Government Central Press Gandhinagar Apprentices Recruitment 2026 - Apply Offline for 31 Posts

Eligibility

Educational Qualification Explained:

• For the Book Binder trade, candidates must have passed the 8th standard. This means if you have successfully completed your 8th class, you are eligible to apply for this specific apprenticeship.
• For the Offset Machine Minder trade, a higher qualification is required. Applicants must have passed the 10th standard, and it is mandatory that they have studied Science as a subject in their 10th class. This ensures that candidates have a basic understanding of scientific principles relevant to the machinery involved.

Additional Qualification Note:

• Candidates applying for the Book Binder trade who have already completed an ITI (Industrial Training Institute) course in the Book Binder trade will receive a special benefit. They will be granted a 1-year relaxation in their apprenticeship training period, meaning they will be admitted directly into the next year of training. This acknowledges their prior vocational training and experience.

It is essential for candidates to ensure their educational certificates clearly reflect these requirements. Self-attested copies of these certificates will need to be submitted with the application, so make sure they are accurate and verifiable.

Age Limit

How Age is Calculated:

Your age will be calculated based on the cut-off date of July 31, 2026. This means that on this specific date, your age must be:

• Not less than 14 years: You must have completed 14 years of age by 31-07-2026.
• Not more than 25 years: You must not have completed 25 years of age by 31-07-2026.

For example, if your birth date is 01-08-2012, you would be exactly 14 years old on 01-08-2026, making you eligible. If your birth date is 30-07-2012, you would be 14 years old on 30-07-2026, also making you eligible. Similarly, if your birth date is 01-08-2001, you would be 25 years old on 01-08-2026, making you eligible. However, if your birth date is 30-07-2001, you would be 25 years old on 30-07-2026, making you eligible. If you were born on 29-07-2001, you would be 25 years and 2 days old on 31-07-2026, making you ineligible as you would be over 25 years.

Age Relaxation:

The official notification does not explicitly mention any age relaxation for reserved categories such as SC/ST/OBC or PwBD candidates. The age limit of 14 to 25 years applies uniformly to all applicants. Candidates are strongly advised to verify their age against the specified cut-off date using their birth certificate to avoid any disqualification later in the process.

Application Fee

Since no fee is specified, candidates can proceed with their application without worrying about payment. This makes the opportunity more accessible to a wider range of aspirants. Always refer to the official notification for any last-minute updates or clarifications regarding fees, though it is unlikely to change if not mentioned initially.

Selection Process

Explanation of Each Stage:

• Application Submission & Scrutiny: This is the initial phase where you submit your application. It's crucial to first register on the official Apprenticeship India website and obtain a registration number. This number must be clearly mentioned on your offline application form. Along with the form, you need to attach self-attested copies of your birth certificate, educational mark sheets, and all relevant qualification certificates. The department will then review all submitted applications to ensure that candidates meet the basic eligibility criteria, such as age and educational qualifications. Incomplete or incorrectly filled applications are likely to be rejected at this stage.
• Personal Visit/Document Verification: The notification mentions that candidates will have to appear for a "personal visit" (રૂબરૂ મુલાકાત) at their own expense. This stage is typically where your original documents are verified against the copies you submitted. It might also include a brief interaction or interview to gauge your interest, aptitude, and general suitability for the apprenticeship trade. This is a critical stage, and only those who successfully clear the document verification and any subsequent assessment will proceed.
• Final Selection: After the personal visit and document verification, a merit list will likely be prepared based on the candidates' qualifications and performance in the assessment stages. The final selection will be made from this merit list, and selected candidates will be offered the apprenticeship training. It's important to note that the training period and stipend will be as per the Apprentices Act-1961.

Candidates should prepare all original documents for the personal visit and be ready to travel to Gandhinagar at their own cost if shortlisted.

