Vacancies: 160 · Posts: Paid Internship (UG B.Tech & PG M.Tech/M.Sc) · Type: Apprenticeship (Paid Training) · Mode: Offline · Fee: Nil · Apply: By 20 June 2026 · Stipend: ₹5,000/month · Selection: CGPA + Online Interview/Interaction · Location: Hyderabad (RCI Campus)
Research Centre Imarat (RCI), a premier DRDO laboratory under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, located in Hyderabad, Telangana, has released Advertisement No. RCI/HRD/PDINTERN/2026/01 for 160 paid internship positions. This is one of the larger DRDO internship drives this year and offers final-year engineering and science students a chance to work on real defence research projects.
The internship runs for a minimum of six months starting 03 August 2026. Selected students receive a consolidated stipend of ₹5,000 per month, paid in two equal instalments after three and six months, provided they maintain minimum attendance. Applications must reach the RCI Hyderabad address by Speed Post or courier on or before 20 June 2026.
Final-year B.Tech (VII & VIII semesters) and second-year M.Tech/M.Sc (Physics/Chemistry) students from AICTE/UGC-recognised institutes with at least 75% marks or 7.5 CGPA are eligible. An original referral letter from the Principal or HOD is mandatory. Indian citizens only. There is no written exam — shortlisting is based on academic record and online interaction, followed by document verification.
Who Should Apply? (Quick Eligibility Check)
- Final-year B.Tech students (VII & VIII semesters) in CS/AI/ML/Cyber Security, ECE/EIE, Mechanical, Electrical, Materials/Chemical, Aeronautical or Safety Engineering branches with ≥75% or 7.5 CGPA → Paid Internship (UG category) – part of 160 posts
- Second-year M.Tech/M.Sc students (Physics or Chemistry only) in listed PG disciplines (VLSI, RF/Radar, Structural Analysis, IR Seekers, Lasers, Mechatronics/MEMS, Robotics, System Engineering, Thermal, etc.) with ≥75% or 7.5 CGPA → Paid Internship (PG category) – part of 160 posts
- Students who can obtain an original referral letter from their Principal/HOD recommending them as highly deserving meritorious candidates → Mandatory for all applicants
Note: This recruitment is open to Indian citizens of both genders. No separate male/female vacancy split or reservation is mentioned.
About Research Centre Imarat (RCI) & Why This Role Matters
Research Centre Imarat (RCI) – Overview
Research Centre Imarat (RCI) is a key laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India. It is located at Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad, Telangana, and specialises in missile guidance, control systems, navigation and related technologies for India’s strategic and tactical missile programmes.
Why Candidates Search for DRDO RCI Internships
RCI internships carry strong brand value because they provide hands-on exposure to live defence projects in a high-security environment. The six-month duration and ₹5,000 monthly stipend help students gain practical research experience that strengthens their CV for future DRDO recruitments or higher studies. However, candidates must note that this is purely a training opportunity — there is no automatic absorption or job guarantee after completion. Interns bear their own expenses for accommodation, food and travel in Hyderabad. The mandatory referral letter from the college also adds an extra step that not every student can easily arrange.
Why this DRDO RCI Paid Internship is attractive:
- Direct exposure to DRDO’s missile and defence electronics research work
- Certificate of completion issued on successful completion (useful for campus placements and higher studies)
- Modest but regular stipend with a clear payment schedule
- Opportunity to work alongside DRDO scientists in a real laboratory setting
The SahisarkariJobs.in Analyst’s Take – Is This DRDO RCI Internship for You?
With 160 slots at one of DRDO’s flagship missile laboratories, this is a solid opportunity for students who genuinely want defence research exposure rather than just any internship certificate. It suits final-year B.Tech and second-year M.Tech/M.Sc students who already have strong academics (75%+) and can secure a referral letter from their Principal or HOD.
If you are looking for a guaranteed job or easy money, skip this one. This is strictly a six-month training programme with no employment obligation from DRDO. The selection is merit-based through CGPA and online interaction, not a mass written exam, so students with average marks or weak project work are unlikely to be shortlisted.
Practical tip: Download the official PDF immediately and note the exact Branch Code for your discipline (CS, EC, ME, etc.). Write it clearly on the envelope — a missing or wrong Branch Code can delay or reject your application during segregation.
