DRDO DEAL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 - 77 Graduate, Diploma & ITI Apprentice Posts

Organization: Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL), DRDO
Location: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Position: Apprentice (Graduate, Diploma, ITI Categories)
Total Vacancies: 77 posts
Duration: 12 months (2026-27 financial year)
Stipend: Rs 8,000 to Rs 15,000/month (as per category and Apprentices Act)
Application Mode: Online via NATS Portal
Official Website: drdo.gov.in

Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL) is a premier laboratory of DRDO established in 1983. Located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, DEAL specializes in electronic warfare systems, communications, radar systems, and military electronics. The laboratory is involved in research, development, and testing of critical defense electronics systems used by Indian Armed Forces.

Total Positions: 77 Apprentices
Graduate Apprentices: B.Tech/B.E. graduates in Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Science, IT, Communications, Instrumentation, Civil Engineering
Diploma Apprentices: 3-year diploma holders in Electronics & Communication, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer, Instrumentation & Control
ITI Apprentices: Trade certified in Fitter, Turner, Mechanic, Electrician, Welder, Machinist, Electronics Mechanic, COPA, Data Entry Operator

Educational Qualification:

• Bachelor's Degree (B.E./B.Tech) in relevant engineering stream for graduate apprentices
• 3-year Diploma from recognized polytechnic for diploma apprentices
• ITI Certificate from recognized training institute for ITI apprentices

Marks Required:

• Minimum 50% marks in qualifying degree/diploma/ITI
• 45% marks for SC/ST/PWD candidates

Age Limit:

• Graduate Apprentices: 20-28 years
• Diploma Apprentices: 18-25 years
• ITI Apprentices: 18-24 years

Other Requirements:

• Indian citizen
• Physically and mentally fit for position
• No criminal record
• Valid email ID and mobile number
• Not employed elsewhere during apprenticeship
• Willing to work shift-based roster

Monthly Stipend:

• Graduate Apprentices: Rs 12,300 to Rs 15,000/month
• Diploma Apprentices: Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,300/month
• ITI Apprentices: Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000/month

Benefits During Apprenticeship:

• Leave: 15 days casual, 10 days sick leave per annum
• Medical facilities at DRDO facility
• Accident and injury coverage
• Uniform and safety equipment provided
• Cost of training provided

Post-Apprenticeship:

• Apprenticeship completion certificate
• Employment opportunity based on performance
• Priority in future DRDO recruitment drives
• Professional experience verification

Stage 1: Online Application

• Register on NATS portal
• Fill application form with personal and educational details
• Upload required documents
• Select preferred trades/disciplines

Stage 2: Document Verification

• Verification of educational certificates
• Age proof verification
• Category certificate verification (if applicable)
• Identity proof verification

Stage 3: Merit-Based Selection

• Selection based on academic performance
• CGPA/percentage obtained in qualifying degree
• Category-wise cutoff marks application
• First-come-first-serve within category

Stage 4: Final Appointment

• Merit list publication
• Appointment letter issuance
• Apprenticeship agreement signing
• Medical fitness clearance if required

Step 1: Visit NATS Portal

• Go to https://mhrdnats.gov.in/
• Select DRDO DEAL Apprentice 2026-27 program
• Click on apply link

Step 2: Register Account

• Enter email ID
• Create strong password
• Verify email through confirmation link
• Complete personal registration

Step 3: Fill Application

• Enter full name as per certificate
• Enter date of birth
• Select category (General/OBC/SC/ST/PWD/EWS)
• Enter educational qualification details
• Mention college/institute name
• Enter CGPA/percentage obtained
• Provide contact information
• Select preferred apprenticeship trades

Step 4: Upload Documents

• 10th Pass Certificate (PDF, max 500 KB)
• 12th Pass Certificate (PDF)
• Graduation/Diploma Certificate (PDF)
• Date of Birth Proof (PDF)
• Category Certificate if applicable (PDF)
• Aadhar Card or ID proof (PDF)
• Colored passport-size photograph (JPG)
• Signature (JPG)

