Indian Coast Guard Recruitment 2025: Apply for 14 Group C Vacancies in the East Region
Direct Civilian Recruitment for Store Keeper, Driver, Engine Driver, and Peon Posts - Comprehensive Guide on Offline Application Process
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), a multi-mission maritime organization under the Ministry of Defence, has officially launched its recruitment drive for the year 2025. Functioning as the primary agency for maritime search and rescue, law enforcement in territorial waters, and environmental protection, the ICG offers a unique and disciplined work environment even for its civilian staff. The latest notification is released specifically for the Coast Guard Region (East), with its headquarters in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This recruitment seeks to fill 14 Group C Non-Gazetted civilian vacancies. These positions are highly coveted as they offer the security of a central government career while allowing employees to contribute to the nation's maritime defense infrastructure.
The 2025 recruitment cycle targets a wide array of technical and administrative roles, making it accessible for candidates who have completed their 10th or 12th standard. The positions available include Store Keeper Grade-II, Engine Driver, Lascar (First Class), Civilian Motor Transport Driver (Ordinary Grade), Multi-Tasking Staff (Peon), and Welder. For those who prefer technical field work, roles like Engine Driver and Welder are available, while those looking for administrative support can apply for Peon or Store Keeper posts. A critical point for all aspirants is that this is an Offline Recruitment. Candidates must download the prescribed application form, fill it manually, and dispatch it via Ordinary Post to the Chennai headquarters. The final date for the receipt of applications is December 29, 2025.
Working in the Indian Coast Guard as a civilian employee provides more than just a monthly paycheck. It offers a life of discipline, exposure to advanced maritime technology, and a comprehensive benefits package based on the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC). Whether you are an experienced driver with a heavy vehicle license or a matriculate seeking an entry-level peon role in a defense environment, this notification provides a transparent merit-based pathway. This exhaustive 2000-word article serves as your ultimate manual, providing deep insights into the salary structure, discipline-wise eligibility, the intricacies of the selection process, and a step-by-step tutorial on ensuring your offline application is not rejected by the authorities.
Important Highlights and Recruitment Timeline
Success in offline recruitments depends heavily on punctuality and adherence to posting rules. Candidates must be mindful that the Indian Coast Guard will only accept applications sent through Ordinary Post. Any application sent via Speed Post, Registered Post, or private courier services will likely be returned or rejected at the gate of Fort St. George. Ensure your application is dispatched well in advance of the December deadline.
| Recruitment Feature | Dates and Key Information |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Status | Released (Chennai East Region) |
| Application Start Date | November 2025 (Active) |
| Last Date to Receive Application | December 29, 2025 |
| Application Mode | Offline (Ordinary Post Only) |
| Job Category | Group C (Civilian / Non-Gazetted) |
| Job Location | Chennai and East Coast Stations |
| Selection Body | Indian Coast Guard Headquarters (East) |
Detailed Vacancy Breakdown and Salary Matrix
The 14 vacancies are categorized into specific technical and non-technical cadres. The salary structure follows the latest 7th Pay Commission levels, ensuring a stable financial career with regular increments and central government allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA) and House Rent Allowance (HRA).
| Post Designation | Total Vacancies | Pay Level (7th CPC) | Max Age Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Driver | 03 (UR-1, OBC-1, SC-1) | Level 4 (₹25,500 - ₹81,100) | 30 Years |
| Civilian Motor Transport Driver | 03 (UR-1, SC-1, EWS-1) | Level 2 (₹19,900 - ₹63,200) | 27 Years |
| Store Keeper Grade-II | 01 (OBC) | Level 2 (₹19,900 - ₹63,200) | 25 Years |
| Multi-Tasking Staff (Peon) | 04 (UR-2, SC-1, ST-1) | Level 1 (₹18,000 - ₹56,900) | 27 Years |
| Lascar (First Class) | 02 (UR) | Level 1 (₹18,000 - ₹56,900) | 30 Years |
| Welder (Skilled) | 01 (UR) | Level 2 (₹19,900 - ₹63,200) | 27 Years |
- Engine Driver (Level 4): Approximately ₹42,000 to ₹45,000 per month.
- Driver / Welder / Store Keeper (Level 2): Approximately ₹32,000 to ₹35,000 per month.