Unlike many private company internships that are purely observational, DRDO RCI internships involve actual project work under scientists. However, unlike some other DRDO labs that occasionally absorb good interns, RCI has made it explicit that there is no automatic claim for permanent employment. Apply only if you value the learning experience and DRDO brand over immediate job prospects.
Quick Overview – DRDO RCI Hyderabad Paid Internship 2026
- Organisation: Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India
- Sector: Defence Research & Development
- Recruitment / Exam Name: Paid Internship Scheme 2026
- Post / Trade / Exam Name(s): Paid Internship (Under-Graduate B.Tech VII/VIII Semesters & Post-Graduate M.Tech/M.Sc IInd Year)
- Total Vacancies: 160
- Job Location / Exam Centre: RCI Campus, Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad, Telangana (interns must report in person)
- Job Type / Nature: Apprenticeship (Paid Training) – 6 months minimum contractual training under DRDO Paid Internship Scheme
- Monthly Stipend: ₹5,000 (consolidated)
- Apply / Register Between: Applications must reach by 20 June 2026
- Notification PDF: Download DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026 Notification PDF
- Official Portal: drdo.gov.in
Important Dates – DRDO RCI Hyderabad Paid Internship 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 05 June 2026 |
| Last Date for Receipt of Application | 20 June 2026 |
| Intimation to Selected Students | 2nd week of July 2026 |
| Date of Start for Internship | 03 August 2026 |
What Is the Application Fee? – DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026
Application Fee: 0 (NIL). There is no application or examination fee for this paid internship as per the official notification.
How to Apply for DRDO RCI Hyderabad Paid Internship 2026? (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Download and fill out the Application Form
- Download the prescribed application format (Bio-data form) from the official DRDO vacancies page or the notification PDF.
- Fill the form completely and accurately in BLOCK letters.
- Prepare the following self-attested documents:
- Copies of all mark sheets duly attested by the HOD/Principal
- Copy of College ID Card
- Copy of the latest Aadhaar Card
- Original referral letter issued by Principal/HOD (mandatory)
Step 2: Prepare the Envelope
Clearly superscribe on the top of the envelope: “Application for Paid Internship” and mention the “Branch Code ………” (example: CS for CSE/AI/ML, EC for ECE, ME for Mechanical, etc. — refer to the PDF for the complete branch code list).
Step 3: Send the Application
Send the complete application along with all enclosures by Speed Post or Courier to reach on or before 20 June 2026 at: Director, Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Defence R&D Organisation, Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad – 500069
Keep a photocopy of the filled form and postal receipt for your records.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing or photocopy of referral letter instead of original — applications without the original referral letter are rejected.
- Wrong or missing Branch Code on the envelope — causes delay or misplacement during segregation.
- Sending by ordinary post or private courier that does not guarantee delivery by the last date — use Speed Post or a reliable courier only.
- Incomplete marks sheets or unattested documents — all educational documents must be attested by HOD/Principal.
- Applying after the receipt deadline — applications received after 20 June 2026 are summarily rejected with no further communication.
తెలుగు సమాచారం – DRDO RCI హైదరాబాద్ పెయిడ్ ఇంటర్న్షిప్ 2026
డిఫెన్స్ రీసెర్చ్ అండ్ డెవలప్మెంట్ ఆర్గనైజేషన్ (DRDO) కింద ఉన్న రీసెర్చ్ సెంటర్ ఇమారత్ (RCI), హైదరాబాద్ 2026 సంవత్సరానికి 160 పెయిడ్ ఇంటర్న్షిప్ పోస్టులకు దరఖాస్తులు కోరుతోంది. B.Tech VII & VIII సెమిస్టర్ విద్యార్థులు మరియు M.Tech/M.Sc రెండవ సంవత్సరం విద్యార్థులు (ఫిజిక్స్/కెమిస్ట్రీ) ఈ అవకాశాన్ని వినియోగించుకోవచ్చు.
