If you’re planning to apply for government jobs in the health sector, the RRB Pharmacist openings are always a big draw.
This guide explains the RRB Pharmacist recruitment process. We will discuss who can apply, how the process works, and how many seats are on offer.
What Is an RRB Pharmacist?
An RRB Pharmacist is a government healthcare professional. They are employed by the Indian Railways to manage and dispense medications within railway hospitals and clinics. This role is filled through recruitment by the Railway Recruitment Boards or RRB’s and serves the health needs of railway employees and passengers.
Key Responsibilities
The duties of a Railway Pharmacist are essential for the proper functioning of railway healthcare facilities. The main responsibilities include:
- Dispensing correct medicines to patients.
- Maintaining and managing the dispensing room.
- Keeping track of all medical inventory and expenses.
- Ensuring that no medications are expired.
- Managing healthcare facilities adequately.
- Providing first aid during emergencies.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for an RRB Pharmacist is determined by the 7th Pay Commission. The position falls under Pay Level 5.
- Basic Pay: ₹29,200/ month.
- Annual Package: The gross annual salary is approximately ₹3,50,400. It can range from ₹3,00,000 to ₹6,00,000 depending on experience and posting location.
- Allowance: Pharmacists receive several allowances, including
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Other Benefits: As government employees, RRB Pharmacists are entitled to perks such as
- Medical insurance
- Pension schemes
- Leave entitlements
- Travel concessions
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for an RRB Pharmacist position, candidates must meet specific criteria. These are related to education, age, and medical fitness.
- Educational Qualification:
- Passed 10+2 in Science, AND
- Hold either a Diploma in Pharmacy OR
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) from a recognized institution
- Registration Candidates: Must be registered as a pharmacist under the Pharmacy Act, 1948.
- Age Limit: 20 to 35 years
- Relaxations for reserved categories:
- SC/ST - 5 years
- OBC - 3 years
- Medical Fitness: Must meet the C2 medical standard. Includes tests for distance, near, color, and night vision.
Career Path
Candidates must complete a two-year probation period after selection. Their performance is closely monitored during this time. After successfully completing the probation, they become permanent employees of the Indian Railways. They also become eligible for all associated benefits and annual salary increments.
Latest Notifications for RRB Pharmacists
The Railways issued a Centralised Employment Notice (CEN No. 03/2025) covering various para-medical posts, including Pharmacist (Entry Grade). The detailed notification lists the post-by-post vacancy breakup, eligibility rules, application window and step-by-step instructions for online submission.
Vacancies for Pharmacists in 2025
Although the centralised para-medical drive includes many posts, the Pharmacist (Entry Grade) opening in this drive is reported as 105 vacancies spread across the different RRB regions.
Important Dates
The CEN No. 03/2025 had an online application window in August–September 2025. Exact start and end dates are listed in each RRB’s announcement.
For RRB Pharmacist Recruitment 2026, you should treat the 2025/26 cycle as the latest published drive and keep an eye on official RRB regional portals for fresh notices and application-window changes. Official RRB pages list the application link and any corrigendum that extend or modify deadlines.
Step-by-step Application Process
- Read the CEN carefully. The PDF contains detailed instructions, required documents, fee details and special conditions.
- Create an account on your chosen RRB’s portal. Use the regional RRB website linked from the central list of RRB sites. The RRB account cannot be changed later, so enter carefully.
- Fill the online form. Attach scanned photograph, signature, qualification certificates and pharmacist registration proof.
- Pay the fee and submit. Keep a copy of the confirmation. There will be specific instructions about fee refunds, modification windows and correction charges in the CEN.
- Download e-call letters. Admit cards for CBT and documents list for DV will be published on the RRB websites. Follow the guidelines about banned items and biometric capture at the test centre.
Selection Stages and Exam Pattern
Stage 1 - Computer Based Test (CBT)
- Objective MCQs covering professional subjects like:
- Pharmacy
- General science
- Arithmetic
- Reasoning and general awareness
- The detailed syllabus for para-medical posts is published as an annex in the CEN.
- Expect 1/3rd negative marking for wrong answers.
Stage 2 - Document Verification (DV)
- Shortlisted candidates are called RRB-wise to verify original certificates and registration.
Stage 3 - Medical Examination
- Candidates must meet the medical standards specified for the post.
- RRBs normally shortlist candidates for DV on a merit ratio.
Practical Tips to Prepare
- Focus on the Professional Ability section first that has the pharmacy subjects.
- Practicals and common clinical pharmacy knowledge are frequently tested.
- Do timed mock CBTs to get used to negative marking and speed.
- Keep pharmacy registration and degree certificates handy, they’ll be required at the time of DV.
- Enrol in online preparation classes to get detailed guides and practice questions.
- Follow only official RRB portals and avoid unverified third-party links that may mislead.
Where to Check Official Updates
The authoritative source is the RRB that covers your region. The list of all RRB regional websites is in the CEN and on the Railway Board site. Bookmark your regional RRB page and the consolidated RRB portal.
Plan For 2026
If you’re searching specifically for RRB Pharmacist Recruitment 2026, treat the 2025 drive as the most recent official cycle. RRBs sometimes issue corrigenda or extend timelines. New cycles may be announced in subsequent CENs. Keep an eye on the official regional RRB pages and the centralised application portal for any fresh notifications, and use the CEN PDF as your reference for eligibility, syllabus and the selection process.
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