DRDO CVRDE JRF 2026: 16 Fellowships, ₹37,000 Stipend

Planning a research career after engineering? The DRDO CVRDE JRF 2026 notification might be worth your attention.

The Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), a key DRDO laboratory in Chennai, has announced 16 Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions. Selected candidates receive a ₹37,000 monthly fellowship plus HRA and medical benefits. Not bad for early-career researchers.

If you are an engineering graduate with a valid GATE score or a strong M.Tech background, this fellowship can open doors into defence research. And yes, the deadline isn't far away.

Program DRDO CVRDE Junior Research Fellowship 2026
| Organization  | Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
| Laboratory  | Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), Chennai
| Total Vacancies  | 16
| Monthly Stipend  | ₹37,000 + HRA + medical facilities
| Eligible Streams  | Mechanical, Electrical & Electronics, Electronics & Communication, Computer Science
| Age Limit  | 28 years (UR), 31 years (OBC), 33 years (SC/ST)
| Location  | Avadi, Chennai
| Application Mode  | Email or Post
| Last Date  | 15 July 2026

Before going further, you may also want to explore our complete guide to DRDO Internships 2026. Many students discover research opportunities there that rarely appear on job portals.

DRDO CVRDE JRF 2026 Vacancy Details

The fellowship positions are distributed across four engineering disciplines.

• Mechanical Engineering: 7 vacancies
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering: 2 vacancies
• Electronics and Communication Engineering: 5 vacancies
• Computer Science Engineering: 2 vacancies

Quick heads-up. CVRDE has made it clear that no allied or equivalent engineering disciplines are allowed. Your degree must match the listed discipline exactly.

₹37,000/Month Stipend and Fellowship Duration

The selected candidates under DRDO CVRDE JRF 2026 receive a consolidated fellowship of ₹37,000 per month.

On top of that:

• House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per rules
• Medical facilities according to DRDO policies

The fellowship is initially offered for two years. It may be extended further based on performance and DRDO rules.

Another interesting detail. Fellows may be allowed to register for a part-time PhD at a university or institution during the fellowship period, subject to approval from the CVRDE Director.

If you're exploring multiple DRDO research roles, you might also want to check the DRDO DRDE JRF 2026 walk-in recruitment which focuses on life sciences and chemistry candidates.

DRDO CVRDE JRF 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy both academic and age requirements.

Educational Qualification

• B.E. or B.Tech with First Division and a valid GATE score
• OR M.E./M.Tech with First Division in both graduate and postgraduate levels

If your degree is from a foreign university, you must obtain an equivalence certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), Delhi.

Age Limit

• General: Maximum 28 years
• OBC (Non Creamy Layer): Maximum 31 years
• SC/ST: Maximum 33 years

Age is calculated as on the date of application submission.

DRDO CVRDE JRF 2026 Selection Process

The selection process involves multiple stages conducted at CVRDE, Avadi in Chennai.

1. Shortlisting based on academic performance and qualifications.
2. Written Test (objective type) conducted at CVRDE.
3. Interview for candidates who clear the written test.

Both the written test and interview may be held on the same day. Candidates should be prepared to stay in Chennai for one or two days if required.

Also note that no TA or DA will be provided for attending the selection process.

Documents Required for DRDO CVRDE JRF 2026

Candidates must attach several supporting documents with their application.

• Self-attested proof of Date of Birth
• Educational certificates and mark sheets
• Valid GATE scorecard (if applicable)
• Caste certificate for reserved categories
• Experience certificates if available
• No Objection Certificate (for employed candidates)

If any certificate is in a language other than English, a self-attested English translation must also be attached.

Application Form and Undertaking Documents

The official advertisement includes multiple forms that applicants must review carefully. These documents are part of the application process.

You can access the complete document here: Download Application Form and Advertisement PDF.

The PDF contains the following sections:

• Annexure I: Main application form where candidates enter personal details, educational qualifications, GATE information, and experience.
• Annexure II: Declaration regarding intimation to Cadre Controlling Authority for candidates already working in an organization.
• Annexure III: No Objection Certificate (NOC) format that must be signed by the head of the current organization if the applicant is employed.

The application form also requires a recent passport-size photograph and a declaration confirming that the provided information is accurate.

How to Apply for DRDO CVRDE JRF 2026

1. Download the official form – Access the Application Form PDF and read the instructions carefully.
2. Fill Annexure I – Enter your personal information, academic details from SSC onwards, GATE qualification (if applicable), and contact details.
3. Attach required documents – Include self-attestedhttps://drdo.gov.in/drdo/sites/default/files/vacancy/advtCVRDE24062026.pdf copies of certificates, mark sheets, GATE scorecard, caste certificate, and identity proof.
4. Add declarations if applicable – If employed, include Annexure II and obtain a signed NOC using the Annexure III format.
5. Submit the application – Send the completed form and documents either by email or by post.

Email submission: pmhr.cvrde@gov.in

Postal address:
The Director
Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE)
DRDO, Ministry of Defence
Avadi, Chennai – 600054

If sending by post, write “Application for JRF Recruitment-2026” clearly on the envelope.

Location and Work Area at CVRDE

CVRDE is located in Avadi, about 25 km from Chennai Central railway station. The lab focuses on advanced research related to armoured fighting vehicle (AFV) technologies.

That includes mobility systems, vehicle electronics, power systems, and embedded technologies used in defence vehicles.

For engineering graduates who want exposure to defence R&D, the environment is quite unique. You rarely get this kind of access in private industry projects early in your career.

If you're exploring multiple government research options, you can also browse all opportunities on Talentd where new fellowships and internships are regularly tracked.

Important Rules Candidates Should Know

• Only candidates who already received their degree or provisional certificate can apply.
• Candidates previously awarded a DRDO JRF are not eligible again.
• The fellowship does not guarantee permanent employment in DRDO.
• Misrepresentation of information can lead to cancellation of candidature.

Honestly, many applicants overlook the discipline rule and apply with related branches. CVRDE has explicitly said that won't be accepted. Double check your degree title before sending the application.