అర్హత: గుర్తింపు పొందిన యూనివర్సిటీ/ఇన్స్టిట్యూట్ నుంచి ఫుల్టైమ్ కోర్సు చదువుతున్న విద్యార్థులు, కనీసం 75% మార్కులు లేదా 7.5 CGPA ఉండాలి. వయసు 28 సంవత్సరాల లోపు ఉండాలి. కాలేజీ ప్రిన్సిపాల్ లేదా HOD నుంచి అసలు రెఫరల్ లెటర్ తప్పనిసరి.
ఇంటర్న్షిప్ వ్యవధి: కనీసం 6 నెలలు (03 ఆగస్టు 2026 నుంచి ప్రారంభం). నెలకు ₹5,000 స్టైపెండ్ (రెండు విడతల్లో చెల్లింపు). హైదరాబాద్లోని RCI క్యాంపస్లో ఆఫ్లైన్గా నిర్వహించబడుతుంది.
దరఖాస్తు విధానం: ఆఫ్లైన్ మాత్రమే. స్పీడ్ పోస్ట్ లేదా కొరియర్ ద్వారా 20 జూన్ 2026లోపు Director, RCI, Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad-500069కి పంపాలి. ఎన్వలప్ మీద “Application for Paid Internship” మరియు Branch Code స్పష్టంగా రాయాలి.
ఎంపిక: CGPA/ఆన్లైన్ ఇంటర్వ్యూ ఆధారంగా మెరిట్ ప్రకారం. ఎంపికైన వారికి జూలై రెండవ వారంలో ఇమెయిల్ ద్వారా తెలియజేస్తారు. ఈ ఇంటర్న్షిప్ పూర్తి చేసిన తర్వాత ఉద్యోగ హామీ లేదు.
Post-wise Vacancy & Eligibility – DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026
| Post / Category | Vacancies | Qualification | Age Limit | Stipend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paid Internship (UG – B.Tech VII & VIII Semesters) | Part of 160 | Final year B.Tech in listed branches (CS, EC, ME, EE, CE, AE, SE) with ≥75% or ≥7.5 CGPA | Below 28 years | ₹5,000/month |
| Paid Internship (PG – M.Tech / M.Sc IInd Year) | Part of 160 | 2nd year M.Tech/M.Sc (Physics/Chemistry) in listed disciplines with ≥75% or ≥7.5 CGPA | Below 28 years | ₹5,000/month |
Note: Exact branch-wise vacancy numbers are not specified. Total 160 posts across all listed UG and PG disciplines. Refer to the official PDF for the complete Branch Code list and disciplines.
Key Rules:
- Cut-off date for qualification: Must be pursuing the required semester/year as on the date of application.
- Original referral letter from Principal/HOD is mandatory.
- Minimum attendance: 15 working days per month for stipend eligibility.
Not sure about your CGPA conversion? Use our CGPA to Percentage Calculator.
Who Is Eligible for the DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026? – Education, Age & Domicile
1. Nationality, Domicile & Basic Requirements
- Must be a citizen of India.
- No domicile restriction mentioned — students from any state can apply.
- Must obtain an original referral letter from the Principal/HOD recommending the candidate as highly deserving.
2. Educational Qualification
- Under-Graduate: Pursuing VII or VIII semester of B.Tech/B.E in the listed engineering branches from a recognised Indian University/Institute.
- Post-Graduate: Pursuing the 2nd year of M.Tech/M.Sc (Physics or Chemistry only) in the listed disciplines.
- Minimum academic record: ≥75% marks or ≥7.5 CGPA on a scale of 10.
- Full-time regular course only.
3. Age Limit (as on date of application)
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|---|---|
| All candidates | — | Below 28 years | No relaxation mentioned |
Examples:
- ✅ A 27-year-old UR candidate born on 15 July 1998 — eligible (below 28 years).
- ❌ A 28-year-old candidate born on 10 June 1998 — not eligible (has already completed 28 years).
Use our Age Eligibility Calculator to check instantly.
4. Additional Eligibility
- Original referral letter from the college Principal/HOD is compulsory.
- Students must be willing to work at the RCI Hyderabad campus for the full duration.
- At joining: Police verification from the hometown may be required for selected candidates.
5. Higher Qualification / Experience Rules
Higher qualifications are not a disqualification, but do not guarantee selection. Selection is purely merit-based on CGPA/academic record and online interaction.
6. Reservation & PwBD Suitability
No reservation or PwBD quota is mentioned in the notification. The internship is open to all eligible Indian citizens on merit.
