DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Offline for 41 Posts

DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Overview & Key Opportunities

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its premier laboratory, the Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi, has officially announced the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026. This recruitment drive, advertised under Advertisement No. 625/HR/Apprentice/2026/M/02 dated 29 July 2026, aims to engage a total of 41 candidates as ITI, Diploma, and Graduate Apprentices. This is a golden opportunity for candidates who have recently completed their qualifications and are seeking hands-on training in a prestigious defence research environment.

The apprenticeship will be conducted under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961, and will last for a period of 12 months. The training will take place at SSPL, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi – 110054. This recruitment is unique in its application process, requiring candidates to first register on the relevant national apprenticeship portal and then submit a physical application form by post. The last date for the application to reach SSPL is 21 August 2026.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026, covering all essential details such as vacancy breakdown, eligibility criteria, stipend, selection process, and step-by-step application instructions. Whether you are a fresh graduate, diploma holder, or ITI pass-out, this guide will help you navigate the application process with confidence.

DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Notification Highlights

The DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification brings several key highlights that every applicant should know. Here is a quick summary:

• Organization: Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
• Advertisement Number: 625/HR/Apprentice/2026/M/02, dated 29 July 2026.
• Post Name: Apprentice (ITI Apprentice, Diploma Apprentice, Graduate Apprentice).
• Total Vacancies: 41 (combined across all categories; category-wise split not specified).
• Nature of Engagement: Apprenticeship training for 12 months under the Apprentices Act, 1961.
• Who Can Apply: Candidates who passed their qualifying examination as regular students in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026, and who have registered on the applicable national apprenticeship portal.
• Application Mode: Offline – application form submitted in hard copy by post (after prior online registration on NATS/Apprenticeship India portal).
• Last Date to Apply: 21 August 2026.
• Training Location: SSPL, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi – 110054.

These highlights provide a snapshot of the recruitment, but the following sections will delve into each aspect in detail.

About Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) & DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is the premier agency under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, responsible for the development of defence technologies. Established in 1958, DRDO operates a network of laboratories across the country, each specializing in different areas of defence research. The Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), located in Delhi, is one such laboratory dedicated to research and development in solid-state physics, materials science, and semiconductor devices.

SSPL plays a crucial role in the development of advanced electronic materials, sensors, and devices for defence applications. By joining as an apprentice at SSPL, candidates get the unique opportunity to work alongside leading scientists and engineers, gaining invaluable practical experience in a cutting-edge research environment. The DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is an excellent stepping stone for young professionals aspiring to build a career in defence research and technology.

DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details & Post Breakdown

The DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 offers a total of 41 vacancies across three apprenticeship categories. The notification does not specify the exact number of vacancies for each category, as it may vary depending on the laboratory's requirement. However, the categories are as follows:

It is important to note that the total number of vacancies may be increased or decreased by SSPL as per its requirements. Candidates are advised to keep an eye on the official website for any updates.

Category-Wise Vacancy Reservation for DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026

Reservation for SC/ST/OBC/PWD/EWS categories will apply as per the provisions of the Apprentices Act 1961, Apprentice Rules 1992, and the Apprenticeship (Amendment) Rules 2015. However, the notification does not specify the category-wise vacancy break-up. Candidates belonging to reserved categories are advised to refer to the official notification for any specific details. The reservation policy ensures equal opportunities for all eligible candidates.

Educational Qualification & Eligibility Criteria for DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026

The eligibility criteria for the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 are strictly defined. Candidates must have passed their qualifying examination as regular students in the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026. Those who passed earlier than 2022 are not eligible. Additionally, candidates must have registered on the relevant national apprenticeship portal as mentioned below.

ITI Apprentice

For the ITI Apprentice position, candidates must possess an ITI certificate (First Division) in one of the following trades: Fitter, Electronics Mechanic, Electrician, Computer Operator and Programming Assistant (COPA), Machinist, or Carpenter. Additionally, they must have passed 10th standard with First Division. ITI candidates must register on the Apprenticeship India portal at https://www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in.

Diploma Apprentice

For the Diploma Apprentice position, candidates must have a Diploma (First Division) in Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics, Instrumentation, or Computer Science Engineering. They must also have passed 10th and Diploma with First Division. Diploma candidates must register on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal at https://nats.education.gov.in.

Graduate Apprentice

For the Graduate Apprentice position, candidates must have a regular Graduation degree (First Division) in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Computer Science, OR a B.A./B.Com degree, OR a B.E./B.Tech (First Division) in Electronics, Mechanical, Electrical, Communication Engineering, VLSI, or Chemical Engineering from a recognized University/Institution. Graduate candidates must also register on the NATS portal.

Age Limit & Category Relaxations

The notification for DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 does not specify any age limit. This is a common practice for apprenticeship recruitments under the Apprentices Act, 1961, where age limits are often relaxed or not applicable. However, candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for any age-related updates. If an age limit is applicable, standard government relaxations may apply: OBC candidates get 3 years, SC/ST candidates get 5 years, and PwD candidates get 10 years of relaxation. Candidates should keep checking the official SSPL website for any clarifications.

