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On 10 Oct 2026
DRDO DGRE Fellowship Program 2026 Overview
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), specifically through the Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE) in Chandigarh, has officially invited applications for its prestigious Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) program. This initiative serves as an exceptional golden opportunity for young minds and technically skilled students who wish to pursue a dynamic career path in defence research and advanced scientific investigations. The recruitment process is structured entirely around walk-in interviews, making it direct and accessible for qualified applicants.
The designated walk-in interviews will take place on 15 and 16 September 2026 at the DGRE facility in Chandigarh. Candidates aiming to build expertise in specialized fields such as computer science, structural engineering, geo-informatics, and atmospheric sciences are encouraged to review the notification details thoroughly and participate.
Discipline-Wise Eligibility and Interview Schedule
The fellowship covers multiple engineering and post-graduate science branches. Each discipline requires specific academic credentials, combined with national-level eligibility tests like NET or GATE.
1. Computer Science & Engineering / IT: Candidates need a first-division ME or M.Tech degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Information Technology, alongside a valid GATE or NET score. Alternatively, a first-division BE or B.Tech degree with valid NET/GATE scores is accepted. Practical background in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Big Data, Image Processing, programming languages (Python, C/C/Java), or Virtual Reality (Unity engine) is considered a strong asset. The interview for this stream is scheduled for 15 September 2026.
2. Structural Engineering: Applicants must hold a first-division BE or B.Tech degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Structural Engineering, plus a valid NET or GATE qualification. Working knowledge of drawing and drafting software like AutoCAD, structural analysis applications like STAAD Pro/ETAB, and Finite Element Analysis tools (ANSYS/ABAQUS) provides a distinct advantage. The interview date for structural engineering is also 15 September 2026.
3. Geo-Informatics / Remote Sensing & GIS: This area requires a first-division ME or M.Tech degree in Geo-informatics, Remote Sensing and GIS, Geomatics, or Geospatial Engineering at both graduation and post-graduation levels. Familiarity with GIS software, programming frameworks, AI/ML spatial analysis, and SAR data processing is heavily preferred. Interviews for geo-informatics will be conducted on 16 September 2026.
4. Atmospheric Science & Meteorology: Candidates must possess a first-division post-graduate science degree accompanied by a valid NET or GATE qualification in Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, or Environmental Science, alongside a foundational Bachelor of Science degree. Exposure to numerical weather prediction models and statistical analysis instruments is preferred. The interview takes place on 16 September 2026.
Fellowship Parameters, Stipend, and Age Criteria
Selected candidates will receive comprehensive financial support and academic growth opportunities during their tenure.
1. Stipend Structure: Selected Junior Research Fellows are entitled to a monthly fellowship stipend of ₹37,000, along with applicable House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per government guidelines.
2. Tenure of Fellowship: The initial duration of the JRF program is two years, which may be reviewed or regulated under standard DRDO policies.
3. Age Limits: The maximum age restriction is capped at 28 years as of the designated cut-off date. Standard age relaxations apply, granting 5 years for SC/ST applicants and 3 years for OBC candidates.
Walk-In Interview Guidelines and Required Documents
To streamline participation, candidates must carefully assemble their paperwork beforehand. The application template can be downloaded straight from the official DRDO web portal (drdo.gov.in).
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DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST FOR INTERVIEW
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1. Duly completed application form received via email / downloaded
2. Detailed candidate Bio-data / Resume
3. One set of self-attested photocopies of all academic certificates
4. Original mark sheets, degrees, and passing certificates (10th onwards)
5. Valid Caste certificate, experience papers, and publication proofs
6. Recent passport-size photographs
7. No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed in public sector/govt
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On the day of the interview, the reporting time is set for 08:30 AM, followed by initial document verification from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, and technical interviews commencing from 11:00 AM onwards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the official venue and date for the DGRE DRDO JRF walk-in interviews?
Ans: The interviews are scheduled for 15 and 16 September 2026 at the Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE), Him Parisar, Sector 37-A, Chandigarh.
Q2: What is the monthly stipend provided to Junior Research Fellows?
Ans: Selected candidates receive a monthly stipend of ₹37,000 plus applicable HRA.
Q3: Is a GATE or NET score mandatory to apply for these fellowships?
Ans: Yes, a valid NET or GATE qualification is compulsory for engineering and science disciplines alongside the requisite educational degrees.
Q4: What is the upper age limit for the JRF position, and is there any relaxation?
Ans: The maximum age limit is 28 years, with a 5-year relaxation for SC/ST candidates and a 3-year relaxation for OBC candidates.
Q5: Does this fellowship guarantee a permanent job within DRDO?
Ans: No, the award of the fellowship is strictly temporary for an initial period of two years and does not confer any legal right to regular appointment or absorption within DRDO.