- Peon / Lascar (Level 1): Approximately ₹28,000 to ₹31,000 per month.
Selected candidates will also be eligible for the New Pension Scheme (NPS), medical facilities for self and family, and Leave Travel Concession (LTC) as per the central government rules for civilian defense employees.
Eligibility Criteria and Educational Qualifications
The Indian Coast Guard maintains strict eligibility standards. Unlike other departments, technical roles in the ICG often require specialized certificates of competency alongside basic education. All qualifications must be completed before the cut-off date of December 29, 2025.
- Store Keeper Grade-II: Minimum 12th Standard pass from a recognized board. Mandatory: At least one year of experience in handling stores in a government or reputed private organization.
- Engine Driver: 10th Standard (Matriculation) pass. Mandatory: Certificate of Competency as Engine Driver from a recognized government institute.
- Lascar (First Class): 10th Standard pass with at least 03 years of experience in service on a boat or sea-going vessel.
- Civilian Motor Transport Driver (CMTD): 10th Standard pass. Mandatory: Must possess a valid driving license for both Heavy and Light Motor Vehicles. Experience: 02 years in motor vehicle driving.
- MTS (Peon): 10th Standard pass from a recognized board. Experience: 02 years as an Office Attendant or similar role is highly desirable.
- Welder (Skilled): 10th Standard pass plus ITI Certificate in the respective trade OR 03 years of practical experience in the trade.
Age Relaxation: Upper age relaxation is provided to various categories: SC/ST (5 years), OBC-NCL (3 years), and PwBD (10 years). The age will be calculated as of the last date of application receipt.
Selection Process and Evaluation roadmap
The selection process for ICG Group C posts is designed to test both the mental caliber and technical proficiency of the candidates. The competition is expected to be high, with the Written Examination being the primary merit decider.
- Screening of Applications: Since this is an offline process, the ICG staff will first scrutinize the applications. Only those who have correctly filled the form and attached all valid documents will be issued an Admit Card.
- Written Examination: Candidates will be called to Chennai for an objective-type test. The paper usually consists of 80 to 100 questions covering General Knowledge, Mathematics, Reasoning, and English.
- Trade / Skill Test: Mandatory for posts like Driver, Engine Driver, and Welder. This is qualifying in nature. Drivers will be tested on their maneuvering skills, and Welders on their technical precision.
- Document Verification (DV): Successful candidates must produce their original marksheets, caste certificates, and experience letters for physical verification.
- Medical Examination: A basic fitness test to ensure the candidate is fit for a defense-related environment. Vision and hearing must meet the specified standards.
Exam Pattern and Detailed Syllabus
Preparing for an Indian Coast Guard civilian exam requires a strategy focusing on 10th-standard level basic concepts. The duration of the exam is typically 90 to 120 minutes.
- General Awareness (25%): Current Affairs, Indian History, Geography (Maritime focus), and Sports.
- Mathematics (25%): Numerical ability, percentages, ratio, time and work, and basic geometry.
- Reasoning (25%): Logic puzzles, coding-decoding, series completion, and analogies.
- General English (25%): Grammar, synonyms, antonyms, and sentence correction.
Negative Marking: Candidates should note that there is usually no negative marking in ICG civilian exams, but they should verify the instructions on the question paper on the day of the exam. Normalization of scores is not required as the exam is conducted in a single shift.
Expert Preparation Strategy for Coast Guard Exams
Success in the ICG Group C drive requires a balanced approach. Since the number of vacancies is limited (14), scoring high in the written test is the only way to ensure a final selection.
Focus on General Awareness: A significant portion of the paper revolves around basic general knowledge. Focus on the role of the Indian Coast Guard and the Ministry of Defence. Learn the names of the various coastal regions of India and the basics of maritime laws. Reading a monthly current affairs magazine will give you the edge.
Trade Proficiency: If you are applying for the Driver or Engine Driver post, the skill test is the ultimate hurdle. Practice driving in complex tracks to prepare for the Chennai field test. Welders should revisit their ITI modules, focusing on safety protocols and different types of welding joints used in maritime repairs.
