How to Join Indian Army after 12th | Full Guide and Processes You Should Know About Joining Process and Criteria

How to Join Indian Army after Class 12 - Full Guide

To join the Indian Army after completing Class 12, you have several options available. Here are the common entry schemes for candidates who have completed Class 12:

1. National Defence Academy (NDA):

The NDA is a joint services academy of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force that was established in 7 December, 1954. To join the NDA, you need to appear for the NDA entrance exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. This exam consists of a written test, then the candidates who clear the written test go through an interview by the Services Selection Board (SSB). Successful candidates undergo training at the NDA for three years, followed by one year of specialized training at their respective service academies.

To join the National Defence Academy (NDA), you must meet certain eligibility criteria, age limits, and educational qualifications. Here are the general requirements:

1. Nationality:

• You must be an Indian citizen, or
• A subject of Bhutan, or
• A subject of Nepal, or
• A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1 January, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India.

2. Age Limit:

• The age limit is stritly between 16.5 and 19.5 years of age.
•  The date of birth should fall within the prescribed range as mentioned in the NDA notification.

3. Educational Qualifications:

• For Army Wing: You must have completed Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
• For Air Force and Naval Wings, including 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme: You must have completed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects from a recognized board or university.

It's important to note that these are the general eligibility criteria, and specific details may vary for each NDA entrance examination. It is recommended to check the official notification issued by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for the latest and detailed eligibility requirements.

Additionally, candidates need to qualify for the written examination conducted by the UPSC, followed by an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). The selection process evaluates candidates based on their physical fitness, intelligence, personality, and aptitude.

It's advisable to regularly check the UPSC website and official notifications for updates regarding NDA examinations, including any changes in eligibility criteria or exam patterns.

I recommend visiting the official website of UPSC (www.upsc.gov.in) and the Indian Army's website (www.joinindianarmy.nic.in) for detailed and up-to-date information regarding the NDA examination.

Posts in which candidates of NDA can be assigned:

Candidates who are selected through the National Defence Academy (NDA) examination in India can be assigned to various posts and roles across the three wings of the Indian Armed Forces: the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Here are some examples of posts where NDA candidates can be assigned:

1. Indian Army:

Infantry Regiments: NDA candidates can be commissioned as officers in infantry regiments, where they lead and command ground combat units.

Armored Corps: NDA officers may be assigned to armored regiments, where they operate and command armored vehicles and tanks.

Artillery Units: NDA officers can serve in artillery units, responsible for operating and commanding artillery guns and missile systems.

Engineers: NDA officers can be assigned to the Corps of Engineers, where they handle various engineering tasks, such as construction, combat engineering, and technical planning.

2. Indian Navy:

Executive Branch: NDA candidates can join the Executive Branch of the Indian Navy, where they can be posted as officers on warships, submarines, or naval air squadrons.

Naval Aviation: NDA officers may have the opportunity to serve as pilots in the naval aviation branch, flying fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters from aircraft carriers or shore bases.

Hydrography and Navigation: NDA officers can be assigned to hydrographic vessels or survey ships, involved in mapping and charting the seas and conducting navigation operations.

3. Indian Air Force:

Flying Branch: NDA candidates can join the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force as pilots, where they fly various aircraft, including fighters, transport planes, or helicopters.

Ground Duty Branch: NDA officers can be assigned to the Ground Duty Branch, serving in various non-combat roles such as administration, logistics, accounts, education, or meteorology.

It's important to note that the specific assignments and roles within the Army, Navy, and Air Force may vary based on the candidate's specialization, training, and the organizational requirements at the time of commissioning. The Armed Forces provide opportunities for specialization, career progression, and further training based on the officer's aptitude and performance.

For detailed and specific information regarding the posts assigned to NDA officers, it is advisable to refer to official Armed Forces publications, interact with career counselors, or visit the official websites of the respective services (Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

2. 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES):

The TES is a direct entry scheme for male candidates who have completed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The selection process is comprised of three elements, that are a written exam, SSB interview, and medical examination. Candidates selected through TES undergo four years of training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun.

Eligibility Criteria for 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES)

To be eligible for the 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES) of the Indian Army, you must meet specific criteria related to age, nationality, and educational qualifications. Here are the general requirements:

1. Nationality:

• You must be a citizen of India.

