DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 – 195 Posts, Apply Online Before 1 Nov

DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is one of the most sought-after defence apprenticeship opportunities in India. Research Centre Imarat (RCI) — a premier laboratory of the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, DRDO, Ministry of Defence — has released Advertisement No. RCI/HRD/Apprenticeship/Advt/2027 on 1 October 2026, inviting online applications from eligible Indian Nationals. This guide is for engineering graduates, diploma holders, and ITI pass-outs from 2022 to 2026 who want to gain hands-on experience at one of India’s most prestigious defence research labs. Here you will find complete details on vacancy breakdowns, stipend amounts, eligibility criteria, the step-by-step application process, important dates, and frequently asked questions.

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What Is DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026?

DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is a one-year government apprenticeship training programme at Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, conducted under the Apprentices Act 1961 (as amended in 1961, 1973, 1992, 2019 & 2025). RCI is one of DRDO’s most advanced missile technology laboratories, part of the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, and is responsible for research on guided missile systems and related defence technologies. Trainees get structured, practical training in a real defence research environment alongside certified scientists and engineers.

The 2026 recruitment cycle (Advertisement No. RCI/HRD/Apprenticeship/Advt/2027) covers 195 tentative posts across three categories — Graduate Apprentice (50 posts), Technician Apprentice/Diploma (30 posts), and Trade Apprentice/ITI (115 posts). Applications are accepted entirely online through the NATS 2.0 portal (for Graduate and Diploma candidates) and the Apprenticeship India portal (for ITI trade candidates). There is no application fee. Completing this apprenticeship does not guarantee employment at RCI, but it adds a prestigious defence research credential to your resume.

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Who Should Apply for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026?

This apprenticeship is ideal for recent engineering graduates, diploma holders, and ITI pass-outs who want hands-on training in India’s premier defence research ecosystem. Below are the ideal candidate profiles:

• 🎓 B.E./B.Tech graduates (2022–2026) in ECE, EEE, CSE, Mechanical, Chemical, Metallurgical, Safety, Aeronautical, Aerospace, or Civil Engineering with 70%+ marks seeking defence sector exposure
• 📐 Diploma holders (2022–2026) in ECE, EEE, CSE, Mechanical, Chemical, Metallurgical, Instrumentation, or Safety Engineering who want to build a verified engineering credential
• 🔧 ITI pass-outs (2022–2026) in Fitter, Welder, Turner, Machinist, Mechanic-Diesel, Electronic-Mechanic, Electrician, COPA, Draughtsman Engg (Mech), or Grinder trades
• 🏛️ Freshers looking for a government-backed training certificate that enhances job applications in PSUs, defence, and core engineering companies
• 📍 Candidates willing to relocate to or based in Hyderabad, Telangana — no hostel accommodation is provided by RCI
• 🔒 Candidates with no prior apprenticeship training and no more than one year of work experience in any organisation
• 🆔 Indian Nationals with an Aadhaar card and Aadhaar-linked bank account — mandatory for receiving 50% stipend through BOAT/DBT
• 📊 Regular (not distance/correspondence) programme pass-outs with CGPA 7.5 or 70% marks in qualifying exam

Vacancy Details and Stipend Breakdown

DRDO RCI has announced 195 tentative vacancies for the 2027 training year. Stipends are governed by the Apprenticeship (Amendment) Rules, 2025, notified through Gazette Notification G.S.R. 610(E) dated 3 September 2025, effective from 11 September 2025. The minimum revised stipend rates are Rs.9,600/month (ITI), Rs.10,900/month (Diploma), and Rs.12,300/month (Graduate). RCI’s notification specifies stipend “as per Government norms” — refer to the Gazette dated 03/Sep/2025 for the exact figure applicable at time of joining.

* Vacancies may vary. | Stipend figures based on Gazette Notification G.S.R. 610(E) dated 03/Sep/2025 published by Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. Graduate and Technician Apprentices must have an Aadhaar-seeded bank account to receive 50% of stipend via DBT from BOAT (Board of Apprenticeship and Training).

