Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has released a fresh notification for apprentice recruitment across multiple technical disciplines. These apprentice positions are open for candidates who have completed ITI, diploma, or graduate degrees in relevant engineering or technical fields. The recruitment is part of DRDO’s training programme under the Apprentices Act, where selected candidates will get one year of hands-on experience in DRDO labs and centres across India.
I’m sharing this update because DRDO is a highly respected organisation in the country and apprenticeships here are not just about earning a stipend—they provide real industry exposure in defence technology and research. This kind of opportunity is very rare for freshers, especially for those coming from ITI or diploma backgrounds. Many people still don’t know that DRDO hires apprentices in bulk through direct applications without any entrance exam. That’s why it’s important to understand who can apply, what the process is, and how you can make the most of it.
DRDO Apprentice Vacancy Details 2025
DRDO has announced vacancies for three categories of apprentices:
- Graduate Apprentices – For candidates with B.E./B.Tech or equivalent degree
- Diploma Apprentices – For candidates with a diploma in engineering or technology
- ITI Apprentices – For candidates who have passed ITI in trades like Fitter, Electrician, Welder, etc.
Each DRDO centre may release separate notifications. Common centres that hire apprentices include DRDL (Hyderabad), RCI (Hyderabad), ADE (Bangalore), GTRE (Bangalore), and CVRDE (Chennai), among others.
Here’s a sample of how the vacancies are usually split:
| Category | Educational Qualification | Duration | Approx. Stipend (per month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentice | B.E./B.Tech | 1 year | ₹9,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Diploma Apprentice | Diploma in Engineering/Tech | 1 year | ₹8,000 – ₹9,000 |
| ITI Apprentice | ITI in relevant trade | 1 year | ₹7,000 – ₹8,000 |
Note: Exact stipend may vary by lab and location.
Who Can Apply?
DRDO has fixed some basic eligibility conditions for apprentice posts:
- Applicants must have passed their qualifying exam (ITI/Diploma/Degree) in the last 3 years
- Candidates should not have undergone any previous apprenticeship
- Only Indian citizens are eligible
- Age must be as per apprenticeship norms (usually 18 years and above)
- Candidates must be registered on apprenticeship portals –
- For ITI: www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in
- For Diploma & Graduates: www.mhrdnats.gov.in
Selection Process
The recruitment will be based on academic merit only, and there is no written test or interview in most cases. The process is as follows:
- DRDO will prepare a shortlist based on marks secured in the qualifying exam
- Shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification
- After verification, the final selection will be done and training offer letters will be issued
The entire process is usually conducted online or via email. Candidates are advised to check the official DRDO website or the concerned lab’s portal regularly.
How to Apply
Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply for DRDO Apprentice 2025:
- Register on the Apprenticeship Portal as per your qualification
- Go to the DRDO’s official website: www.drdo.gov.in
- Navigate to the ‘Careers’ or ‘What’s New’ section
- Download the notification and read the details carefully
- Fill in the application form (if provided) or apply through NATS/NAPS portal link
- Upload required documents (marksheets, ID, photo, etc.)
- Submit the form before the last date
Keep a copy of the application and confirmation email for future reference.
Final Thoughts
For anyone who has just completed ITI, diploma or engineering and is looking for real-world experience, DRDO apprenticeships are a golden opportunity. The name itself adds huge value to your CV, and the one-year training gives you exposure to projects and systems that are usually inaccessible to freshers. These apprenticeships are not just about earning money but building a foundation for your technical career. If you’re eligible and serious about working in a top-level defence research environment, don’t miss this chance.