2. Age Limit:

•  You must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years of age at the time of commencement of the course.
• The exact age limits may vary for each TES course, and the information will be mentioned in the official notification.

3. Educational Qualifications:

• You must have completed Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
• Minimum aggregate marks may be specified, and it is advisable to check the official notification for the specific requirement.

It's important to note that these are the general eligibility criteria, and specific details may vary for each TES course. It is recommended to regularly check the official notifications issued by the Indian Army or visit their website for the most up-to-date and detailed eligibility requirements.

The selection process for the 10+2 TES typically involves the following steps:

• Shortlisting of candidates based on cut-off percentage in Class 12 or equivalent examination.
• SSB interview that is conducted by the Services Selection Board.
• Medical examination to assess the medical fitness of selected candidates.

Candidates who successfully clear the selection process will undergo four years of training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, after which they will be commissioned as officers in the Indian Army.

Posts in which candidates of 10+2 TES can be assigned:

Candidates selected through the 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme (TES) in the Indian Army can be assigned to various technical branches and posts. Here are some examples of posts where 10+2 TES officers can be assigned:

1. Engineering Branches:

• Corps of Engineers: TES officers can serve in various engineering roles, including construction, combat engineering, technical planning, and infrastructure development.
• Corps of Signals: TES officers may be assigned to the Signals Corps, where they handle communication and information technology-related responsibilities, including managing communication networks and systems.

2. Electrical and Mechanical Engineering:

• Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers: TES officers with a background in electrical and mechanical engineering can be assigned to this branch, where they manage and maintain army equipment, machinery, and vehicles.
• Army Service Corps: TES officers may serve in the Army Service Corps, where they are responsible for logistics and supply chain management, ensuring the provision of resources and services to Army units.

3. Armored Corps:

• TES officers can serve in the Armored Corps, where they operate and maintain armored vehicles and tanks. They may be involved in armored warfare, reconnaissance, and mechanized operations.

4. Artillery:

• TES officers can be assigned to the Artillery Corps, where they handle artillery guns and associated equipment. They may serve in field artillery regiments or air defense units, providing firepower and air defense capabilities.

5. Army Aviation:

• TES officers may have the opportunity to serve in the Army Aviation Corps, which operates helicopters and other aviation assets. They can be involved in tasks such as reconnaissance, air assault operations, aerial surveillance, and logistics support.

These are just a few examples of the potential posts and branches where 10+2 TES officers can be assigned within the Indian Army. The specific posting will depend on the needs of the organization and the individual's specialization within the technical field.

It's important to note that the Indian Army may also provide further opportunities for specialization and career progression through additional training, courses, and assignments.

3. Army Technical Entry Scheme (TES):

The Army TES is another entry scheme for male candidates who have completed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The selection process involves shortlisting based on cut-off percentage and SSB interview. Candidates selected through Army TES undergo five years of training, which includes one-year pre-commissioning training at the IMA.

Eligibility Criteria necessary for Army Technical Entry Scheme (TES):

To be eligible for the Army Technical Entry Scheme (TES) of the Indian Army, you must meet specific criteria related to age, nationality, and educational qualifications. Here are the general requirements:

1. Nationality:

• You must be a citizen of India.

2. Age Limit:

• You must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years of age at the time of commencement of the course.
• The exact age limits may vary for each TES course, and the information will be mentioned in the official notification.

3. Educational Qualifications:

• You must have completed Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
• Minimum aggregate marks may be specified, and it is advisable to check the official notification for the specific requirement.

It's important to note that these are the general eligibility criteria, and specific details may vary for each TES course. It is recommended to regularly check the official notifications issued by the Indian Army or visit their website for the most up-to-date and detailed eligibility requirements.

The selection process for the Army TES typically involves the following steps:

• Shortlisting of candidates based on cut-off percentage in Class 12 or equivalent examination.
• SSB interview that is conducted by the Services Selection Board.
• Medical examination to assess the medical fitness of selected candidates.

Candidates who successfully clear the selection process will undergo five years of training, including one-year pre-commissioning training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun.

I recommend visiting the official website of the Indian Army (www.joinindianarmy.nic.in) and regularly checking the notifications for the Army TES to stay updated on the eligibility criteria and application process.

