DRDO DEAL Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 77 Graduate, Diploma & ITI Apprentice Vacancies
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its prestigious Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL), Dehradun, has officially announced the DRDO DEAL Apprentice Recruitment 2026-27. This recruitment drive offers an excellent opportunity for engineering graduates, diploma holders, and ITI-qualified candidates to gain valuable industry experience through a one-year apprenticeship training program.
DEAL is one of DRDO’s premier research and development establishments working under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. The laboratory plays a vital role in developing advanced communication and electronic systems for India’s defence sector. Candidates selected under this apprenticeship program will receive hands-on training in a high-technology environment while working alongside experienced scientists and engineers.
This article provides complete details regarding vacancies, eligibility criteria, stipend, application process, selection procedure, important dates, required documents, and other essential information for applicants.
About DRDO DEAL
The Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL), Dehradun, is one of the leading laboratories under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The laboratory specializes in communication systems, networking technologies, secure communication solutions, and electronic warfare-related technologies.
DEAL contributes significantly to India’s defence modernization efforts by designing and developing advanced communication systems used by the Armed Forces. The apprenticeship training program aims to provide practical exposure to fresh graduates and diploma/ITI holders while helping them build technical skills relevant to industry requirements.
The apprenticeship training is conducted under the Apprentices Act, 1961 and Apprenticeship Rules, 1992, as amended from time to time.
DRDO DEAL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Organization | Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL), DRDO |
|---|---|
| Ministry | Ministry of Defence |
| Location | Dehradun, Uttarakhand |
| Advertisement Number | DEAL/HRD/Apprenticeship/2026-27 |
| Training Duration | 1 Year |
| Total Vacancies | 77 |
| Apprentice Categories | Graduate, Diploma, ITI |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Process | Merit / Written Test / Interview |
| Official Website | DRDO |
| Last Date | 30 Days from Advertisement Publication |
Total Vacancies
A total of 77 apprenticeship positions have been announced under different categories.
Vacancy Distribution
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentices | 19 |
| Diploma Apprentices | 08 |
| ITI Apprentices | 50 |
| Total | 77 |
Graduate Apprentice Vacancies
Candidates possessing B.E./B.Tech degrees or equivalent qualifications with at least 60% marks can apply for Graduate Apprentice positions.
Disciplines
- Electronics & Communication Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science & Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Library Science
Educational Qualification
For engineering disciplines:
- B.E./B.Tech or equivalent
- Minimum 60% marks
For Library Science:
- B.Sc. (PCM/PCB)
- B.Lib./B.L.I.Sc.
- Minimum 60% marks in both qualifications
Stipend
Selected Graduate Apprentices will receive:
₹12,300 per month
The stipend is shared between DEAL and the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOAT) through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must carefully read the eligibility requirements before applying.
Nationality
Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply.
Educational Qualification
Applicants must possess the educational qualification specified for the relevant apprenticeship category from a recognized Board, University, or Institution.
Passing Year Criteria
Only candidates who passed their qualifying examination during:
- 2022
- 2023
- 2024
- 2025
- 2026
are eligible to apply.
Result Awaited Candidates
Candidates whose final results have not been declared by the last date of application submission are not eligible.
Regular Candidates Only
Only candidates who completed their qualifying examinations as regular students are eligible.
Higher Qualification Restriction
Candidates possessing qualifications higher than those prescribed for the apprenticeship category are not eligible.
Age Limit
Minimum Age
18 Years
Maximum Age
As per Apprentices Act 1961, Apprenticeship Rules 1992, and NATS/NAPS guidelines. Age relaxation shall be applicable according to government norms.
Previous Apprenticeship Restriction
Candidates are not eligible if they:
- Have already undergone apprenticeship training.
- Are currently undergoing apprenticeship training.
- Possess one year or more job experience after obtaining the required qualification.
PwBD Candidates
Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) are eligible only for designated trades as per Apprenticeship Rules 1992.
Application Process
The application process differs for Graduate/Diploma candidates and ITI candidates.
For Graduate and Diploma Candidates
Candidates must:
Step 1
Register on the NATS 2.0 Portal.
