As previously informed, Railway Group D online forms will start from 21 January, and the official notification has already been released. Along with this, there is important and confirmed information regarding RPF (Railway Protection Force) recruitment, which every railway job aspirant must know.
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) had already clarified two years ago that Railway Group D and RPF recruitments will now be conducted every year. This policy change ensures regular opportunities for lakhs of youth across the country.
In this article, you will clearly understand:
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When RPF online forms are expected
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How the entire RPF recruitment structure has changed
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New physical standards based on CAPF pattern
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Whether RPF recruitment will come with SSC GD or not (major confusion cleared)
RPF Recruitment 2025: Gazette Notification & Rule Changes
According to a gazette notification issued by the Railway Board, major changes have been implemented in RPF recruitment rules.
Key Highlights:
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Physical Measurement Test (PMT) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET) will now be conducted as per CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) standards
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These rules apply to both Constable and Sub-Inspector (SI) posts
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The changes are effective from 17 October (Railway Protection Force Amendment Rules 2025)
This means RPF recruitment standards are now aligned with forces like BSF, CRPF, CISF, etc.
RPF Physical Standards: Height Increased to 170 cm
🚨 Big Change in Height Requirement
Earlier:
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Male candidates: 165 cm
Now:
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Male candidates: 170 cm (Same as SSC GD / CAPF standards)
Chest Measurement (Male):
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80–85 cm
Female Candidates:
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Height requirement: 157 cm
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No chest measurement required
These standards apply to both RPF Constable and RPF Sub-Inspector posts.
RPF Recruitment Will NOT Come with SSC GD – Confusion Cleared
There is widespread misinformation claiming that RPF vacancies will be released along with SSC GD recruitment.
👉 This is completely false.
The Truth:
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Yes, SSC (Staff Selection Commission) will conduct the RPF exam
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❌ But RPF recruitment will NOT be merged with SSC GD
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RPF has:
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Different exam pattern
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Different number of questions
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Different syllabus
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Different selection process
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SSC conducts many exams, but that does not mean all exams are SSC GD.
RPF Exam Pattern 2025 (Updated)
The RPF exam pattern remains separate and distinct.
Computer Based Test (CBT):
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Total Questions: 120
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Total Marks: 120
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Duration: 90 minutes
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Negative Marking: 1/3 mark
Subject-wise Distribution:
| Subject | Questions |
|---|---|
| Basic Arithmetic | 35 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 35 |
| General Awareness | 50 |
| Total | 120 |
RPF Selection Process 2025
The complete selection process includes:
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Computer Based Test (CBT)
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Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
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Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
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Document Verification
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Medical Examination
All physical and medical standards will now be identical to CAPF forces.
Age Limit for RPF Recruitment 2025
Constable:
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18 to 23 years
(Earlier it was up to 25 years – now reduced)
Sub-Inspector (SI):
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20 to 25 years
Age Relaxation:
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SC/ST: 5 years
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OBC: 3 years
Educational Qualification
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RPF Constable: 10th Pass
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RPF Sub-Inspector: Graduation required
When Will RPF Online Forms Start?
👉 Do not panic. Stay calm and focused.
Based on official trends and recruitment timelines:
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Railway Group D forms: From 21 January
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RPF online forms:
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Expected between February to March
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Portal likely to open after Group D form process ends
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This follows the same pattern seen in previous railway recruitments.
Why RPF Is One of the Best Railway Jobs
RPF jobs are highly preferred because:
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Fixed duty schedule
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High respect and authority
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Stable career
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No unnecessary transfers
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Railway benefits and allowances
It is truly a premium uniform job within Indian Railways.