Salary

Salary Explained in Practical Terms:

The official notification states that the stipend will be "As per Apprentices Act-1961." This means that the exact amount of stipend is not fixed by the recruiting organization but is determined by the central government's guidelines under the Apprentices Act. The stipend rates typically vary based on the trade, the duration of the apprenticeship, and the educational qualification of the apprentice. For example, apprentices with a 10th pass qualification might receive a slightly higher stipend than those with an 8th pass, as per the government's latest revisions to the Act.

While a specific monetary figure is not provided, candidates can expect a reasonable monthly stipend that helps cover basic expenses during their training. This stipend is designed to encourage individuals to pursue vocational training and reduce financial burdens. It is important to understand that this is a training stipend and not a full-fledged salary of a regular employee. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, candidates will receive a certificate, which is the primary benefit, enhancing their future employment prospects.

Documents Required

• Apprenticeship India Registration Number: This is mandatory. You must first register on the official Apprenticeship India portal (apprenticeshipindia.gov.in) and obtain your unique registration number. This number must be clearly written on your application form.
• Birth Certificate: A copy of your birth certificate or any equivalent document (like a school leaving certificate showing date of birth) is required to verify your age.
• Educational Mark Sheets and Certificates:
  • For Book Binder: 8th standard mark sheet and passing certificate.
  • For Offset Machine Minder: 10th standard mark sheet and passing certificate (specifically showing Science as a subject).
  • If applicable for Book Binder: ITI mark sheets and certificate in Book Binder trade.
• Identity Proof: While not explicitly mentioned for submission, it's always good practice to keep a copy of a government-issued ID proof (like Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID) ready for verification purposes during the personal visit.
• Category Certificate (if applicable): If you belong to a reserved category (SC/ST/PwBD), ensure you have a valid caste/tribe/disability certificate issued by the competent authority. Although specific reservation benefits are shown in the vacancy table, the notification does not explicitly ask for these certificates to be submitted with the application, but it's wise to have them ready for the personal visit.
• Passport-sized Photographs: While not explicitly mentioned for the offline application, it's standard practice to attach a recent passport-sized photograph to your application form. Keep a few extra copies handy for future stages.
• Signature: Ensure your signature is consistent across all documents.

Remember to self-attest all copies of your certificates before attaching them to your application form. This means signing each copy and writing "Self-Attested" on it. Keep original documents safe as they will be required for verification during the personal visit.

How to Apply

1. Register on Apprenticeship India Portal:
   • Before anything else, visit the official Apprenticeship India website: Click Here.
   • Register yourself as an apprentice. This step is mandatory, and you will receive a unique registration number.
   • Make sure to note down this registration number carefully, as it must be mentioned on your offline application.
2. Obtain the Application Form:
   • The official notification does not provide a specific application form. This implies candidates might need to prepare a handwritten application or a general format application.
   • Draft a formal application letter addressed to the "શ્રેયાન વ્યવસ્થાપકશ્રી, સરકારી મધ્યસ્થ મુદ્રણાલય, ઘ-૭ સર્કલ નજીક, સેક્ટર-૨૯, ગાંધીનગર-૩૮૨૦૨૯".
   • Clearly state your intent to apply for the apprenticeship in the relevant trade (Book Binder or Offset Machine Minder).
   • Include all your personal details: Name, Father's Name, Date of Birth, Address, Contact Number, Email ID, and most importantly, your Apprenticeship India Registration Number.
   • Mention your educational qualifications, including the percentage/grades obtained, and the year of passing.
3. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Gather self-attested copies of all necessary documents as listed in the "Documents Required" section. This includes your birth certificate, educational mark sheets, and qualification certificates.
   • If applying for Book Binder and you have an ITI certificate, include a self-attested copy of that as well.
4. Attach Documents and Photograph:
   • Attach all the self-attested copies of your documents to your application form.
   • Affix a recent passport-sized photograph to your application form.
5. Review Your Application:
   • Before dispatching, thoroughly review your application form and all attached documents.
   • Ensure all details are accurate, legible, and match your certificates.
   • Double-check that your Apprenticeship India Registration Number is correctly written on the application.
6. Send the Application:
   • Place your application form and all attached documents in an envelope.
   • Clearly address the envelope to:
     શ્રેયાન વ્યવસ્થાપકશ્રી,
     સરકારી મધ્યસ્થ મુદ્રણાલય,
     ઘ-૭ સર્કલ નજીક,
     સેક્ટર-૨૯,
     ગાંધીનગર-૩૮૨૦૨૯
   • Send your application via registered post or speed post to ensure it reaches the address by the deadline of July 31, 2026. It is advisable to send it well in advance to avoid any last-minute delays.
7. Keep a Copy:
   • Always keep a photocopy of your complete application form and all submitted documents for your records. This will be useful for future reference.

