DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026 – 160 Paid Internship Posts
Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI) has announced 160 paid internship positions for final-year Engineering and Science students. Eligible candidates pursuing B.Tech, M.Tech, or M.Sc can apply for this project-based opportunity with a monthly stipend of Rs. 5,000. The deadline for submitting offline applications is 20 June 2026.
| Organisation | Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI) |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Paid Internships for Engineering/Science UG & PG Students |
| Total Vacancies | 160 |
| Last Date | |
| Qualification | Final year B.Tech, M.Tech, or M.Sc (Physics/Chemistry) from a recognized Indian University/Institute. |
| Salary / Pay Scale | Rs. 5,000/- per month |
| Category | Central Government Jobs·Engineering Jobs·Research & University Jobs·Defence Jobs |
| District | Hyderabad |
DRDO RCI Paid Internship Vacancy Details
The recruitment drive aims to fill 160 internship positions for students currently in their final stages of academic study. The distribution is as follows:
| Post Name | Total Posts |
|---|---|
| Under-Graduate Internship (B.Tech. VII & VIII Semesters) | 160 |
| Post-Graduate Internship (M.Tech / M.Sc IInd Year) | Included in Total |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following academic requirements to be considered for the internship:
- Under-Graduate: Must be in the VII or VIII semester of a B.Tech program.
- Post-Graduate: Must be in the IInd year of an M.Tech or M.Sc program.
- Discipline: Engineering and Science (Physics/Chemistry only).
- General: Must be a full-time student at a recognized Indian University or Institute.
Age Limit & Relaxation
Applicants must be below 28 years of age as of the notification date. Please refer to the official notification for specific details regarding age relaxation policies.
Application Fee
There is no application fee required for this recruitment process.
Salary & Pay Scale
Selected interns will receive a stipend of Rs. 5,000/- per month for a minimum duration of 6 months. The stipend is disbursed in two installments: the first after 3 months and the second upon completion of the 6-month term. M.Tech/M.Sc project internships may be extended by 4-6 months, though such extensions will be without a stipend.
Selection Process
The selection of candidates is based on their academic performance (CGPA), an online interview or interaction session, and a thorough verification of submitted documents.
About Research Centre Imarat
Research Centre Imarat (RCI), located in Hyderabad, is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Established in 1988, RCI serves as the nerve center for the development of avionics and missile systems in India. The laboratory is primarily responsible for the design, development, and flight evaluation of state-of-the-art missile systems, including the Agni, Prithvi, and Akash series, as well as advanced guidance and control systems. RCI operates under the mission of achieving self-reliance in critical defence technologies, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of aerospace and missile engineering.
Geographically, RCI is situated in the Vignyana Kancha campus in Hyderabad, Telangana, which acts as a hub for high-end research and development activities. The laboratory collaborates extensively with various academic institutions and industries to foster innovation in fields like navigation, control, and guidance. For students and young professionals, RCI offers unparalleled career prospects. Working at RCI provides exposure to cutting-edge technologies, sophisticated simulation environments, and a culture of rigorous scientific inquiry. Interns and researchers here get the chance to work alongside some of the nation’s most brilliant scientists and engineers on projects of national strategic importance. The organization places a strong emphasis on indigenous development, making it a cornerstone of India’s defence capabilities. By providing internship opportunities, RCI aims to nurture the next generation of technical talent, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world defence applications. Candidates who join RCI gain invaluable experience that serves as a launchpad for a successful career in the aerospace, defence, and high-tech engineering sectors, both within the government and the private industry. The laboratory’s commitment to excellence and its role in national security make it one of the most prestigious institutions for aspiring engineers and scientists in India.
How to Apply
- Download the application form from the official DRDO website.
- Fill in all required details accurately.
- Attach self-attested copies of your college ID, mark sheets, Aadhar card, and an original referral letter.
- Send the completed application via Speed Post or Registered Post to: The Director, Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Defence R&D Organization, Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad-500069.
- Ensure the envelope is marked ‘Application for Paid Internship’ along with the ‘Branch Code’.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last date for receipt of application | 20-Jun-2026 |
| Intimation to Selected Students | July 2026 |
| Date of Start for Internship | 03-Aug-2026 |
Important Links
| Link Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Click here |
| Official Website | Click here |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI) paid internship 2026?
Final year students pursuing B.Tech (VII & VIII semesters), M.Tech (IInd year), or M.Sc (IInd year) in Engineering or Science (Physics/Chemistry) from a recognized Indian institute are eligible to apply.
What is the salary for the internship at DRDO RCI?
Selected interns will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 5,000. This amount is paid in two installments, with the first half provided after three months and the remainder after the completion of the six-month term.
What is the selection process for DRDO RCI internship 2026?
The selection process involves an evaluation of the candidate’s CGPA, followed by an online interview or interaction. Final selection is subject to the satisfactory verification of all submitted academic and personal documents.
Is DRDO RCI a Central or State Government organisation?
Research Centre Imarat (RCI) is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which is a central government agency under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.