The Indian military has deployed troops to fight in a number of wars and conflicts around the world, and its soldiers have always emerged victorious. It is an incredible honour for any Indian to be a part of the army and contribute to the nation’s defense efforts. 

Keep reading to know about how to join the Indian Army, the skills required, eligibility criteria, and more.

There are several ways to become an officer in the Indian Army. Here are some of the most known entries:

1. National Defence Academy (NDA)

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the NDA examinations twice a year. Candidates with a senior secondary grade point average of 40% to 50% are eligible for this examination.

To qualify, you must pass the NDA written tests as well as the Service Selection Committee (SSB) interview. The NDA exam assesses a candidate's general knowledge and command of English and mathematics.

2. Technical Entry Scheme (TES)

To join the Indian army, you can take the technical scheme examination. Candidates must have passed the 10+2 exam with an average of 70% in physics, chemistry, and math from a recognised board.

Selected applicants partake in a B.E. programme in the field of their choice and are trained for four years at the army's lieutenant level. Upon completion of the training, the cadet may be awarded a permanent commission in the army with the rank of lieutenant.

3. Combined Defence Service Examination (CDSE)

The UPSC conducts CDS twice a year, and applicants who have graduated from a university or are in their final year of study are eligible to apply. Candidates who pass the examination can attend the Indian Military Academy, the Air Force Academy, the Naval Academy, or the Officers Training Academy (OTA) for a permanent or short-term commission.  

To qualify, candidates must pass the written exam, the SSB interview, and the physical examination.

4. Short Service Commission (Technical) Entry

The Short Service Commission (Technical) allows eligible graduates/postgraduates in technical fields to work in the Indian army's technical arms. After SSB and medical board examinations, selected applicants must attend the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai for 49 weeks of pre-commissioning training.

Depending on the entry scheme, the age limit for joining the Indian Army varies. Candidates for the National Defence Academy (NDA) must be between the ages of 16.5 and 19.5 years old. The age range for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination is normally 20 to 24 years. However, the age limit may vary depending on the branch and grade.

Some basic skills required for all Indian army positions include:

Communication Skills

Army personnel frequently speak vocally, have good written communication skills, and are good listeners. Strong communication skills enable them to explain and articulate their ideas to authorities and senior administrators compellingly.

Analytical Skills

Army troops have great analytical capabilities, which aid them in making vital decisions. Analytical skills aid in viewing a situation from different angles, considering various choices, and facilitating good decision-making. Analytical skills aid in the analysis of data and the discovery of patterns that aid in the development of successful strategies.

Research Skills

The capacity to effectively interpret information in order to understand orders and requirements aids in the preparation of defence measures. Army personnel must have good research skills to obtain intelligence from numerous sources and interpret it to suggest a timely and efficient solution.

Leadership Skills

Army officers use their leadership abilities to guide teams and achieve a shared goal. Good leadership possesses qualities such as honour, integrity, loyalty, discipline, and team spirit. Military leaders must exhibit these attributes in order to carry out missions successfully.

For those who wish to join the Indian Army, the following documents must be brought with them at the direct admission location.

• Class tenth certificate as verification of birth date
• Class 10th and 12th mark sheets
• NCC Certificate (if any)
• Caste Certificate Relationship Certificate if the candidate is the son of a serving soldier, ex-serviceman, or war widow issued by SRO or CRO 

The Indian Army is responsible for safeguarding India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Its vital roles and responsibilities include the following:

• Defence of the nation
• National security
• Border management
• Peacekeeping operations
• Disaster management
• Internal Security
• International cooperation

The salary of Indian Army officers varies based on their rank, years of service, and other factors. As of 2021, an entry-level officer in the Indian Army (Lieutenant) receives a monthly salary of around Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500, including allowances. As they progress in rank, their salary increases. 

Joining the Army is a life-changing experience that requires gratitude, resilience and an unwavering sense of duty. However, it necessitates extensive preparation, which includes researching requirements, filling out paperwork, passing tests, and satisfying medical criteria.