The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has officially released its Apprenticeship Engagement Notification 2025-26 through the prestigious Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad. If you are an engineering graduate, diploma holder, or ITI pass-out looking to build a career in defence research and advanced technology, this is your golden opportunity.
This DRDO RCI Apprenticeship Recruitment 2025-26 is open under the Apprentices Act 1961, offering one-year training opportunities with stipend benefits as per government norms. The notification invites online applications for Graduate Apprentices, Technician Apprentices (Diploma), and Trade Apprentices (ITI pass-outs).
DRDO RCI is hiring apprentices for 2025-26. Apply online via NATS portal (for Graduate & Diploma) or NAPS portal (for ITI) within 30 days of notification publication.
DRDO RCI Apprenticeship 2025-26: Vacancy Overview
Below is the complete category-wise vacancy list as per the official notification.
1. Graduate Apprentice (B.E./B.Tech)
- Qualification: B.E./B.Tech in ECE, EEE, CSE, Mechanical, Chemical.
- Vacancies: 40
- Stipend: As per Government norms
2. Technician Apprentice (Diploma)
- Qualification: Diploma in ECE, EEE, CSE, Mechanical, Chemical.
- Vacancies: 20
- Stipend: As per Government norms
3. Trade Apprentice (ITI Pass Out)
- Qualification: ITI (NCVT / SCVT Affiliation)
- Vacancies: 135
- Eligible Trades: Fitter, Welder, Turner, Machinist, Diesel Mechanic, Draughtsman (Mechanical), Electronic Mechanic, Electrician, COPA, Library Assistant.
- Stipend: As per Government norms
Total Apprenticeship Vacancies: 195
DRDO RCI Apprenticeship Eligibility Criteria 2025
Before applying online, candidates must carefully review the eligibility conditions:
Educational Qualification
- Graduate Apprentices: B.E./B.Tech (2021–2025 pass-out batches).
- Diploma Apprentices: Diploma (2021–2025 pass-out batches).
- Trade Apprentices: ITI with NCVT/SCVT recognition.
Academic Requirement
- Minimum 70% marks in qualifying exams.
Age Limit
- Candidates must be 18 years or older as of 01 September 2025.
Mandatory Requirements
- Aadhaar-seeded bank account (for stipend DBT transfer).
- Candidates must not have:
- Higher qualification than required.
- More than 1 year of work experience.
- Previously undergone apprenticeship training.
DRDO RCI Apprenticeship 2025 Online Application Process
Applications must be submitted online only through apprenticeship portals.
For Graduate & Technician Apprentices (B.E./B.Tech/Diploma):
- Register at NATS 2.0 portal.
- Search for Research Centre Imarat (RCI) with Enrolment ID: STLRAC000010.
- Apply for the relevant apprenticeship post.
For ITI Trade Apprentices:
- Register at NAPS portal.
- Search for Research Centre Imarat (Establishment ID: E05203600040).
- Select your trade and click Apply.
Last Date to Apply: Within 30 days of notification publication.
DRDO RCI Apprenticeship Selection Process 2025
The selection process is merit-based with strict verification.
- Selection based on academic merit.
- Interview (if required).
- Reservation benefits for SC/ST/OBC/PWD as per Apprenticeship Act rules.
- Communication through email only (ensure your email ID is active).
Required Documents for Verification:
- Application printout & NATS/NAPS profile.
- 10th marksheet & certificate.
- Final semester mark sheets & provisional/degree certificate.
- Aadhaar card & Aadhaar-seeded bank account proof.
- Caste/PWD certificate (if applicable).
- Medical fitness certificate (from Civil Assistant Surgeon).
- Police verification certificate.
Important Instructions for Apprenticeship at RCI
- No guarantee of employment after apprenticeship completion.
- No hostel/quarters/transport provided.
- No TA/DA for attending document verification/interviews.
- Police verification is mandatory before joining.
- Canvassing or providing false details will lead to cancellation.
- Legal jurisdiction lies with High Court of Hyderabad, Telangana.
DRDO RCI Apprenticeship 2025 – Contact Information
Establishment: DRDO – Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad – 500 069.
Email: hrd.apply@gov.in
Phone: 040-24305112
The DRDO RCI Apprenticeship Engagement 2025-26 is not just a training program—it’s your chance to contribute to India’s defence research ecosystem. With 195 vacancies across Graduate, Diploma, and ITI categories, the opportunities are vast. Ensure you meet the eligibility, complete your registration on the correct portal, and apply before the deadline.
If you are serious about building a career in defence technology and missile research, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance.