The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), at its Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, has announced Apprentice Recruitment 2025. This programme under the Apprentices Act, 1961, offers practical training for one year across Graduate, Diploma, and ITI trade apprenticeships. These opportunities are aimed at fresh pass-outs in engineering, technical and trade disciplines to gain hands-on experience in defence research settings.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentice | 40 | B.E./B.Tech in relevant engineering disciplines |
| Technician (Diploma) Apprentice | 20 | Diploma in relevant engineering or technology fields |
| ITI Trade Apprentice | 135 | ITI certificate in trades like Fitter, Electrician, Welder, Turner, Machinist, COPA, etc. |
Job Role and Responsibilities
Apprentices will undergo training in their respective areas at DRDO RCI. Graduate apprentices may assist engineers on projects, help in design, analysis, documentation. Diploma and ITI apprentices work under supervision to carry out practical tasks, maintenance, workshops, technical operations, and support functions. All apprentices must abide by lab safety, maintain records, attend training sessions, and perform assigned tasks for skill building.
Eligibility Criteria
Education: Graduate apprentices need B.E./B.Tech in relevant branches. Diploma apprentices require Diploma in engineering/technology. ITI apprentices must have completed ITI in specified trades.
Age: Minimum 18 years as of 1 September 2025. Upper age limit is per apprenticeship rules, with relaxation for reserved categories as per Government of India norms.
Nationality: Must be Indian citizen.
Other: Applicants should have completed qualifying examination (Graduate, Diploma or ITI) during the years 2021-2025; possessing required certificate/trade qualification. Freshers are eligible.
Application Process
- Applicants must register via NATS or Apprenticeship India portals as required by DRDO.
- Read the detailed notification to confirm discipline, trade, educational qualification and other criteria.
- Fill out the online application during the application window.
- Upload required documents: educational certificates (Degree/Diploma/ITI), identity proof, photograph, signature.
- Submit application before the last date. Keep acknowledgement or reference number.
Salary & Benefits
Selected apprentices will receive stipend during the one-year training period as prescribed under the Apprentices Act. Stipend amount depends on trade category. Along with stipend, apprentices gain hands-on experience in DRDO labs, exposure to research environment, possible certificate of completion, and networking possibilities. Apprentices are not automatically entitled to permanent employment; continuation is subject to performance and policy.
Career Growth & Opportunities
This apprenticeship provides an excellent foundation for fresh graduates or tradespersons to build technical skills. After successful apprenticeship, candidates may look for roles in technical staff, junior engineering positions, or apply in DRDO/defence labs or other PSUs. Good performance can enhance future employability. Apprenticeship adds strong credentials in defence research sector.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 23 September 2025 |
| Online Application Start | 27 September 2025 |
| Online Application End | 28 October 2025 |
| Training Duration | One year from date of appointment |
Why Apply
A chance to train at DRDO, one of India’s top defence R&D organisations, is prestigious. The apprenticeship offers exposure to advanced science & engineering work, lab environment, strong credentials, and experience that helps in future technical career paths. For engineering, diploma or trade aspirants, this is a route to gain real-industry/defence sector experience.
FAQs
- What is the number of posts for each category?
Graduate: 40, Diploma: 20, ITI Trade: 135 - Can final-year students apply?
No, those must have completed their qualifications (Graduate/Diploma/ITI) before applying - What trades are included for ITI?
Trades such as Fitter, Electrician, Welder, Turner, Machinist, COPA etc. - What is the application mode?
Fully online via NATS/Apprenticeship India portals - Is there any bond or obligation for employment after apprenticeship?
No guarantee of permanent employment; continuation depends on performance and policy - Are reserved category relaxations applicable?
Yes, as per Government of India norms
Conclusion
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2025 at RCI Hyderabad is a well-timed opportunity for graduates, diploma holders, and ITI trade pass outs to obtain valuable hands-on training in defence research labs. With 195 positions available and a one year training program, eligible candidates should apply between 27 September and 28 October 2025, prepare documents, and aim to gain technical experience in this prestigious organisation.