What Is the Stipend? – DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026
Apprentice Stipend Details
| Component | Amount / Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | ₹5,000 per month |
| Payment Schedule | ₹15,000 after 3 months + ₹15,000 after 6 months (total ₹30,000) |
| Attendance Condition | Minimum 15 working days per month required |
| Other Allowances | None. Intern bears their own expenses for accommodation, food, travel and medical in Hyderabad |
| Extension (PG only) | M.Tech/M.Sc project internship may be extended 4–6 months without stipend |
Important Clarification: This is a training stipend, not a regular salary. There is no DA, HRA, PF, or pension. The amount is consolidated and subject to attendance rules.
How Are Candidates Selected? – DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026
Stages Overview
- Application Screening Mode: Offline document verification. Summary: Applications checked for completeness, eligibility, original referral letter and Branch Code.
- Merit Shortlisting + Online Interaction Mode: CGPA-based shortlisting followed by online interview/interaction (if required). Summary: Selection is entirely merit-based. No written examination.
- Document Verification & Joining Mode: In-person at RCI Hyderabad. Summary: Original documents verified. Selected students were informed by email in the second week of July 2026. Internship starts 03 August 2026.
Tie-breaking Rules: In case of a tie, marks of the lower examination are considered.
Who Should Probably Skip This Opportunity?
Use this quick self-check before you spend time and money:
- You cannot obtain an original referral letter from your Principal/HOD.
- You are not in the final year (B.Tech VII/VIII semester or M.Tech/M.Sc IInd year) as required.
- Your academic record is below 75% or 7.5 CGPA.
- You are expecting a permanent job after the internship — DRDO has clearly stated there is no such obligation.
- You are not willing to bear your own living expenses in Hyderabad for six months.
What Documents Are Required? – DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026
At Time of Application (Offline)
- Duly filled application form (Bio-data)
- Self-attested copies of all mark sheets (attested by HOD/Principal)
- Copy of College ID Card
- Copy of the latest Aadhaar Card
- Original referral letter from Principal/HOD (mandatory)
At Document Verification / Joining
- All original certificates and marks sheets (or a letter from the college confirming originals are with them)
- Original Aadhaar Card
- College ID Card
- 3 recent passport-size photographs
- Police verification from hometown/place of residence (if selected)
⚠️ Document Alert Specific to This Recruitment
The original referral letter from the Principal/HOD is the single most important document. Photocopies or self-attested letters are not accepted. Many applications get rejected every year for missing this. Also, carry originals of all documents at the time of joining for verification.
Apprenticeship Terms & Conditions
- Apprenticeship Act: Governed by DRDO Paid Internship Scheme (not under the formal Apprentices Act, 1961).
- Duration: Minimum 6 months (extendable for PG students by 4–6 months without stipend).
- Stipend: ₹5,000 per month (subject to minimum 15 working days attendance per month).
- No Permanent Claim: Completion of internship does not guarantee any employment in DRDO or RCI. DRDO has no obligation to offer a job.
- Certificate: Certificate of completion is awarded only after successful evaluation of project work, submission of the report and full attendance.
- Termination: Internship can be terminated for indiscipline or failure to maintain attendance.
- Other Benefits: No boarding, lodging, TA/DA or medical facilities provided. Interns bear all personal expenses.
What Happens After Selection? – DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026
- Selected candidates receive an intimation email in the second week of July 2026 with joining instructions.
- Report at RCI Hyderabad campus on 03 August 2026 with all original documents for verification.
- Complete the six-month internship with a minimum of 15 working days’ attendance every month.
- Work on the assigned defence research project under DRDO scientists and submit the project report at the end.
- Undergo evaluation; successful candidates receive a Certificate of Completion.
- No automatic job offer follows. Interns may apply to future DRDO recruitments using this experience and certificate.
General Instructions & Important Rules
- Only Indian citizens are eligible.
- Incomplete or late applications are rejected without any communication.
- Interns must strictly follow laboratory guidelines, the Indian Official Secrets Act, 1923 and IT rules of the Ministry of Defence.
- RCI reserves the right to change vacancy positions or selection criteria without prior notice.
- No boarding or lodging is provided.