Eligibility Criteria for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026

Before applying, candidates must verify all eligibility conditions as listed in the detailed advertisement on drdo.gov.in. The key eligibility parameters are:

• Nationality: Indian National only
• Age: Minimum 18 years as on 01 September 2026. No upper age limit specified in the notification
• Academic Marks: Minimum 70% marks or CGPA 7.5 and above in the qualifying examination (B.E./B.Tech, Diploma, or ITI)
• Pass-out Years: Candidates who completed qualifying exam in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026 only are eligible
• Course Type: Regular (full-time) programme only — distance or part-time education not accepted
• Prior Apprenticeship: Candidates who have already undergone or are currently undergoing apprenticeship training anywhere are NOT eligible
• Work Experience: Candidates with more than one year of work experience are NOT eligible
• Higher Qualification: Candidates with qualification higher than what is specified for a category are NOT eligible
• Institution Recognition: All qualifications must be from Indian institutions recognised by the appropriate Statutory Authority
• Bank Account: Aadhaar-seeded/linked bank account mandatory for Graduate and Diploma candidates

How to Apply for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026 — Step-by-Step

The application process is entirely online. Graduate/Diploma candidates apply via NATS 2.0 and ITI trade candidates apply via the Apprenticeship India portal. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Check Eligibility First: Confirm you meet all criteria — marks (70%/CGPA 7.5+), pass-out year (2022–2026), age (18+ as on 01/09/2026), and no prior apprenticeship. Read the full notification at drdo.gov.in before proceeding.
2. Graduate / Diploma Candidates — Register on NATS 2.0: Visit https://nats.education.gov.in, create an account or login, and register your profile with your academic details.
3. Graduate / Diploma — Search and Apply at RCI: After registering, login to NATS 2.0 and search for Research Centre Imarat using Enrolment ID: STLRAC000010. Select the relevant post and submit your application.
4. ITI Trade Candidates — Register on Apprenticeship India: Visit https://apprenticeshipindia.gov.in, create your account, and complete your ITI trade profile.
5. ITI Candidates — Search for RCI and Apply: Click on “Apprenticeship Opportunities”, type RESEARCH CENTRE IMARAT in the search field (Establishment ID: E05203600040), choose your respective trade, and click Apply.
6. Ensure Aadhaar-Linked Bank Account: Graduate and Diploma candidates must have an Aadhaar-seeded bank account to receive 50% of stipend via DBT from BOAT. Link your Aadhaar to your bank account before joining.
7. Submit Before the Deadline: The last date for receipt of online applications is 30 days from the date of newspaper publication of the advertisement — confirmed as 1 November 2026. No applications will be accepted after this date.
8. Keep Email Active: Shortlisted candidates will be notified via the email provided in the application. Check regularly and keep the email ID active throughout the selection process.

Selection Process and Document Verification

Selection for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026 is based on academic merit and/or interview as required by the management. Reservation for SC/ST/OBC/PWD/EWS categories is applicable as per the Apprentices Act 1961 and amended Apprenticeship Rules 2025. The process follows these stages:

• Shortlisting: Based on academic merit in the qualifying examination. No written test is conducted.
• Email Notification: Shortlisted candidates are informed via their registered email ID. Check spam folders regularly.
• Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates must appear in person with original and self-attested copies of all required documents.
• Police Verification Certificate: Required from place of last residence (at least past one year) or permanent address at the time of joining.
• Medical Fitness Certificate: From a Government Civil Assistant Surgeon, mandatory at document verification/joining stage.
• Contract Execution: Selected candidates must execute a contract of apprenticeship via the respective portal (NATS 2.0 or Apprenticeship India) before commencement of training.

Documents to carry at Document Verification / Joining: Duly filled application form, NATS/NAPS profile printout, 10th class marksheet and certificate, consolidated final marksheet of qualifying exam, original/provisional certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), PWD certificate (if applicable), valid EWS certificate (if applicable), any Government photo ID (PAN/Voter ID/Driving License), Aadhaar card (mandatory), copy of Aadhaar-seeded bank passbook/statement, medical fitness certificate from Govt Civil Assistant Surgeon, and two recent passport-size photographs.

