relaxations in age and other criteria are granted based on their length of service in the armed forces.

08. Reservation

Reservation is applicable as per Government of India norms:

  • SC: 15%

  • ST: 7.5%

  • OBC: 27%

  • Economically Weaker Sections (EWS): 10%

  • PwD and Ex-Servicemen: As specified

09. Sports Person Eligibility

Athletes who have represented India at international events or secured medals in national championships are eligible for reservation under the sports quota. They must meet the basic eligibility criteria for the service.

10. Promotion in Career

IRPFS officers have significant career growth through promotions:

  1. Assistant Security Commissioner

  2. Divisional Security Commissioner

  3. Senior Divisional Security Commissioner

  4. Chief Security Commissioner

  5. Additional Director General (RPF)

  6. Director General (RPF)

Promotions depend on seniority, performance, and departmental exams.

11. Special Eligibility in Person

  • Candidates must be Indian citizens.

  • Character and antecedents must be certified by the District Magistrate or Police.

12. What Work Will I Have to Do at My Workplace?

Key responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring the security of railway property and passengers

  • Maintaining law and order on railway premises

  • Preventing smuggling and illegal activities

  • Coordinating with local police and intelligence agencies

  • Supervising and managing a team of RPF personnel

13. Which Department Does This Recruitment with Notification Original Website Link?

  • Recruiting Department: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

  • Notification Website: UPSC Official Website

14. In Which Department Do You Join?

After selection, you join the Indian Railway Protection Force (RPF) under the Ministry of Railways. Your role involves law enforcement and security management for Indian Railways.