DRDO is an acronym of “Defense Research and Development Organization”. DRDO was established in 1958.
DRDO was formed in 1958 from the amalgamation of the then already functioning Technical Development Establishment (TDEs) of the Indian Army and the Directorate of Technical Development & Production (DTDP) with the Defense Science Organization (DSO).
In this article, we will discuss about DRDO, its functionality and about the job opportunities in DRDO.
Overview of DRDO
DRDO was formed in 1958. Its headquarter is in New Delhi.
DRDO is the R&D wing of Ministry of Defense, Govt of India, with a vision to empower India with cutting-edge Defense technologies and a mission to achieve self-reliance in critical Defence technologies and systems, while equipping our armed forces with state-of-the-art weapon systems and equipment in accordance with requirements laid down by the three Services.
Mission of DRDO
- Design, develop and lead to production state-of-the-art sensors, weapon systems, platforms and allied equipment for our Defense Services.
- Provide technological solutions to the Services to optimise combat effectiveness and to promote well-being of the troops.
- Develop infrastructure and committed quality manpower and build strong indigenous technology base.
Vision of DRDO
Empowering the nation with state-of-the-art indigenous Defense technologies and systems.
“Balasya Mulam Vigyanam”—the source of strength is science-drives the nation in peace and war.
Organizational Structure
In 1958, when DRDO was formed, it was running with the 10 establishments or laboratories.
Over the years, it has grown multi-directionally in terms of variety of subject disciplines, number of laboratories, achievements and stature.
Today, DRDO is a network of more than 50 laboratories which are deeply engaged in developing Defence technologies covering various disciplines, like aeronautics, armaments, electronics, combat vehicles, engineering systems, instrumentation, missiles, advanced computing and simulation, special materials, naval systems, life sciences, training, information systems and agriculture.
Roles and Responsibilities of DRDO
● DRDO engages in Defense R&D areas of mutual interest with Friendly Foreign Countries.
● DRDO participates in all the G-to-G meetings at MoD/MEA level
● DRDO conducts bilateral engagements in Defense R&D with USA, UK, Russia, Singapore and Republic of Korea
● Coordinates Workshops / Seminars / Conferences / Brain-Storming sessions in various topics of Defense R&D
● Explore possible engagements with Industry and Academia
Notable Achievements and Contribution of DRDO in Indian Defense
DRDO, i.e., Defense Research And Development Organization in Indian Defense, is a wing of Defense, and we will study the roles and responsibilities of DRDO also its contribution to Defense.
The organization is run by the Indian government’s Defence Ministry. It was founded to promote military equipment research, design, and manufacturing.
DRDO, on the other hand, has designed thousands of products with both military and civilian applications throughout its existence.
DRDO’s pursuit of self-reliance and successful indigenous development and production of strategic systems and platforms such as “Agni and Prithvi series of missiles; light combat aircraft, Tejas; multi-barrel rocket launcher, Pinaka; air defense system, Akash; a wide range of radars and electronic warfare systems; etc., have given quantum jump to India’s military might, generating effective deterrence and providing crucial leverage.
Let us see some of the notable achievements of DRDO.
i) On 14 March 2023, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted two consecutive flight tests of the Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the coast of Odisha.
ii) Because of the notable achievements of DRDO, our country India is among one of the 4 countries to have Multi-level Strategic Capability.
iii) Our Country is One of the 4 countries to have Airborne Warning & Control System (AEW&C)
iv) India is among One of the 7 countries to have developed its own Main Battle Tank
Job Opportunities in DRDO
Walk in Interview on 4th OCT, 5th OCT 2023
VENUE : DLOMI, DRDO TOWNSHIP, KANCHANBAGH, HYDERABAD
DRDO invites applications from young and meritorious Indian Nationals, who desire to pursue Defence related research as Junior Research Fellow (JRF).
| Sr. No. | Fellowship | Subject/Disciplines | Essential Qualification |
| 1. | Junior Research Fellow | Electrical & Electronics Engineering / Electronics & Communication Engineering | B.Tech./B.E with First Class in Electrical & Electronics Engg. / Electronics & Communication Engg. from UGC recognized University with GATE valid score (Paper code: EE/EC) (or) M.E/M.Tech with First-Class in Electrical & Electronics Engg. / Electronics & Communication Engg. from UGC recognized University and B.Tech/B.E (EEE/ECE) with First Class from UGC recognized University |
| 2. | Junior Research Fellow | Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering | B.Tech./B.E with First Class in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engg. from UGC recognized University with GATE valid score (Paper code: AE) (or) M.E/M.Tech with First-Class in Aeronautical/ Aerospace Engg. from UGC recognized University and B.Tech/B.E (Aeronautical/ Aerospace Engg.) with First Class from UGC recognized University |
Stipend (Monthly): JRF will receive a stipend of Rs.37,000/- plus HRA as per DRDO Rules.
JRF Tenure: Initially the offer is for a period of two years which may be extendable for further two years subject to Internal Screening Committee recommendations.
Age Limit :- The upper age limit is maximum of 28 years as on 4th Oct 2023. The upper age limit relaxable to the candidates belonging to SC/ST is 5 years and OBC is 3 years.
Selection Procedure :-
i) Eligible candidates will be shortlisted based on valid GATE score and percentage of marks obtained in minimum qualifying degree.
ii) GATE paper and subject of qualifying degree must be related to the subject/discipline against which the candidate is applying.
iii) Candidates serving in Govt. or in Govt. owned organization will be required to produce “NOC” from their respective Department/Employer at the time of interview failing which the candidate will not be allowed to appear for the interview or they should apply through proper channel.
iv) Working experience in the area of subject will be preferred
In conclusion, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) stands as a formidable testament to India’s unwavering commitment to technological prowess and national security.
For decades, it has been the vanguard of innovation, consistently pushing the boundaries of science and technology to safeguard the nation’s interests.
As we’ve explored its rich history, diverse research areas, notable achievements, and ongoing contributions to India’s defense capabilities, it becomes abundantly clear that DRDO is not merely an organization; it is an arsenal of innovation
