Defence Exams in India

Defence exams in India refer to the competitive examinations that are conducted by various government organizations, such as the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force, to recruit eligible candidates for different posts in the Indian Armed Forces. These exams are designed to select candidates who possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and physical fitness required to serve in the defence forces and protect the nation.

List of Defence Exams in India (2022-2023)

Here is a list of some prominent defence exams in India that are expected to be conducted in 2022-2023:

National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam: Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the NDA exam is expected to be conducted twice in 2022, in April and September, and in 2023, in April and November. It is for candidates aged 16.5 to 19.5 years who have completed their 10+2 education and aspire to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.

Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam: Also conducted by the UPSC, the CDS exam is expected to be conducted twice in 2022, in February and November, and in 2023, in February and November. It is for graduates aged 19 to 25 years who wish to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.

Indian Navy Entrance Test (INET): Conducted by the Indian Navy, the INET is expected to be conducted twice in 2022, in February and August, and in 2023, in February and August. It is a computer-based test for officer-level posts in the Indian Navy, including the Executive, Technical, and Education branches.

Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT): Conducted by the Indian Air Force, the AFCAT is expected to be conducted twice in 2022, in February and August, and in 2023, in February and August. It is for graduates aged 20 to 24 years (for flying branch) and 20 to 26 years (for ground duty branches) who aspire to join the Indian Air Force as officers.

Soldier Recruitment Rally: The Soldier Recruitment Rally is conducted by the Indian Army at various locations across India throughout the year. It is a region-wise recruitment process for various soldier-level posts, including General Duty, Clerk, Tradesman, Technical, and Nursing Assistant, among others.

Technical Entry Scheme (TES) Exam: Conducted by the Indian Army, the TES exam is expected to be conducted twice in 2022, in January and July, and in 2023, in January and July. It is for candidates who have completed their 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects and wish to join the Indian Army as Technical Officers

Please note that the exact dates and schedules of these exams may vary, and it is recommended to check the official websites of the respective examining authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information on the dates, eligibility criteria, and application process for these defence exams in India.

Defence Exams in India (2022-2023)

1. AFCAT Exam

The AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is a competitive examination conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) for recruitment of officers in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) Branches. It is conducted twice a year, and the selection process includes a written exam, Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) testing, medical examination, and merit list. Candidates who qualify undergo training at the Air Force Academy (AFA). Serving in the Indian Air Force as an officer through AFCAT offers opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and serving the nation as a part of its air defense forces.

2. NDA/NA Exam

The NDА/NA (National Defence Academy/Naval Academy) Exam is a competitive entrance examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. It is held twice a year and is open to candidates aged 16.5 to 19.5 years who aspire to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force as officers.

The exam consists of a written test followed by an interview process, psychological aptitude test, and medical examination. The written test includes two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT), which covers English, General Knowledge, and Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, and Current Affairs. Successful candidates are then shortlisted for the interview process, which includes a series of tests to assess the candidate's aptitude, intelligence, and personality. Finally, candidates undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the physical and medical standards required for service in the armed forces.

The NDA/NA Exam is known for its rigorous selection process and high competition. It requires comprehensive preparation in subjects like mathematics, English, and general knowledge, along with physical fitness training. Upon successful completion of the NDA/NA Exam and subsequent training at the National Defence Academy, candidates are commissioned as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force, and embark on a fulfilling career in the defense services of India.

3. CDS Exam

The CDS (Combined Defence Services) Exam is a competitive examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. It is aimed at selecting candidates for admission into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA) for both men and women.

The СDS Defence exam is held twice a year and consists of a written test followed by an interview process and medical examination. The written test includes three papers: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics for IMA, INA, and AFA, while OTA candidates appear for English and General Knowledge papers. The test is designed to assess a candidate's knowledge, aptitude, and comprehension in these subjects.

Candidates who clear the written test are then shortlisted for the interview process, which includes a series of tests to evaluate their personality, intelligence, and leadership qualities. The interview process also includes group discussions, psychological tests, and medical examination to ensure candidates meet the physical and medical standards required for defense services.

The CDS Exam is considered challenging and requires thorough preparation in subjects like English, general knowledge, and mathematics, depending on the academy chosen. Physical fitness training and personality development are also important aspects of preparation. Successful candidates who clear the CDS Exam and subsequent training at the respective academies are commissioned as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force, and serve the nation in various challenging roles.

