DRDO Recruitment 2026 – Apply 188 Accounts Officer, PS, Director Posts

DRDO Recruitment 2026: Apply Offline for 188 Accounts Officer, Private Secretary, and Director Posts via Deputation

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), a premier organization under the Government of India's Ministry of Defence, has announced a major recruitment drive for 2026. This notification invites applications for 188 vacancies across various administrative and technical roles, including Accounts Officer, Private Secretary (PS), Director posts, and other positions. The application process for this recruitment is based on Deputation/Absorption, which means the positions are open primarily to existing government employees seeking a transfer or new career opportunity within DRDO.

For individuals currently serving in Central Government, State Government, or other autonomous bodies, this represents a significant opportunity to join DRDO's workforce. The recruitment aims to strengthen the administrative and financial wings of the organization across different laboratories and establishments in India. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the DRDO Recruitment 2026, detailing eligibility criteria, application procedures, important dates, and salary expectations.

All interested candidates are strongly encouraged to carefully review the official notification before applying. The application process is entirely offline, and candidates must submit their applications through proper channels, specifically through their existing employers, ensuring all necessary clearances are obtained. This recruitment drive, with its substantial number of posts, highlights DRDO's commitment to building a robust administrative structure to support its core research activities in defence technology.

Key Highlights of DRDO Recruitment 2026

This section summarizes the key details of the DRDO recruitment for 188 posts. The recruitment operates on a deputation/absorption basis, which differs significantly from direct recruitment. Deputation allows candidates from other government departments to serve a fixed tenure (usually 3-5 years) at DRDO, while absorption leads to permanent transfer to the organization.

The total number of posts advertised is 188, covering various levels and functions. The posts range from entry-level administrative roles to senior leadership positions, providing options for candidates with diverse experience profiles in government service. The application process is currently active, and eligible candidates must ensure their applications reach the DRDO headquarters by the specified deadline in March 2026.

The recruitment notification explicitly states the eligibility criteria for different pay levels (Pay Matrix levels 7, 8, 10, 12, etc.) based on existing service and experience. Candidates must check if their current position and experience match the requirements for the specific post they intend to apply for. The full notification PDF contains detailed information about each post's specific requirements.

DRDO Recruitment 2026 – Important Dates and Application Status

It is crucial for potential candidates to note the timeline for this recruitment drive. As of the current date, 27 February 2026, the application window is open. The application process began in January 2026. Candidates must ensure that their applications, complete with all supporting documentation, are submitted well before the final deadline.

The last date for offline application submission is set for March 2026. Since the application must pass through the candidate's existing employer for forwarding to DRDO, candidates are advised to initiate the process as early as possible. This process can take several weeks for administrative approval and processing within the current organization. Late applications are strictly not considered by DRDO.

Vacancy Details: Breakdown of 188 Posts

The DRDO recruitment drive for 2026 aims to fill a total of 188 posts across various technical and non-technical categories. The posts specifically mentioned in the short notification include Accounts Officer, Private Secretary, and Director posts. The breakdown below provides an estimated distribution of these vacancies based on common requirements within a major organization like DRDO. Note that the official notification details the exact number of posts for each specific title.

The roles advertised are crucial for the efficient functioning of DRDO establishments, covering finance, administration, secretarial support, and higher management. The recruitment focuses on experienced individuals capable of contributing immediately to the organization's mission. Here is a post-wise distribution of the 188 vacancies:

Candidates applying for these positions must ensure they meet the specific eligibility criteria for each respective role, particularly concerning their current pay scale and service length, which are mandatory requirements for deputation/absorption recruitment.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements (Deputation Basis)

The eligibility criteria for DRDO recruitment 2026 are specific to the nature of deputation and absorption. Unlike open market recruitment, these posts are not generally available to fresh graduates or individuals from the private sector. The criteria focus on a candidate's existing service record and experience in government organizations.

To be eligible for the 188 posts, candidates must meet the following general requirements:

1. Current Employment Status: The candidate must be an employee of the Central Government, State Government, Union Territory Administration, Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), Statutory Bodies, Autonomous Bodies, or recognized research institutions.

