How To Join Indian Army
It is a prestigious career that requires a lot of dedication, commitment, and hard work. Joining the Indian Army is a dream for many young Indians who want to serve their country and protect its borders. If you are one of them, then this guide will provide you with all the necessary information on How To Join Indian Army
Eligibility Criteria:
Before applying for the Indian Army, you need to make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria are set by the Indian Army and vary for different entries.
- Age: The minimum age to apply for the Indian Army is 16.5 years, and the maximum age is 19 years for NDA and 21 years for TES.
- Educational Qualification: You need to have passed your 10+2 examination or equivalent with at least 50% marks.
- Nationality: You need to be an Indian citizen.
- Physical Standards: You need to meet the physical standards set by the Indian Army, which includes height, weight, and chest measurements.
Types of Entries:
There are various entries available to join the Indian Army. The entries are as follows:
- National Defence Academy (NDA) Entry: This entry is for candidates who want to join the Indian Army, Air Force, or Navy as an officer. The selection process consists of a written exam, followed by an interview, and a medical examination.
- Technical Entry Scheme (TES) Entry: This entry is for candidates who want to join the Indian Army as an officer in the technical branch. The selection process consists of a written exam, followed by an interview, and a medical examination.
- University Entry Scheme (UES) Entry: This entry is for candidates who are in their pre-final or final year of engineering. The selection process consists of a campus interview, followed by a medical examination.
- Short Service Commission (SSC) Entry: This entry is for candidates who want to join the Indian Army as a short-service commissioned officer. The selection process consists of a written exam, followed by an interview, and a medical examination.
- Women Special Entry Scheme (WSES) Entry: This entry is for women who want to join the Indian Army as an officer. The selection process consists of a written exam, followed by an interview, and a medical examination.
Selection Process:
The selection process for joining the Indian Army is rigorous and highly competitive. The selection process varies depending on the entry you have applied for. Generally, the selection process consists of the following stages:
- Written Exam: The first stage of the selection process is a written exam. The written exam tests your knowledge of various subjects, including mathematics, science, and general knowledge.
- Interview: The second stage of the selection process is an interview. The interview is conducted to test your personality, communication skills, and general knowledge.
- Medical Examination: The third stage of the selection process is a medical examination. The medical examination is conducted to ensure that you meet the physical standards set by the Indian Army .
Training:
Once you have cleared the selection process, you will be required to undergo rigorous training. The training period varies depending on the entry you have applied for. The training period can range from six months to two years.
The training includes physical fitness training, weapons training, drill, and various other aspects of military training. The training is aimed at preparing you to become a part of the Indian Army and to serve your country with honor and pride.
Benefits of Joining the Indian Army:
- Job Security: Joining the Indian Army provides job security, as it is a permanent job with a stable income. This is especially important in today’s world, where job security is hard to come by.
- Prestige: Joining the Indian Army is a matter of great pride and prestige. It is a highly respected profession in India, and being a part of the Indian Army brings a sense of honor and respect to the individual.
- Adventure: Joining the Indian Army offers a unique opportunity to experience adventure and excitement. As a member of the Indian Army, you will get to explore different parts of the country, work in challenging environments, and take part in various missions and operations.
- Travel: Joining the Indian Army also provides the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world. The Indian Army has a presence in various countries, and as a member of the Indian Army, you may get the opportunity to serve in different countries, learn about different cultures, and gain a global perspective.
- Training and Development: Joining the Indian Army provides extensive training and development opportunities. The training provided by the Indian Army is world-class and covers various aspects of military training, leadership development, and technical skills.
- Good Pay and Benefits: Joining the Indian Army provides a good salary package, along with various benefits such as medical facilities, housing, education, and other allowances.
- Retirement Benefits: Joining the Indian Army provides retirement benefits, which include a pension, health care, and other benefits. This ensures a secure and comfortable retirement for the individual.
- Job Satisfaction: Joining the Indian Army provides job satisfaction, as it is a job that involves serving the country and its people. As a member of the Indian Army, you will get to make a difference in the lives of people and protect the nation’s sovereignty and integrity.
How to join Indian Army after graduation?
Joining the Indian Army after graduation is a great way to serve the country and build a successful career in the armed forces. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to join the Indian Army after graduation:
Step 1: Choose your preferred entry level – There are various ways to join the Indian Army after graduation. You can choose to join as an Officer or a Soldier, depending on your qualifications, interests, and career goals. The entry levels include:
- Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE): This is a competitive exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. Graduates can apply for the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy through CDSE.
- Short Service Commission (SSC): This is a temporary commission for a period of 10 years, which can be extended to 14 years. Graduates can apply for the SSC in the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, or Indian Navy through various recruitment drives.
- Technical Entry Scheme (TES): This is a direct entry scheme for male candidates who have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, and are aged between 16.5 and 19.5 years. The TES allows graduates to join as technical officers in the Indian Army.
- University Entry Scheme (UES): This is a direct entry scheme for final year engineering students or those who have completed their engineering degree. The UES allows graduates to join as technical officers in the Indian Army.
Step 2: Check the eligibility criteria – Each entry level has different eligibility criteria, such as age, educational qualification, physical standards, and medical fitness.
Step 3: Apply for the entrance exam/recruitment drive – After checking the eligibility criteria, the next step is to apply for the entrance exam or recruitment drive. The application process is online, and candidates need to fill in the application form and upload the required documents.
Step 4: Clear the entrance exam and interview – After applying, candidates need to clear the entrance exam, which includes a written test, physical fitness test, and medical examination. Those who clear the exam are called for the interview, which includes a personal interview, group discussion, and psychological tests.
