Last Updated: 9 October 2026
The DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 process has brought new apprenticeship opportunities for eligible engineering graduates, diploma holders and candidates with certain other specified qualifications. The latest announcement is from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha, which has invited applications for Graduate Apprentice and Technician (Diploma) Apprentice training.
Under Advertisement No. ITR/HRD/AT/11/2026, ITR has announced 54 apprenticeship positions. The training period is 12 months, and the monthly stipend is ₹12,300 for Graduate Apprentices and ₹10,900 for Technician (Diploma) Apprentices.
Another current opportunity is available at Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE), Chandipur, Balasore, under Advertisement No. PXE/HRD/AT/01/2026-27. This notification offers 50 Graduate and Technician (Diploma) Apprentice positions, with the application deadline approaching on 12 October 2026.
Candidates should read the applicable official advertisement carefully because the two establishments have different vacancies, application deadlines and discipline requirements. These are apprenticeship-training opportunities, not direct appointments to permanent DRDO posts.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Latest News and Official Updates
The latest DRDO apprenticeship notices relevant to candidates include the following:
1. Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur
- Advertisement Number: ITR/HRD/AT/11/2026
- Notification published: 9 October 2026
- Total vacancies: 54
- Apprenticeship categories: Graduate and Technician (Diploma)
- Monthly stipend: ₹12,300 for Graduate Apprentices and ₹10,900 for Diploma Apprentices
- Training duration: 12 months
- Application mode: Offline
- Last date for receipt of application: 2 November 2026
2. Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE), Balasore
- Advertisement Number: PXE/HRD/AT/01/2026-27
- Notification published: 23 September 2026
- Total vacancies: 50
- Apprenticeship categories: Graduate and Technician (Diploma)
- Monthly stipend: ₹12,300 for Graduate Apprentices and ₹10,900 for Diploma Apprentices
- Training duration: One year
- Application mode: Offline through Speed Post or Registered Post
- Last date for receipt of application: 12 October 2026
The ITR notification is the newest of these two announcements. Candidates interested in PXE should pay particular attention to its earlier deadline.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Overview and Important Details
The key details of the two current apprenticeship opportunities are summarised below.
ITR Chandipur Recruitment
- Organisation: Defence Research and Development Organisation
- Establishment: Integrated Test Range, Chandipur
- Advertisement number: ITR/HRD/AT/11/2026
- Total posts: 54
- Training categories: Graduate Apprentice and Technician (Diploma) Apprentice
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Graduate stipend: ₹12,300 per month
- Diploma stipend: ₹10,900 per month
- Training period: 12 months
- Application method: Offline postal application
- Deadline: 2 November 2026
- Location: Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha
PXE Balasore Recruitment
- Organisation: Defence Research and Development Organisation
- Establishment: Proof & Experimental Establishment, Chandipur
- Advertisement number: PXE/HRD/AT/01/2026-27
- Total posts: 50
- Training categories: Graduate Apprentice and Technician (Diploma) Apprentice
- Graduate stipend: ₹12,300 per month
- Diploma stipend: ₹10,900 per month
- Training period: One year
- Application method: Offline postal application
- Deadline: 12 October 2026
- Location: Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha
Applicants must follow the specific notification for the establishment they choose. Vacancy counts and application deadlines should not be interchanged.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details for ITR Chandipur
The ITR Chandipur notification lists 54 apprenticeship positions, divided into 32 Graduate Apprentice posts and 22 Technician (Diploma) Apprentice posts.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Graduate Apprentice Vacancy Details
The 32 Graduate Apprentice positions are distributed across the following disciplines:
- Computer Science and related engineering disciplines: 8 posts
- Electronics and related engineering disciplines: 8 posts
- Electrical Engineering: 2 posts
- Mechanical Engineering: 1 post
- Aerospace Engineering: 1 post
- Library Science: 2 posts
- Safety Engineering: 2 posts
- Administration / Human Resources: 4 posts
- Financial Accounting / Cost Accounting: 4 posts
Total Graduate Apprentice vacancies: 32.