Step 2
Login to the portal.
Step 3
Apply through the NATS portal.
Step 4
Apply against the advertised vacancies.
DEAL ID
NUKDDC000015
Important Dates
Advertisement Date
23 June 2026
Last Date to Apply
30 days from the date of publication of the advertisement on the DRDO vacancies portal.
Candidates are advised not to wait until the last date and should complete their application process well in advance.
Selection Process
Selection will be conducted through one or more of the following methods:
- Academic Merit
- Written Examination
- Interview
- Walk-in Interview
- Combination of the above methods
Document verification will also be mandatory.
Shortlisting Criteria
DEAL reserves the right to adopt its own shortlisting methodology and is not obligated to shortlist every candidate meeting minimum eligibility criteria.
The number of vacancies may also be increased, decreased, or withdrawn depending on organizational requirements.
Reservation Policy
Reservation will be applicable according to:
- Apprentices Act, 1961
- Apprenticeship Rules, 1992
- Government guidelines in force
Documents Required During Verification
Candidates must produce original documents along with self-attested photocopies.
Required Documents
- Signed printout of online application
- Signed NATS/NAPS profile copy
- Mark sheets and certificates
- Aadhaar Card
- Address proof
- Passport-size photographs
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- EWS certificate
- PwBD certificate
Documents Required at Joining
Selected candidates must submit:
- Police Verification Certificate
- Medical Fitness Certificate
- Official Secrets Act Undertaking
- IT Rules Compliance Undertaking
- Aadhaar-linked Bank Account Details
- Passport-size Photographs
Training Duration
The apprenticeship training period will be:
One Year
The training will commence from the date of execution of the apprenticeship contract.
Benefits of DRDO Apprenticeship Training
Joining the DRDO DEAL Apprenticeship Program offers numerous advantages:
1. Exposure to Defence Technologies
Candidates gain practical exposure to cutting-edge defence communication technologies and advanced electronics systems.
2. Industry Experience
The program helps bridge the gap between academics and industry requirements.
3. Skill Development
Apprentices acquire practical skills that improve employability in both government and private sectors.
4. Government Training Environment
Working within DRDO provides exposure to disciplined professional work culture and national-level R&D projects.
5. Stipend Support
Monthly stipends ensure financial assistance throughout the training period.
6. Resume Enhancement
Training experience at a premier defence research institution significantly strengthens career prospects.
Why DRDO Apprenticeships Are Highly Competitive
Every year thousands of candidates apply for DRDO apprenticeship programs because of:
- Prestige associated with DRDO.
- Exposure to advanced research.
- Learning opportunities under experienced scientists.
- Industry-relevant training.
- Better employability after training.
The DEAL apprenticeship is particularly attractive due to its specialization in defence communication technologies and electronics applications.
Career Opportunities After Apprenticeship
Although DRDO clearly states that apprenticeship training does not guarantee employment, the experience gained can help candidates secure opportunities in:
- Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)
- Electronics Manufacturing Companies
- Telecommunication Sector
- Information Technology Industry
- Research Laboratories
- Government Technical Departments
- Private Engineering Firms
DRDO has specifically clarified that no permanent, temporary, or contractual employment claim can be made after completion of apprenticeship training.
Important Instructions for Applicants
Before applying, candidates should keep the following points in mind:
- Applications must be submitted online only.
- Incomplete applications will be rejected.
- Candidates should upload all required documents.
- CGPA must be converted into percentage according to university norms.
- Any false information may lead to cancellation of candidature.
- No TA/DA will be provided.
- Apprentices must follow all organizational rules and regulations.
The DRDO DEAL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 presents a golden opportunity for engineering graduates, diploma holders, and ITI-qualified candidates to gain practical training at one of India’s most prestigious defence research laboratories. With 77 apprenticeship vacancies across multiple disciplines and trades, eligible candidates should apply at the earliest and take advantage of this career-enhancing opportunity.
Candidates are advised to thoroughly review the official notification, ensure they meet all eligibility requirements, and submit their applications through the designated NATS or NAPS portal before the deadline.