Posts in which candidates of TES can be assigned:

Candidates who are selected through the Army Technical Entry Scheme (TES) will be commissioned as officers in the Indian Army. Upon successful completion of the training, they can be posted in various technical branches of the Indian Army, depending on their specialization and the requirements of the organization. Here are some of the posts where TES officers can be assigned:

1. Engineering Branches:

• Corps of Engineers: TES officers in the Corps of Engineers handle various engineering tasks, including construction of bridges, roads, and buildings, as well as combat engineering activities such as minefield clearance, bridging operations, and construction of field defenses.
• Corps of Signals: TES officers in the Corps of Signals are responsible for communication and information technology-related roles. They ensure effective communication within the Army and manage signals equipment and systems.

2. Electrical and Mechanical Engineering:

• Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers: TES officers in this branch are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and recovery of Army equipment and vehicles. They handle technical maintenance tasks and ensure the operational readiness of Army machinery.

3. Armored Corps:

• TES officers in the Armored Corps are trained to operate and maintain armored vehicles and tanks. They may serve in various armored regiments and units, carrying out tasks related to armored warfare and mechanized operations.

4. Artillery:

• TES officers in the Artillery Corps work with artillery guns and systems. They may serve in field artillery regiments or air defense units, operating and maintaining artillery weapons and associated equipment.

5. Army Aviation:

• TES officers may have the opportunity to serve in the Army Aviation Corps, which operates helicopters and other aviation assets. They can be involved in tasks such as reconnaissance, air assault operations, aerial surveillance, and logistics support.

6. Army Ordnance Corps (AOC):

• TES officers may be posted in the Army Ordnance Corps, where they are responsible for the procurement, storage, and maintenance of Army weapons, ammunition, and other military equipment.

7. Military Intelligence:

• TES officers can serve in the Military Intelligence branch, where they gather, analyze, and disseminate intelligence information to support military operations and decision-making.

8. Army Air Defense:

• TES officers may be assigned to the Army Air Defense units, where they work with air defense systems to protect key military assets and personnel from aerial threats.

9. Electronics and Communication Engineering:

• TES officers with a background in electronics and communication engineering may be posted in units or organizations that specialize in communication systems, electronic warfare, or surveillance and reconnaissance equipment.

10. Combat Engineering:

• TES officers may serve in combat engineering units, specializing in tasks such as mine warfare, obstacle breaching, counter-mobility measures, and general engineering support during military operations.

11. Training Establishments:

• TES officers can also be assigned to various training establishments and academies within the Indian Army, where they may be involved in training and instructing junior officers, soldiers, or technical personnel.

It's important to note that postings and assignments within the Army Technical Entry Scheme (TES) are subject to organizational requirements, vacancies, and the skills and expertise of the officers. The Army strives to utilize the technical skills of TES officers effectively across different branches and units based on their qualifications and aptitude.

For detailed and specific information regarding the posts assigned in the TES, it is advisable to refer to official Army publications, interact with Army career counselors, or visit the official website of the Indian Army (www.joinindianarmy.nic.in) for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

It's important to note that within these branches, TES officers may have different roles and responsibilities based on their specialization, training, and the specific needs of the Army. As officers, they are expected to demonstrate leadership, decision-making abilities, and technical expertise in their respective fields.

TES officers undergo rigorous training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun and specialized training courses related to their branch before being posted to their respective units or regiments.

Remember to stay updated with official notifications and guidelines provided by the Indian Army for the latest information on career prospects within the TES.

Also Read : How to Join Indian Army? Criteria, Selection Rate, Registration, Posts, Reserved Seats, Stationing of Soldiers and Everything Else

4. Soldier General Duty (GD) and Soldier Clerk/SKT:

If you wish to join as a soldier in the Indian Army, you can apply for Soldier GD or Soldier Clerk/SKT positions. The recruitment rallies for these positions are conducted by the Army Recruitment Offices (AROs) across different regions. The selection process typically includes a physical fitness test, a written exam, and a medical examination.

It's important to note that each entry scheme has specific eligibility criteria, age limits, and educational qualifications. I recommend visiting the official website of the Indian Army or contacting the nearest Army Recruitment Office for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the specific entry scheme you are interested in.

Remember to prepare well for the entrance exams and selection processes, as they may involve written tests, physical fitness tests, medical examinations, and interviews conducted by the SSB.

