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Assistant Pointsman in Indian Railways
Assistant Pointsman is an important role in Indian Railways, primarily responsible for handling railway points or switches and ensuring the safe passage of trains. Here is detailed information regarding recruitment, salary, age criteria, work responsibilities, and departments for Assistant Pointsman:
Assistant Pointsman Recruitment
- Examination: Recruitment for the Assistant Pointsman position is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) across different railway zones.
Assistant Pointsman Stages:
- Computer-Based Test (CBT): A written examination covering General Awareness, Mathematics, General Intelligence and Reasoning, and General Science.
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Candidates must meet physical fitness standards, which typically involve running a specified distance within a given time.
- Document Verification: Verification of original documents to confirm eligibility.
- Medical Examination: Candidates must pass a medical fitness test to ensure they are fit for the duties required.
Assistant Pointsman Eligibility:
- Educational Qualification: A minimum of a 10th-grade pass from a recognized board or ITI or equivalent.
- Nationality: Indian citizen.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be between 18 and 33 years of age. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories (OBC, SC/ST, etc.).
Assistant Pointsman Salary
- Pay Scale: Assistant Pointsmen are placed in Level 1 of the 7th Pay Commission pay matrix.
- Basic Pay: The basic pay starts at INR 18,000 per month.
- Allowances: In addition to the basic pay, Assistant Pointsmen receive various allowances, including:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Night Duty Allowance
- Overtime Allowance
- Special Duty Allowance (if applicable)
- Total Salary: The gross salary can vary depending on the location and other factors but typically ranges from INR 25,000 to INR 28,000 per month.
Assistant Pointsman Age
- Minimum Age: 18 years.
- Maximum Age: 33 years (general category).
- Age Relaxation:
- OBC candidates: Up to 36 years.
- SC/ST candidates: Up to 38 years.
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): Further relaxation as per government norms.
Assistant Pointsman Work
- Responsibilities: Assistant Pointsmen play a crucial role in the safe and efficient operation of trains by managing the railway points or switches.
- Functions:-
- Operating railway points to set the routes for trains.
- Ensuring the proper alignment of tracks for train movement.
- Coordinating with the station master and signalman to facilitate safe train operations.
- Assisting in shunting operations, where train cars are moved and organized within a railway yard.
- Ensuring that the tracks and switches are free of obstructions and in good working condition.
- Reporting any defects or issues with the track or switches to the concerned authorities.
- Performing manual operations of points in case of failures in the signaling system.
- Work Environment: The job involves working outdoors in various weather conditions. It requires physical strength and alertness as the job includes handling heavy switches and ensuring timely operations of points. Night shifts and working during emergencies are common.
Assistant Pointsman Departments
Assistant Pointsmen work primarily in the Operations Department within Indian Railways. They collaborate with various other departments to ensure the smooth and safe operation of trains.
- Operations Department: The main department responsible for train movements, including shunting, setting routes, and managing the safe passage of trains.
- Engineering Department: Works closely with the Operations Department for maintenance and repairs of tracks and switches.
- Signal & Telecommunication (S&T) Department: Coordinates with the Operations Department to ensure the signaling systems are functioning correctly, facilitating smooth train operations.
Assistant Pointsman Career Progression
- Entry Level: Assistant Pointsman.
- Promotions:
- Senior Pointsman
- Leverman
- Cabinman
- Switchman
- Traffic Porter
- Shunter
- Yard Master
- Higher positions such as Assistant Station Master (ASM) and Station Master (SM), based on experience, performance, and further examinations.
In summary, the role of an Assistant Pointsman is vital for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of trains in Indian Railways. It offers a stable career with opportunities for growth