Last Updated:
Social media users are questioning DRDO’s salary structure after details of 33 scientist vacancies surfaced online.
‘You Expect Innovation On This Salary?’: DRDO Recruitment Drive Triggers Outrage Over Scientist Pay
India’s premier defense research agency, the DRDO, is trending today, but not for a new missile launch. Instead, a recent job listing for 33 positions has set the internet on fire over what many are calling “woefully low” compensation for the nation’s brightest minds.
The spark was lit when Shekhar Gupta flagged the figures on social media. He noted, “Just look at these salaries. A scientist after 11 years gets basic pay of Rs 1,23,000. With DA, allowances might reach Rs 2 lakh or thereabouts.” He further cautioned, “There’s a challenge with govt salaries, but this won’t attract the best talent.”
According to the recruitment graphic, DRDO is hiring for 33 positions:
Scientist ‘E’: 2 vacancies, minimum 11 years’ experience, basic pay Rs 1,23,100, maximum age 45
Scientist ‘D’: 11 vacancies, minimum 7 years’ experience, basic pay Rs 78,800, maximum age 45
Scientist ‘C’: 20 vacancies, minimum 3 years’ experience, basic pay Rs 67,700, maximum age 35
The last date to apply is June 19 (4 pm) via the website rac.gov.in.
The Internet Weighs In: “You Expect the Moon… for This?”
It didn’t take long for the post to go viral, with professionals and tech enthusiasts questioning how India can remain competitive with such rigid pay structures. One user didn’t hold back, writing:
“Terribly underpaid.. only desperate low IQ people will apply.” Another echoed the sentiment, pointing out the massive gap between the government’s high expectations and the reality of the paycheck: “Woefully low salaries for scientists at DRDO. You expect the moon… then this is the compensation?”
The comparison to the private sector and global benchmarks was a recurring theme in the comments section. For many, the math simply doesn’t add up for a “great mind” in 2026.
“With such low salaries you can’t attract best talent,” wrote one critic.
Another user was even more skeptical about the applicant pool: “If this is the monthly salary, I don’t think great minds will ever apply for this job!”
Join the mission of #AtmanirbharBharat with #DRDO. Work on cutting-edge technologies, strengthen national security, and collaborate with some of the nation’s finest minds.⁰Inviting applications for direct recruitment of Scientist ‘C’, ‘D’ & ‘E’.Apply Online now:… pic.twitter.com/8WSjmJMoo9
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) June 5, 2026
The conversation has now shifted toward a demand for structural reform. Rather than sticking to old-school bureaucracy, users are urging the DRDO to “behave like startups” by relaxing rigid experience and age criteria to compete on a global stage. The suggestions for what a “fair” salary looks like were bold. One user asked: “Why not you pay such people starting with minimum 10–20 lakh per month? They are the innovation drivers of this nation.” Perhaps most concerning was the warning regarding national security and retention. One blunt comment highlighted the potential risks of underpaying those in sensitive positions: “Offers peanuts and then wonder how they get honey-trapped.”
About the Author
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
Read More
