The Special Class Railway Apprentice (SCRA) was a prestigious examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. It aimed to select candidates for the mechanical department of the Indian Railways. However, it is important to note that the SCRA examination was last conducted in the year 2015, and there have been no recent announcements regarding its revival or continuation. Nevertheless, let’s delve into the details of the SCRA examination and its significance.
- Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for the SCRA examination, candidates had to fulfill the following criteria: a. Nationality: The candidate must be a citizen of India or a subject of Nepal/Bhutan.
b. Age: The candidate’s age must be between 17 and 21 years as of August 1st of the examination year.
c. Educational Qualification: The candidate must have completed or appeared in the final year of an intermediate or equivalent examination (10+2) with Mathematics and at least one of the subjects Physics and Chemistry from a recognized Board or University. - Examination Pattern: The SCRA examination consisted of a written examination followed by a personality test (interview). The written examination comprised three papers: a. General Ability Test (GAT): This paper assessed candidates’ English language skills, general knowledge, and mental ability.
b. Physical Sciences (Physics and Chemistry): This paper tested candidates’ knowledge and understanding of basic concepts in physics and chemistry.
c. Mathematics: This paper evaluated candidates’ proficiency in solving mathematical problems and application of mathematical principles. The written examination carried a total of 600 marks, with each paper having a duration of 2 hours and a weightage of 200 marks. Candidates who qualified in the written examination were called for the personality test, which carried 200 marks. - Training and Career: Successful candidates of the SCRA examination were appointed as Special Class Railway Apprentices and underwent a four-year training program at the Indian Railways Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (IRIMEE) in Jamalpur, Bihar. The training program combined academic studies with practical training to develop the apprentices’ skills and knowledge in mechanical engineering. During the training period, apprentices received a stipend as per the rules and regulations set by the Indian Railways. After completing the training, they were absorbed into the Indian Railways as Class I officers in the mechanical department.
- Significance and Benefits: The SCRA examination held immense significance as it offered a unique opportunity for candidates to join the prestigious mechanical department of the Indian Railways. Selected candidates were exposed to a comprehensive training program that equipped them with the necessary skills to serve in various roles related to mechanical engineering within the Indian Railways. As Class I officers, SCRA recruits enjoyed a range of benefits, including a competitive salary, allowances, medical facilities, and opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. They had the opportunity to work on important projects, contribute to the development and maintenance of the Indian Railways’ mechanical infrastructure, and play a vital role in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of the railway network.
It’s worth noting that as of now, the SCRA examination has been discontinued. The information provided here is based on the historical context of the SCRA examination and is subject to change if the examination is reintroduced in the future.