Join Indian Commando Forces

Educational Requirements

Commando Training & Education Requirements

Becoming a commando in India requires rigorous physical and mental training, along with specific educational qualifications. Here's a breakdown:

Educational Qualification:
- Generally, candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Some commando units might accept candidates with a 10+2 qualification, followed by extensive military training.
Age Limit:
- The age limit typically ranges from 18 to 25 years, but it can vary depending on the specific commando force.
Physical Standards:
- Candidates must meet stringent physical standards, including height, weight, chest measurements, and visual acuity. Detailed medical examinations are conducted to ensure fitness for extreme conditions.
Nationality:
- Must be an Indian citizen.
Selection Process:
- The selection process involves a written exam, physical efficiency tests (PET), and interviews. Those who clear these stages undergo commando training.
Commando Training:
- Commando training is extremely demanding and includes courses in:
  - Unarmed combat
  - Weapons handling
  - Survival skills
  - Tactical operations
  - Underwater operations (for marine commandos)
  - Parachute jumping
Continuous Training:
- Even after initial training, commandos undergo continuous training to stay updated with the latest techniques and technologies.

Key Skills

Physical fitness and endurance
Mental toughness and resilience
Discipline and teamwork
Strategic thinking and decision-making
Proficiency in weapons and combat tactics

Study Path

Top Colleges

While there aren't specific colleges that directly make you a commando, joining the Indian Armed Forces through various academies is the primary route. Here are key institutions:

National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla:
- A premier joint services academy where cadets from the Army, Navy, and Air Force train together before going to their respective service academies.
Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun:
- For graduates who clear the CDS exam or direct entry schemes. It provides pre-commission training to become officers in the Indian Army.
Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai:
- Trains graduates for short service commission in the Indian Army.
Naval Academy, Ezhimala:
- Trains officers for the Indian Navy.
Air Force Academy, Dundigal:
- Trains officers for the Indian Air Force.

How to Prepare

Focus on Physical Fitness:
- Regular exercise, running, swimming, and strength training are essential.
Academic Excellence:
- A strong academic background helps in clearing the entrance exams.
Mental Preparation:
- Develop mental toughness, leadership qualities, and decision-making skills.
Stay Informed:
- Keep up-to-date with current affairs and defense-related news.

These institutions provide the foundational training and education required to join the armed forces, after which you can volunteer for commando training within your respective service.

Fees

The fees associated with becoming a commando in India vary depending on the entry route and the training institution. Here’s a general overview:

National Defence Academy (NDA):
- There are no tuition fees for training at the NDA. However, cadets are required to pay for clothing and equipment, which amounts to a nominal fee.
Indian Military Academy (IMA) / Officers Training Academy (OTA):
- Similar to NDA, there are no tuition fees. Expenses for clothing and equipment are minimal.
Commando Training Courses:
- For soldiers already in service, there are no direct fees for commando training. The costs are covered by the armed forces.
Private Coaching Institutes:
- Many candidates opt for private coaching to prepare for the NDA and CDS exams. Fees for these institutes can range from INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000 per year, depending on the institute and the course.

Additional Expenses

Books and Study Material:
- INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 per year.
Accommodation and Food (if applicable):
- Varies depending on the location and type of accommodation.

It's important to note that the primary pathway to becoming a commando is through the Indian Armed Forces, where training and education are heavily subsidized.

To become a commando in India, there isn't one specific exam but rather a series of tests and selection processes within the armed forces. Here’s a breakdown:

National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam:
- Conducted by UPSC, this exam is for entry into the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA. Successful candidates undergo training and can later volunteer for commando units.
Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam:
- Also conducted by UPSC, this exam is for graduates to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officers Training Academy (OTA), Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy. Officers can then volunteer for commando training.
Direct Entry:
- Soldiers already serving in the armed forces can volunteer for commando training based on their performance and physical standards.
Selection Process:
- Written Exam: Tests general knowledge, English, and mathematics.
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Includes running, push-ups, sit-ups, and other physical activities.
- Medical Examination: Ensures candidates meet the required medical standards.
- Interview: Assesses mental strength, leadership qualities, and decision-making skills.

Commando Training

Those who clear the initial selection undergo rigorous commando training, which includes:
- Combat training
- Weapons handling
- Survival skills
- Tactical operations
- Underwater operations (for marine commandos)
- Parachute jumping

Exam Name	Exam Date

Pros And Cons

Pros

High level of physical fitness and mental resilience.
Opportunity to serve the nation in elite units.
Specialized training in combat and survival skills.
Job security and government benefits.
Sense of pride and accomplishment.

Cons

High-stress environment and risk of injury.
Long and irregular working hours.
Frequent deployments to dangerous areas.
Strict adherence to rules and regulations.
Limited personal life due to demanding duties.