Step 5: Complete the training – Once selected, candidates need to complete the training at the respective training institutes, such as the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, or other training centres. The training is rigorous and covers various aspects of military training, leadership development, and technical skills.
Entry Levels for Joining the Indian Army
There are various entry levels for joining the Indian Army, each with its own eligibility criteria and selection process. Here is an overview of the entry levels for joining the Indian Army:
Officer Entry – Officer entry in the Indian Army is for graduates who want to join as commissioned officers. The officer entry level includes:
- National Defence Academy (NDA): The NDA is a tri-service academy that offers a three-year training course to candidates who have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. After completing the course, candidates are commissioned as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.
- Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE): The CDSE is a competitive exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. Graduates can apply for the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy through CDSE.
- Technical Entry Scheme (TES): The TES allows male candidates who have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics and are aged between 16.5 and 19.5 years to join as technical officers in the Indian Army.
- University Entry Scheme (UES): The UES is a direct entry scheme for final year engineering students or those who have completed their engineering degree. The UES allows graduates to join as technical officers in the Indian Army.
Soldier Entry – Soldier entry in the Indian Army is for candidates who want to join as non-commissioned officers or other ranks. The soldier entry level includes:
- Short Service Commission (SSC): The SSC is a temporary commission for a period of 10 years, which can be extended to 14 years. Graduates can apply for the SSC in the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, or Indian Navy through various recruitment drives.
- Territorial Army (TA): The TA is a part-time volunteer force that allows civilians to serve the country in the Indian Army. The TA is open to graduates and provides opportunities for employment and training.
- Recruitment Drives: The Indian Army conducts various recruitment drives for soldier entry, including Soldier General Duty, Soldier Technical, Soldier Clerk, and Soldier Tradesman. Candidates need to meet the eligibility criteria and clear the selection process to join as soldiers in the Indian Army.
The entry levels for joining the Indian Army provide a range of opportunities for graduates to serve the country and build a successful career in the armed forces. By choosing the right entry level and preparing well for the selection process, candidates can fulfil their dream of joining the Indian Army with pride and honour.
Career Progression in the Indian Army
The Indian Army offers numerous career progression opportunities for officers and soldiers who wish to advance in their careers. Here is an overview of the career progression in the Indian Army:
- Promotion Criteria – The promotion criteria in the Indian Army vary according to the rank and seniority of the officer or soldier. Promotion is based on factors such as merit, performance, and leadership qualities. Officers and soldiers who exhibit exceptional performance and leadership skills are promoted faster.
- Opportunities for Specialization – The Indian Army provides opportunities for officers and soldiers to specialize in various fields. Some of the specializations available in the Indian Army include:
- Technical specializations such as Engineering, Signals, and Ordnance
- Combat specializations such as Infantry, Armored, and Artillery
- Administrative specializations such as Accounts, Human Resources, and Law
- Officers and soldiers can choose a specialization based on their interests and skillset and receive specialized training to excel in their field.
- Opportunities for Higher Education – The Indian Army provides opportunities for officers and soldiers to pursue higher education through various schemes. Some of these schemes include:
- Study Leave: Officers and soldiers can avail study leave to pursue higher education in their area of interest.
- Indian Army Institute of Technology (IAIT): The IAIT offers various courses in technology and management to officers and soldiers. The courses are designed to enhance the professional and technical skills of the officers and soldiers.
- Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR): The DIPR provides opportunities for officers and soldiers to pursue research in various fields of psychology and cognitive sciences.
- Post-retirement Career Options – The Indian Army provides post-retirement career options for officers and soldiers who wish to continue working after retirement. Some of these options include:
- Government jobs such as Civil Services, Police, and Para-Military Forces
- Private sector jobs in various industries such as Defence, Aviation, and IT
- Entrepreneurship and Self-employment
If you’re interested in joining the Indian Army, here are some tips to help you prepare for the selection process:
Research the Eligibility Criteria – Before applying for the Indian Army, it is important to research the eligibility criteria for the different entry levels. Ensure that you meet the age, educational, and physical fitness requirements for the entry level you’re interested in.
Train for Physical Fitness – Physical fitness is an essential requirement for joining the Indian Army. Ensure that you’re in good physical condition by training regularly. This can include running, swimming, and strength training.
Improve Your General Knowledge – The Indian Army tests candidates on their general knowledge during the selection process. Stay updated on current events, history, and geography of India and the world.
Join a Coaching Institute – Joining a coaching institute like SENAABHYAS Educational Academy can greatly improve your chances of clearing the selection process. The institute provides comprehensive coaching for all entry levels of the Indian Army, including written exams, physical fitness, and personality development.
Practice Time Management – The Indian Army selection process involves multiple rounds, including written exams, physical fitness tests, and medical exams. Practice time management skills to ensure that you’re able to complete each round within the allotted time.
Prepare for the Interview – The final round of the selection process is the interview. Prepare for the interview by researching the Indian Army’s history, organization, and recent developments. Additionally, practice answering common interview questions related to leadership, teamwork, and decision making.
Joining the Indian Army requires dedication, hard work, and preparation. By following these tips and getting coaching from institutes like SENAABHYAS Educational Academy, you can increase your chances of successfully joining the Indian Army and serving the nation. SENAABHYAS Educational Academy is a premier defence educational institute in India, providing top-notch coaching and training to students aspiring to join the Indian Army. The institute has a team of experienced faculty and provides comprehensive coaching for all entry levels of the Indian Army.
