1. Introduction - From a PWD Perspective

For thousands of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in India, getting a stable government-linked career opportunity is not just about employment-it is about financial independence, dignity, and inclusion.

The PNB Apprentices Recruitment 2026 is a major national-level opportunity with 5138 vacancies. Even though this is an apprenticeship program (not a permanent job), it offers valuable exposure to the banking sector and a monthly stipend.

This article explains everything a PWD candidate must know before applying-eligibility, reservations, accommodations, practical suitability, and realistic expectations.

If you are a PWD graduate looking to enter the banking field, this is an opportunity worth evaluating seriously.

2. Official Job Overview

ParticularDetails
OrganizationPunjab National Bank (PNB)
Post NameApprentices
Total Vacancies5138
QualificationAny Graduate
Age Limit20 - 28 years (as on 01-01-2026)
Engagement Period1 Year
Stipend₹12,300 to ₹15,000 per month
Selection ProcessOnline Exam + Document Verification
Application ModeOnline
Application Dates08 Feb 2026 - 24 Feb 2026

3. PWD-Specific Eligibility Analysis

Does this recruitment allow PWD candidates?

Yes.

The notification clearly mentions a special application fee concession for PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities), which confirms that PWD candidates are fully eligible to apply.

Benchmark Disability Requirement

As per Indian government rules, only candidates with:

  • 40% or more disability, certified by a government medical authority
    are treated as eligible under the PwBD category.

Disability Categories Likely to be Eligible

Although the official notice does not explicitly list disability types, apprenticeships in banking are generally open to:

  • Orthopedically Handicapped (OH)
  • Hearing Impaired (HH)
  • Visually Impaired (VH - partially)
  • Multiple Disabilities
  • Other benchmark disabilities recognized under RPwD Act 2016

Important Note:
Official notification does not specify exact disability subcategories. Candidates must confirm specific medical fitness requirements with PNB or BFSI SSC before applying.

4. Reservation, Relaxations & Benefits for PWD

A. Application Fee Concession

One of the biggest advantages for PWD candidates:

CategoryApplication Fee
SC/ST/PwBD (Male/Female)₹236 only
General/OBC/EWS₹708 - ₹944

This clearly indicates official encouragement for PWD participation.

B. Age Relaxation

The general age limit is 20-28 years.

As per Government of India rules, PwBD candidates normally receive:

  • 10 years age relaxation

However, the detailed age relaxation chart is not provided in the source.

Official notification does not specify exact age relaxation rules - candidates should verify this directly with the recruiting authority.

C. Exam Concessions & Accommodations

Though not explicitly mentioned in the brief notice, as per standard government recruitment norms, PWD candidates are generally entitled to:

  • Extra time in written exams
  • Scribe facility (where applicable)
  • Accessible exam centers
  • Relaxed medical fitness norms

But since these are not clearly mentioned:

Official notification does not specify exam accommodation policies - candidates should confirm this before the exam date.

5. Realistic Job Suitability Check

This is the MOST IMPORTANT section for PWD applicants.

Nature of Work

As an apprentice in PNB, the role will likely involve:

  • Basic clerical and administrative banking work
  • Data entry
  • Customer service
  • Document verification
  • Learning banking operations

Workplace Environment

  • Mostly desk-based job
  • Indoor office setting
  • Minimal physical labor
  • Computer-based tasks

Which PWD Categories Are Most Suitable?

Disability TypeSuitability
Locomotor Disability (OH)Highly suitable
Hearing Impairment (HH)Suitable
Low Vision (VH - partial)Moderately suitable
Full BlindnessMay face difficulty
Intellectual DisabilityGenerally not suitable due to banking nature

Travel Requirement

This is typically a branch-based role with:

  • Limited travel
  • Fixed office location
  • Regular working hours

This makes it a relatively PWD-friendly opportunity.

6. How to Apply - Step-by-Step (PWD Focused)

  1. Visit official portal: https://bfsissc.com
  2. Register with basic details
  3. Select PwBD category carefully
  4. Upload scanned documents
  5. Pay the reduced fee (₹236)
  6. Submit and print application

Documents PWD Candidates MUST Keep Ready

  • Valid Disability Certificate (40%+)
  • UDID Card (if available)
  • Aadhaar Card
  • Graduation Certificate
  • Recent Photograph
  • Signature scan

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Uploading expired disability certificate
  • Selecting wrong disability category
  • Mismatch in name between certificates
  • Not carrying original documents at verification

7. Salary, Growth & Career Outlook

Stipend Structure

LocationMonthly Stipend
Rural / Semi-Urban / Urban₹12,300
Metro Cities₹15,000

Important Reality Check

This is an apprenticeship, not a permanent job.

After 12 months:

  • There is NO guarantee of permanent posting
  • However, experience in a national bank
  • Strong advantage in future banking exams

For many PWD candidates, this acts as:

  • A stepping stone into banking
  • Resume-strengthening experience
  • Gateway to clerk or PO-level exams

8. Preparation Strategy for PWD Candidates

Exam Focus Areas

  • Reasoning
  • Quantitative Aptitude
  • English
  • General Awareness

Smart Approach

  • Use online mock tests
  • Request scribe/extra time if eligible
  • Choose nearby accessible exam center
  • Focus on accuracy over speed

9. Pros & Cons for PWD Applicants

Pros

  • Low application fee
  • Office-based job
  • Banking sector exposure
  • PWD-friendly work environment
  • National-level opportunity

Cons

  • Not permanent employment
  • Limited stipend
  • Possible pressure of customer handling

10. Final Recommendation - Should a PWD Candidate Apply?

STRONG YES - if you:

  • Are a graduate with any disability
  • Want banking sector exposure
  • Need experience and income
  • Can work comfortably in an office setup

MAYBE - if you:

  • Have severe visual impairment
  • Have difficulty with computer-based work
  • Need guaranteed permanent job

11. PWD Application Checklist

Before final submission, ensure you have:

  • Valid Disability Certificate (40%+)
  • UDID Card
  • Correct category selection
  • Proper scanned documents
  • Fee receipt
  • Application printout

12. Frequently Asked Questions (PWD-Specific)

Q1. Is my disability type eligible?

Most benchmark disabilities are eligible, but exact categories are not specified.
Confirm with the recruiting authority before applying.

Q2. Can I get a scribe in the exam?

Generally yes, as per government rules, but:

Official notification does not specify this - candidate should confirm with recruiting authority before applying.

Q3. Is there any reservation for PWD?

Yes. PWD candidates get fee concession and reservation benefits as per government norms.

Q4. What if my disability certificate is old?

You must ensure:

  • It is issued by a competent medical authority
  • Percentage is clearly mentioned
  • It is still valid

Q5. Is this job suitable for wheelchair users?

Yes. Most bank branches are accessible and work is desk-based.

Apply Now

Apply Link: https://bfsissc.com