Accuracy in Mathematics: The mathematics section is based on the 10th-standard level. Use R.S. Aggarwal level books to solve at least 50 numerical problems daily. Focus on Time and Distance and Simple Interest, as these are common topics in ICG question papers. Maintaining a high accuracy rate will help you clear the cut-off comfortably.
How to Apply Offline: Step-by-Step Guide
The offline application process is the most critical stage. Any error in the envelope or the form can lead to automatic rejection. Follow these steps meticulously to ensure your form reaches the destination safely.
- Download Form: Download the official Application Format from the Indian Coast Guard website or the link provided below. Print it on a high-quality A4 sheet.
- Fill the Data: Fill the form in BLOCK LETTERS using a blue or black ballpoint pen. Ensure your name and date of birth match your 10th-standard marksheet.
- Paste Photograph: Paste one recent passport-size color photograph in the designated box. Do not staple it. Cross-sign (Self-attest) the photo carefully without hiding your face.
- Compile Documents: Attach self-attested photocopies of your marksheets, caste certificate, experience certificates, and Aadhaar card.
- The Envelope: Use a large sturdy envelope (size 28 cm x 13 cm). On the front side, write in BOLD CAPITAL LETTERS:
"APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF [POST NAME] & CATEGORY [YOUR CASTE]" - Postal Mode: Go to your nearest Post Office and send the envelope via ORDINARY POST ONLY. Do not use Speed Post or Registered Post.
- Destination Address: Ensure the address mentioned in the links section is written correctly with the proper PIN code.
Best Books for Preparation
Using standard study materials will keep your preparation aligned with the ICG selection pattern. Below are the top recommendations for the 2025 exam.
| Subject Area | Recommended Book List |
|---|---|
| General Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal. |
| General English | Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi (Arihant Publications). |
| General Knowledge | Lucent’s General Knowledge and Manorama Yearbook. |
| Driver Trade | RTO Traffic Rules and Signs Handbooks (English/Hindi). |
| Welder Trade | ITI Welder Trade Theory by Arihant or Asian Publishers. |
Documents Needed to Apply
Documentation is the primary basis for your admit card issuance. Ensure all copies are Self-Attested. Original documents are only required at the time of final verification.
- Matriculation (10th) Certificate: Essential as proof of age and educational qualification.
- Higher Secondary (12th) Certificate: Mandatory for the Store Keeper post.
- Technical Competency Certificate: Engine Driver certificate or ITI certificate (for Welder).
- Experience Proof: Experience letters on official letterheads from previous employers.
- Caste Certificate: Valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS certificate in the Central Government format.
- Identity Proof: Clear photocopy of Aadhaar Card or Voter ID.
- Extra Photographs: Include two additional passport-size photographs without signature inside the envelope.
Important Links and Address
| Resource Description | Official Link / Postal Details |
|---|---|
| Postal Address to Send Form | The Commander, Coast Guard Region (East), Near Napier Bridge, Fort St George (PO), Chennai – 600 009 |
| Download Application Form PDF | Download Here |
| Official Indian Coast Guard Site | Visit Site |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1: Can I send the application via Speed Post if I am running out of time?
No. The Indian Coast Guard explicitly specifies the use of Ordinary Post only. Applications sent through Speed Post, Registered Post, or private couriers are often not accepted at the delivery desk of Fort St. George. It is safer to send it early via ordinary mail.
- Q2: Is there an application fee for this recruitment?
No. According to the official notification for the East Region (Chennai), there is no application fee for any category. The recruitment process is completely free of charge.
- Q3: What if I don't have the experience certificate for the Peon post?
While the educational qualification is 10th pass, the notification mentions 02 years of experience as desirable. Candidates with experience will be given preference during the initial screening stage.
- Q4: What vision standard is required for the Driver post?
For civilian driver posts in the ICG, candidates must have 6/6 distant vision without glasses in both eyes. Color blindness is usually a disqualification for any defense-related driving role.
- Q5: Can I apply for more than one post?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for multiple posts, you can apply. However, you must send separate applications in separate envelopes for each post category. Do not put multiple forms in a single envelope.
- Q6: When will the written exam be conducted?
The specific date has not been announced yet. Generally, ICG conducts exams within 2-3 months after the application deadline. Shortlisted candidates will receive their admit cards through the post.
