Welcome to Job Utsav. In this blog post, we are covering an important government apprenticeship opportunity announced by Defense Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL). This recruitment is especially beneficial for ITI freshers who are looking to start their career through a government apprenticeship under the Ministry of Defence.
This article explains the official notification, eligibility criteria, available ITI trades, application process (online + offline), selection process, and other important instructions in a clear and SEO-optimized manner.
DRDL Recruitment 2026–27 Overview
Defense Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) is a premier laboratory working under Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which functions under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
DRDL has invited applications for ITI Apprentice Training for the training year 2026–2027 at its Hyderabad facility.
This is:
- A central government apprenticeship
- Open for ITI pass candidates
- Suitable for freshers
- No written examination involved
Important Dates (Official)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Published | 15 January 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 15 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 29 January 2026 |
| Training Duration | 01 April 2026 – 31 March 2027 |
| Official Website | drdo.gov.in |
Type of Engagement
- Apprenticeship Training
- Duration: 1 Year
- Governed under Apprentices Act, 1961
- Training Location: Hyderabad
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Candidate must have passed ITI
- ITI certificate must be from NCVT recognized institute
- Freshers are eligible
- No prior work experience required
Age Limit
- As per Apprenticeship Act, 1961
- Age relaxation applicable for:
- SC
- ST
- OBC
- PwBD candidates
Who is NOT Eligible
- Candidates who were terminated earlier from DRDL apprenticeship
- Candidates who already completed apprenticeship training in any organization
- Candidates currently undergoing apprenticeship elsewhere
ITI Trades Available
The following ITI trades are eligible for DRDL Apprentice Recruitment:
- Fitter
- Turner
- Mechanic Grinder
- Carpenter
- Welder
- Electrician
- Diesel Mechanic
- Electronics Mechanic
- Attendant Operator (Chemical Plant)
- Painter
- Computer Operator & Programming Assistant (COPA)
- Foundryman
Candidates must apply only for the trade they are qualified in.
Application Process (Online + Offline)
Step 1: Online Application
- Candidates must first register and apply online on the official apprenticeship portal.
- Fill in:
- Personal details
- Educational details
- Trade information
- Ensure that Aadhaar details, name, and date of birth match exactly with certificates.
Step 2: Offline Application (Mandatory)
After online registration, candidates must:
- Download the Application Form (Appendix-A) from the notification PDF.
- Fill in all details carefully.
- Attach:
- Recent passport size photograph
- Self-attested copies of certificates
- Sign the application form.
Step 3: Send by Post
- Send the filled application form along with documents to the address mentioned in the official notification.
- Mode:
- Speed Post or
- Courier
Incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected.
Selection Process
- No Written Exam
- Selection will be based on:
- Shortlisting
- Interview / Document Verification
- Shortlisted candidates will be informed via registered email ID
- No separate communication will be sent by post
Document Verification
Shortlisted candidates must bring original documents at the time of verification, including:
- ITI certificate
- Aadhaar card
- Date of birth proof
- Category certificate (if applicable)
Candidates currently employed must submit a relieving letter before joining.
Stipend Details
- Stipend will be paid as per Government of India apprenticeship norms
- No TA/DA will be paid for:
- Interview
- Verification
- Joining
Training Period
- Training duration: 1 Year
- From: 01 April 2026
- To: 31 March 2027
Important Instructions
- Fill application carefully; any mismatch may lead to rejection
- Use correct email ID and mobile number
- Check email regularly for updates
- Keep copies of all submitted documents
FAQs – DRDL ITI Apprentice Recruitment
1. Is this a permanent job?
No. This is a one-year apprenticeship training, not a permanent job.
2. Can freshers apply?
Yes. This vacancy is 100% suitable for ITI freshers.
3. Is there any exam?
No written exam. Selection is based on shortlisting and interview.
4. Can state ITI candidates apply?
Only NCVT ITI candidates are eligible.
5. Is offline application mandatory?
Yes. Both online and offline application processes are compulsory.
6. Where is the training location?
Training will be conducted at Hyderabad.