Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027 has been officially announced for 210 total vacancies at two prestigious Indian Navy establishments — Naval Dockyard, Naval Base, Karwar, Karnataka (581308) and Naval Aircraft Yard (Goa), Dabolim, Goa (403801). ITI-qualified Indian citizens can earn a monthly stipend of Rs.9,600 during training under the Apprentices Act, 1961. This guide is for ITI-pass candidates aged 14 years and above who want a structured government-backed apprenticeship with the Indian Navy for AY 2027-28/29.This article covers eligibility, vacancy breakdown, stipend details, step-by-step application process, selection criteria, and important dates — everything you need to apply before the deadline.
Naval Dockyard Karwar and Naval Aircraft Yard Goa have released 210 apprenticeship vacancies for AY 2027-28/29 under the Apprentices Act, 1961. ITI-qualified candidates in designated trades are eligible to apply online at www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. The stipend for ITI Certificate Holders is Rs.9,600 per month during the 01–12 month training period.
- Organisation: Indian Navy — Naval Dockyard Karwar & Naval Aircraft Yard Goa
- Total Vacancies: 210 (180 at Karwar + 30 at Goa)
- Training Year: AY 2027-28/29
- Stipend (ITI Holder): Rs.9,600/month (01–12 months)
- Minimum Age: 14 years (non-hazardous trades) | 18 years (hazardous trades)
- Upper Age Cutoff (Non-Hazardous): Born on or before 12 Apr 2013
- Upper Age Cutoff (Hazardous): Born on or before 12 Apr 2009
- Qualification: ITI Pass (NCVT/SCVT) for ITI trades; 10th/8th Pass for Non-ITI trades
- Application Portal: www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in (NAPS)
- Written Exam Scheduled: January 2027 at Karwar
- Training Commencement: Likely 12 April 2027
- Official Notification: Employment News, 10–16 October 2026
📋 Table of Contents
- What Is Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027?
- Who Should Apply for This Recruitment?
- Vacancy Details — Karwar and Goa Breakdown
- Stipend and Financial Benefits
- Eligibility Criteria — Education, Age and Physical Standards
- How to Apply Online — Step-by-Step Process
- Selection Process and Written Examination
- Naval Dockyard vs Other Government Apprenticeships
- Pros and Cons of Naval Dockyard Apprenticeship
- Important Terms Related to Naval Apprenticeship
- Important Dates and Timeline
- Important Links
- Conclusion
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027?

Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027 is an official government apprenticeship programme run by the Indian Navy under the Apprentices Act, 1961 and Apprenticeship Rules, 1992. The programme offers structured on-the-job training at two premier defence establishments — Naval Dockyard at Karwar (Karnataka) and Naval Aircraft Yard at Dabolim (Goa) — for a total of 210 vacancies across 27 designated ITI and non-ITI trades.
Apprentices are enrolled under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and receive a government-mandated monthly stipend. Training duration ranges from 1 year (most ITI trades) to 2 years (select non-ITI trades). Upon completion, apprentices gain a nationally recognized certificate and are eligible to apply for Tradesman Skilled posts within the Navy.
This recruitment is advertised in the Employment News (10–16 October 2026) and is officially governed by the Officer-in-Charge, Dockyard Apprentice School, Naval Dockyard, Naval Base, Karwar, Karnataka — 581308.
Who Should Apply for Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027?
