NLC Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 607 Posts

NLC India Limited (formerly Neyveli Lignite Corporation), a prestigious Navratna Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India, has announced a massive recruitment drive for 607 Trade Apprentice positions for the year 2026. This recruitment offers an outstanding opportunity for ITI-qualified youth to gain valuable industrial training and hands-on experience in one of India's largest mining and power generation companies while earning a competitive monthly stipend. NLC India Limited is a pioneering organization in lignite mining and thermal power generation in India, with a rich legacy spanning over six decades. Headquartered in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu, the company operates open-cast lignite mines and pithead thermal power stations, playing a crucial role in India's energy security. NLC has diversified into renewable energy, coal mining, and various other ventures, establishing itself as a major contributor to the nation's energy landscape. This apprenticeship program is conducted under the Apprentices Act, 1961, which mandates companies to provide structured practical training to young individuals in various trades. The program is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge gained during ITI training and practical industrial requirements, making apprentices job-ready for careers in manufacturing, power generation, mining, and related industries. The recruitment encompasses 607 positions across multiple ITI trades that are essential for the operations and maintenance of mining and power generation facilities. The trades include Electrician, Fitter, Welder, Instrument Mechanic, Turner, Machinist, Diesel Mechanic, Electronics Mechanic, Computer Operator and Programming Assistant (COPA), and various other specialized technical trades. Each trade plays a specific role in the complex industrial operations at NLC facilities. Electrician apprentices will receive training in electrical installations, maintenance of electrical equipment, motor rewinding, power distribution systems, switchgear operations, electrical safety protocols, and troubleshooting electrical faults. This trade is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted power supply and electrical systems in mining and power plant operations. Fitter apprentices learn about mechanical assembly, fitting of machinery components, alignment procedures, bearing installation, maintenance of mechanical equipment, reading technical drawings, precision measurement, and using various hand and power tools. Fitters are the backbone of mechanical maintenance in any industrial facility. Welder apprentices gain expertise in various welding techniques including arc welding, gas welding, MIG/TIG welding, welding of different metals, inspection of welded joints, welding safety procedures, and understanding metallurgy basics. Welding skills are essential for fabrication, repair, and maintenance work in industrial settings. Instrument Mechanic apprentices receive training in installation and maintenance of instruments used for measurement and control, calibration procedures, understanding process control systems, PLC basics, sensor technologies, and troubleshooting instrumentation faults. This trade is critical for modern automated industrial operations. The apprenticeship program at NLC India provides comprehensive training combining classroom theoretical instruction with extensive on-the-job practical training under the guidance of experienced supervisors and technicians. Apprentices get exposure to world-class infrastructure, advanced technologies, safety practices, quality management systems, and real-world industrial challenges. The monthly stipend for Trade Apprentices at NLC India is Rs. 11,040 per month, which is competitive and in accordance with the Apprentices Act and company policies. This stipend helps apprentices sustain themselves during the training period while gaining invaluable skills and experience. Additionally, apprentices receive accident insurance coverage, free medical facilities at NLC hospitals, and access to various welfare amenities. The duration of apprenticeship varies by trade, typically ranging from one to two years as prescribed under the Apprentices Act and National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) guidelines. During this period, apprentices undergo structured training following approved curricula, with periodic assessments to monitor progress and skill development. One of the most significant advantages of completing apprenticeship at NLC India is the potential for permanent employment. Upon successful completion of apprenticeship, candidates become eligible for direct recruitment to regular positions in NLC India and other PSUs, subject to vacancies and organizational requirements. Many former NLC apprentices have secured permanent positions and built successful careers in the organization. The age limit for this recruitment is minimum 18 years as on January 31, 2026. There is no upper age limit specified, making this opportunity accessible to candidates of various age groups who possess the required ITI qualifications. This flexibility allows even those who completed ITI training some years ago to apply and benefit from this program. Eligibility criteria require candidates to have successfully completed ITI training in the relevant trade from a government-recognized Industrial Training Institute. The ITI certificate must be issued by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) or State Council for Vocational Training (SCVT). Candidates should have secured passing marks in their ITI final examination. The selection process is merit-based, determined by the marks obtained in the ITI final examination. Candidates are shortlisted based on their academic performance in ITI, and merit lists are prepared trade-wise and category-wise. There is no written test or interview for apprentice positions – selection is purely based on ITI marks, making the process transparent and objective. Interested candidates must apply online through the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal at nats.education.gov.in. The portal is the official platform for apprenticeship applications across India. Candidates need to register on the portal, complete their profile with educational and personal details, search for NLC India apprenticeship positions, and submit their applications online. The application process requires candidates to upload scanned copies of essential documents including passport-size photograph, signature, ITI certificate, ITI mark sheet, NCVT/SCVT certificate, date of birth proof (10th certificate), caste certificate (for reserved categories if applicable), and PwBD certificate (if applicable). All documents should be in prescribed formats and sizes as mentioned in the notification. The online application window opens on the notification release date and closes on February 25, 2026. Candidates are advised to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. The system does not accept applications after the deadline under any circumstances. This recruitment is open to candidates from across India, though preference may be given to local candidates as per government guidelines and company policies. The training will be conducted at various NLC facilities primarily located in Tamil Nadu, including Neyveli, Tuticorin, and other operational sites. Working as an apprentice at NLC India provides exposure to a well-established PSU culture, opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, understanding of large-scale industrial operations, development of technical and soft skills, and a platform to launch a successful career in the power and energy sector. Candidates are strongly advised to read the detailed official notification carefully, understand all eligibility criteria, note the document requirements, and follow the application procedure accurately. Any discrepancy in information or documents may lead to rejection of candidature. This massive recruitment of 607 Trade Apprentices represents NLC India's commitment to skill development and providing employment opportunities to youth while meeting its human resource requirements. Eligible ITI graduates should not miss this excellent opportunity to be part of one of India's premier public sector enterprises.