4. IB ACIO

IB ACIO (Intelligence Bureau Assistant Central Intelligence Officer) exam is a competitive examination conducted by the Intelligence Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. It is aimed at selecting candidates for the post of Assistant Central Intelligence Officer in the Intelligence Bureau, which is the premier intelligence agency of India responsible for intelligence gathering, analysis, and dissemination.

The IB ACIO Exam is conducted in multiple stages, including a written test, followed by an interview process and a final medical examination. The written test consists of two parts: Tier-I and Tier-II. Tier-I is an objective-type test that assesses a candidate's aptitude in subjects like General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, Logical/Analytical Ability, English Language, and General Studies. Tier-II is a descriptive-type test that evaluates a candidate's English writing skills and analytical ability.

Candidates who clear the written test are then shortlisted for the interview process, which includes a personal interview, document verification, and a final medical examination to ensure candidates meet the physical and medical standards required for the post.

The IB ACIO Exam is known for its competitive nature and requires comprehensive preparation in subjects like general awareness, quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, English language, and general studies.

Additionally, staying updated with current affairs, national and international events, and having good analytical skills are crucial for success in this exam. Successful candidates who clear the IB ACIO Exam and subsequent interview process are appointed as Assistant Central Intelligence Officers in the Intelligence Bureau and contribute to the national security by gathering and analyzing intelligence information.

5. TNUSRB

TNUSRB (Tamil Nadu Uniformed Services Recruitment Board) is a recruitment agency in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, responsible for conducting competitive examinations to select candidates for various uniformed services such as the Tamil Nadu Police, Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services, and Tamil Nadu Prison Department.

TNUSRB conducts recruitment exams for various posts, including Police Constable, Jail Warder, and Fireman, at regular intervals. The selection process typically consists of a written examination, followed by physical endurance tests, and document verification.

The written examination for TNUSRB generally includes questions on subjects like General Knowledge, Reasoning, Numerical Ability, and General English/Tamil language. The syllabus and exam pattern may vary depending on the post applied for. Candidates who qualify the written examination are then shortlisted for physical endurance tests, which may include events such as running, long jump, high jump, and other physical tasks to assess the candidate's fitness and stamina.

After the physical endurance tests, candidates who are shortlisted undergo document verification to verify their eligibility and other credentials. Once the document verification is completed, the final selection list is prepared based on the candidate's performance in the written exam, physical endurance tests, and document verification.

TNUSRB exams are known for their competitiveness, and candidates need to prepare well in subjects like general knowledge, reasoning, numerical ability, and English/Tamil language, depending on the post applied for. Physical fitness and endurance training are also crucial for success in the physical endurance tests. Successful candidates who clear the TNUSRB exams and subsequent selection process are appointed to the respective uniformed services in Tamil Nadu and contribute to maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and providing essential services to the community.

6. Indian Coast Guard (ICG)

Indian Coast Guard Recruitment Exam (ICG) is a maritime law enforcement agency of the Government of India responsible for protecting the maritime interests of India, enforcing maritime laws, conducting search and rescue operations, and ensuring maritime security along the Indian coastline and in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Indian Coast Guard conducts various examinations for the recruitment of officers, sailors, and other personnel in its fleet. Some of the key exams conducted by the Indian Coast Guard are:

Assistant Commandant (General Duty) Exam: This exam is conducted for the recruitment of officers in the General Duty branch of the Indian Coast Guard. The exam is open to candidates who hold a bachelor's degree in any discipline with a minimum of 60% marks and have a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Navik (General Duty) Exam: This exam is conducted for the recruitment of sailors in the General Duty branch of the Indian Coast Guard. The exam is open to candidates who have completed their 10+2 education with Mathematics and Physics as compulsory subjects and have a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate.

Yantrik Exam: This exam is conducted for the recruitment of Yantriks, who are responsible for the maintenance and operation of various technical equipment on Indian Coast Guard ships. The exam is open to candidates who have completed their 10th class education with a diploma in Electrical/Mechanical/Electronics and Telecommunication (Radio/Power) Engineering with at least 60% marks.

The selection process for Indian Coast Guard exams typically includes a written examination, followed by a physical fitness test, medical examination, and document verification. The written examination includes subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English, and General Knowledge, depending on the post applied for.

Candidates who qualify all stages of the selection process undergo training at the Indian Coast Guard Academy in Kerala or other training centers, where they receive comprehensive training in maritime operations, navigation, communication, and other relevant skills.

The Indian Coast Guard exams are known for their rigorous selection process and require thorough preparation in subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English, and General Knowledge, as well as physical fitness training to meet the physical standards required for the service. Successful candidates who clear the Indian Coast Guard exams and subsequent training serve as officers, sailors, or Yantriks in the Indian Coast Guard, protecting the maritime interests of India and ensuring maritime security in the Indian waters.

