DRDO CVRDE ITI Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Overview
The Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) located in Avadi, Chennai, has officially published a notification for the engagement of ITI Apprentice Trainees for the year 2026. A total of 93 vacancies are being offered across various technical ITI trades. Eligible candidates with relevant ITI qualifications are invited to attend the walk-in interview scheduled on 08 September 2026 and 09 September 2026.
This apprenticeship drive offers a prestigious platform for technical diploma holders and ITI pass-outs to gain invaluable practical experience in modern military engineering, tracked vehicle design, combat hardware development, and cutting-edge defense technologies. Interested applicants should thoroughly read the detailed notification guidelines, eligibility requirements, stipend structure, and document submission procedures before appearing for the walk-in interview venue.
Notification Background & Engagement Details
The Apprenticeship Training at CVRDE, Avadi, is conducted under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961 (as amended from time to time). Selected candidates will be engaged for a period of one year of mandatory apprenticeship training. During this tenure, apprentices will receive specialized hands-on exposure under the mentorship of senior DRDO defense scientists and engineering experts.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Qualification
The total pool of 93 ITI Apprentice posts is distributed across several key technical trades. Candidates must possess a valid National Trade Certificate (NTC) or State Trade Certificate (STC) issued by NCVT or SCVT in the respective discipline.
| Trade / Discipline Name | Total Vacancies | Minimum Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Fitter | 25 | 10th Class Pass + ITI in Fitter Trade (NCVT/SCVT) |
| Electrician | 20 | 10th Class Pass + ITI in Electrician Trade (NCVT/SCVT) |
| Turner | 10 | 10th Class Pass + ITI in Turner Trade (NCVT/SCVT) |
| Machinist | 12 | 10th Class Pass + ITI in Machinist Trade (NCVT/SCVT) |
| Welder (Gas & Electric) | 10 | 10th Class Pass + ITI in Welder Trade (NCVT/SCVT) |
| Mechanic (Motor Vehicle) | 08 | 10th Class Pass + ITI in MMV Trade (NCVT/SCVT) |
| COPA / Computer Operator | 08 | 10th Class Pass + ITI in COPA / IT Trade (NCVT/SCVT) |
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Candidates applying for the CVRDE ITI Apprentice posts must fulfill the prescribed age criteria as on the date of the walk-in interview:
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Maximum Age (UR / EWS): 27 Years
- Maximum Age Relaxation for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 Years (Up to 30 Years)
- Maximum Age Relaxation for SC / ST: 5 Years (Up to 32 Years)
- Maximum Age Relaxation for PWD Candidates: Up to 10 Years as per Government Rules
Reservation of seats for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PWD candidates will be applied strictly in accordance with statutory Government of India directives and Apprenticeship norms.
Stipend Structure & Perks
Selected ITI Apprentice Trainees will be paid a consolidated monthly stipend in accordance with the Apprenticeship Rules framed under the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO):
- COPA / Welder Trades: ₹7,700/- per month (Approx.)
- Two-Year ITI Trades (Fitter, Electrician, Machinist, etc.): ₹8,050/- per month (Approx.)
- Other Perks: Canteen access at subsidized rates and specialized technical exposure. Medical facilities for emergency first-aid inside CVRDE campus are provided. No housing allowance (HRA) or DA is permissible.
Selection Process & Evaluation Criteria
The recruitment process for DRDO CVRDE ITI Apprentice Trainees will be strictly merit-based, followed by performance in the personal interview/screening and document verification:
- Initial Screening: Evaluation of academic marks percentage secured in the qualifying ITI Trade Examination.
- Walk-in Interview / Practical Assessment: Candidates appearing on the walk-in dates (08 & 09 September 2026) will undergo document verification and personal technical interaction by the Selection Committee.
- Final Merit List: Prepared based on aggregate marks in ITI trades and performance during the walk-in interaction.
- Medical Examination: Final engagement is subject to physical fitness verification by an authorized medical officer.
Step-by-Step Walk-in Interview Guidelines
Candidates intending to appear for the CVRDE ITI Apprentice Walk-in Interview should strictly adhere to the following sequence:
- Visit the official apprenticeship portal (NAPS) at apprenticeshipindia.gov.in and complete your online profile registration.
- Download and print the official application form / bio-data format from the DRDO official website (drdo.gov.in).
- Fill out all personal, academic, and trade qualification details cleanly and accurately.
- Gather all original documents along with two sets of self-attested photocopies and recent passport-size colored photographs.
- Report at the designated interview venue at CVRDE, Avadi, Chennai on 08-09-2026 or 09-09-2026 before 09:00 AM for registration and certificate verification.
Documents Required for Walk-in Interview Verification
- Duly filled official application form / bio-data sheet.
- 10th / SSLC Marksheet and Board Certificate as proof of Date of Birth.
- National Trade Certificate (NTC) / State Trade Certificate (STC) and Marksheet of ITI in relevant trade.
- Community / Caste Certificate (SC / ST / OBC-NCL / EWS) issued by competent revenue authority.
- Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter Card, Driving License, or Passport).
- Proof of NAPS Registration Profile Printout.
- Four recent passport-size photographs.
- Physically Handicapped (PWD) Certificate (if applicable).