Candidates join one of the following departments based on their choice, qualification, and merit:
- Indian Army (via IMA or OTA)
- Indian Navy (via INA)
- Indian Air Force (via AFA)
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Combined Defence Services (CDS)
01. What is Combined Defence Services (CDS) in Govt?
The CDS Examination is a national-level competitive exam for recruitment into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA). Candidates who qualify are trained to become officers in their respective armed forces.
02. Education Eligibility
- Indian Military Academy (IMA) & Officers’ Training Academy (OTA): A Bachelor’s degree (any discipline) from a recognized university.
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): A degree in Engineering from a recognized university/institution.
- Air Force Academy (AFA): A Bachelor’s degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.
03. Handicapped Eligibility
Candidates with physical disabilities are generally not eligible for CDS, as it requires meeting stringent physical and medical standards to serve in combat and leadership roles.
04. Age
- IMA: 19 to 24 years
- OTA: 19 to 25 years
- INA: 19 to 22 years
- AFA: 19 to 23 years
(Age is calculated as of the date specified in the official notification.)
05. Physical Eligibility
- Candidates must meet rigorous physical and medical standards, including:
- Good physical health without any major disease or disability.
- Specific height and weight standards.
- Normal hearing and eyesight (minimum 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other, with or without glasses).
- Permanent tattoos (except under permitted conditions) are disallowed.
06. Pay Grade
Officers recruited through CDS receive pay as per the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC):
- Initial pay: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10), depending on the rank and academy.
- Other perks: Allowances, free accommodation, rations, uniforms, insurance, and retirement benefits.
07. Ex-Soldier Eligibility
Ex-servicemen can apply if they meet the age, educational, and other eligibility criteria. However, certain concessions may be provided under reservation rules (e.g., relaxation in the upper age limit).
08. Reservation
There is no reservation policy (e.g., SC/ST/OBC quotas) in CDS for selection, as the armed forces operate on a merit-based system. However, women can apply only for OTA and have specific seats reserved.
09. Sport Person
Sports achievements are highly valued during the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. Candidates with a strong background in sports may gain an edge in the physical and leadership evaluations.
10. Promotion in Career
Promotion is based on merit, seniority, and service performance:
- Lieutenant: Upon commissioning.
- Captain: After 2 years of service.
- Major: After 6 years of service.
- Lieutenant Colonel, Colonel, Brigadier, and above: Based on time in service and performance.
11. Special Eligibility in Person
Some academies may have specific preferences for candidates with:
- NCC ‘C’ certificate holders (direct interview for OTA/IMA).
- Engineering backgrounds (INA/AFA).
12. What work will I have to do at my workplace?
Responsibilities depend on the branch:
- Army Officers: Leadership, strategy, and ground operations.
- Naval Officers: Manage naval vessels, submarines, and maritime security.
- Air Force Officers: Operate aircraft, manage airbase logistics, and oversee aerial defense.
13. Which department does this recruitment with notification original website link?
The recruitment is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
- Official website for notifications: www.upsc.gov.in