Ordnance Factory Badmal (OFBL), a unit under Munitions India Limited and the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has released a long-anticipated notification to hire candidates for Graduate roles. This is an excellent opportunity for young, meritorious, and eligible candidates to gain hands-on industrial training in a prestigious defence manufacturing organization.
Ordnance Factory Badmal, located in Bolangir, Odisha, is renowned for its contribution to India’s defence sector, particularly in the field of munitions and explosives. The factory is committed to imparting skill development through the Apprentices Act, 1961 and associated apprenticeship rules, ensuring the training aligns with both industrial and national defence requirements.
Overview of OFBL Apprentice Recruitment 2025
- Organization Name: Ordnance Factory Badmal (OFBL), Bolangir, Odisha
- Unit: Munitions India Limited, Ministry of Defence
- Training Duration: 1 year
- Total Vacancies: 42 (Graduate & Technician Apprentices)
- Stipend:
- Graduate Apprentice: ₹9,000 per month
- Technician Apprentice: ₹8,000 per month
The recruitment is designed to provide practical training to graduates and diploma holders in various streams, which will equip them with industry-relevant skills in engineering, technology, and general streams.
Important Dates
- Advertisement Release Date: As published in newspapers
- Last Date to Apply Online: Within 21 days from the date of advertisement publication
- Training Commencement: Will be intimated to selected candidates
- Training Duration: One year
Candidates must keep track of updates on the NATS 2.0 Portal and ensure registration and application within the stipulated time.
Age Limit
Minimum Age: 18 years
Maximum Age: 25 years
Age Relaxation: Applicable as per government rules for reserved categories
Vacancy Details
The engagement of apprentices is offered in both Graduate Apprentice (GA) and Technician Apprentice (TA) categories across multiple disciplines.
Graduate & Technician Apprentice Vacancies
| Apprentice Category | Discipline | Graduate Apprentice (GA) | Technician Apprentice (TA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Chemical | 3 | 3 |
| Engineering | Mechanical | 3 | 3 |
| Engineering | Electrical | 3 | 3 |
| Engineering | Civil | 3 | 3 |
| Non-Engineering | BA | 6 | – |
| Non-Engineering | B.Com | 6 | – |
| Non-Engineering | B.Sc | 6 | – |
Total Apprentices to be engaged: 42
Educational Qualifications & Eligibility
1. Graduate Apprentices (GA)
To be eligible for Graduate Apprentice training, candidates must satisfy one of the following criteria:
- Engineering/Technology Graduates:
- A degree awarded by a recognized university or an institute authorized through an Act of Parliament.
- Graduate examination from professional bodies recognized by the Central Government.
- Sandwich course students undergoing training to acquire a degree in engineering or technology.
- Non-Engineering Graduates:
- Candidates with degrees in B.A., B.Sc., or B.Com from a recognized university.
Important Note:
- Candidates with M.Tech or higher degrees are not eligible for Graduate Apprentice posts.
- Qualifications obtained through Distance Learning, Part-Time, or Correspondence courses will not be considered.
2. Technician Apprentices (TA)
Candidates aspiring to join as Technician Apprentices must hold:
- A diploma in engineering or technology granted by a State Board, State Council, University, or an institute recognized by the State or Central Government.
- Sandwich course students undergoing training for the diploma qualification are also eligible.
Important Note:
- Candidates with a B.E. or equivalent are not eligible for Technician Apprentice posts.
3. Other Eligibility Conditions
- Candidates must fulfil medical fitness requirements as per the Apprentice Act.
- Candidates must not have training or work experience exceeding one year post attainment of the qualifying degree/diploma.
- Age Limit: 18–25 years. Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD candidates according to Government of India rules. The candidate’s age will be determined as of the final date for submitting the application.
Reservation
Reservation for SC/ST apprentices will be applied as per the Apprentices Act, 1961 and Apprenticeship Rules, 1992. Candidates should ensure their caste certificates are in the prescribed format and issued by competent authorities.
Stipend Details
The stipend is provided to encourage skill development and support apprentices during the training period. The stipend details are as follows:
| Category of Apprentice | Monthly Stipend (INR) |
|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentice | 9,000 |
| Technician Apprentice | 8,000 |
The stipend will be paid monthly for the entire duration of one-year training.
Selection Process
The selection of apprentices at OFBL is strictly merit-based and follows a transparent process:
1. Merit List Preparation
- Shortlisting of candidates will be done according to the scores achieved in the required qualification mentioned earlier.
- Merit lists will be prepared discipline-wise, ensuring fair evaluation for all applicants.
2. Document Verification
- Only candidates shortlisted in the merit list will be called for document verification at OFBL, Bolangir.
- Candidates must bring original certificates and a set of photocopies for verification purposes.
3. Police Verification & Medical Fitness
- Selected candidates need to submit a Police Verification Certificate (PVR).
- Medical fitness as per Apprentice Act standards is mandatory before issuance of engagement letters.
4. Contract Execution
- Selected candidates are required to execute a contract under the Apprentice Act, 1961.
- The training period will be one year, after which a Certificate of Proficiency will be issued by the concerned Regional Board on behalf of the Central Government.
Certificate of Proficiency
On successful completion of apprenticeship, candidates will receive a Certificate of Proficiency, which serves as a formal acknowledgment of the skills and training acquired during the one-year program.
This certificate is recognized by the Central Government and can enhance future career prospects, particularly in industrial, manufacturing, and defence sectors.
Important Instructions
- No Job Guarantee: Completion of apprenticeship training does not guarantee employment at OFBL. Section 22(1) of the Apprentice Act, 1961, clarifies that no obligation exists for offering permanent employment.
- No TA/DA: Candidates must arrange for their own travel and stay during document verification or joining. No TA/DA will be provided.
- Right to Amend: The Chief General Manager, OFBL reserves the right to amend, refix, cancel, or suspend the selection process at any stage without assigning a reason.
How to Apply
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the NATS 2.0 portal and create a new account (or log in if already registered).
- Choose the relevant apprenticeship trade and category (Graduate/Technician).
- Fill in the required personal, educational, and contact details.
- Upload the necessary documents such as mark sheets, certificates, and ID proof.
- Submit the application before the last date mentioned in the advertisement (within 21 days of publication).
- Keep a printout of the application for future reference.
Advantages of Joining OFBL as an Apprentice
- Industrial Exposure: Apprentices will gain practical knowledge in defence manufacturing, munitions production, and allied engineering streams.
- Skill Development: Hands-on training under qualified engineers and supervisors enhances technical competencies.
- Certificate of Proficiency: Awarded on successful completion, this certificate is recognized nationally and adds significant value to your resume.
- Stipend: Monthly financial support ensures you can focus entirely on skill development.
- Networking Opportunities: Apprentices get a chance to interact with professionals from the defence sector, opening pathways for future employment in public or private defence industries.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Ensure eligibility criteria (educational qualification, age, and experience) are strictly met before applying.
- Maintain all original certificates for document verification.
- Prepare for discipline-specific technical evaluation even though the initial selection is merit-based.
- Monitor the NATS 2.0 portal for updates regarding training commencement, schedule, and important notices.
