National Defence College, New Delhi (under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India) invites offline applications for recruitment of 1 Consultant (Subject Matter Expert) on a 12-month contract basis from 01 January 2027 to 31 December 2027. This is an opportunity for experienced professionals to contribute to India's premier defence think-tank at a competitive monthly remuneration of ₹65,000 to ₹80,000.
Overview
The National Defence College is a strategic institution dedicated to policy research and higher defence studies. This recruitment seeks accomplished Subject Matter Experts to serve as Consultants on a time-bound engagement. The role is designed for professionals with substantial domain expertise, research capability, and a willingness to contribute to national defence policy discourse.
Selected candidates will be based at the National Defence College, New Delhi, and will be engaged for a fixed 12-month period with the possibility of extension for a further 12 months contingent on satisfactory performance and organisational needs. The salary structure is performance-linked and depends upon the pay level assigned by the College.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Detailed Advertisement Release | 20 November 2026 |
| Final Last Date to Apply | 28 November 2026 |
| Engagement Commencement | 01 January 2027 |
| Engagement Conclusion | 31 December 2027 |
| Age Calculation Date | 31 December 2027 |
Application Fee
See the official notification for any applicable fees.
Vacancy Details
| Post | Vacancies | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Consultant (Subject Matter Expert) | 1 | Age not more than 65 years as on 31 December 2027. For detailed academic and professional qualifications, see the official notification. |
Eligibility
To be eligible for this recruitment, candidates must satisfy the following criteria:
- Age Limit: Candidates must not exceed 65 years of age as on 31 December 2027. Age is reckoned as on this specified date only.
- Educational and Professional Qualifications: See the official notification for the complete list of academic degrees, certifications, and years of professional experience required for the Subject Matter Expert position.
- Citizenship: See the official notification for nationality and citizenship requirements.
- Medical Fitness: Candidates must be in sound physical and mental health and able to discharge duties as prescribed.
Candidates are strongly advised to review the complete Terms of Reference and detailed advertisement before submitting applications to ensure they meet all specified requirements.
Salary and Benefits
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Remuneration | ₹65,000 to ₹80,000 (based on pay level) |
| Tenure | 12 months: 01 January 2027 to 31 December 2027 |
| Extension Possibility | Up to 12 months more, subject to satisfactory performance and College requirement |
| Work Location | National Defence College, New Delhi |
How to Apply
- Obtain the Application Form: Download the prescribed Annexure-I application form from the National Defence College Official Website or access it via the notification PDF.
- Complete All Sections: Carefully fill in all sections of the Annexure-I form with accurate and verifiable information. Include your full name, contact details, date of birth, educational qualifications, and professional experience.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather all required documents as specified in the detailed advertisement, which typically include: (a) certified copies of educational certificates and degrees, (b) proof of professional experience and employment history, (c) identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport), (d) address proof, and (e) any other documents mentioned in the notification.
- Compile Your Application Package: Arrange the completed form and all supporting documents in the order specified in the advertisement. Ensure all documents are legible and properly dated where required.
- Submit Your Application: Submit the completed application either by registered mail with acknowledgement or by hand delivery to the National Defence College, New Delhi. Retain your proof of submission (postal receipt or hand-delivery acknowledgement).
- Meet the Deadline: Applications must be received on or before 28 November 2026. Ensure your submission arrives well before the deadline to avoid last-minute delays. Applications received after the deadline will be rejected without exception.
Important: Only offline applications via registered mail or personal submission are accepted. Online or email submissions are not permitted. Incomplete applications or those lacking required documents may be summarily rejected.
Important Links
- NDC Consultant (SME) Application Form (Annexure-I)
- NDC Consultant (SME) Official Notification PDF
- National Defence College Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the job description and role of a Consultant (Subject Matter Expert)?
A: The Consultant (SME) will serve as a strategic advisor and contributor to the National Defence College's research and policy initiatives. Specific responsibilities and domain expertise required are detailed in the Terms of Reference within the official notification PDF.
Q: What is the monthly salary and total compensation for this position?
A: The monthly remuneration is between ₹65,000 and ₹80,000, depending upon the pay level assigned by the College based on your profile and experience. The engagement is for 12 months (01 January 2027 to 31 December 2027), with potential extension for another 12 months on satisfactory performance.
Q: What is the age limit, and how is age calculated?
A: The maximum age limit is 65 years as on 31 December 2027. Age is calculated as on this specific date; age on the application submission date is not used for eligibility determination.
Q: What is the final last date to apply, and what is the submission method?
A: The final last date for submission is 28 November 2026. Applications must be submitted offline either by registered mail with acknowledgement or by personal hand delivery to the National Defence College, New Delhi. Online applications are not accepted. Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.
Q: What educational qualifications and professional experience are required?
A: The specific academic qualifications (degrees, certifications) and years of professional experience required are detailed in the official notification and Terms of Reference. Candidates must review these documents thoroughly before applying to confirm they meet all requirements.
Q: Is this position permanent, and can it be extended?
A: No, this is a fixed-term contract position for 12 months (01 January 2027 to 31 December 2027). It may be extended for an additional 12 months solely at the discretion of the National Defence College, contingent on satisfactory performance and organisational requirements. Extension is not automatic.
Disclaimer: All candidates must verify all details on the official National Defence College website and the official notification PDF before submitting their applications.