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HAL vs GAIL- Which is Better After GATE? Check Detailed Comparison

HAL vs GAIL comparison is provided here for aspirants reference. Compare their eligibility, job roles, salaries, and career aspects to choose the better one between HAL and GAIL after passing GATE.
authorImagePratibha Bohra27 Jun, 2024
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HAL vs GAIL

HAL vs GAIL: Deciding between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) after passing the GATE exam can be a challenging decision. Both are prestigious Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in India, offering excellent career opportunities. To help applicants make an educated decision, the detailed HAL vs GAIL comparison, focusing on various aspects such as eligibility criteria, job roles, GATE cut-offs, salary structures, and career prospects, is given on this page, so keep reading.

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HAL vs GAIL- Overview

Founded in 1940 as Hindustan Aircraft Limited in Bangalore, HAL is a premier aerospace and defense company in India. Initially set up to produce and overhaul aircraft for the Indian Air Force, HAL merged with Aeronautics India Limited in 1964 to form the current entity. Over the years, HAL has grown into a key player in India's aerospace sector, designing, developing, producing, and maintaining aircraft, helicopters, engines, and related systems for both military and civil applications. The company is renowned for its significant contributions to India's self-reliance in defense, including the development of the Light Combat Aircraft (Tejas) and the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter. On the other hand, established in 1984 by the Government of India, GAIL is the leading natural gas processing and distribution company in the country. Operating under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, GAIL has developed an extensive infrastructure for the transmission, distribution, and marketing of natural gas and its derivatives. The company plays a pivotal role in the energy sector, managing the largest gas pipeline network in India and producing petrochemicals, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and other hydrocarbon products. GAIL's operations also extend to international projects and renewable energy initiatives, underscoring its commitment to sustainable growth and energy security for India.

Also check: SAIL vs GAIL

HAL vs GAIL- Which is Better After GATE?

After passing the GATE exam, choosing between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) can be a pivotal decision for engineering graduates aiming for a career in the public sector. Both HAL and GAIL offer compelling opportunities but differ in many aspects. HAL focuses on aerospace and defense manufacturing, while GAIL is centered on the natural gas and energy sectors. This article will compare the HAL vs GAIL eligibility criteria, GATE cut-offs for recruitment, salary and perks, and career growth prospects to help interested applicants decide which organization best suits their career aspirations.

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HAL vs GAIL- Eligibility Criteria

Applicants looking to apply for the HAL or GAIL recruitment through GATE in the upcoming months must ensure they meet the predetermined eligibility requirements. For the ease of applicants understanding, the HAL vs GAIL eligibility criteria details are provided in this section.
HAL vs GAIL- Eligibility Criteria
Particulars HAL Eligibility Criteria GAIL Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualifications
  • BE/B.Tech or equivalent in the relevant discipline from recognized institutes/universities.
  • A full-time B.Tech., BE., BSc. Engineering or ME/M.Tech or equivalent degree from an AICTE/UGC-recognized institution.
Minimum Marks NA
  • General and OBC (NCL) applicants must have secured a minimum of 65% aggregate marks.
  • SC/ST/PwD candidates must have secured a minimum of 60% aggregate marks.
Age Limit and Relaxation
  • Upper age limit: 35 years for most posts.
  • Age relaxation as per government norms.
  • General category: Maximum 26 years.
  • OBC-NCL: Relaxation of 3 years.
  • SC/ST: Relaxation of 5 years.
  • PWD: Relaxation of 10 years.
Nationality Only Indian Nationals.
GATE Applicants must have appeared for the GATE paper corresponding to their graduation discipline for the HAL/GAIL recruitments through GATE scores.

HAL vs GAIL- Job Roles

Both HAL and GAIL provide multiple job opportunities that are aligned with their respective sector specializations. HAL's positions focus on aerospace engineering and manufacturing, with chances in design, production, maintenance, quality control, and R&D. GAIL, on the other hand, focuses on the natural gas and energy sectors, with positions available in project execution, operations, instrumentation, and marketing. Check out the HAL vs GAIL job roles in the table presented below:

Job Roles Offered By HAL

  • Management Trainee (Technical): Undergoes training in various technical disciplines, including Aeronautical, Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical, Production, Computer Science, and Metallurgy. After training, they take on roles such as project management, production supervision, and technical support.
  • Engineer (Customer Services): Manages customer service activities, focusing on maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) of aircraft and components.
  • Production Engineer: Oversees the manufacturing process of aircraft and related components, ensuring efficiency and quality control.
  • Maintenance Engineer: Focuses on the upkeep and repair of aircraft, ensuring operational readiness and adherence to safety standards.
  • Quality Control Engineer: Ensures all products and processes meet stringent quality standards and regulatory requirements.

Job Roles Offered By GAIL

  • Executive Trainee: Undergoes training in various departments such as operations, project management, and marketing.
  • Project Manager: Oversees the execution of projects related to gas processing, distribution, and infrastructure development.
  • Operations Engineer: Ensures smooth and efficient operations of gas processing plants and other facilities, maintaining high safety and operational standards.
  • Instrumentation Engineer: Focuses on the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of instrumentation and control systems in gas processing and distribution.
  • Marketing and Sales Engineer: Involved in the commercial aspects of natural gas sales, developing marketing strategies, and managing customer relationships.

