If you’re a high-performing engineering student looking to gain real-world experience in armament technology under India’s premier defense R&D organization, DRDO ARDE’s 6-month paid internship may be the perfect opportunity. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know—from eligibility and stipend to the application process and deadlines.
Internship Overview
Conducting Body:
Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Ministry of Defence, Government of India
Internship Location:
ARDE, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune – 411021
Internship Duration:
6 Months (Starting from 1st August 2025)
Monthly Stipend:
₹5,000 (Total ₹30,000 for 6 months, paid in two installments)
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Apply | Within 10 Days from Advertisement Publication |
| Notification to Selected Candidates | 25th July 2025 |
| Internship Commencement | 1st August 2025 |
Fields/Branches Available
Internships are open for the following disciplines, identified by their branch codes:
| Branch Code | Discipline | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| EE | Electrical / Power Engineering | 05 |
| ECE & IN | Electronics, Instrumentation, Automation, Embedded Systems, etc. | 07 |
| ME | Mechanical, Armament, Production Engineering | 16 |
| MS | Materials Science / Materials Engineering | 02 |
| AE | Aeronautical Engineering, Rocket Propulsion | 05 |
| AI & DS | Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, System Engineering | 05 |
| CS | Computer Science / IT | Not Specified |
Note: Vacancies are tentative and may be revised by ARDE at its discretion.
Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification:
- B.E./B.Tech students in their 7th or 8th semester
- M.E./M.Tech students in their 1st or 2nd year
- Must be enrolled in full-time programs from recognized Indian institutes/universities approved by AICTE/UGC.
- Academic Performance:
- Minimum CGPA: 8.5/10 or 85% marks
- Strong academic record throughout previous semesters is mandatory.
- Age Limit:
- Applicant should be below 28 years at the time of application.
- Recommendation Requirement:
- Must be recommended via an official letter from the Principal/Director of your college/institute.
- Other Documents:
- Bio-data (within 300 words)
- Mention of awards, publications, or memberships (if any)
Stipend Structure
- ₹5,000 per month
- Two installments:
- First: After completing 3 months of physical attendance (minimum 15 working days/month)
- Second: After successful completion of full 6-month internship
Note: No stipend will be paid if internship is discontinued before 3 months.
How to Apply
Submission Mode:
Only offline applications are accepted.
Address for Application:
To,
The Director,
Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE),
Dr. Homi Bhabha Marg,
Pashan, Pune – 411021
(Kind Attn: HRD Division)
Envelope Label:
Mention clearly on the top of the envelope:
“Application for Paid Internship – Branch Code: [Insert Your Branch Code]”
Required Documents
At the time of joining, selected students must present:
- Original No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the institution
- Police Verification Receipt (from local police station)
- Aadhar Card (Original) & College ID
- Undertakings for:
- Indian Official Secrets Act, 1923
- Adherence to IT rules of Ministry of Defence
- Bank Account Details
- Medical Fitness Certificate from MBBS-qualified doctor
- All previous semester mark sheets (originals for verification)
- Three recent passport-sized photographs
- Request Letter from college as per prescribed format
- Indemnity Bond signed by the institution
Accommodation & Food
- No boarding/lodging will be provided.
- Canteen facility available at subsidized rates for lunch, tea, and snacks.
Selection & Evaluation Process
- Selection is merit-based only; no interviews or communication with unselected candidates.
- Shortlisted applicants will be informed via official communication.
- Evaluation will be based on:
- Project work
- Attendance (minimum 15 working days/month)
- Project report submission
Internship Completion & Certification
Upon satisfactory completion of the 6-month tenure, students will receive a Completion Certificate. Students leaving midway or failing to meet the minimum attendance requirement will not be awarded any certificate or stipend.
Key Points to Remember
- Incomplete or late applications will be rejected.
- No application fees required at any stage.
- The internship does not guarantee any job offer at DRDO or ARDE.
- Final decision rests solely with the management.
How to Fill the Application Form
- Download and Fill the Application Form (Page 4,5,6)
- Attach required documents including:
- Mark sheets
- Recommendation letter
- Bio-data
- Use a good-quality envelope and write the correct subject line with branch code.
- Send it via Speed Post to the address mentioned above.