Nature of Work
An officer can join the Indian Army either on permanent commission or short service commission. A Permanent Commission means a career in the Army till you retire, while a Short Service Commission is for a minimum of 7 years and a maximum of 14 years.
For Permanent Commission, the entry is through Pune’s National Defence Academy, or Dehradun’s Indian Military Academy, or Gaya’s Officers Training Academy. An officer begins career as Lieutenant and rises up in the ladder as Captain, Major, Colonel, Lt Colonel, Brigadier, Major General, lieutenant General and General.
Essential Skills and Qualities
The skills and qualities essential for a career as an army officer include:
- Decisiveness and clarity of thought and instruction (leadership skills)
- Strategic thinking
- Good physical and mental fitness
- Patriotism and an acceptance of the army way of life
- Self-drive and discipline
Qualifying Process
One can join as an Army officer either in the technical cadre or non-technical cadre. There are multiple entry paths for both cadres – viz., post 12th, after graduation or during the final year of graduation. Please refer www.joinindianarmy.nic.in to get up-to-date and complete details on entry criteria, qualifying exams and process, type of commission, etc. Recruitment involves written exams, physical, medical, visual standards, physical fitness tests, medical examination, State Selection Board (SSC) Interview for officers. Upon selection, candidates go through an elaborate, multifaceted, rigorous Training Program at pre-defined training headquarters for a considerable duration before assuming office. Both men and women can join as Army officers. Always refer to www.joinindianarmy.nic.in for latest information. More entry options are opening up for women candidates. Army recruitment office advertises for recruitment through newspapers, Radio / TV news channels and brochures to colleges.