The notification specifies the acceptable qualifications and related disciplines. Candidates should verify their exact degree title against the official advertisement before applying.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Technician Diploma Vacancy Details
The 22 Technician (Diploma) Apprentice positions are distributed as follows:
- Computer Science and related disciplines: 8 posts
- Electronics and related disciplines: 8 posts
- Electrical Engineering: 2 posts
- Cinematography: 2 posts
- Medical Laboratory Technology: 2 posts
Total Technician (Diploma) Apprentice vacancies: 22.
The total of 32 Graduate Apprentice posts and 22 Technician Apprentice posts is 54. The notification states that the number of vacancies is indicative and may change.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details for PXE Balasore
PXE Balasore has advertised 50 apprenticeship positions under its 2026–27 recruitment notification.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Graduate Apprentice Posts at PXE
The notification lists 15 Graduate Apprentice positions:
- Electronics and Communication Engineering: 4 posts
- Mechanical Engineering: 4 posts
- Computer Science Engineering: 5 posts
- Chemical Engineering: 2 posts
Total Graduate Apprentice vacancies: 15.
The required qualification is a B.Tech degree in the relevant discipline.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Technician Diploma Posts at PXE
The notification lists 35 Technician (Diploma) Apprentice positions:
- Civil Engineering: 10 posts
- Computer Science Engineering: 5 posts
- Electronics and Communication Engineering: 5 posts
- Mechanical Engineering: 8 posts
- Chemical Engineering: 1 post
- Electrical Engineering: 2 posts
- Cinematography Engineering: 2 posts
- Automobile Engineering: 2 posts
Total Technician (Diploma) Apprentice vacancies: 35.
The required qualification is a diploma in the relevant discipline.
The 15 Graduate Apprentice positions and 35 Technician Apprentice positions make a total of 50 posts.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Important Dates
Candidates should note the deadlines for the two current notifications.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 ITR Chandipur Dates
- Notification publication date: 9 October 2026
- Application start date: 9 October 2026
- Last date for receipt of application: 2 November 2026
The application and supporting documents must reach ITR Chandipur by the specified deadline. Merely posting the envelope on the last date may not be sufficient.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 PXE Balasore Dates
- Notification publication date: 23 September 2026
- Application deadline: 12 October 2026
PXE requires applications to be sent by Speed Post or Registered Post. Candidates should dispatch their forms early enough to ensure delivery before the deadline.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Educational Qualification
The educational qualification depends on the apprenticeship category and discipline.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Qualification for ITR Chandipur
The ITR notification specifies the following qualifications for eligible candidates:
- B.E./B.Tech in the listed engineering disciplines.
- Diploma in the specified engineering disciplines.
- BBA for the Administration / Human Resources category.
- B.Com for the Financial Accounting / Cost Accounting category.
- B.Lib.Sc for the Library Science category.
Only the qualifications and disciplines accepted in the official notification should be considered eligible.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Qualification for PXE Balasore
For PXE, the notification specifies:
- B.Tech in Electronics and Communication Engineering.
- B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering.
- B.Tech in Computer Science Engineering.
- B.Tech in Chemical Engineering.
- Diploma in Civil Engineering.
- Diploma in Computer Science Engineering.
- Diploma in Electronics and Communication Engineering.
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.
- Diploma in Chemical Engineering.
- Diploma in Electrical Engineering.
- Diploma in Cinematography Engineering.
- Diploma in Automobile Engineering.
Applicants should verify the precise discipline names in the PXE advertisement before submitting an application.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Eligible Passing Years
For the current ITR and PXE notifications, candidates should carefully check the passing-year restrictions.
The ITR notification states that applicants who passed the qualifying examination in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 or 2026 may apply, subject to all other conditions.
Candidates who passed the qualifying examination before 2022 are not eligible under the ITR advertisement.
The ITR notification also requires candidates to have completed the qualifying examination through regular mode. Applicants who have already completed one year or more of training or employment after obtaining the essential qualification are not eligible under the stated conditions.
Candidates must verify the exact conditions in the relevant PXE notification as well. Meeting the qualification and passing-year requirements alone does not guarantee shortlisting.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Age Limit
The ITR notification specifies a minimum age of 18 years.
The maximum age limit and applicable relaxation provisions are governed by the Apprentices Act, 1961, the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992, and the applicable NATS 2.0 or NAPS guidelines.