- 🔧 ITI Certificate Holders (NCVT/SCVT) — in any of the 23 designated trades at Karwar or 13 trades at Goa; core eligibility group with Rs.9,600/month stipend
- 🎓 10th Pass Freshers — eligible for non-ITI trades including Crane Operator (Steel Industry) and Forger & Heat Treater at Karwar
- 📚 8th Pass Freshers — eligible for the Rigger trade at Naval Dockyard Karwar
- 👨🔧 Unemployed Youth Seeking Government Trade Training — this programme provides paid, structured skilling inside a defence establishment
- 🏅 Ex-Serviceman Children — 3% reservation available under Chapter III of Apprenticeship Training Manual
- ♿ PwBD Candidates (40%+ disability) — 3% overall vacancy reservation; however, 100% disability candidates are advised not to apply due to non-availability of competent instructors
- 🌏 SC/ST Candidates — reserved vacancies in all trades as per Section 3A(1) & (2) of Apprentices Act, 1961
- 🏠 Outstation Male Candidates at Karwar — limited hostel accommodation available at DAS, Naval Dockyard Karwar on first-come-first-served basis
Vacancy Details — Karwar and Goa Breakdown
The total of 210 apprenticeship vacancies is distributed across two establishments. Naval Dockyard Karwar has 180 vacancies (161 one-year + 19 two-year) and Naval Aircraft Yard Goa has 30 vacancies across 13 trades.
Naval Dockyard Karwar — Category-wise Vacancy Table (Top Trades)
| Trade | Total | UR | OBC | SC | ST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fitter | 24 | 11 | 8 | 3 | 2 |
| Marine Engine Fitter | 15 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 1 |
| Electrician | 12 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Mechanic Diesel | 12 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 0 |
| Mechanic Industrial Electronics | 9 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Shipwright Wood | 9 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 0 |
| Mechanic Mechatronics | 11 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Electronics Mechanic | 11 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Welder (Gas & Electric) | 9 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 0 |
| Tailor (General) | 5 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Mechanic Ref and AC | 6 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Painter (General) | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| Other Trades (remaining) | 33 | — | — | — | — |
| Grand Total (Karwar) | 180 | 84 | 58 | 26 | 12 |
Naval Aircraft Yard Goa — Key Trades (Total 30 Vacancies)
| Trade | Max. Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Electrician Aircraft | 05 |
| Electronics Mechanic | 05 |
| Machinist | 05 |
| Mechanic Instrument Aircraft | 05 |
| Mechanic Radar & Radio Aircraft | 05 |
| Shipwright Wood | 02 |
| Computer Operator & Programming Assistant | 02 |
| Other Trades | 01 each |
| Total (Goa) | 30 |
Stipend and Financial Benefits
The monthly stipend for Naval Dockyard apprentices is governed by Rule 11 of Apprenticeship Rules, 1992. Stipend is paid progressively by training period duration — apprentices receive higher stipend as they progress through training phases.
| Category / Trade | Training Period | Stipend (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| ITI Certificate Holder | 01–12 months | Rs.9,600 |
| Crane Operator Overhead (Steel Industry) | 01–03 months | Rs.4,100 |
| Crane Operator Overhead (Steel Industry) | 04–12 months | Rs.8,200 |
| Crane Operator Overhead (Steel Industry) | 13–15 months | Rs.9,020 |
| Forger & Heat Treater | 01–03 months | Rs.4,100 |
| Forger & Heat Treater | 04–12 months | Rs.8,200 |
| Forger & Heat Treater | 13–24 months | Rs.9,020 |
| Rigger | 01–03 months | Rs.3,400 |
| Rigger | 04–12 months | Rs.6,800 |
| Rigger | 13–24 months | Rs.7,480 |
The cost of stipend borne by the Central Government is restricted to first-time training only. If a candidate undergoes a second apprenticeship, the Central Government will not fund the stipend for that second training.
