RRB Isolated Categories Syllabus 2026: The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) have released the Centralised Employment Notification (CEN) No. 09/2026 for the recruitment of various Isolated Category posts in Indian Railways. A total of 191 vacancies have been announced for seven different posts, including Chief Law Assistant, Public Prosecutor, Senior Publicity Inspector, Junior Translator (Hindi), Staff and Welfare Inspector, Scientific Assistant (Training) and Lab Assistant Grade III (Chemist & Metallurgist).
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Candidates who are preparing for the RRB Isolated Categories Recruitment 2026 should check the complete syllabus and examination pattern before starting their preparation. The official notification provides a detailed post-wise Professional Ability syllabus along with common subjects such as General Awareness, General Intelligence and Reasoning, Mathematics and General Science.
The RRB Isolated Categories CBT will generally consist of 100 objective-type questions carrying 100 marks, with a duration of 90 minutes. However, the examination pattern for Junior Translator (Hindi) is different because it includes a separate language-focused question distribution and a qualifying Translation Test.
In this article, candidates can check the RRB Isolated Categories Syllabus 2026, post-wise subject details, exam pattern, marking scheme, selection process and direct official links to download the notification PDF.
RRB Isolated Categories Syllabus 2026 – Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Authority | Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) |
| Ministry | Ministry of Railways |
| Notification Number | CEN No. 09/2026 |
| Recruitment Name | RRB Isolated Categories Recruitment 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 191 |
| Total Posts | 7 Categories |
| Examination Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Question Type | Objective Multiple Choice Questions |
| Total Questions | 100 (General CBT pattern) |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Exam Duration | 90 Minutes |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 Mark |
| Selection Process | CBT, Translation Test (where applicable), Document Verification and Medical Examination |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | rrb.indianrailways.gov.in |
Note: The section-wise 100-question pattern is applicable to posts other than Junior Translator (Hindi). The Junior Translator examination has a separate distribution described below.
RRB Isolated Categories Recruitment 2026 – Important Dates
The Railway Recruitment Boards have announced the important dates for CEN No. 09/2026. Candidates should check the application schedule carefully to avoid missing any deadlines.
| Events | Important Dates |
|---|---|
| Indicative Notification Date | 24 October 2026 |
| Online Application Starting Date | 05 November 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 04 December 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 06 December 2026 |
| Application Modification Window | 07 December to 16 December 2026 |
| CBT Exam Date | To Be Announced |
| Translation Test Date | To Be Announced |
| Admit Card Release | To Be Announced |
RRB Isolated Categories Vacancy 2026 – Post-Wise Details
According to the official CEN No. 09/2026 notification, a total of 191 vacancies have been announced across seven different categories.
| Post Name | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Chief Law Assistant | 17 |
| Public Prosecutor | 21 |
| Senior Publicity Inspector | 8 |
| Junior Translator (Hindi) | 79 |
| Staff and Welfare Inspector | 27 |
| Scientific Assistant (Training) | 3 |
| Lab Assistant Grade III (Chemist & Metallurgist) | 36 |
| Total | 191 |
Junior Translator (Hindi) has the highest number of vacancies, with 79 posts. Candidates should check Annexure B of the official notification for the detailed RRB-wise and Railway Zone-wise vacancy distribution.
RRB Isolated Categories Exam Pattern 2026
The RRB Isolated Categories examination will be conducted through a Computer-Based Test (CBT). The question paper will contain objective multiple-choice questions, and the examination standard will generally be based on the educational qualifications prescribed for the respective posts.
For all posts except Junior Translator (Hindi), the official notification provides the following indicative section-wise distribution.
RRB Isolated Categories CBT Exam Pattern
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Ability | 50 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 15 | 15 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 15 | 15 |
| Mathematics | 10 | 10 |
| General Science | 10 | 10 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
Important Exam Pattern Details
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 100
- Each Question: 1 Mark
- Examination Duration: 90 Minutes
- Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
- Examination Mode: Online Computer-Based Test
- Negative Marking: 1/3 mark for every incorrect answer.
Candidates eligible for the use of a scribe will receive 120 minutes to complete the examination.
