If you are a final-year B.E./B.Tech student dreaming of working in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, or Defence Technology, this opportunity could be a turning point in your career. The DRDO CAIR Internship 2026 offers students a chance to work inside one of India’s most prestigious defence research laboratories.
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has released an official advertisement inviting applications for a 6-month paid internship at the Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR) .
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know — eligibility, stipend details, selection process, required documents, and how to apply.
About DRDO CAIR
The Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR) is a premier DRDO laboratory located in Bengaluru. It focuses on advanced research in:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Robotics
- Command & Control Systems
- Information and Communication Security
CAIR plays a crucial role in developing mission-critical systems for secure battlefield communication and defence applications .
📍 Internship Location:
DRDO Complex, CV Raman Nagar, Bengaluru – 560093
DRDO CAIR Internship 2026: Key Highlights
- Role: Research Intern
- Duration: 6 Months
- Stipend: ₹5,000 per month (Fixed)
- Total Stipend: ₹30,000 for 6 months
- Application Deadline: Within 15 days from the publication date of the advertisement
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The internship is open to B.E./B.Tech Final Year (Ongoing) students with First Division.
Available Branches and Vacancies
1. Computer Science / IT / AI-ML / Equivalent Subjects
- Qualification: Final Year B.E./B.Tech (Ongoing) with First Division
- Vacancies: 7
2. Electronics & Communication / Electrical & Electronics / Equivalent Subjects
- Qualification: Final Year B.E./B.Tech (Ongoing) with First Division
- Vacancies: 4
Total vacancies: 11 (Number may vary depending on lab requirements.)
Stipend and Payment Structure
The selected interns will receive a fixed stipend of ₹5,000 per month .
The total stipend of ₹30,000 for 6 months will be paid in two equal installments:
- ₹15,000 after completion of 3 months
- ₹15,000 after completion of 6 months
Please note that accommodation, food, travel, and medical expenses must be managed by the intern.
Selection Process
The selection is merit-based and follows a weighted scoring system :
- 10% weightage – 10th marks (Physics & Mathematics)
- 15% weightage – 12th / Diploma marks
- 75% weightage – B.E./B.Tech semester performance
If required, shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview.
This transparent evaluation system ensures that academic consistency plays a major role in selection.
How to Apply for DRDO CAIR Internship 2026
To apply for the DRDO CAIR Internship 2026, download the official application form from the DRDO website, fill it carefully in .docx format only, attach all required documents, and email it to ad-hrt.cair@gov.in with the subject line “Application for Internship Feb 2026” within 15 days of the notification. Click Here
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Download the official application form (provided with the advertisement).
- Fill the form carefully in .docx format only.
- Email the completed application to: ad-hrt.cair@gov.in
- Use the subject line:
Application for Internship Feb 2026
⏳ Applications must reach within 15 days from the date of publication of the advertisement.
Important:
- Do not send the application in PDF or scanned format.
- Only .docx file submissions will be accepted .
Incomplete applications are likely to be rejected.
Documents Required
Candidates must attach scanned copies of the following documents :
- 10th Mark Sheet
- 12th Mark Sheet
- Diploma Mark Sheet (if applicable)
- All completed semester mark sheets
- Character Certificate
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR) with CGPA-to-percentage conversion formula
- Updated CV
- College ID Card
- Aadhar Card
All original documents must be produced at the time of joining. Selected candidates will also need to submit a valid Police Verification Certificate.
Important Guidelines to Know
- The internship is purely temporary and does not guarantee employment at DRDO .
- Interns will be governed under the Official Secrets Act and DRDO rules.
- Leave is generally not permitted except for valid medical reasons.
- Any violation of lab regulations may lead to termination of the internship.
Why This Internship Matters
Even though the stipend is modest, the real value of this internship lies in:
- Working inside a national defence research lab
- Exposure to AI and Robotics in real-world applications
- Strengthening your resume for higher studies or research roles
- Gaining experience in mission-critical projects
For students interested in AI, Machine Learning, Robotics, Cybersecurity, or Defence Technology, this internship can provide meaningful practical exposure.
Final Words
The DRDO CAIR Internship 2026 is a rare opportunity for engineering students to gain hands-on experience in one of India’s top research organizations. With only 11 vacancies and a limited application window of 15 days, interested candidates should act quickly.
If you are eligible and passionate about research, make sure you apply before the deadline and submit all required documents correctly.