Eligibility Criteria — Education, Age and Physical Standards
Educational Qualification
| Trade Category | Qualification | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| ITI Trades | Std X and ITI (NCVT/SCVT) | Pass |
| Non-ITI (Crane Operator, Forger & Heat Treater) | Std X | Pass |
| Non-ITI (Rigger) | Std VIII | Pass |
Age Eligibility
- No upper age limit as per Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) Office Memorandum No. F.No.MSDE-14(03)/2021 AP-(PMU) dated 20 Dec 2021
- Minimum age for non-hazardous trades: 14 years — candidates born on or before 12 Apr 2013 are eligible
- Minimum age for hazardous trades: 18 years — candidates born on or before 12 Apr 2009 are eligible
- Note: An upper age limit IS set in the Recruitment Rules for Tradesman Skilled posts — ex-Naval apprentices should be aware of this when applying for regular posts later
Physical Standards and Previous Training Rules
- Physical fitness must meet standards under Rule 4 of Schedule-II, Apprenticeship Rules 1992
- A person may undergo a maximum of two apprenticeship trainings; the second training must NOT be in the same trade
- If a previous apprenticeship was terminated due to health, financial hardship, relocation, or career change, a 3-month waiting period applies before joining a new contract (no waiting period for women)
- Candidates already undergoing apprenticeship training under Apprentices Act, 1961 are NOT eligible to apply
Before starting your application on www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in, ensure your name, date of birth, and father’s name in your Aadhar Card exactly match your SSC (10th) certificate. If there is any mismatch, correct your Aadhar Card details first — your application will be cancelled at the document verification stage if data does not match.
How to Apply Online — Step-by-Step Process
All interested candidates must register and apply online through the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) portal at www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. There is no offline application mode. Follow these steps exactly:
- Verify Aadhar-SSC Match: Before starting, ensure your name, date of birth, and father’s name on Aadhar Card match your SSC/Matric/10th Std certificate. Update Aadhar if any mismatch exists — this is mandatory.
- Log on to the NAPS Portal: Visit www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in and click on “Candidate Login / Register” on the home page.
- Complete Candidate Registration: Fill in your personal details, contact information, educational qualifications (10th Std and ITI only), trade preference, and bank account details. Validate your Aadhar number on the portal.
- Activate Your Profile: After submission, a system-generated auto email will be sent to your registered email ID for profile activation. Activate your profile immediately.
- Re-login and Complete Profile: Log back in using your registered email ID, enter OTP sent to your mobile, then upload date of birth proof (only 10th Std Marksheet or Birth Certificate issued by competent authority).
- Search for Naval Dockyard Opportunity: Click “Apprenticeship Opportunities” from the dropdown menu, then enter “Naval Dockyard, Karwar” in the “Search by Establishment Name” section.
- Select Your Trade: Click “Apply” for the desired eligible apprenticeship trade from the list of Opportunities.
- Select State — Uttara Kannada: Select “Uttara Kannada” and click “Ok” to complete the registration for Karwar establishment.
- Download Candidate Profile: On completion of online registration, open candidate profile, download and take a printout of the “Candidate Profile” along with all supporting documents.
- Send Physical Documents by Speed Post: Forward the Candidate Profile and all required documents by speed/registered post to: The Officer-in-Charge, Dockyard Apprentice School, Naval Dockyard, Naval Base, Karwar, Karnataka — 581 308 within 30 days from the date of publication of this advertisement in Employment News (i.e., by 10 November 2026).
Documents Required to Send by Post
- Self-attested copy of SSC/Matric/10th Std Marksheet (For Rigger — 8th Std Marksheet)
- Self-attested copy of ITI Marksheet (Semester-wise Mark Sheet and Consolidated)
- Self-attested copy of category certificate (OBC/SC/ST candidates only)
- Self-attested copy of disability certificate (PwBD candidates only)
- Self-attested copy of Aadhar Card
- Certificate of Undertaking stating the choice of establishment (Karwar OR Goa — only one) in the specified format
Selection Process and Written Examination
Selection for Naval Dockyard Apprentice 2027 follows a three-stage process: Preliminary Merit List → Written Examination → Final Merit List and Document Verification.
- Preliminary Merit List: For ITI trades — based on aggregate percentage of marks in ITI + 10th standard. For Non-ITI trades (Rigger) — based on percentage in 8th standard; (Crane Operator, Forger) — percentage in 10th standard. Tie-breaking: date of birth (elder preferred), then alphabetical order of first name → middle name → surname.
- Shortlisting Ratio: 1:20 for every available vacancy per trade per category (e.g., for 6 UR Electrician vacancies, up to 120 top candidates are called for written examination).