Important: The section-wise distribution is indicative. The notification states that some variations may occur in the actual question paper.
RRB Junior Translator (Hindi) Exam Pattern 2026
The Junior Translator (Hindi) examination follows a different question distribution from the other notified posts. The CBT is designed to assess candidates’ knowledge of Hindi and English languages along with general knowledge and other relevant subjects.
According to the official notification, at least 50% of the questions will assess language proficiency.
| Subject | Questions |
|---|---|
| Hindi Language | 30 |
| English Language | 20 |
| General Portion | 50 |
| Total | 100 |
The language section consists of 30 Hindi questions and 20 English questions. The remaining 50 questions cover General Knowledge, General Intelligence, Simple Arithmetic and Basic Computer Knowledge.
The language questions will be printed in their respective languages and will not be translated into other languages. The prescribed difficulty level for the language portion is Standard 12 (+2 Stage).
Also Read: RRB Isolated Categories Recruitment 09/2026, Apply Online Begins for 191 Posts
Junior Translator Translation Test
Candidates shortlisted on the basis of CBT performance will be called for a Translation Test.
Important details:
- Candidates up to 10 times the number of vacancies may be shortlisted for the Translation Test.
- The Translation Test is qualifying in nature.
- The minimum qualifying marks are 60%.
- The final merit list will be prepared on the basis of CBT marks, subject to qualifying the Translation Test.
RRB Isolated Categories Syllabus 2026 – Subject-Wise Topics
The RRB Isolated Categories Syllabus includes common subjects and post-specific Professional Ability topics.
Candidates appearing for posts other than Junior Translator (Hindi) should prepare the following common subjects.
1. Mathematics
The Mathematics section tests candidates’ basic numerical and problem-solving abilities.
Important topics include:
- Number Systems
- BODMAS
- Decimals and Fractions
- LCM and HCF
- Ratio and Proportions
- Percentage
- Mensuration
- Time and Work
- Time and Distance
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Profit and Loss
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Trigonometry
- Elementary Statistics
- Square Root
- Age Calculations
- Calendar and Clock
- Pipes and Cisterns
2. General Intelligence and Reasoning
This section focuses on logical thinking, analytical ability and problem-solving skills.
Important topics include:
- Analogies
- Alphabetical and Number Series
- Coding and Decoding
- Mathematical Operations
- Relationships
- Syllogism
- Jumbling
- Venn Diagrams
- Data Interpretation and Sufficiency
- Conclusions and Decision Making
- Similarities and Differences
- Analytical Reasoning
- Classification
- Directions
- Statement, Arguments and Assumptions
3. General Awareness
The General Awareness section covers important national and international events and general knowledge.
Important topics include:
- Current Affairs
- Indian Geography
- Indian Culture and History
- Indian Freedom Movement
- Indian Polity and Constitution
- Indian Economy
- Environmental Issues
- Sports
- General Scientific Developments
- Technological Developments
4. General Science
The General Science section covers basic concepts of Physics, Chemistry and Life Sciences.
Major subjects include:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Life Sciences
The standard of General Science questions will be up to the Class 10 CBSE syllabus.
RRB Isolated Categories Post-Wise Professional Ability Syllabus 2026
The Professional Ability section carries 50 questions and 50 marks in the general CBT pattern. However, the topics differ according to the selected post.
The official notification provides the detailed post-wise syllabus in Annexures IX to XV.
1. Junior Translator (Hindi) Syllabus – Annexure IX
The Junior Translator (Hindi) syllabus focuses on Hindi and English language proficiency.
Hindi Language Topics:
- Synonyms
- Similar-Meaning Words
- Antonyms
- Prefixes
- Suffixes
- Sandhi and Sandhi Separation
- Idioms and Proverbs
- Tatsam and Tadbhav Words
- One Word Substitution
- Sentence and Word Correction
English Language Topics:
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Translation into Hindi
- Suffix and Prefix
- Phrases and Idioms
- Sentence Arrangement
- Pronouns
- Verbs and Tenses
- Articles
- Prepositions
- Conjunctions
- Adjectives and Adverbs
- Question Tags
- Active and Passive Voice
2. Staff and Welfare Inspector Syllabus – Annexure X
The Staff and Welfare Inspector Professional Ability syllabus mainly focuses on labour laws, industrial relations, social security legislation and employee welfare.
