DRDO DESIDOC Apprentice Recruitment 2026: 20 Vacancies Open for Library Science, Computer Science & Photography

Defence Scientific Information & Documentation Centre (DESIDOC), a unit of DRDO, has invited applications for apprenticeship training under the Apprentices Act, 1961 for the financial year 2026–2027. A total of 20 vacancies (subject to increase or decrease) are available across three disciplines - Library & Information Science (16 seats), Computer Science (2 seats), and Photography/Videography (2 seats). Applications must be submitted within 21 days from the date the advertisement appears on the DRDO website.

DRDO DESIDOC Apprentice Recruitment 2026  - Quick summary

DRDO DESIDOC Apprentice Recruitment 2026 - Vacancy breakdown

There are three disciplines open for apprenticeship engagement. Library & Information Science carries the largest share with 16 seats, while Computer Science and Photography/Videography each have 2 seats. The organisation reserves the right to revise these numbers without notice.

* Numbers may increase or decrease per organisational requirements.

Important dates

DRDO DESIDOC Apprentice Recruitment 2026  - Eligibility criteria

Educational qualification

Pass-out year requirement

Only candidates who completed their qualifying course in 2024 or 2025 are eligible. Candidates who passed before 2024 are not eligible. Candidates holding post-graduate qualifications are also not eligible to apply.

Work/training experience restriction

Candidates who have already undergone training or have job experience of one year or more after completing their qualifying qualification are not eligible for engagement as apprentices under the Act.

Age limit

The upper age limit is 28 years as on the date of written test/interview. Relaxation of five years is available for SC/ST candidates and three years for OBC candidates.

Prior termination

Candidates who have previously been terminated from apprenticeship training at any organisation or institute are not eligible to apply.

Mandatory NATS registration

Before applying, every candidate must register on http://www.mhrdnats.gov.in or enrol on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal at http://nats.education.gov.in. Applications from unregistered candidates are liable to be rejected.

Application fee

The notification does not mention any application fee. No fee details have been stated for any category.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted physically - either by post or in person. All correspondence thereafter will be conducted exclusively by email, so providing a correct email address is critical.

1. Register on the NATS portal at http://www.mhrdnats.gov.in or http://nats.education.gov.in and note your enrolment number.
2. Download the application form from the DRDO website at www.drdo.gov.in (look in the "What's New" section).
3. Fill in the form completely and attach self-attested photocopies of all required documents.
4. SC/ST/OBC candidates must attach a valid caste certificate in the prescribed Central Government format.
5. Superscribe the envelope with the name of the discipline applied for.
6. Submit by post or by hand to: Director, Defence Scientific Information & Documentation Centre (DESIDOC), Metcalfe House, Civil Lines, Delhi – 110 054, within 21 days of the advertisement date.

Downloading and printing the application form is the candidate's own responsibility. DESIDOC will not be responsible for any loss of email or application due to an incorrect email ID, spam filters, or other technical reasons.

Stipend / pay

Apprentices will receive a monthly stipend - ₹12,300 per month for graduates and B.E. holders, and ₹10,900 per month for diploma and ITI holders. This is not a salary; completion of training does not confer any right to employment or appointment in DESIDOC or DRDO.

Selection process

Candidates will first be shortlisted on merit (percentage/marks in the essential qualification). Shortlisted candidates will then appear for a written test and/or interview. The selection mode may be modified based on organisational requirements. A Selection Board constituted by the Director, DESIDOC will scrutinise all applications and select candidates. Only selected candidates will be informed via offer letter or email.

Shortlisted candidates must bring all original certificates at the time of document verification/interview. No TA/DA will be paid for attending any stage of the selection process.

Terms and conditions 

Selected candidates must execute a contract of apprenticeship for 12 months under the Apprentices Act, 1961. A medical fitness certificate must be submitted at the time of joining. No quarters, hostel accommodation, or transport will be provided by DESIDOC during the training period. Suppression of facts or submission of false information will lead to disqualification at any stage. Any attempt to influence the selection process will result in immediate cancellation of candidature.

Troubleshooting & common mistakes

Applying for government apprenticeships involves a few common failure points that are worth checking before you hit submit.

1. NATS registration first. Your application can be rejected outright if you do not have an active NATS enrolment number before you apply. Complete registration at the portal before filling the form.
2. Email ID accuracy. All communication from DESIDOC will come by email only. A single typo in your email address means you will miss the shortlist notice, interview call, and offer letter.
3. Photo and document self-attestation. Attach self-attested photocopies, not originals. Unsigned or un-attested copies may be treated as incomplete.
4. Envelope superscription. Write the name of the discipline on the outside of the envelope. Envelopes without this may be missorted or delayed.
5. Deadline buffer. The 21-day window runs from the advertisement date on the DRDO website, not from the date you discover the ad. Apply well in advance to avoid postal delays.
6. Category certificate format. SC/ST/OBC certificates must be in the prescribed Central Government format. Certificates in state government formats or outdated formats may cause your reservation claim to be treated as General category.

Important links