The Railway Protection Force (RPF) Sub-Inspector (SI) exam is one of the most competitive tests in India, attracting thousands of aspirants every year. If you’re dreaming of a career in the RPF, understanding the RPF SI Syllabus 2024 and exam pattern is your first step toward success. This guide breaks down everything—from subjects and marking schemes to physical tests and expert strategies—so you can prepare smarter, not harder.
Key Highlights of RPF SI Exam 2024 📌
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Railway Protection Force (RPF) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Total Questions | 120 |
| Total Marks | 120 |
| Negative Marking | ⅓ mark per wrong answer |
| Exam Duration | 90 minutes |
| Selection Stages | CBT → PET/PMT → Document Verification |
| Minimum Qualifying Marks | 35% (UR/OBC), 30% (SC/ST) |
| Official Website | www.indianrailways.gov.in |
RPF SI Exam Pattern 2024: How the Test Works 🧠
The Computer-Based Test (CBT) is the first hurdle. Here’s how it’s structured:
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 |
| Arithmetic | 35 | 35 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 35 | 35 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Quick Facts:
- Each correct answer = +1 mark
- Each wrong answer = -0.33 marks
- No penalty for unanswered questions .
RPF SI Syllabus 2024: Subject-Wise Breakdown 📚
1️⃣ General Awareness (50 Marks)
This section tests your knowledge of India and the world. Key topics include:
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Current Affairs | National & International News, Awards, Sports |
| Indian History | Freedom Struggle, Ancient & Medieval India |
| Geography | Physical, Economic, Environmental |
| Polity | Constitution, Parliament, Judiciary |
| Science | Physics, Chemistry, Biology Basics |
Pro Tip: Follow newspapers like The Hindu and monthly magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan to stay updated .
2️⃣ Arithmetic (35 Marks)
Math can be tricky, but mastering these topics will help:
| Topic | Key Areas |
|---|---|
| Number System | Fractions, Decimals, LCM, HCF |
| Percentages | Profit & Loss, Discounts |
| Time & Work | Efficiency, Pipes & Cisterns |
| Mensuration | Area, Volume, Surface Area |
| Data Interpretation | Tables, Graphs, Charts |
Real-Life Example:
Rahul, a 2023 RPF SI qualifier, says, “Practicing 10-15 quant problems daily boosted my speed and accuracy.”
3️⃣ General Intelligence & Reasoning (35 Marks)
This section checks your logical thinking. Focus on:
| Topic | Key Concepts |
|---|---|
| Analogies | Word & Number Analogies |
| Coding-Decoding | Letter & Symbol Patterns |
| Blood Relations | Family Tree Problems |
| Syllogism | Logical Deductions |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | Mirror Images, Cubes |
Expert Insight:
“Solving previous years’ papers helps identify recurring patterns in reasoning questions.” — Neha Sharma, RPF Mentor .
Physical Efficiency Test (PET) & Measurement (PMT) 💪
After clearing CBT, you’ll face PET/PMT. Here’s what’s expected:
For Male Candidates
| Test | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 1600m Run | Under 6 mins 30 secs |
| Long Jump | 12 feet |
| High Jump | 3 ft 9 inches |
For Female Candidates
| Test | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 800m Run | Under 4 mins |
| Long Jump | 9 feet |
| High Jump | 3 feet |
Did You Know?
Ex-servicemen are exempt from PET but must meet PMT standards .
Expert-Recommended Preparation Strategy 🎯
1. Understand the Syllabus First
- Print the syllabus and tick topics as you cover them.
- Allocate more time to weaker sections.
2. Practice Mock Tests Daily
- Simulate exam conditions with timed tests.
- Analyze mistakes to avoid repetition.
3. Stay Consistent with Current Affairs
- Dedicate 30 mins daily to news apps like Inshorts.
4. Physical Training
- Start running and strength training early to avoid last-minute stress.
Success Story:
Priya, an RPF SI 2023 topper, says, “Balancing studies with physical training was tough, but discipline got me through.”
Final Thoughts: Your Roadmap to Success �
The RPF SI exam isn’t just about books—it’s about strategy, consistency, and physical fitness. Stick to a structured plan, practice relentlessly, and keep your eyes on the goal. With the right approach, that coveted RPF SI badge could soon be yours!
🚀 Ready to start? Download the official syllabus from www.indianrailways.gov.in today!
