KKN Gurugram Desk | The National Defence Academy (NDA) serves as the premier joint services training institution for the Indian Armed Forces, preparing cadets for commissioning into the Army, Navy, and Air Force. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the NDA selection process, training regimen, salary structure, and the recent inclusion of female candidates.

NDA Selection Process

1. Written Examination

Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the NDA written exam comprises two papers:

• Mathematics: 300 marks

• General Ability Test (GAT): 600 marks

Each paper is of 2.5 hours duration and includes multiple-choice questions. Negative marking applies for incorrect answers. Candidates must secure a minimum of 25% in each subject to qualify.

2. Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview

Qualified candidates from the written exam are invited for the SSB interview, a comprehensive 5-day assessment evaluating:

• Psychological aptitude

• Group tasks and discussions

• Personal interviews

• Physical fitness

The SSB interview carries 900 marks.

3. Medical Examination

Candidates recommended by the SSB undergo a thorough medical examination to assess physical and mental fitness, including vision standards and overall health.

4. Final Merit List

The final selection is based on the cumulative scores of the written exam and SSB interview. Candidates are allotted to the Army, Navy, or Air Force based on their merit and preference.

NDA Training Program

Selected candidates undergo a rigorous 3-year training program at the NDA campus in Khadakwasla, Pune. The training encompasses:

• Academic Education: Cadets pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Arts, Science, or Technology, affiliated with Jawaharlal Nehru University.

• Physical Training: Emphasis on physical fitness, drills, and sports.

• Service Training: Basic military training specific to the chosen service branch.

Post NDA training, cadets proceed to their respective service academies for specialized training:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun: Army cadets

• Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala: Navy cadets

• Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal: Air Force cadets

Eligibility Criteria

Age and Marital Status

Candidates must be unmarried and aged between 16.5 to 19.5 years. For NDA 2 2025, candidates born between July 2, 2006, and July 1, 2009, are eligible.

Educational Qualifications

• Army Wing: 12th Class pass or equivalent from a recognized board.

• Air Force and Naval Wings: 12th Class pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Nationality

Applicants must be:

• Citizens of India

• Subjects of Nepal or Bhutan

• Tibetan refugees settled in India before January 1, 1962

• Persons of Indian origin migrated from specified countries intending to settle in India

Inclusion of Female Candidates

Following the Supreme Court‘s directive in 2021, female candidates are now eligible to apply for the NDA. They undergo the same selection process and training as their male counterparts. In the 148th NDA course, 17 female cadets participated in the passing out parade, marking a significant milestone in the academy’s history.

Application Process

The application for NDA 2 2025 is open from May 28 to June 17, 2025. Candidates must apply online through the official UPSC website. The application fee is ₹100, with exemptions for SC/ST candidates and female applicants.

Salary and Benefits

During Training

Cadets receive a monthly stipend of ₹56,100 during the training period.

Post Commissioning

Upon successful commissioning, officers receive salaries based on their rank:

• Lieutenant: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500

• Captain: ₹61,300 – ₹1,93,900

• Major: ₹69,400 – ₹2,07,200

• Lieutenant Colonel: ₹1,21,200 – ₹2,12,400

• Colonel: ₹1,30,600 – ₹2,15,900

• Brigadier: ₹1,39,600 – ₹2,17,600

• Major General: ₹1,44,200 – ₹2,18,200

• Lieutenant General HAG Scale: ₹1,82,200 – ₹2,24,100

• HAG+ Scale: ₹2,05,400 – ₹2,24,400

• VCOAS/Army Cdr/Lt Gen (NFSG): ₹2,25,000 (fixed)

• COAS: ₹2,50,000 (fixed)

Additional allowances include Military Service Pay (MSP) of ₹15,500 per month, Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, and other benefits as applicable.

The NDA offers a prestigious pathway for young individuals aspiring to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. With the inclusion of female candidates, the academy continues to evolve, reflecting the changing dynamics of the nation’s defense services. Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare diligently and embrace the honor of serving the nation.