Important topics include:
Industrial Relations
- Industrial Disputes Act, 1947
- Indian Trade Union Act, 1926
- Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946
Social Security Legislation
- Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923
- Employees’ Provident Fund Act, 1952
- Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948
- Maternity Benefit Act, 1961
Laws Relating to Wages
- Minimum Wages Act, 1948
- Payment of Wages Act, 1936
- Payment of Bonus Act, 1965
- Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972
Legislation Affecting Working Conditions
- Indian Factories Act, 1948
- Mines Act, 1952
Other Important Topics
- Basics of Computers and Applications
- Input and Output Devices
- MS Office
- Right to Information Act
- New Pension Scheme
3. Chief Law Assistant Syllabus – Annexure XI
The Chief Law Assistant syllabus covers various branches of Indian law, constitutional law, civil procedure and labour legislation.
Important topics include:
- Indian Constitution
- Administrative Law
- Jurisprudence
- Law of Torts
- Hindu Law
- Code of Civil Procedure
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023
- Indian Contract Act, 1872
- Limitation Act, 1963
- Specific Relief Act, 1963
- Indian Partnership Act, 1932
- Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996
- Consumer Protection Act
- Protection of Human Rights
- Transfer of Property Act
- Right to Information Act
- Company Law
- Labour Laws
The syllabus also covers important provisions relating to industrial disputes, trade unions, employee insurance, provident funds, maternity benefits, minimum wages and factory regulations.
4. Senior Publicity Inspector Syllabus – Annexure XII
The Senior Publicity Inspector syllabus focuses on communication, mass communication, advertising, public relations and social media.
Important topics include:
Communication
- Introduction to Communication
- History of Communication
- Tools and Fundamentals of Communication
- Types of Communication
- Essentials of Communication
- Theories of Communication
- Effective Communication Principles
- Communication Process
- Oral Communication
Mass Communication
- History and Development of Mass Communication
- Culture and Functions of Mass Media
- Journalism
- Press Codes and Ethics
- Elements of Mass Communication
- Media Audience Psychology and Sociology
- Models and Theories of Mass Communication
- Mass Media and Public Opinion
Advertising
- Concept and Functions of Advertising
- Types and Classification of Advertising
- Brand Management and Positioning
- Advertising Campaigns
- Creative Concepts
- Advertising Ethics and Laws
- Advertising Agencies
- Agency-Client Relations
- DAVP, INS, ISA and AAAI
Public Relations
- Development of Public Relations
- Public Relations in India
- Public Opinion
- PR Process
- Internal and External Communication
- Media Relations
- PR Ethics
- Event Management
- Crisis Management
- Time and Stress Management
- Press Council and PR Laws
- Copyright Act, 1957
- Official Secrets Act, 1923
- Contempt of Court
Computer and Social Media
- Computer Applications
- Blogs
- YouTube
- Social Media Platforms
5. Lab Assistant Grade III (Chemist & Metallurgist) Syllabus – Annexure XIII
The Lab Assistant Grade III syllabus focuses on chemical testing, metallurgy, mechanical testing, materials and laboratory equipment.
Important topics include:
Mechanical Testing
- Tensile Testing
- Impact Testing
- Load Deflection Testing
- Bend Test
Equipment and Materials
- Testing Equipment and Machines
- Steel and Cast Iron
- Non-Ferrous Metals
- Rubber and Plastics
- Composite Materials
Chemical and Metal Testing
- Estimation of Carbon, Manganese, Silicon, Sulphur and Phosphorus
- Estimation of Chromium, Nickel and Molybdenum
- Testing of Non-Ferrous Metals and Alloys
- Electroplating Fundamentals
- Testing of Electroplated Coach Components
Paint and Material Testing
- Painting Schedule in Coaches
- Paint Defects
- ROZ Primer
- Synthetic Enamels
- P.U. Paints
- Rubber Products
- L.P. Sheets
- Wood and Adhesives
- PVC and Rexine
- Plywood and Foam
- FRP Items
Other Topics
- Oils and Lubricants
- Grease Testing
- Non-Destructive Testing
- X-Ray Testing
- Gamma Ray Examination
- Radiography
- Ultrasonic Testing
- Magnaflux Testing
- Dye Penetrant Testing
6. Public Prosecutor Syllabus – Annexure XIV
The Public Prosecutor syllabus focuses on criminal law, legal concepts, criminology, criminal justice administration and evidence law.
