DRDO Job Listing Sparks Concern Over Attracting Top Talent Amid Low Salaries
DRDO Recruitment Sparks Debate Over Compensation for Scientists
A recent recruitment post by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has triggered a sharp debate online, with several users questioning the compensation levels for scientists, citing them as "woefully low" for high-end defence research roles.
The DRDO invited applications for direct recruitment of Scientist 'C', 'D', and 'E', urging candidates to "join the mission of #AtmanirbharBharat" and "work on cutting-edge technologies" and "strengthen national security." According to the attached recruitment graphic (Advertisement No. 157), the organisation is hiring for 33 positions, with the last date to apply being June 19 (4 pm) via the website rac.gov.in.
The salary details quickly became the focal point of discussion. Critics argue that the compensation is inadequate, citing the basic pay of Rs 1,23,000 for a scientist after 11 years, which may not even reach Rs 2 lakh with DA and allowances. This, they claim, will not attract the best talent in the field.
Read also: Pharmaceutical Stocks Resist Market Trend, Notch Fourth Consecutive Gain.
Several users echoed the concern, comparing the pay with private sector benchmarks. One user wrote, "With such low salaries you can't attract best talent," while another argued, "If this is the monthly salary, I don't think great minds will ever apply for this job!" The criticism extends beyond compensation, with some calling for broader reforms, including relaxing rigid experience and age criteria to compete globally.
| Position | Basic Pay | DA and Allowances |
|---|---|---|
| Scientist 'C' | Rs 1,23,000 | Up to Rs 2 lakh |
| Scientist 'D' | Rs 1,01,500 | Up to Rs 1.8 lakh |
| Scientist 'E' | Rs 87,000 | Up to Rs 1.5 lakh |
Some responses on social media went beyond criticism, calling for broader reforms. One user suggested that the DRDO should "offer more salary for serious scientific research" and "behave like startups" by relaxing rigid experience and age criteria to compete globally. Another user commented, "Why not you pay such people starting with minimum 10–20 lakh per month? They are the innovation drivers of this nation." A third user highlighted concerns around retention, saying "Offers peanuts and then wonder how they get honey-trapped."
More in Economy
Pharmaceutical Stocks Resist Market Trend, Notch Fourth Consecutive Gain.
Adani Ports Secures 10-Year Contract for Argentina's First LNG Export Project, Entering South American Market
BPCL, Asian Paints, and Other Crude-Sensitive Stocks Decline Amid Brent Oil Price Surge