2. Experience Requirement for Deputation: The eligibility criteria typically require specific years of service in a relevant field and in the current pay level or equivalent. For instance, to apply for an Accounts Officer position (Pay Level 7/8), candidates must often meet one of the following conditions:

• Hold a similar post on a regular basis in the parent cadre/department.
• Have three to five years of regular service in the immediate lower pay level (e.g., Pay Level 6 for Accounts Officer).

For higher positions like Director or Senior Accounts Officer, candidates need substantial experience (10+ years) in relevant roles and a matching pay level.

3. Age Limit: The maximum age limit for applying on deputation basis is typically 56 years as of the closing date of the application. Age relaxation may be applicable as per government rules for certain categories.

4. Educational Qualifications: While specific educational qualifications vary by post, candidates must generally hold a relevant bachelor's degree. For roles like Accounts Officer, a background in finance or commerce (e.g., B.Com) or professional qualifications like CA/ICWA may be desirable or mandatory. For technical posts, specific engineering or scientific degrees are required.

5. Vigilance Clearance and NOC: Candidates must obtain a "No Objection Certificate" (NOC) and "Vigilance Clearance" from their current employer. These documents confirm that the candidate's service record is clean and free from disciplinary proceedings.

Application Process: How to Apply for DRDO Recruitment 2026 Offline

The application procedure for the DRDO recruitment 2026 for 188 posts is strictly offline and requires submission through the proper channel. This process ensures that the parent department approves the candidate's application before it reaches DRDO for selection. Follow these steps to complete the application process successfully:

Step 1: Download the Application Form and Notification
Candidates must first download the official notification and application form from the official website or a trusted source like Sarkari Result All (https://www.sarkariresultall.in/). The notification contains the detailed job description, eligibility criteria, and the prescribed format for the application form.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
Fill in all required details in the application form. Ensure accuracy, especially regarding personal information, educational qualifications, employment history, and current pay scale. Candidates should specify clearly whether they are applying for deputation or absorption.

Step 3: Collect Required Documents
Candidates must attach photocopies of all necessary documents. These typically include:

• Educational certificates (SSC, HSC, Degree, etc.).
• Experience certificates.
• Caste certificate (if applicable).
• Vigilance clearance certificate from the current employer.
• Integrity certificate from the current employer.
• Photocopies of Annual Performance Appraisal Reports (APARs) for the last 5 years.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the parent department.
• Statement of Major/Minor Penalties imposed during the last 10 years.

Step 4: Submission Through Proper Channel
This is the most critical step for deputation applications. The candidate must submit the filled application form and required documents to their administrative head or controlling authority within their current organization. The administrative head will then review the application, complete the necessary endorsements (like vigilance clearance and APAR details), and forward it to the designated address at DRDO.

Step 5: Address for Submission
The completed application, endorsed by the current employer, must be sent via registered post or courier to the specific address mentioned in the DRDO recruitment notification. The envelope containing the application must be clearly superscribed with "Application for the post of [Post Name] on Deputation/Absorption Basis".

Selection Process for Accounts Officer and Private Secretary Posts

The selection process for DRDO recruitment 2026 for 188 posts on a deputation basis differs from standard competitive exams. The process primarily involves screening and evaluation based on service records rather than written tests.

1. Scrutiny of Applications:
All applications received by DRDO through the proper channel will undergo thorough scrutiny. The selection committee will verify a candidate's service record, performance reports (APARs), vigilance status, and experience to assess their suitability for the applied post. Applications that are incomplete, not submitted through the proper channel, or lack necessary clearances will be rejected.

2. Shortlisting of Candidates:
Based on the scrutiny and evaluation of service records, candidates will be shortlisted for the interview round. The selection committee usually sets a benchmark based on the quality of experience and performance. For senior positions like Director, the committee focuses heavily on leadership skills and achievements documented in the service history.

3. Interview and Final Selection:
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. The interview panel, comprising senior officials from DRDO and related ministries, will evaluate the candidate's technical knowledge (for specific roles), administrative capabilities, experience in relevant areas, and overall suitability for a position within DRDO. The final selection will be based on the candidate's performance in the interview and their service record.

Salary Structure and Benefits on Deputation/Absorption

DRDO offers competitive salary structures and benefits for employees recruited on a deputation or absorption basis. The pay scale for the various posts aligns with the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) recommendations. The specific pay level determines the basic salary, which is then supplemented by allowances.