Important topics include:
Legal Concepts
- Natural and Legal Personality
- Corporate Personality
- Corporate Criminal Liability
- Concept of Property
- Ownership and Possession
- Legal Rights
- State and Its Essential Elements
Criminology and Penology
- Crime Causation
- Theories of Criminology
- Poverty and Crime
- White Collar Crimes
- Theories of Punishment
- Capital Punishment
- Prison Labour
- Parole
General Principles of Crime
- Definition of Crime
- Actus Reus
- Mens Rea
- Criminal Conspiracy
- Criminal Attempt
- Abetment
- Common Intention
General Exceptions under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
- Mistake of Fact
- Judicial Acts
- Accidents
- Infancy and Insanity
- Consent and Duress
- Private Defence
Offences Against Human Body
- Culpable Homicide
- Murder
- Causing Death by Negligence
- Dowry Death
- Hurt and Grievous Hurt
- Acid Attacks
- Abduction
- Rape and Other Relevant Offences
Offences Against Property
- Theft
- Extortion
- Robbery and Dacoity
- Criminal Misappropriation
- Criminal Breach of Trust
- Cheating
- Mischief
- Criminal Trespass
- Forgery
Other Important Areas
- Criminal Justice Administration
- Principles of Evidence
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023
- Constitutional Rights of the Accused
- Rights of Arrested Persons
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita
- Railway Protection Force Act, 1957
- Railway Act, 1989
- Railway Property (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1966
7. Scientific Assistant (Training) Syllabus – Annexure XV
The Scientific Assistant (Training) syllabus is primarily based on Psychology, Research Methodology, Counselling and Applied Psychology.
Important topics include:
Basic Psychological Processes
- Sensation and Perception
- Attention
- Memory
- Learning and Problem Solving
- Emotion and Motivation
- Human Abilities
- Intelligence
- Aptitude and Interest
Psychology of Personality
- Concept of Personality
- Development and Growth of Personality
- Theories of Personality
- Personality Measurement
- Interpretation and Prediction
Counselling and Training
- Principles of Counselling
- Types of Counselling
- Counselling Techniques
- Employee Counselling
- Motivation and Morale
- Assessment of Training Needs
Research Methodology
- Research Methods
- Research Design
- Hypothesis
- Sampling Techniques
- Data Collection and Analysis
- Data Interpretation
- Report Writing
Test Construction
- Psychological Tests
- Types of Tests
- Test Construction and Standardisation
- Reliability and Validity
- Development of Norms
Statistical Methods in Psychology
- Scales of Measurement
- Measures of Central Tendency
- Measures of Variability
- Standard Scores
- Normal Distribution
- Percentile Ranks
- Correlation and Regression
- Analysis of Variance
- Hypothesis Testing
Applied Psychology
- Individual Differences
- Personality Assessment
- Psychological Disorders
- Mental Health
- Attitude
- Industrial and Organisational Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
RRB Isolated Categories Selection Process 2026
The selection process for RRB Isolated Categories Recruitment 2026 includes the following stages:
- Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Translation Test (Only for Junior Translator/Hindi, where applicable)
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Candidates will be shortlisted based on their performance in the applicable examination stages. The RRB may also conduct additional CBTs if considered necessary.
For Junior Translator (Hindi), the Translation Test is qualifying in nature, and candidates must secure at least 60% marks to qualify.
Minimum Qualifying Marks for RRB Isolated Categories CBT
The notification specifies the following minimum percentage of marks for eligibility in different communities:
| Category | Minimum Marks |
|---|---|
| UR | 40% |
| EWS | 40% |
| OBC-NCL | 30% |
| SC | 30% |
| ST | 25% |
In case of a shortage of PwBD candidates against reserved vacancies, these qualifying percentages may be relaxed by 2 marks for eligible PwBD candidates, as specified in the notification.
