In pursuit of self-reliance in critical technologies relevant to national security, DRDO formulates and executes programmes of scientific research, design, development, testing and evaluation of various systems, subsystems, devices and products required for defence of the nation. DRDO employs highly qualified and competent scientists and technologists who constitute the Group 'A' (Class I Gazetted) Service known as Defence Research & Development Service (DRDS). The emoluments of DRDS Scientists as per 7th Central Pay Commission are as given below in INR:
| Grade | Level in Pay Matrix | Initial Pay in Pay Matrix ₹ |
|---|---|---|
| Scientist 'B' | Level 10 | 56,100/- |
| Scientist 'C' | Level 11 | 67,700/- |
| Scientist 'D' | Level 12 | 78,800/- |
| Scientist 'E' | Level 13 | 1,23,100/- |
| Scientist 'F' | Level 13A | 1,31,100/- |
| Scientist 'G' | Level 14 | 1,44,200/- |
| Scientist 'H' (Outstanding Scientist) | Level 15 | 1,82,200/- |
| Distinguished Scientist (DS) | Level 16 | 2,05,400/- |
| Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO | Level 17 | 2,25,000/- |
Salient features of DRDS
DRDO takes utmost care of the career-advancement of its scientists and operates a merit based promotion scheme under Flexible Complementing Scheme (FCS) upto the level of Scientist 'H' which means that with each promotion is based purely on merit basis of the scientist in the assessment board/ Peer Committee.
In addition to the Basic Pay, DRDS scientists are entitled to get House Rent Allowance upto 24% of Basic Pay in case of non-availability of Government accommodation and other allowances viz, DA, Transport Allowance with DA on it etc. as admissible to Central Government employees.
Perquisites like Leave Travel Concession, Medical facilities, Advances for PCs/ House Building are also admissible. Professional update allowance of Rs 22,500/- (for Scientist 'B' , 'C' and 'D'), Rs 45,000/- (for Scientist 'E' and Scientist 'F') Rs 67,500/- (for Scientist G onwards) per annum and reimbursement of expenditures on newspapers/periodicals also admissible in accordance with provisions of relevant Rules.
Facility for Higher Qualification & Training
DRDO not only offers employment but also lays emphasis on Human Resource Development. DRDO trains its personnel at training institutions in Pune(DIAT) and Mussourie(ITM) and also at prestigious academic institutions viz, IITs, IISc Bangalore etc. for acquiring higher educational qualifications. Opportunities also arise for foreign deputations for training/presentation of papers/specific assignments.
Recruitment of Scientists in DRDO
RAC, the Recruitment and Assessment Centre of DRDO undertakes various recruitment programmes to induct scientists each year in variety of scientific and engineering disciplines relevant to DRDO Laboratories. For details please visit RAC website at https://rac.gov.in