How to Join the Indian Army in 2025: A Complete Guide

Joining the Indian Army is a dream for many patriotic and courageous individuals across the country. It offers an honorable career filled with pride, discipline, and adventure. In 2025, the Indian Army continues to provide various entry routes for both male and female candidates, depending on qualifications, age, and career preferences. Here's a detailed guide on how to join the Indian Army in 2025.

1. Entry Categories in the Indian Army

There are three main categories to join the Indian Army:

• Officer Entry

• Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) Entry

• Other Ranks (OR)/Soldier Entry (Agniveer)

2. Entry Schemes for Officer Cadres

a. NDA Entry (After Class 12th)

• Exam Conducted by: UPSC (twice a year)

• Eligibility: Only unmarried male candidates (female candidates now allowed for NDA from recent years)

• Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years

• Training at: National Defence Academy, Pune

b. CDS Entry (After Graduation)

• Exam Conducted by: UPSC

• Eligibility: Graduate degree in any stream for IMA and OTA

• Age: 19 to 24 years (varies by academy)

• Academy: IMA, OTA, AFA, INA

c. Technical Entry Scheme (TES)

• Eligibility: 10+2 with PCM and minimum 60% marks

• Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years

• Direct SSB Interview: Based on JEE Mains score

d. NCC Special Entry

• Eligibility: NCC 'C' Certificate holders (men & women)

• Age: 19 to 25 years

• No written exam, direct SSB

3. Soldier/Agniveer Entry (Other Ranks)

From 2022, the Agnipath Scheme has been introduced for recruitment into the Indian Army under the Agniveer title.

a. Eligibility for Agniveer Recruitment

• Education: 10th or 12th pass (depending on trade)

• Age: 17.5 to 21 years (relaxation provided for some batches)

• Selection Process:

  • Online CEE (Common Entrance Exam) on joinindianarmy.nic.in

  • Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

  • Medical Examination

  • Document Verification

4. How to Apply in 2025

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Visit Official Website: joinindianarmy.nic.in

2. Register and Create Profile

3. Check Notifications for respective entries

4. Apply Online for your desired category

5. Download Admit Card and appear for written test/SSB/physical

6. Prepare for Medical and Final Merit List

5. Preparation Tips

• Academics: Focus on Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge for written exams.

• Physical Fitness: Practice running, push-ups, pull-ups, and sit-ups.

• Current Affairs: Stay updated with national/international news.

• SSB Preparation: Work on communication skills, leadership qualities, and mental aptitude.

• Conclusion
• Joining the Indian Army in 2025 is a golden opportunity to serve the nation. Whether through NDA, CDS, Agnipath, or NCC, candidates should stay focused, follow the official guidelines, and prepare diligently. Remember, discipline, determination, and dedication are key to wearing the olive green uniform with pride.
• Jai Hind!