Important Instructions for RRB Isolated Categories Examination
Candidates should follow the examination instructions mentioned in the official notification.
- The CBT will be conducted in online mode.
- Candidates should carefully read the e-Call Letter instructions.
- Calculators and other electronic gadgets are not permitted inside the examination premises.
- Mobile phones and Bluetooth devices are prohibited.
- Candidates should download their examination city and date information and e-Call Letter from the official RRB website.
- Mock and practice tests will be made available through the official RRB website.
- Candidates must produce their original documents during Document Verification.
- Final empanelment is subject to merit, document verification and prescribed medical fitness requirements.
How to Prepare for RRB Isolated Categories Exam 2026?
Candidates should prepare according to their selected post because the Professional Ability section carries 50 marks in the general CBT pattern.
Here are some useful preparation suggestions:
- First, identify the exact Professional Ability syllabus for your selected post.
- Give special attention to the post-specific professional subjects.
- Practise Mathematics and Reasoning questions regularly.
- Read newspapers and follow important national and international current affairs.
- Revise basic Physics, Chemistry and Life Sciences.
- Practise previous examination-style MCQs and online mock tests.
- For Junior Translator (Hindi), focus on Hindi-English language proficiency and translation practice.
- Revise important laws, acts and legal provisions if preparing for legal posts.
Candidates should also practise time management because the general CBT pattern allows 90 minutes for 100 questions.
RRB Isolated Categories Syllabus 2026 PDF – Direct Link to Download
Candidates can download the official RRB CEN No. 09/2026 notification PDF to check the complete syllabus, examination pattern, post-wise eligibility, vacancy details and other important instructions.
| Description | Direct Link |
|---|---|
| RRB Isolated Categories Official Notification PDF | Click here |
| RRB Isolated Categories Apply Online | https://www.rrbapply.gov.in/ |
| RRB Official Website | https://rrb.indianrailways.gov.in/ |
| RRB Examination Updates | Check RRB Notifications |
Important Official Links:
- RRB Official Website: https://rrb.indianrailways.gov.in/
- RRB Apply Online Portal: https://www.rrbapply.gov.in/
Candidates should use the official RRB website to access the latest notification, corrigendum, examination dates and recruitment updates.
FAQs – RRB Isolated Categories Syllabus 2026
Q1. How many vacancies are announced under RRB Isolated Categories Recruitment 2026?
Ans. A total of 191 vacancies have been announced under CEN No. 09/2026 for seven different posts.
Q2. What is the examination mode for RRB Isolated Categories Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The examination will be conducted through a Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Q3. How many questions will be asked in the RRB Isolated Categories CBT?
Ans. The general CBT pattern consists of 100 objective-type questions carrying 100 marks. Junior Translator (Hindi) has a separate question distribution.
Q4. What is the duration of the RRB Isolated Categories examination?
Ans. The examination duration is 90 minutes. Candidates eligible for a scribe will receive 120 minutes.
Q5. Is there negative marking in the RRB Isolated Categories examination?
Ans. Yes. One-third of a mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
Q6. Which subject carries the highest marks in the CBT?
Ans. Professional Ability carries the highest weightage, with 50 questions and 50 marks in the general CBT pattern.
Q7. Is the syllabus the same for all RRB Isolated Category posts?
Ans. No. The common subjects are similar for most posts, but the Professional Ability syllabus differs according to the selected post.
Q8. What is the qualifying mark for the Junior Translator Translation Test?
Ans. Candidates must secure at least 60% marks in the qualifying Translation Test.
Q9. Where can candidates download the RRB Isolated Categories Syllabus 2026 PDF?
Ans. Candidates can download the detailed CEN No. 09/2026 notification from the official Railway Recruitment Boards website at https://rrb.indianrailways.gov.in/.
Q10. What is the last date to apply for RRB Isolated Categories Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The last date for online application submission is 4 December 2026, up to 11:59 PM.
Q11. When will the RRB Isolated Categories CBT 2026 be conducted?
Ans. The examination date has not been announced in the notification. Candidates should check the official RRB website for further updates.