Important Instructions

• Read the Official Notification Carefully: Always refer to the original PDF notification for the most accurate and complete information. This article provides guidance, but the official document is the final authority.
• Verify Eligibility Thoroughly: Before applying, cross-check all age, educational, and other eligibility criteria against your own qualifications. Do not apply if you do not meet the minimum requirements.
• Mandatory Apprenticeship India Registration: Ensure you have registered on the Apprenticeship India portal and obtained your registration number. This number is compulsory and must be mentioned on your offline application.
• Self-Attest All Documents: All copies of certificates and mark sheets submitted with your application must be self-attested. Failure to do so may lead to rejection.
• Submit Before the Deadline: Your application, along with all required documents, must reach the specified address by July 31, 2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
• Use Correct Address: Ensure the envelope is correctly addressed to "શ્રેયાન વ્યવસ્થાપકશ્રી, સરકારી મધ્યસ્થ મુદ્રણાલય, ઘ-૭ સર્કલ નજીક, સેક્ટર-૨૯, ગાંધીનગર-૩૮૨૦૨૯".
• Keep Proof of Dispatch: When sending your application via post, retain the postal receipt or tracking number as proof of dispatch.
• Prepare for Personal Visit: If shortlisted, be prepared to attend a "personal visit" (રૂબરૂ મુલાકાત) in Gandhinagar at your own expense. Keep all original documents ready for verification.
• No Application Fee: As per the notification, there is no application fee mentioned. Do not send any money with your application.
• Training Period and Stipend: Understand that this is an apprenticeship program. The training duration and stipend will be as per the Apprentices Act-1961. Upon completion, you will be automatically released.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Registering on Apprenticeship India Portal: This is a mandatory first step. Many candidates overlook this or forget to mention the registration number. Always register first and clearly write your registration number on your application.
• Missing the Application Deadline: The last date for submission is July 31, 2026. Sending your application at the last minute risks postal delays. Dispatch your application well in advance.
• Incomplete or Incorrect Application Form: Ensure all fields in your application (even if handwritten) are filled accurately and completely. Double-check your personal details, educational qualifications, and contact information.
• Not Self-Attesting Documents: Submitting photocopies without your signature and "Self-Attested" written on them is a common reason for rejection. Make sure every copy is properly attested.
• Submitting Irrelevant Documents: Only send the documents specifically asked for (birth certificate, educational mark sheets/certificates). Sending too many unnecessary documents can confuse the process.
• Incorrect Educational Qualification: Applying for a trade without meeting its specific educational requirement (e.g., applying for Offset Machine Minder without Science in 10th) will lead to immediate disqualification.
• Not Checking Age Limit: Ensure your age falls within the 14 to 25 years bracket as of July 31, 2026. Do not assume age relaxation if not explicitly mentioned.
• Ignoring the "Personal Visit" Instruction: The notification clearly states candidates must appear for a personal visit at their own expense. Not being prepared for this stage or failing to attend will result in disqualification.
• Assuming an Application Fee: Since no fee is mentioned, do not send any payment. Sending money when not required can complicate your application.
• Not Keeping a Copy of the Application: Always make a photocopy of your entire application package before sending it. This serves as proof and a reference for you.