DRDO Apprentice vs Other Govt Apprentice Programmes

How does DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026 compare to other popular government apprenticeship programmes? The table below compares key parameters to help you make an informed decision:

Pros and Cons of DRDO RCI Apprenticeship 2026

Weighing the advantages and limitations helps you decide whether DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026 aligns with your career goals.

✅ Advantages

• Premier defence brand: RCI is a nationally recognised DRDO lab under the Ministry of Defence — a certificate from here carries exceptional weight in core engineering and PSU job applications
• Updated stipend rates: Revised stipends effective September 2025 — Rs.12,300/month for graduates, Rs.10,900 for diploma, Rs.9,600 for ITI — among the highest in the central government apprenticeship framework
• Zero application fee: No fee for any category — no financial barrier to apply
• Structured one-year training: Hands-on experience with real defence R&D systems under qualified scientists and engineers
• Government-certified training contract: NATS/NAPS contract is a recognised, verifiable credential for future job applications

⚠️ Limitations

• No employment guarantee: Completing the apprenticeship does not create any obligation on DRDO/RCI to offer a permanent job
• No hostel or transport: RCI does not provide accommodation, quarters, or transport during the training period — candidates must arrange these independently in Hyderabad
• High marks bar: Minimum 70% marks or CGPA 7.5 is stricter than most government apprenticeship programmes
• Location-specific: Training is only at Hyderabad — not suitable for candidates unwilling to relocate

Important Terms Related to DRDO RCI Apprentice

Understanding these terms helps you navigate the application and training process confidently:

• DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation): India’s premier defence R&D agency under the Ministry of Defence, operating 50+ laboratories across the country. Website: drdo.gov.in
• RCI (Research Centre Imarat): DRDO’s flagship missile research laboratory in Hyderabad, responsible for guided missile systems, avionics, and related defence electronics technologies
• Apprentices Act 1961: The central law governing apprenticeship training in India, as amended in 1973, 1992, 2019, and most recently 2025 — defines rights, duties, and stipend obligations
• NATS 2.0 (National Apprenticeship Training Scheme): Government portal at nats.education.gov.in for registration of Graduate and Diploma apprentices — mandatory for RCI application
• BOAT (Board of Apprenticeship and Training): Government body that regulates and monitors apprenticeship training; disburses 50% of Graduate and Technician apprentice stipend via DBT
• DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer): Government mechanism for transferring the BOAT-funded 50% stipend portion directly into the candidate’s Aadhaar-linked bank account
• NCVT/SCVT: National Council for Vocational Training / State Council for Vocational Training — the bodies that certify ITI qualifications; only NCVT/SCVT-affiliated ITI pass-outs are eligible
• Gazette Notification G.S.R. 610(E) dated 03/Sep/2025: The official government notification that revised minimum apprentice stipends upward — ITI to Rs.9,600, Diploma to Rs.10,900, Graduate to Rs.12,300 per month, effective from 11 September 2025
• CGPA 7.5: Equivalent to 70% marks on a 10-point scale — the minimum academic performance required to apply for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026
• Police Verification Certificate: Mandatory document from local police confirming the candidate’s background — required from place of last residence (at least 1 year) or permanent address at time of joining

Important Dates and Timeline

Important Links

Conclusion

DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is a rare, prestigious opportunity to train at one of India’s most advanced defence missile research laboratories. With 195 vacancies across Graduate, Diploma, and ITI categories, updated stipends of Rs.9,600–Rs.12,300/month as per the revised Gazette of September 2025, and a completely free online application process, this is a must-apply for eligible candidates. Apply before the last date of 1 November 2026 through the NATS 2.0 portal (Graduate/Diploma) or Apprenticeship India portal (ITI) — delays cannot be accommodated. Bookmark this page for the latest updates; we update it as soon as RCI releases any corrigendum or date extension on drdo.gov.in.

Frequently Asked Questions About DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026

What is the total number of vacancies in DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026?

DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 has announced a total of 195 tentative vacancies — 50 for Graduate Apprentice, 30 for Technician Apprentice (Diploma), and 115 for Trade Apprentice (ITI). The official notification (Advertisement No. RCI/HRD/Apprenticeship/Advt/2027) notes that the number of vacancies may vary. Candidates should check the official DRDO website drdo.gov.in for any updates or corrigendum.