- Written Examination: Scheduled at Karwar in January 2027. OMR-based, 100 marks total: Mathematics (35 marks) + General Science (35 marks) + General Knowledge (30 marks). Duration: 2 hours. No negative marking. Question paper bilingual (English and Hindi).
- Qualifying Marks: Minimum 40% aggregate in written examination.
- Final Merit List: Based on written examination marks only. A Wait List with 20% additional candidates is also prepared Trade and Category wise.
- Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates from Final Merit List are called for document verification and joining (medical fitness included).
Naval Dockyard vs Other Government Apprenticeships
| Feature | Naval Dockyard Apprenticeship | State ITI / MSDE Apprenticeship |
|---|---|---|
| Establishment Type | Indian Navy (Defence) | Private / PSU Industry |
| Stipend (ITI Holder) | Rs.9,600/month | Rs.7,000–Rs.9,000 (varies) |
| Training Environment | State-of-the-art Naval workshops | Industrial plant or workshop |
| Certificate Authority | NCVT / Indian Navy | NCVT / State Board |
| Future Employment | Eligible for Navy Tradesman Skilled posts | Industry-specific, no guarantee |
| Written Exam Required | Yes — OMR-based at Karwar | Usually No |
| Hostel Facility | Available at Karwar (boys only) | Usually not available |
| Application Mode | Online only — NAPS portal | Online (NAPS) or Offline |
| Reservation Benefits | SC/ST/OBC/PwBD/Ex-serviceman | Varies by employer |
| Obligation of Employment | No obligation post-training | No obligation post-training |
Naval Dockyard Apprenticeship at Karwar or Goa offers a clear edge over general MSDE apprenticeships. The defence environment, access to advanced naval workshops, higher stipend for ITI holders (Rs.9,600/month), and eligibility for Tradesman Skilled posts within the Indian Navy post-training make this one of the most prestigious and career-building apprenticeship programmes in India for ITI-qualified youth.
Pros and Cons of Naval Dockyard Apprenticeship
Advantages
- ✅ Prestigious defence establishment — training inside an active Indian Navy dockyard with cutting-edge facilities
- ✅ Rs.9,600/month stipend for ITI holders — one of the highest in the government apprenticeship sector
- ✅ No upper age limit — open to candidates of any age above 14 years (non-hazardous) as per MSDE guidelines
- ✅ Pathway to Tradesman Skilled posts — ex-Naval Dockyard Apprentice School graduates are eligible for regular Navy recruitment
- ✅ Hostel facility available at Karwar for outstation male candidates (limited, first-come-first-served)
- ✅ Reserved seats for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD and children of ex-servicemen
Disadvantages
- ❌ No employment guarantee — completion of apprenticeship does not obligate the Indian Navy to offer a job
- ❌ Competitive written examination required at Karwar (1:20 shortlisting ratio, 40% qualifying marks) — not a walk-in enrolment
- ❌ No hostel at Goa — Naval Aircraft Yard (Goa) at Dabolim offers no hostel facility; candidates must arrange own accommodation
- ❌ Travelling expenses not reimbursed — candidates called for written examination must arrange own transport and lodging
Important Terms Related to Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment
- NAPS (National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme): The Government of India’s online portal (www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in) through which all apprenticeship registrations and applications are processed nationally.
- DAS (Dockyard Apprentice School): The dedicated training school at Naval Dockyard, Karwar that conducts and administers the apprenticeship training programme for selected candidates.
- ATS (Apprentice Training School): The training facility at Naval Aircraft Yard (Goa), Dabolim, Goa, where Goa-based apprentices receive their training.
- NCVT (National Council for Vocational Training): The national body that certifies ITI trades; NCVT certificate is recognized across all central government employers including the Indian Navy.
- SCVT (State Council for Vocational Training): State-level equivalent of NCVT; certificates are accepted for Naval Dockyard apprenticeship eligibility.
- PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disability): Candidates with 40%+ disability as per PwBD Act, 1995; 3% of total vacancies reserved; 100% disability candidates are advised not to apply for this programme.
- Hazardous Trades: Specific trades (e.g., Welder, Pipe Fitter) that require minimum age of 18 years due to safety regulations under Apprentices Act, 1961.
- Tradesman Skilled: The regular Indian Navy post for which ex-Naval Dockyard apprentices become eligible after completing their apprenticeship training — this is the key long-term career benefit.
- MSDE (Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship): The central ministry that governs apprenticeship policies in India; MSDE removed the upper age limit for apprenticeship enrolment via Office Memorandum dated 20 Dec 2021.
- Certificate of Undertaking: A mandatory document (proforma provided in the official notification) that candidates must submit, clearly stating their choice of training establishment — Karwar OR Goa (only one choice permitted per application).
Important Dates and Timeline
| Event | Date / Period |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Published in Employment News | 10–16 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Physical Documents | Within 30 days of advertisement (approx. 10 November 2026) |
| Written Examination (Karwar) | January 2027 (exact date via registered email) |
| Training Commencement (likely) | 12 April 2027 |
| Training Duration (ITI Trades) | 1 Year (01–12 months) |
| Training Duration (Non-ITI — Crane, Forger) | Up to 15–24 months |
| Training Duration (Rigger) | Up to 24 months |
Important Links
| Link Name | URL |
|---|---|
| 📥 Official Notification (Telegram) | Download Notification PDF |
| 🌐 Apply Online — NAPS Portal | www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in |
| 📰 Employment News Official Portal | www.employmentnews.gov.in |
| 🏛️ Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship | www.msde.gov.in |
| 🏛️ India.gov.in — Government of India Official Portal | www.india.gov.in |
| 📧 Contact for Complaints (Touts/Agents) | oicdas-kar@navy.gov.in |
| 📖 Related: NABARD Recruitment 2026 Guide | NABARD Recruitment — Salary & Eligibility |
| 📖 Related: Government Apprenticeship Schemes India | Apprenticeship Schemes for ITI Holders |
| 📖 Related: Latest Government Job Alerts 2026 | Latest Govt Job Notifications 2026 |
Conclusion
Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027 offers 210 prestigious, government-backed apprenticeship seats at two of India’s most respected defence installations — Karwar and Goa — with a monthly stipend of up to Rs.9,600 for ITI holders and a pathway to Tradesman Skilled posts in the Indian Navy. ITI-qualified candidates across 23+ designated trades should act immediately, as physical documents must reach the Dockyard Apprentice School within 30 days of 10 October 2026. Apply online at www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in now and send your documents by speed post before the deadline. Bookmark this page — we update it as soon as any official changes are announced.
- Indian Navy has released 210 apprenticeship vacancies for AY 2027-28/29 across Karwar (180) and Goa (30).
- ITI Certificate Holders earn a monthly stipend of Rs.9,600 throughout their 12-month training period.
- There is no upper age limit for enrolment; minimum age is 14 years (non-hazardous) or 18 years (hazardous trades).
- Written examination is OMR-based at Karwar in January 2027; minimum 40% marks required to qualify.
- Apply online at www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in and send physical documents within 30 days of 10 October 2026.
- Download the official notification from the Agrijob.in Telegram channel and apply without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027
What is the total number of vacancies in Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027?
The total vacancy count is 210 — 180 at Naval Dockyard, Karwar (Karnataka) and 30 at Naval Aircraft Yard (Goa), Dabolim, Goa. These are distributed across 23 trades at Karwar (161 one-year + 19 two-year seats) and 13 trades at Goa for the apprenticeship year 2027-28/29.
What is the monthly stipend for Naval Dockyard Apprentices?
The stipend varies by trade and training period. ITI Certificate Holders receive Rs.9,600 per month for the 01–12 month training period. Non-ITI trades like Rigger start at Rs.3,400/month in the first three months, rising to Rs.7,480 by the 13–24 month period. Crane Operator and Forger & Heat Treater trades receive Rs.4,100/month initially, rising to Rs.9,020/month.
