The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced its Internship Program for 2025, providing undergraduate and postgraduate students in engineering and general sciences an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in defence research and technology. This internship will allow students to contribute to projects that strengthen India’s defence capabilities.
Eligibility for DRDO Internship 2025
The internship program is open to Indian nationals who meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification:
- Undergraduate students pursuing B.Tech, B.Sc, or BE in relevant fields.
- Postgraduate students enrolled in M.Tech, M.Sc, or ME programs.
- Ph.D. candidates in science and engineering disciplines can also apply.
- Age Limit: 19 to 28 years.
- Academic Requirement: A minimum of 60% marks in their ongoing or completed degree programs.
Internship Duration and Selection Process
- The internship duration varies from one month to six months, depending on the specific DRDO lab and project requirements.
- Selection will be based on:
- Academic performance
- Skills and research interests
- Availability of projects at DRDO laboratories
- The final decision on candidate selection rests with the Lab Director, and meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection.
Stipend and Benefits
- DRDO provides a paid internship, with an estimated stipend ranging from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per month depending on the project.
- Interns will gain:
- Hands-on experience in defence technology areas like AI, cybersecurity, robotics, aerospace, and missile systems.
- Mentorship from leading scientists and engineers working on national security projects.
- Enhanced technical skills in fields such as software development, electronics, mechanical engineering, and data science.
- A DRDO internship adds significant value to a candidate’s resume, improving job prospects and opportunities for higher studies.
How to Apply for DRDO Internship 2025
- Research and Select: Candidates must identify a DRDO laboratory that aligns with their academic background and interests.
- Prepare Application: The application should include:
- Updated resume
- Academic transcripts
- Letter of intent explaining their interest in the internship.
- Institute Endorsement: Candidates must coordinate with their college or university to forward their application to the chosen DRDO lab.
DRDO Laboratories Offering Internships
DRDO operates over 50 labs and establishments across India. Some of the key labs and their research areas include:
| Laboratory Name | Location | Research Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) | Hyderabad | Missile Systems, Avionics |
| Research Centre Imarat (RCI) | Hyderabad | Control Systems, Imaging Systems |
| Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL) | Hyderabad | Missile Technology, Propulsion Systems |
| Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL) | Hyderabad | Electronic Warfare, Signal Processing |
| Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE) | Gwalior | Life Sciences, Chemical Engineering |
| Defence Materials and Stores Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE) | Kanpur | Materials Science, Textiles |
| Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) | Pune | Advanced Defence Systems |
| Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) | Pune | Armaments, Ammunition |
| High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) | Pune | Explosives, Pyrotechnics |
| Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR) | Delhi | Psychological Research, Human Behavior |
| Defence Laboratory (DL) | Jodhpur | Electronic Systems, Desert Technology |
| Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL) | Kochi | Sonar Systems, Oceanography |
| Centre for Air Borne Systems (CABS) | Bengaluru | Airborne Early Warning Systems |
| Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) | Bengaluru | Gas Turbines, Propulsion Systems |
| Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) | Bengaluru | Radar Systems, Signal Processing |
| Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) | Chennai | Military Vehicles, Mobility Systems |
These labs specialize in missile technology, avionics, electronic warfare, propulsion systems, and various other defence research fields.
Conclusion
The DRDO Internship 2025 is an excellent opportunity for students to gain real-world experience in defence research and innovation. This internship not only enhances technical and research skills but also boosts career prospects in engineering and science. However, completing the internship does not guarantee employment at DRDO.
Interested candidates should start preparing their applications and reach out to their universities for endorsements to maximize their chances of selection.
DRDO Internship 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can final-year B.Tech students apply for the DRDO Internship 2025?
Yes, students in their final semester are eligible to apply for the DRDO Internship 2025.
Q2. What is the duration of the DRDO Internship?
The internship at DRDO can last anywhere between 4 weeks and 6 months, depending on the program and department.
