Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has released an official recruitment notification for the post of Draftsman in 2026. This recruitment drive offers an exceptional opportunity for qualified candidates holding an ITI certificate in the relevant trade to secure a prestigious government job within the infrastructure development sector of India. NHAI operates under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and plays a vital role in building and maintaining the national highway network across the country.
Interested and eligible applicants are invited to submit their applications online through the official portal of NHAI. Candidates must complete their online registration process before the stipulated deadline of 16-10-2026. Late submissions or incomplete applications will not be considered under any circumstances.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The recruitment notification outlines specific eligibility conditions regarding educational background and technical expertise. Below is the breakdown of the post along with qualification prerequisites:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Draftsman | 1 | Candidates must possess an ITI (Industrial Training Institute) certificate in Draftsman (Civil) or equivalent trade from a recognized institution or board. Practical drafting experience and proficiency in CAD software are highly desirable. |
Applicants must ensure that all educational certificates and trade marks sheets are issued by recognized institutions prior to the cutoff date for applications.
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
To be eligible for the Draftsman position in NHAI, applicants must fulfill the prescribed age parameters set by the recruitment authority:
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Maximum Age: 27 Years (subject to guidelines specified in the detailed recruitment advertisement)
Age Relaxation: Standard upper age relaxation rules apply as per Government of India guidelines for candidates belonging to reserved categories:
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): Upper age relaxation of up to 3 years.
- SC / ST: Upper age relaxation of up to 5 years.
- PwD / Ex-Servicemen: Relaxations as applicable under central government norms.
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
Selected candidates for the post of Draftsman will receive a competitive compensation package according to the central pay matrix rules adopted by the National Highways Authority of India. In addition to basic pay, appointees will be entitled to various allowances and benefits, including:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) or Official Quarter Facility
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Medical Benefits for self and dependents
- Contributory Pension Scheme (NPS)
Selection Process
The selection mechanism for the Draftsman post at NHAI ensures a transparent and merit-based evaluation. The assessment process typically comprises the following stages:
- Initial Screening / Shortlisting: Applications received online will be scrutinized based on educational eligibility criteria, trade marks, and document verification.
- Written Test / Skill Test: Eligible candidates may be required to undergo a trade skill test or written exam testing their expertise in CAD drafting, engineering drawings, and basic domain knowledge.
- Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates must present original identity proofs, educational certificates, ITI trade certificates, and caste certificates during the physical verification process.
- Medical Examination: A medical fitness check ensures the candidate meets the physical standards required for the position.
Detailed Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
If a written/trade examination is conducted, the test structure generally aligns with the standard technical evaluation pattern for ITI-level posts:
| Section / Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trade Theory (Draftsman Civil) | 60 | 60 | 90 Minutes |
| General Awareness & Reasoning | 40 | 40 | |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 90 Minutes |
Note: Marking schemes, duration, and specific syllabus guidelines will be finalized in the official notification instructions.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Online Application Form
Candidates can follow these steps to complete their online application process successfully on the official NHAI web portal:
- Visit the official website of the National Highways Authority of India at nhai.gov.in.
- Navigate to the Careers / Recruitment section on the home page.
- Locate the advertisement titled "NHAI Draftsman Recruitment 2026" and read the instructions carefully.
- Click on the Apply Online link to register yourself with basic details including your email address and mobile number.
- Log in using your generated credentials and accurately complete the personal, educational, and trade details in the online form.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents, including photograph, signature, and ITI certificate, adhering to specified file size limits.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable) through online payment modes (Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI).
- Review all entered details thoroughly before final submission. Submit the form and download a printable copy for future reference.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Applicants must keep the following essential documents ready for uploading and physical verification:
- 10th / Matriculation Marksheet & Certificate (as proof of date of birth)
- ITI Trade Certificate and Mark Sheets in Draftsman discipline
- Category / Caste Certificate (OBC-NCL / SC / ST / EWS) if applicable
- Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport)
- Recent passport-sized color photographs
- Disability Certificate / Service Release Certificate (for PwD / Ex-Servicemen applicants)