The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), operating under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has officially announced its paid internship programme for the year 2026. This initiative is designed to provide engineering students with a unique opportunity to engage directly with cutting-edge defence research and technology development projects.
Application Timeline and Process
Applications for the DRDO internship are currently open, with the submission process having commenced on April 1, 2026. Interested candidates are required to submit their applications online through the official DRDO careers portal. The final deadline for submitting applications is May 15, 2026. It is advisable for applicants to review the detailed notification available on the website before applying to ensure all eligibility criteria are met.
Internship Duration and Financial Support
The internship programme is scheduled to run for a period of four to six months, beginning in May or June 2026. Selected interns will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 30,000 throughout the duration of the programme. This structured timeline is intended to give participants substantial exposure to ongoing research activities and project work within various DRDO laboratories and establishments.
Eligibility Criteria
The programme is open to students currently pursuing B.E./B.Tech or M.E./M.Tech degrees in relevant engineering disciplines. Candidates must meet the specific academic and institutional requirements outlined in the official notification. Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the guidelines carefully to confirm their eligibility before submitting the application form.
Focus on Defence Research Exposure
The internship places a strong emphasis on hands-on involvement in real defence technologies and research projects. Selected interns will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced DRDO scientists and engineers, gaining practical insights into advanced technological systems. The programme aims to enhance participants' research aptitude and technical capabilities through direct engagement with ongoing defence initiatives.
Learning Outcomes and Certification
Interns will benefit from mentorship provided by seasoned professionals within DRDO. The programme is designed to support skill development in research methodologies, engineering applications, and project execution. Upon successful completion of the internship, participants will receive a certificate recognising their contribution and involvement in the programme.
How to Apply
Candidates can apply online by visiting the official DRDO careers website and navigating to the "Internship" section, where the detailed notification and application form are available. The organisation has confirmed that applications are currently being accepted. This internship is positioned as a valuable opportunity for students to gain exposure, develop technical competencies, and contribute to areas related to national defence and research.