Candidates should consult the specific advertisement and relevant apprenticeship rules for the applicable age conditions. Applicants should not assume that the age limits used for permanent DRDO recruitment automatically apply to apprenticeship training.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Stipend Details
Selected apprentices will receive a monthly stipend during the training period.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Graduate Apprentice Stipend
- Monthly stipend: ₹12,300
- Training duration: 12 months
- Applicable category: Graduate Apprentice
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Technician Diploma Apprentice Stipend
- Monthly stipend: ₹10,900
- Training duration: 12 months
- Applicable category: Technician (Diploma) Apprentice
The stipend is financial support for apprenticeship training. It is not the salary of a permanent DRDO employee, and the apprenticeship does not guarantee regular employment after training.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Selection Process
The selection procedure depends on the establishment and the applicable notification.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Selection Process at ITR Chandipur
The ITR notification states that shortlisted candidates may be selected through:
- Written examination.
- Personal interview.
- Written examination and personal interview.
ITR reserves the right to decide its shortlisting method. Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee that a candidate will be shortlisted.
Selected candidates must undergo document verification and submit a Medical Fitness Certificate at the time of joining.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Selection Process at PXE Balasore
PXE will scrutinise applications and shortlist candidates based on the percentage of marks obtained in the essential qualification.
Shortlisted candidates may be called for a written test, interview or both, as specified in the notification.
Candidates should monitor the official DRDO website and the email address provided in their application for further instructions.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Application Mode
The current ITR and PXE notifications require candidates to submit applications in the prescribed format.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 ITR Offline Application Method
Candidates applying to ITR Chandipur should:
- Visit the official DRDO website.
- Locate Advertisement No. ITR/HRD/AT/11/2026.
- Download the prescribed application form.
- Complete the application in typed form.
- Register on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal, as required.
- Enter the correct NATS enrolment number.
- Attach the required self-attested documents.
- Sign the application and complete the declaration.
- Place the application and supporting documents in a sealed envelope.
- Send the application by Speed Post or Registered Post only.
- Ensure that the application reaches ITR Chandipur by 2 November 2026.
The ITR notification states that handwritten applications, except for the signature, will not be accepted.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 ITR Application Postal Address
Candidates should send the application to:
The Director
Integrated Test Range (ITR)
Chandipur, Balasore
Odisha – 756025
The envelope should mention the apprenticeship category and the relevant subject or discipline, as instructed in the notification.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 PXE Offline Application Method
Candidates applying to PXE Balasore should:
- Visit the official DRDO website.
- Locate Advertisement No. PXE/HRD/AT/01/2026-27.
- Download the prescribed application form.
- Complete the form by typing the required information.
- Attach the documents specified in the advertisement.
- Sign the application and complete the required declarations.
- Write the apprenticeship category and discipline on the envelope.
- Send the application by Speed Post or Registered Post only.
- Ensure that the application reaches PXE by 12 October 2026.
Handwritten application forms are not accepted under the PXE notification.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 PXE Application Postal Address
Candidates should send the application to:
The Director
Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE)
Defence Research and Development Organisation
P.O. Chandipur
District Balasore
Odisha – 756025
Attention: OIC, HRDC
Candidates should verify the prescribed envelope wording in the official advertisement before dispatch.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the documents specified in the relevant application form and notification.
These may include:
- Completed prescribed application form.
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Class 10 certificate and marksheet.
- Class 12 certificate and marksheet, where applicable.
- B.E./B.Tech degree certificate and marksheets, where applicable.
- Diploma certificate and marksheets, where applicable.
- BBA, B.Com or B.Lib.Sc certificates and marksheets, where applicable.
- Caste or category certificate, where applicable.
- Government-issued identity proof.
- NATS enrolment details.
- Other documents specifically requested in the advertisement.
Applicants should self-attest the photocopies wherever required and retain a copy of the completed application.
Candidates whose marksheets show CGPA should convert it to a percentage according to their university’s prescribed rules where required by the notification.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 NATS Registration Requirements
The ITR notification requires candidates with the specified graduate and diploma qualifications to register on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal.
Candidates should complete the required registration before submitting the application and enter the correct enrolment number.
Non-registered candidates or candidates with an invalid enrolment number may be rejected.
NATS registration does not replace the separate postal application required by ITR. Applicants must complete both steps as specified in the advertisement.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Application Fee
Candidates should check the fee section of the applicable official notification before applying.
