For engineering graduates and diploma holders looking to kickstart their careers in a reputed government organization, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has brought an excellent opportunity. DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2025 is here. The Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha, is inviting applications for Graduate Apprentices and Technician (Diploma) Apprentices. With a total of 54 vacancies and a stipend of up to ₹9,000 per month, this apprenticeship can serve as a powerful launchpad for a rewarding career in defence research and technology.
1. Introduction
The DRDO Integrated Test Range is a key laboratory that plays a vital role in testing and evaluating advanced defence systems. Joining ITR as an apprentice means direct exposure to the country’s latest defence technologies and real-world R&D projects. This one-year training program is designed for young and talented graduates or diploma holders who want to strengthen their practical skills and gain first-hand industry experience.
This recruitment drive follows the guidelines of the Apprentices Act, 1961, and aims to create a skilled workforce ready for both government and private sector opportunities. Fresh candidates who want to combine learning with a national service mission should not miss this chance.
2. Key Highlights
To give applicants a quick snapshot, here are the main details:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Post Names | Graduate Apprentice & Technician (Diploma) Apprentice |
| Total Vacancies | 54 |
| Monthly Stipend | Graduate: ₹9,000; Technician: ₹8,000 |
| Job Location | Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha |
| Mode of Application | Offline (Speed Post / Registered Post) |
| Last Date to Apply | 20 October 2025 |
The recruitment is open now, so eligible candidates should begin their application process at the earliest.
3. Vacancy Details by Discipline
The 54 vacancies are distributed across several disciplines to suit different educational backgrounds. The table below provides a clear branch-wise breakup:
| Category | Discipline / Branch | No. of Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentice | Computer Science & Engineering / IT | 8 |
| Electronics Engineering & Allied Branches | 8 | |
| Electrical Engineering | 2 | |
| Mechanical Engineering | 1 | |
| Aerospace Engineering | 1 | |
| Library Science (B.Lib.Sc) | 2 | |
| Safety Engineering | 2 | |
| Administration/HR (BBA) | 4 | |
| Financial/Cost Accounting (B.Com) | 4 | |
| Technician (Diploma) Apprentice | Computer Science & Engineering / IT | 8 |
| Electronics Engineering & Allied Branches | 8 | |
| Electrical Engineering | 2 | |
| Cinematography | 2 | |
| Medical Laboratory Technology | 2 |
This wide range of disciplines ensures that candidates from different engineering, science, and management backgrounds can find a role that matches their qualification.
4. Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must make sure they meet all requirements.
a. Educational Qualification
- Graduate Apprentice: B.E/B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering, IT, Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Safety Engineering. Graduates with B.Lib.Sc, BBA (HR/Administration), and B.Com (Financial or Cost Accounting) are also eligible.
- Technician (Diploma) Apprentice: Diploma in Computer Science & Engineering, IT, Electronics and Allied Branches, Electrical Engineering, Cinematography, or Medical Laboratory Technology.
b. Experience
- No prior experience is required. The recruitment is aimed at fresh graduates and diploma holders.
c. Age Limit
- The official notification does not specify any minimum or maximum age limit. The norms of the Apprentices Act, 1961, will apply.
This makes the program perfect for candidates who have recently completed their degrees or diplomas and want to enter the defence technology field.
5. Stipend and Key Benefits
The DRDO ITR apprenticeship provides a monthly stipend of ₹9,000 for Graduate Apprentices and ₹8,000 for Technician Apprentices. While this is a training position, the stipend covers essential expenses and provides financial support throughout the training period.
The benefits go beyond monetary value:
i. Hands-on Experience – Apprentices will gain exposure to cutting-edge defence technologies and live testing environments.
ii. Skill Development – The one-year program focuses on practical skills and technical knowledge.
iii. Certificate of Apprenticeship – On successful completion, candidates receive a recognized certificate, highly valued in both government and private sectors.
This combination of training and certification adds a strong advantage when applying for future jobs.
6. Selection Process
The DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2025 follows a merit-based selection process. Typically, there is no written examination or interview. The steps include:
- Shortlisting – Based on marks obtained in B.E/B.Tech or Diploma.
- Document Verification – Shortlisted candidates must provide original documents for verification.
- Final Selection – Based purely on academic merit and successful verification.
This transparent process ensures that deserving candidates are selected fairly.
7. How to Apply Offline
The application process is offline, and candidates must follow these steps carefully:
i. Register on the NATS Portal
First, visit the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal and complete the registration. Obtain your NATS Enrollment Number, which is mandatory for the application.
ii. Download the Application Form
Get the official notification and Annexure-A form from DRDO’s official website.
iii. Fill the Application
Print the form and fill in all details neatly in block letters. Affix a recent passport-size photograph.
iv. Attach Documents
Enclose self-attested copies of your educational certificates, ID proof, caste certificate (if applicable), and other relevant documents.
v. Send by Post
Place the completed application and enclosures in an envelope superscribed withAPPLICATION FOR APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING: CATEGORY: GRADUATE/TECHNICIAN APPRENTICE & DISCIPLINE: …
Send it via Speed Post or Registered Post to:
The Director, Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha – 756025
vi. No Application Fee
There is no fee for General, OBC, EWS, SC, ST, or PWD candidates.
Make sure your application reaches the office before 20 October 2025.
8. Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | Ongoing |
| Last Date to Receive Application | 20 October 2025 |
Applicants should apply well before the deadline to avoid postal delays.
9. Useful Links: Download Notification & Application Form
10. Why This Opportunity Matters
This apprenticeship is more than just a job. It is an opportunity to work on national security and defence technologies, interact with top scientists and engineers, and gain practical expertise that sets you apart in the competitive job market. The one-year program can also pave the way for permanent roles in DRDO or other reputed government and private organizations.
For young engineers and diploma holders, the DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2025 offers a perfect blend of learning, skill-building, and service to the nation.
Final Tip: Ensure all documents are accurate, register on NATS without delay, and send your completed application well before the 20 October 2025 deadline. This single step can open the door to an exciting career in defence research and technology.