Step 5: Submit

• Review all information
• Accept terms and conditions
• Submit application
• Print confirmation page
• Save registration number

Required Documents:

• 10th Pass Certificate
• 12th Pass Certificate
• Graduation/Diploma/ITI Certificate
• Date of Birth Proof
• Category Certificate (if applicable)
• Aadhar Card
• Passport-size photograph (5 copies)
• Signature on white paper

During 12-Month Apprenticeship:

• Electronics circuit design and PCB design
• Equipment operation and maintenance
• Testing and measurement techniques
• Quality assurance procedures
• Technical documentation
• Defense technology exposure
• Problem-solving methodologies
• Team coordination and collaboration
• Professional communication

• Opportunity to work in premier defense research organization
• Hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment
• Mentorship from experienced engineers and scientists
• Government-recognized apprenticeship certificate
• Competitive monthly stipend
• Direct exposure to defense sector
• Networking with defense professionals
• Potential for permanent employment
• Career advancement opportunities
• Pride of contributing to national defense

Q1: What is the selection criteria?

A: Merit-based selection based on academic performance. Candidates with higher CGPA/percentage are preferred within each category.

Q2: Is there any application fee?

A: No, application through NATS portal is completely free.

Q3: Can I pursue employment elsewhere during apprenticeship?

A: No, apprenticeship requires full-time commitment. It is not possible to work elsewhere simultaneously.

Q4: What happens after apprenticeship completion?

A: Candidates receive apprenticeship certificate and get priority consideration in future DRDO recruitment drives. Permanent employment depends on vacancies and performance.

Q5: Is stipend paid monthly?

A: Yes, stipend is paid monthly through direct bank transfer after completing monthly work.

Q6: How much leave is allowed during apprenticeship?

A: 15 days casual leave and 10 days sick leave per annum as per government norms.

Q7: Where is DEAL located?

A: Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL) is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

Q8: What disciplines are available for apprenticeship?

A: Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Science, IT, Communications, Instrumentation, Civil engineering, and various ITI trades.

Q9: When will results be announced?

A: Merit list and results will be announced on NATS portal after document verification. Date will be informed separately.

Q10: How to check application status?

A: Login to NATS portal with registration number and password to check application and selection status.

Before Application:

• Gather all required documents
• Take clear colored passport-size photograph
• Prepare digital signature
• Check all eligibility criteria
• Note down registration details

For Merit-Based Selection:

• Academic performance is primary criteria
• Ensure accurate entry of CGPA/percentage
• Higher marks give better chances
• Category-wise competition applies

During Apprenticeship:

• Maintain 90% minimum attendance
• Complete assigned projects with dedication
• Learn from experienced professionals
• Build professional network
• Maintain discipline and professionalism

Immediate Opportunities:

• Employment certificate for job applications
• DRDO preference in future recruitment
• Skill certificates in technical areas
• References from DRDO laboratories
• Defense sector employment opportunities

Long-term Career Path:

• Pursue higher technical education (M.Tech)
• Apply for permanent positions in DRDO
• Join other defense organizations
• Private sector technical roles
• Entrepreneurship in defense technology

1. Check eligibility criteria carefully before applying
2. Prepare accurate documents beforehand
3. Fill application with 100% accuracy
4. Submit application before deadline
5. Keep email and mobile active throughout process
6. Bring original documents for verification
7. Maintain minimum 90% attendance during apprenticeship
8. Follow all DRDO rules and guidelines
9. Be committed to 12-month full-time apprenticeship
10. Check official portals regularly for updates

NATS Portal: https://mhrdnats.gov.in/
DRDO Website: https://www.drdo.gov.in/
DEAL Laboratory: https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/laboratory/deal/

For technical issues with NATS portal, contact the official support team through the portal.

For recruitment details, visit drdo.gov.in or contact DEAL laboratory directly.

DRDO DEAL is recruiting 77 apprentices for 2026-27 in Graduate, Diploma, and ITI categories. This is a 12-month apprenticeship program offering practical experience in defense research and development. All information is as per official notification.