How to Join the Indian Army Want an adventurous and rewarding career? Learn the complete step-by-step process to join the Indian Army as an officer, soldier or technical engineer.
Introduction
The Indian Army is one of the largest standing armies in the world, with over 1.2 million active personnel. Joining the Indian Army can be a rewarding career choice, offering opportunities for service to the nation, adventure, camaraderie, growth and financial security. This guide will provide a step-by-step overview of the entire process, from eligibility criteria to training.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to join the Indian Army, there are some basic requirements you need to meet:
- Age: You must be between 16.5 to 21 years old to apply for Indian Army. There are some age relaxations for specific categories.
- Nationality: You must be a citizen of India.
- Education: You must have passed Class 10th with minimum 33% aggregate marks. Graduates can join technical and non-technical posts.
- Physical Standards: You must meet the minimum physical fitness standards set by the Army in terms of height, weight and medical health.
- Marital Status: Only unmarried candidates are eligible to apply for most posts. Married individuals above 21 years can apply for select technical posts.
- No Criminal Background: You should not have any past criminal convictions.
Documents Required
When applying to join the Indian Army, you will need to submit copies of these essential documents:
- Proof of age – 10th class mark sheet & certificate
- Proof of education – 10+2 mark sheet and certificate
- Domicile certificate – J&K candidates only
- Caste certificate – for SC/ST/OBC candidates
- NOC certificate – for candidates serving in any government department
- NCC Certificate – if applicable
- Sports certificates – if applicable
- Character certificate from school/college principal/gram pradhan
- Recent passport size photographs
- Aadhar card
- PAN card
Types of Entries
There are multiple ways you can join the Indian Army. The main entries are:
- After 10+2 – Technical and non technical posts
- After Graduation – Technical and Short Service Commission
- After Post-graduation – Technical and Short Service Commission
- NDA entry after 10+2
- CDS entry after graduation
- University Entry Scheme after pre-final year of engineering
- Technical Graduate Course after engineering
- 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme – Soldier Technical and Soldier Nursing Assistant
- Soldier Clerks – After 12th and computer proficiency
- Havildar Education – For JCOs/ORs equivalency to graduate degree
- Special Commissioned Officer – B & C Certificate holders
- Territorial Army – Ex-servicemen and serving employees
Online Application Process
Today, the entire process of applying for Indian Army has been made online for most entries. Here are the steps:
- Go to joinindianarmy.nic.in
- Click on ‘Apply/Login’ and then register to create your login ID and password.
- Choose your entry scheme and proceed to fill the application form.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents.
- Submit form and note down the registration number.
- Take printout of the completed application.
- Wait for admit card to be available online for download.
Selection Process
The selection process involves the following stages:
- Written Exam – Based on general intelligence, English, maths, general science, general awareness.
- Physical Fitness Test – Running, pull ups, zig zag balance, 9 feet ditch jump, etc.
- Medical Test – Extensive medical examination for health, eyesight, hearing, etc.
- Group Testing – Group discussion and psychology tests.
- Interview – Personal interview by a panel of officers.
- Merit List – Final selection based on written exam, fitness, medical, group testing and interview.
Training Period
Selected candidates undergo rigorous military training for varying time periods:
- Technical Cadets – 1 year at OTA Gaya
- Non Technical Cadets – 1.5 years at OTA Chennai
- Technical Engineering – 4 years at IMA Dehradun or OTA Chennai
- NDA Cadets – 3 years at NDA Khadakwasla and IMA Dehradun
- CDS Cadets – 1.5 years at IMA Dehradun
The training focuses on physical fitness, weapons training, field craft, leadership skills, drills, law, military tactics etc. to transform civilians into military officers.
Career Options
A career in the Indian Army offers exciting opportunities across many roles:
- Combat Arms – Infantry, Mechanized Infantry, Artillery, Armour, Air Defence
- Combat Support Arms – Engineers, Signals, Army Aviation, Intelligence
- Services – Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Army Medical Corps, Army Education Corps
Based on your qualifications, you can join as a soldier, junior commissioned officer, or directly as an officer. Promotions and growth to higher ranks is based on merit and performance.
Benefits of Joining Indian Army
Serving in the Indian Army comes with many perks and benefits:
- Job security and stable income
- Free ration and accommodation
- 60 days paid leave annually
- Free medical facilities
- Canteen stores
- Education concessions
- Adventure sports opportunities
- Leadership and character building
- Travel opportunities in India and abroad
- Tax benefits and insurance cover
With discipline, determination and hard work, a career in the Indian Army promises immense opportunities for an exciting and fulfilling future.
How to Join the Indian Army: A Detailed Guide FAQs
Here are some common questions about joining the Indian Army:
- What is the age limit to join the Indian Army?
The age limit is 16.5 to 21 years for regular entries. Some entries allow candidates up to 27 years of age to apply.
- What is the salary of an Indian Army officer?
The starting salary is around INR 56,100 per month, plus allowances. It grows with promotions and can go up to INR 2,00,000 per month.
- How can I prepare for the Indian Army written exam?
Focus on maths, general intelligence, English grammar, GK, current affairs and history. Give mock tests and previous year papers.
- What is the physical fitness criteria?
For males, running 5 km in 28 minutes, 10 push ups, 3 chin ups and 9 feet ditch jump. For females, 2 km in 14 minutes, 8 sit ups and 6 feet ditch jump.
- How long is the training period?
Training is 1-1.5 years for Technical and Non Technical cadets, 3 years at NDA and 4 years for Technical Engineering.
