UPSC NDA Recruitment: Check eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, and application process for National Defence Academy & Naval Academy officer posts. Apply now!
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination twice a year to recruit eligible male and female candidates for officer roles in the prestigious Indian Armed Forces after completing their 10+2 education. This examination serves as a gateway for young individuals to embark on a challenging and rewarding career in national service, instilling qualities of leadership, discipline, and patriotism.
Typically, the UPSC releases notifications for NDA (I) and NDA (II) each year, with approximately 400 vacancies announced per notification, though the exact numbers may vary. These vacancies are distributed across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme). Candidates who successfully clear the written examination proceed to the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, followed by a medical examination.
Upon selection, cadets undergo rigorous training for three years at the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune. After successful completion of the NDA program, they proceed to their respective service academies – Indian Military Academy (IMA) for Army, Indian Naval Academy (INA) for Navy, and Air Force Academy (AFA) for Air Force – for pre-commission training. Subsequently, they are commissioned as officers (e.g., Lieutenant in the Army, Sub-Lieutenant in the Navy, Flying Officer in the Air Force), beginning a distinguished career path marked by opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and serving the nation with honour.