1. Salary on Deputation:
Candidates selected on a deputation basis typically continue to receive the pay they were drawing in their parent department. In addition, they receive a 'deputation allowance' as per government rules, which is usually a percentage (e.g., 20%) of their basic pay. This makes the total remuneration higher during the deputation period. For a post like Accounts Officer (Pay Level 7), the salary range would be within Rs. 44,900 to Rs. 1,42,400 per month, plus allowances like DA (Dearness Allowance), HRA (House Rent Allowance), and other perks specific to DRDO.

2. Salary on Absorption:
If a candidate is absorbed into DRDO after a successful deputation tenure, they are integrated into DRDO's pay matrix. Their pay is protected, meaning their current basic pay will be matched to the nearest higher stage in the new DRDO pay level. They become permanent employees of DRDO and receive all associated benefits, including retirement benefits as per DRDO rules, which fall under the Ministry of Defence guidelines.

DRDO Recruitment 2026: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to common questions regarding the DRDO Recruitment 2026 for 188 posts on a deputation basis:

1. What is Deputation/Absorption, and how is it different from direct recruitment?

Deputation is a method where an employee from one government department or organization temporarily transfers to another department or organization for a specific period (e.g., 3-5 years). The candidate retains lien with their parent organization. Absorption means the candidate permanently transfers from their parent organization to the new organization (DRDO) and becomes a permanent employee of DRDO. This recruitment is only for existing government employees, unlike direct recruitment which is open to all eligible fresh candidates through competitive exams.

2. Who is eligible to apply for these 188 posts at DRDO?

Only candidates currently serving in a Central Government, State Government, PSU, Autonomous Body, or similar government organization are eligible to apply. The notification specifies requirements based on service length in a specific pay level and existing employment status. Freshers or private sector employees cannot apply for these specific deputation posts.

3. How can I get the official notification and application form for DRDO recruitment 2026?

The official notification PDF and application form can be downloaded from the official website of DRDO or from the provided links on job portals like Sarkari Result All (https://www.sarkariresultall.in/). The notification contains all details regarding post-wise vacancies, eligibility, and the application procedure.

4. What documents are required for the offline application process?

The required documents typically include a filled application form, copies of educational and experience certificates, caste certificates (if applicable), and most importantly, service-related documents like Annual Performance Appraisal Reports (APARs) for the last 5 years, vigilance clearance certificate, integrity certificate, and No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer.

5. Is there an application fee for the DRDO recruitment 2026?

Generally, there is no application fee for applying to DRDO positions on a deputation/absorption basis. However, candidates should always verify this specific detail in the official notification to ensure compliance with any instructions.

6. What is the last date to apply for DRDO Accounts Officer, Private Secretary, and Director posts in 2026?

The last date for application submission is March 2026. Candidates must ensure that their applications reach the DRDO headquarters before this deadline. Since the application must pass through the proper channel (via the existing employer), candidates should start the process well in advance to avoid delays.

7. What happens after I submit my application?

DRDO will first scrutinize all applications received through the proper channel. Shortlisted candidates, based on their service records and experience, will be called for an interview. The final selection will be based on performance in the interview and a review of service history and suitability.

8. Can I apply for more than one post in this recruitment drive?

Candidates are usually advised to apply for only one post that best matches their experience and eligibility criteria. However, if multiple posts are open to the same pay level and eligibility, a candidate may apply for them separately if permitted by the notification and their parent department.

9. Where will the selected candidates be posted?

DRDO has numerous laboratories and establishments across India. The exact location of posting for selected candidates will be determined based on the specific requirements of DRDO and will be mentioned during the selection process or final offer of appointment.

10. How long is the deputation period for these DRDO posts?

The standard period of deputation for most government positions, including these DRDO posts, is typically 3 years initially, which may be extended up to 5 years based on performance and mutual agreement. After completing the deputation period, candidates have the option to return to their parent department or apply for absorption into DRDO, subject to meeting all requirements and selection criteria.

For more details, candidates must check the Sarkari Result All website and the DRDO official notification.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the short information provided and general knowledge of DRDO recruitment procedures. Candidates are strongly advised to refer to the official notification and website for precise details regarding eligibility, vacancy numbers, and application instructions before submitting their application.