Contact & Helpline – DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026
Contact details are not mentioned in the notification. All queries should be addressed through the official DRDO website or by visiting the RCI Hyderabad campus after selection intimation.
Official Website: https://drdo.gov.in
Important Links – DRDO RCI Hyderabad Paid Internship 2026
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | DRDO Official Website |
| Notification PDF | Download DRDO RCI Paid Internship 2026 Notification PDF |
| Apply (Offline – Speed Post/Courier) | Send to Director, RCI, Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad-500069 by 20 June 2026 |
| Result / Selection Intimation | By email to registered email ID (2nd week of July 2026) |
FAQs – DRDO RCI Hyderabad Paid Internship 2026
Q1: What is the last date to apply for DRDO RCI Hyderabad Paid Internship 2026?
A: 20 June 2026. The application must physically reach the RCI Hyderabad address by Speed Post or courier on or before this date. Late applications are rejected.
Q2: What is the age limit for the DRDO RCI Paid Internship?
A: Below 28 years. No age relaxation is mentioned for any category. Age is calculated as of the date of application.
Q3: Is there an exam for the DRDO RCI Paid Internship, or is it interview-based?
A: No written exam. Selection is based on academic record (CGPA/marks), online interview/interaction if required, and document verification. It is merit-based.
Q4: What is the stipend of the DRDO RCI Paid Internship?
A: ₹5,000 per month consolidated. Total ₹30,000 paid in two instalments of ₹15,000 each after three months and after six months, subject to minimum attendance of 15 working days per month.
Q5: Can final-year students or result-awaited candidates apply for DRDO RCI 2026?
A: Yes for final-year students who are currently in VII or VIII semester of B.Tech or II year of M.Tech/M.Sc. You must be pursuing the course at the time of application and produce proof at document verification.
Q6: Is the DRDO RCI Paid Internship a permanent government job?
A: No. This is a six-month paid training internship only. DRDO has clearly stated that there is no obligation to offer permanent employment after completion.
Q7: Can candidates from other states apply for DRDO RCI recruitment?
A: Yes. There is no domicile restriction. Students from any state in India can apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and can arrange the mandatory referral letter.
Q8: Where will I be posted if I get selected for the DRDO RCI Paid Internship?
A: You will be posted at the RCI campus in Hyderabad, Telangana, for the entire duration of the internship. No choice of location is given.
Q9: Will I get a permanent job in DRDO after completing this paid internship at RCI?
A: No. The notification explicitly states that DRDO has no obligation to offer employment, and interns cannot claim any right to a job on the basis of completing the internship. This is purely a training opportunity.
Q10: What happens if I miss the last date for the DRDO RCI internship application?
A: Your application will be rejected. There is no provision for late submission or extension. Applications received after 20 June 2026 are not considered under any circumstances.
Q11: Is the referral letter from the college really mandatory?
A: Yes. The original referral letter issued by the Principal or HOD is compulsory. Applications without it are rejected. This is one of the most common reasons for rejection every year.
Q12: Can I apply for multiple branch codes in the DRDO RCI internship?
A: The notification does not mention any restriction, but you should apply for branches that match your actual discipline. Mention only one relevant Branch Code on the envelope.
Q13: What are the disadvantages of this DRDO RCI internship?
A: The honest downside is that there is no job guarantee after six months, you have to bear your own living expenses in Hyderabad, and you need an original referral letter from your college, which not every student can easily obtain. It is best suited for those who genuinely want research exposure rather than immediate employment.
Pre-Apprenticeship Checklist – Before You Apply
Use this checklist before you apply:
- You meet the educational qualification (final year B.Tech VII/VIII semester or IInd year M.Tech/M.Sc) with ≥75% or 7.5 CGPA.
- You can obtain an original referral letter from your Principal/HOD.
- You understand this is a 6-month paid training internship with no automatic permanent claim after completion.
- You are ready to bear your own expenses for stay, food and travel in Hyderabad for six months.
- You are prepared to maintain a minimum of 15 working days of attendance per month to receive the stipend.
- You have noted the correct Branch Code from the official PDF and will write it clearly on the envelope.
📄 Source: Official notification released by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), DRDO on 05 June 2026. All details sourced from the official notification PDF.