HAL vs GAIL- Salary and Allowances

HAL and GAIL offer competitive salary packages and a wide range of benefits to their employees recruited through GATE. Where HAL provides a structured stipend during training with a significant salary increase post-training, GAIL offers a high initial salary, making it a lucrative option for applicants. Check out the HAL vs GAIL salary for some roles often offered to GATE-qualified applicants outlined below:

HAL Salary Structure

Management Trainees and Design Trainees:
  • During the training period, trainees receive a stipend of INR 34,690 per month, which includes Basic Pay, Variable Dearness Allowance, and Canteen Allowance.
  • Post-training, the salary ranges from INR 40,000 to INR 1,40,000 per month based on the pay scale and allowances.
  • The highest reported salary for HAL employees can go up to INR 38 lakhs per annum, with top performers earning more than INR 22 lakhs per annum.

GAIL Salary Structure

Executive Trainees:
  • The basic pay during the training period is INR 60,000 per month.
  • The salary package for Executive Trainees in the E-2 grade can go up to INR 1,80,000 per month.
  • On successful completion of the probationary period, the remuneration remains the same with additional increments and allowances.

HAL vs GAIL: Allowances and Perks

Both HAL and GAIL offer similar allowances and perks to their employees recruited through GATE. These include:
  • House Rent Allowance (HRA): Employees are provided with HRA as per company norms or company-provided accommodation.
  • Medical Facilities: Comprehensive medical coverage is available for employees and their dependents.
  • Dearness Allowance (DA): Regular DA is provided to compensate for inflationary trends.
  • Performance-Linked Incentives: Employees receive incentives based on their performance.
  • Travel Allowance: Includes allowances for official travel.
  • Retirement Benefits: Employees are entitled to retirement benefits as per company policies.
  • Leave Travel Concession (LTC): Employees can avail of a leave travel concession for personal travel.
  • Other Benefits: Additional perks include a canteen allowance, leave encashment, and other welfare facilities.

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HAL vs GAIL- GATE Cut Off

When considering a career with HAL or GAIL, it's essential to understand the recruitment process and the required cut-offs. While GAIL recruits candidates through GATE scores, HAL conducts its own written examination for some posts, like Management Trainees. Check out the GATE cut off for GAIL in the table outlined below.
GAIL GATE Cut Off 2022
GATE Paper 2022 GATE Qualifying Marks
General OBC-NCL/ EWS SC/ST/PwD
Biotechnology 35.5 31.9 23.6
Chemical Engineering 25.3 22.7 16.8
Computer Science 25 22.5 16.6
Electronics and Communications Engineering 25 22.5 16.5
Statistics 25 22.5 16.6
Metallurgical engineering 46.2 41.5 30.8
Mathematics 27.3 24.5 18.2
Electrical Engineering 30.7 27.6 20.4
Physics 26.5 23.8 –
Engineering Sciences (Fluid Mechanics/ Thermodynamics) 40.3 36.2 26.8
Life Science (Botany/ Zoology) 33.9 30.5 22.5
Ecology and Life Sciences 33.4 30 22.2
Agriculture Engineering 26.3 23.6 17.5
Textile Engineering and Fibre Science 36.8 34.9 25.6
Mechanical Engineering (ME) 28.1 25.2 18.7
Chemistry 27.5 24.7 18.3
Mining Engineering 25.5 22.9 17

HAL vs GAIL- Career Growth Analysis

While seeking a long-term career with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) or Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL), it is important to fully understand all the possibilities for career growth. Both organizations offer promising career paths, but they differ in terms of growth opportunities, work environment, and professional development. Below is a detailed comparison of HAL vs GAIL career growth:
Comparison of Career Growth in HAL vs GAIL
Aspect HAL GAIL
Promotion Pathways Structured with clear criteria Performance-based with diverse opportunities
Skill Enhancement Continuous training, workshops, and advanced projects Extensive training, certifications, and leadership programs
Project Exposure Cutting-edge aerospace and defense projects Significant national energy and infrastructure projects
Work Environment Stable, secure, with a focus on teamwork and innovation Dynamic, performance-driven, with a focus on excellence
Professional Development Collaboration with leading aerospace organizations Opportunities across various departments and roles
Additional Perks Medical facilities, incentives based on performance, housing, leave travel benefits, and pension plans, etc Dearness allowance, HRA/company housing, contributory provident fund, vehicle maintenance, leave encashment, performance-based pay, gratuity, medical benefits, and a composite social security program.
PSUs like HAL and GAIL offer robust career growth opportunities, but they cater to different interests and professional aspirations. HAL is ideal for those passionate about aerospace engineering and working on advanced defense projects, providing a stable and structured career path. GAIL, on the other hand, offers diverse roles in the energy sector with performance-based growth, making it suitable for those interested in contributing to national energy security and infrastructure development. The applicant's choice between HAL and GAIL should align with their career interests, growth aspirations, and the type of work environment they thrive in. Both organizations provide a platform for a rewarding and fulfilling career, with ample opportunities for professional and personal development.

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HAL vs GAIL- Which is Better After GATE? FAQs

Q. What is the HAL vs GAIL salary?

Ans. HAL Trainees receive a stipend of INR 34,690 per month, with post-training salaries ranging from INR 40,000 to INR 1,40,000 per month. On the other hand, an Executive Trainee at GAIL has a basic pay of INR 60,000 per month, which can increase to INR 1,80,000 per month post-probation.

Q. Does HAL recruit through GATE?

Ans. Yes, HAL recruits through GATE. Applicants must have a valid GATE score to be considered for various technical and managerial positions at HAL. The selection process typically includes shortlisting based on GATE scores, followed by a personal interview.

Q. HAL vs GAIL- Which is better for GATE-qualified applicants?

Ans. While both HAL and GAIL offer excellent career opportunities for GATE-qualified applicants, the choice depends on one's career interests and goals. Compare HAL vs GAIL eligibility, career growth, etc., as provided in the article above.
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