7. INET

INET exam (Indian Navy Entrance Test) is a competitive exam conducted by the Indian Navy for the recruitment of officers in various branches. It consists of a computer-based test (CBT) assessing candidates' knowledge and aptitude in subjects like English, Reasoning and Numerical Ability, and General Science. The selection process includes a written exam, SSB interview, medical examination, and training at the Indian Naval Academy. INET is the gateway for candidates to join the Indian Navy as commissioned officers and serve in various capacities aboard Indian Navy ships, submarines, and shore establishments.

8. Delhi Police (DP) Recruitment

Delhi Police Recruitment (DP) conducts recruitment drives to hire candidates for various posts such as Constable, Sub-Inspector (SI), Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), and other posts in the Delhi Police force. Delhi Police is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining law and order in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi.

The recruitment process for Delhi Police generally includes the following stages:

Eligibility Criteria: Candidates need to meet the eligibility criteria set by the Delhi Police, which includes age, educational qualifications, and physical standards. Only eligible candidates are allowed to apply for the recruitment process.

Written Examination: Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria are called for a written examination. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and assesses candidates' knowledge in subjects like General Knowledge, Reasoning, Numerical Ability, and English Language.

Physical Endurance Test (PET)/Physical Measurement Test (PMT): Candidates who qualify in the written examination are then required to undergo a physical endurance test (PET) or physical measurement test (PMT), depending on the post applied for. PET/PMT assesses candidates' physical fitness, including tasks like running, long jump, high jump, and other physical tests.

Medical Examination: Candidates who clear the PET/PMT are then required to undergo a medical examination to assess their medical fitness as per the standards set by the Delhi Police.

Document Verification: Candidates who pass the medical examination are called for document verification, where their original documents such as educational certificates, age proof, caste certificate, etc., are verified.

Final Merit List and Selection: Candidates who clear all the stages of the recruitment process are placed in a merit list based on their performance. The final selection is based on the merit list and the availability of vacancies. Selected candidates are then appointed to the respective posts in the Delhi Police force.

The recruitment process for Delhi Police may vary depending on the specific post and the requirements set by the Delhi Police. Candidates need to prepare well for the written examination, meet the physical standards, and undergo medical examination to be eligible for selection in the Delhi Police force. Successful candidates who are selected serve as police personnel in the Delhi Police force, maintaining law and order, preventing and detecting crime, and ensuring the safety and security of the people of Delhi.

Why Defence Exam?

Defence exams are a popular choice among candidates who aspire to serve their country and have a passion for a career in the armed forces. Here are some reasons why candidates choose to appear for defence exams:

Serving the nation: A career in the defence forces offers an opportunity to serve the nation and protect the country's sovereignty and integrity. It is a noble profession that involves safeguarding the nation's borders, defending against external threats, and maintaining internal security.

Patriotism and pride: Many candidates are driven by a sense of patriotism and pride in serving their country as a part of the armed forces. The defence forces are known for their valor, courage, and commitment towards the nation, which attracts candidates who wish to contribute to the country's defense and security.

Adventure and challenges: A career in the defence forces is known for its adventurous nature and challenging tasks. The armed forces offer opportunities for outdoor activities, such as mountaineering, para-jumping, and water sports, which can be exciting for candidates who seek adventure and challenges in their profession.

Career growth and stability: The defence forces provide ample opportunities for career growth and stability. The armed forces follow a well-structured career progression system with regular promotions, benefits, and perks. Additionally, the job security in the defence forces is generally considered to be high.

Training and development: Defence exams provide candidates with extensive training and development opportunities. Candidates undergo rigorous training in various aspects, including physical fitness, weapons handling, leadership skills, and specialized courses, which can enhance their overall personality and skill set.

Competitive pay and perks: The defence forces offer attractive pay scales and perks to its personnel, including allowances, pensions, medical facilities, accommodation, and other benefits. The pay and perks in the defence forces are generally considered to be competitive compared to other professions.

Sense of camaraderie and team spirit: The defence forces foster a sense of camaraderie and team spirit among its personnel. The bonds formed with fellow comrades during training and service are often cherished for a lifetime, creating a unique sense of brotherhood and camaraderie among the defence personnel.

Overall, defence exams provide an opportunity for candidates to serve their country, take up challenging roles, and build a rewarding career in the armed forces while upholding the values of patriotism, pride, and service to the nation.