What is the stipend for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026?

The stipend for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026 is as per Government of India norms, referring to the Gazette Notification G.S.R. 610(E) dated 03 September 2025. Based on the Apprenticeship (Amendment) Rules 2025, minimum revised stipend rates are Rs.12,300 per month for Graduate Apprentices, Rs.10,900 per month for Technician (Diploma) Apprentices, and Rs.9,600 per month for ITI Trade Apprentices, effective from 11 September 2025. RCI may offer higher than the minimum as per internal norms.

What is the last date to apply for DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026?

The last date to apply online for DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is 30 days from the date of publication of the advertisement in the newspaper, confirmed as 1 November 2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered. Candidates are advised to apply well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues on the NATS 2.0 or Apprenticeship India portals.

Which portal do Graduate and Diploma candidates use to apply?

Graduate (B.E./B.Tech) and Diploma candidates must register and apply through the NATS 2.0 portal at https://nats.education.gov.in. After logging in, search for Research Centre Imarat using Enrolment ID STLRAC000010 and submit your application. Registration on NATS 2.0 is mandatory — applications submitted through any other mode will not be accepted by RCI.

How do ITI trade candidates apply for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026?

ITI trade apprentice candidates must apply through the Apprenticeship India portal at https://apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. After registering and logging in, click on “Apprenticeship Opportunities”, search by establishment name using “RESEARCH CENTRE IMARAT” (Establishment ID: E05203600040), select your specific trade from the listed options, and click Apply. Only ITI trades listed in the official notification are eligible — applying for an unlisted trade will result in rejection.

Is there an application fee for DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026?

No, there is absolutely no application fee for DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026. Candidates from all categories — General, SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PWD — can apply completely free of charge. No fee is charged at any stage of the recruitment process, including document verification or joining. Beware of fraudulent websites that may ask for money in connection with this recruitment.

What is the minimum marks requirement for DRDO RCI Apprentice 2026?

Candidates must have secured a minimum of 70% marks or CGPA of 7.5 and above in their qualifying examination (Graduate, Diploma, or ITI trade). Only regular (full-time) programme pass-outs from the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026 are eligible. Candidates who passed through distance education or correspondence mode are not eligible for DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026.

Will I get a government job at DRDO after completing the apprenticeship?

No, there is no obligation on DRDO or RCI to offer permanent employment after completing the one-year apprenticeship training. The engagement is strictly in compliance with the Apprenticeship Act 1961, which does not create any employment commitment. However, the training certificate from DRDO/RCI carries significant value for future applications to PSUs, defence establishments, and core engineering companies in India and abroad.

Will hostel accommodation or transport be provided during training?

No, RCI will not provide hostel accommodation, quarters, or transport facilities to apprentices either during the interview/document verification stage or during the training period. Candidates selected for training at Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad – 500 069 must arrange their own accommodation and commute. No TA/DA is paid to candidates called for any stage of the selection process.

What documents are required at the time of document verification?

Shortlisted candidates must bring original and self-attested copies of: duly filled application form, NATS/NAPS profile printout, 10th class marksheet and certificate, consolidated/final marksheet of qualifying exam, original/provisional certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), PWD certificate (if applicable), valid EWS certificate (if applicable), any government photo ID (PAN/Voter ID/Driving License), Aadhaar card (mandatory), copy of Aadhaar-seeded bank passbook/statement, medical fitness certificate from a Government Civil Assistant Surgeon, and two recent passport-size photographs.

Last Updated: October 2026 | This guide is reviewed and updated regularly for accuracy. Bookmark this page for the latest DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment updates. All data sourced from the official notification PDF (RCI/HRD/Apprenticeship/Advt/2027) published by Research Centre Imarat, DRDO.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. All figures, dates, and vacancy counts are as per the official notification available at drdo.gov.in as on October 2026. Agrijob.in is not affiliated with DRDO, RCI, or any government body. Candidates are advised to verify all details from the official notification before applying.

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