What is the age limit for Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027?
There is no upper age limit for apprenticeship enrolment as per MSDE Office Memorandum dated 20 December 2021. The minimum age is 14 years for non-hazardous trades (born on or before 12 Apr 2013) and 18 years for hazardous trades (born on or before 12 Apr 2009), effective from the training commencement date of 12 April 2027.
How do I apply for Naval Dockyard Apprentice 2027?
Apply online only through the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) portal at www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. Register as a candidate, complete your profile with 10th and ITI details, search for “Naval Dockyard, Karwar” in the establishment search, apply for your eligible trade, select “Uttara Kannada” as the state, and then send self-attested copies of all required documents by speed/registered post to the Dockyard Apprentice School, Karwar — within 30 days from 10 October 2026.
What is the selection process for Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment?
The selection involves three stages. First, a Preliminary Merit List is drawn trade-wise and category-wise based on academic percentage (ITI + 10th for ITI trades). Shortlisted candidates in a 1:20 ratio per vacancy are called for a written examination in January 2027 at Karwar — OMR-based, 100 marks, 2 hours, covering Mathematics, General Science and General Knowledge. Candidates securing minimum 40% in written exam are placed in a Final Merit List, and top-rankers are called for document verification and joining.
Is there a hostel facility at Naval Dockyard Karwar for apprentices?
Yes, limited hostel accommodation is available at Naval Dockyard Karwar for boys only, provided to outstation candidates selected for the DAS (Dockyard Apprentice School) on a first-come-first-served basis. However, no hostel facility is available at Naval Aircraft Yard (Goa), Dabolim — candidates selected for Goa must arrange their own accommodation and bear all associated costs.
Can I apply for both Karwar and Goa establishments simultaneously?
No. Candidates must choose only ONE establishment — either Naval Dockyard, Karwar OR Naval Aircraft Yard (Goa), Dabolim, Goa. The Certificate of Undertaking (mandatory document to be submitted by post) requires candidates to clearly tick their choice and strike out the other option. Applications attempting to register for both establishments will be considered invalid.
Will completing this apprenticeship guarantee a job in the Indian Navy?
No employment is guaranteed upon completion of apprenticeship training. As per the Apprentices Act, 1961, it is not obligatory for Naval Dockyard, Karwar, Naval Aircraft Yard (Goa), or any other Government agency to provide employment on completion of apprenticeship training. However, ex-apprentices of Dockyard Apprentice School, Karwar are eligible to apply for Tradesman Skilled posts in Indian Navy establishments, which is a significant long-term career advantage.
What documents must I send by post after applying online?
After completing online registration, you must send self-attested copies of: (1) SSC/10th Std Marksheet (or 8th Std for Rigger trade), (2) ITI Marksheet (semester-wise and consolidated), (3) Category certificate for OBC/SC/ST, (4) Disability certificate for PwBD, (5) Aadhar Card, and (6) Certificate of Undertaking specifying your choice of establishment (Karwar or Goa). All documents must reach the Officer-in-Charge, DAS, Naval Dockyard, Karwar — 581 308 within 30 days from 10 October 2026 by speed/registered post.
Where can I download the official notification for Naval Dockyard Apprentice 2027?
The official notification for Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027 was published in Employment News, 10–16 October 2026 (pages 41–45). You can download the full notification PDF directly from the Agrijob.in Telegram Channel or visit the official Employment News website at www.employmentnews.gov.in.
This guide is reviewed and updated regularly for accuracy as official announcements are made. Bookmark this page for the latest information on Naval Dockyard Apprentice Recruitment 2027.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. All vacancy counts, stipend figures, dates, and eligibility criteria are sourced directly from the official Employment News notification (10–16 October 2026). Candidates are advised to verify all details from the official notification and the apprenticeshipindia.gov.in portal before applying. Agrijob.in does not charge any fee for this information service.