Salary Details, Pay Scale & Perks

The stipend for all three apprenticeship categories (ITI, Diploma, Graduate Apprentice) under the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is as per rules. The notification does not specify an exact stipend amount. Typically, apprenticeship stipends are governed by the Apprenticeship Rules and may vary based on the category and the organization. Candidates can expect a stipend in line with government norms, which is usually a fixed monthly amount. Additionally, apprentices are not entitled to government quarters, hostel accommodation, or transport facilities during the training period. The training is primarily for skill development, and there is no guarantee of employment after completion.

DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Selection Process & Examination Phases

The selection process for the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is not explicitly detailed in the notification. It states that verification of credentials will be carried out for selected candidates prior to the creation of the apprenticeship contract. Any deviation or non-conformity with the desired qualification will lead to summary rejection of candidature. Selected candidates must submit a Police Verification Certificate after joining. The exact basis on which candidates are shortlisted or selected (e.g., merit percentage) is not specified. Candidates are advised to ensure that all their documents are accurate and complete to avoid rejection. The selection may be based on the percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying examination, but this is not confirmed.

Application Fee Details

The application fee for the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is not specified in the notification. This suggests that there may be no application fee, or it may be waived for all candidates. However, candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for any fee-related updates. If a fee is applicable, it is likely to be nominal, and payment methods will be specified in the notification. Candidates should not pay any fee unless explicitly mentioned in the official advertisement.

Important Dates & Schedule

Here are the key dates for the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026:

Candidates must ensure that their applications reach SSPL on or before the last date. Late applications will not be considered.

Required Documents for DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Application

When applying for the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026, candidates must attach self-attested photocopies of the following documents along with the application form:

• Educational qualification certificates and mark sheets (10th, ITI/Diploma/Degree).
• Proof of date of birth (e.g., birth certificate, 10th certificate).
• Identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, or any government-issued ID).
• Recent passport-size photograph (affixed on the application form).
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD) if applicable.
• Domicile certificate (if required).
• NATS/Apprenticeship India portal registration details (enrollment number).
• Any other relevant certificates as specified in the notification.

Ensure all documents are self-attested and legible.

How to Apply Online

The application process for the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is a hybrid one – it requires online registration on the national apprenticeship portal followed by offline submission of the application form by post. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Online Registration: For Diploma and Graduate candidates, register on the NATS portal at https://nats.education.gov.in. For ITI candidates, register on the Apprenticeship India portal at https://www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. Ensure you have a valid enrollment number.
2. Download Application Form: Download the application form format provided in the official notification (Advertisement No. 625/HR/Apprentice/2026/M/02).
3. Fill the Application Form: Duly fill in all the required details in the application form. Affix a recent passport-size photograph and sign where required.
4. Attach Documents: Attach self-attested photocopies of all relevant documents, including educational certificates, ID proof, category certificates, and the NATS/Apprenticeship India registration details.
5. Send by Post: Send the completed application form and documents by post to the following address: Director, SSPL, Kind Attention: HRD, SSPL, DRDO, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi – 110054.
6. Ensure Timely Delivery: Make sure the application reaches SSPL on or before 21 August 2026. Use a reliable postal service and keep a copy of the application for your records.

Note: This recruitment does not have an online application submission step beyond the initial NATS/Apprenticeship India portal registration. The actual application form must be submitted physically by post.

Important Instructions & Guidelines for DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Applicants

Here are some critical instructions and guidelines for applicants:

• The apprenticeship training period is 12 months from the execution of the Contract of Apprenticeship, under the Apprentices Act, 1961.
• All correspondence, including the offer letter (if selected), will be through email only. Ensure you provide a valid email address and check it regularly.
• SSPL is not obligated to offer employment to any apprentice after completion of the training.
• Apprentices will not be provided government quarters, hostel accommodation, or transport during the training period.
• SSPL reserves the right to increase/decrease the number of seats, or withdraw/cancel the advertisement or selection process, without assigning any reason.
• Suppression of facts, or canvassing/personal follow-up to influence selection, will lead to disqualification/cancellation of candidature.
• Legal jurisdiction for any dispute lies with the Hon'ble High Court of Delhi.
• Ensure that your application is complete and all documents are self-attested. Incomplete applications are likely to be rejected.

Job Location & Posting Details

The training for the DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 will be conducted at SSPL, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi – 110054. This is the primary and only location for the apprenticeship. Candidates must be willing to relocate to Delhi for the duration of the training. The application mode is offline (by post), and the training location is in Delhi. Candidates should consider the location and associated logistics before applying.

Final Summary & Advice for Candidates

The DRDO SSPL Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for ITI, Diploma, and Graduate candidates to gain hands-on experience in a prestigious defence research laboratory. With 41 vacancies, the competition is expected to be moderate, but the unique offline application process requires careful attention to detail. Candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria, register on the appropriate portal, and submit their applications well before the deadline of 21 August 2026.

It is crucial to double-check all documents, fill the application form accurately, and send it via a reliable postal service. Keep a copy of the application and the postal receipt for future reference. Since the selection process is not clearly defined, focus on presenting your qualifications and achievements effectively. This apprenticeship can be a valuable addition to your resume and a stepping stone to a career in defence research.

We wish all applicants the very best for their application and future endeavours. to the official SSPL website for any updates or clarifications.

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Career Content Specialist, SEO Strategist, and Fact-Checking Writer for Sarkari Job Finders

This article has been manually researched, cross-referenced with the official notification, and structured to provide verified, candidate-centric information.

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