Eligibility Criteria for Soldier General Duty (GD) and Soldier Clerk/SKT:

The eligibility criteria, age limits, and educational qualifications for the roles of Soldier General Duty (GD) and Soldier Clerk/SKT (Store Keeper Technical) in the Indian Army are as follows:

Soldier General Duty (GD):

1. Nationality:

• You must be a citizen of India.

2. Age Limit:

• The age range is generally between 17.5 and 21 years.
• Age relaxations may apply for certain categories as per government rules.

3. Educational Qualifications:

• You must have completed Class 10 (Matriculation) with a minimum aggregate percentage as specified in the official notification.
• It is important to note that the exact educational qualification requirement may vary depending on the specific recruitment rally or region.

Soldier Clerk/SKT (Store Keeper Technical):

1. Nationality:

• You must be a citizen of India.

2. Age Limit:

• The age range is generally between 17.5 and 23 years.
• Age relaxations may apply for certain categories as per government rules.

3. Educational Qualifications:

• You must have completed Class 12 (10+2) in any stream (Arts, Commerce, or Science) from a recognized board.
• Minimum percentage requirements may vary, and it is advisable to check the official notification for the specific criteria.

It's important to note that these are the general eligibility criteria, age limits, and educational qualifications for the Soldier General Duty (GD) and Soldier Clerk/SKT roles in the Indian Army. However, it is recommended to regularly check the official recruitment notifications issued by the Indian Army or visit their website (www.joinindianarmy.nic.in) for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as the criteria may vary based on specific recruitment drives and regional considerations.

Additionally, candidates must meet the required physical fitness standards and undergo medical examinations as part of the selection process.

Posts in which candidates of GD and Store Clerk(SKT) can be assigned:

Candidates who are selected as Soldier General Duty (GD) or Soldier Clerk/SKT (Store Keeper Technical) in the Indian Army can be assigned to various posts and roles within the organization. Here are some examples of posts where GD and Store Clerk/SKT soldiers can be assigned:

Soldier General Duty (GD):

1. Infantry Regiment: GD soldiers can serve in infantry regiments, which form the backbone of the Army's ground combat forces.

2. Mechanized Infantry: GD soldiers may be assigned to mechanized infantry units, where they operate alongside armored vehicles and tanks.

3. Artillery Units: GD soldiers can serve in artillery units, assisting with the operation and maintenance of artillery guns.

4. Air Defense Units: GD soldiers may be posted in air defense units, which are responsible for protecting military assets from aerial threats.

5. Rashtriya Rifles: GD soldiers can be assigned to the Rashtriya Rifles, a counter-insurgency force deployed in sensitive regions.

Soldier Clerk/SKT (Store Keeper Technical):

1. Administration Units: Store Clerk soldiers can serve in administrative units, where they handle clerical and administrative tasks such as record-keeping, documentation, and personnel management.

2. Supply and Logistics Units: Store Clerk soldiers may be assigned to supply and logistics units, responsible for managing inventory, procurement, and distribution of equipment and supplies.

3. Ordnance Units: Store Clerk soldiers can work in ordnance units, assisting with inventory management and maintenance of military equipment and stores.

4. Training Establishments: Store Clerk soldiers can be posted to various training establishments and academies, providing administrative and clerical support for training programs.

5. Other Support Units: Store Clerk soldiers can be assigned to other support units within the Army, such as medical units, signals units, or engineering units, where their administrative and clerical skills are utilized.

These are just a few examples, and the specific assignments of GD and Store Clerk/SKT soldiers will depend on the needs of the Army, their training, and individual aptitude. It's important to note that postings can also vary based on the operational requirements and the soldier's career progression within the Army.

For detailed and specific information regarding the posts assigned to GD and Store Clerk/SKT soldiers, it is advisable to refer to official Army publications, interact with Army career counselors, or visit the official website of the Indian Army (www.joinindianarmy.nic.in) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Remember to stay updated with official notifications and guidelines provided by the Indian Army for the latest information on career prospects and assignments within these roles.

Queries solved in this blog post:

1. How to Join Indian Army After 12th

2. How to Join Indian Army After Class 12

3. How to Join Indian Army

4. How to Join NDA

5. How to Enroll in Technical Entry Scheme (TES)

6. How to Enroll in Soldier General Duty (GD) and Soldier Clerk (SKT)