The ITR and PXE application instructions discussed in this article do not list a separate application fee. Candidates should nevertheless read the complete advertisement for any applicable requirements and should not pay money to unofficial agents claiming to guarantee selection.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Training Duration and Employment Conditions
The ITR and PXE apprenticeship opportunities are for a training period of approximately one year, as stated in their respective notifications.
The purpose is to provide practical training related to the candidate’s qualification and assigned discipline.
Candidates should understand the following conditions:
- The engagement is for apprenticeship training.
- Selected candidates must complete the prescribed apprenticeship contract.
- Document verification is required.
- Medical fitness requirements apply where specified.
- Accommodation and transport are not provided under the cited ITR and PXE notifications.
- Travel allowance or daily allowance is not provided for selection-related attendance under the cited conditions.
- Completion of training does not guarantee a permanent DRDO job.
Candidates seeking regular government employment should distinguish apprenticeship notices from advertisements for permanent posts.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Official Notification and Website
Candidates should use the official DRDO website to access the full advertisements and check for changes.
The key documents are:
- ITR Chandipur: Advertisement No. ITR/HRD/AT/11/2026.
- PXE Balasore: Advertisement No. PXE/HRD/AT/01/2026-27.
Applicants should download the complete notification and read every page, including the eligibility conditions, vacancy tables, application instructions and declarations.
The official advertisement takes precedence over summaries on recruitment websites and social media.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Important Instructions for Candidates
Candidates should keep the following points in mind:
- Check the correct advertisement number before applying.
- Match your exact qualification with the listed discipline.
- Confirm that your passing year meets the eligibility conditions.
- Complete NATS registration where required.
- Use the prescribed application form.
- Submit a typed application where specified.
- Attach all required self-attested documents.
- Send the application using the permitted postal method.
- Ensure the application arrives before the deadline.
- Keep a copy of the application and postal receipt.
- Check email and the official website for selection updates.
- Do not pay agents who promise selection or appointment.
Incomplete applications, incorrect information or failure to meet eligibility conditions may lead to rejection.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification?
The latest announcement covered in this article is ITR Chandipur’s Advertisement No. ITR/HRD/AT/11/2026, published on 9 October 2026, for 54 Graduate and Technician (Diploma) Apprentice positions.
How many vacancies are available under DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 at ITR Chandipur?
ITR Chandipur has advertised 54 positions, including 32 Graduate Apprentice posts and 22 Technician (Diploma) Apprentice posts.
What is the last date for DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 at ITR Chandipur?
The last date for receipt of the ITR application and supporting documents is 2 November 2026. The application must reach the establishment by the deadline.
What is the last date for DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 at PXE Balasore?
The PXE Balasore application must reach the establishment by 12 October 2026. Candidates should dispatch their forms early enough to ensure delivery.
What is the stipend under DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
The monthly stipend is ₹12,300 for Graduate Apprentices and ₹10,900 for Technician (Diploma) Apprentices under the ITR and PXE notifications discussed here.
What qualifications are required for DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
The required qualifications depend on the post. They include specified B.E./B.Tech degrees, diplomas and, for certain ITR positions, BBA, B.Com and B.Lib.Sc qualifications.
Is DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 a permanent government job?
No. These advertisements offer apprenticeship training for a fixed period. Completion of training does not guarantee a permanent job with DRDO.
Can candidates apply online for DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 at ITR Chandipur?
The ITR notification requires the prescribed application form and supporting documents to be submitted by Speed Post or Registered Post. NATS registration is also required, but it does not replace the postal application.
Where can candidates download the DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification?
Candidates should visit the official DRDO website and locate the relevant ITR or PXE advertisement by its notification number.
DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Final Conclusion
The DRDO Apprentice Recruitment 2026 announcements offer apprenticeship-training opportunities for eligible graduates and diploma holders. The newest ITR Chandipur notification covers 54 posts and accepts applications until 2 November 2026. The separate PXE Balasore notification covers 50 posts, with applications required to arrive by 12 October 2026.
Candidates should read the complete official advertisement, confirm their eligibility, prepare the required documents and follow the correct postal application procedure. They should also remember that these are fixed-duration training opportunities rather than guarantees of permanent government employment.
For accurate information about vacancies, eligibility, selection and deadlines, candidates should rely on the official DRDO notifications and check for any subsequent amendments.
