The National Defence Academy (NDA) is the premier institution for training officers for the Indian Armed Forces. The academy is located in Khadakwasla near Pune, Maharashtra, India. It was established in 1954 and has since then produced many of the country’s top military leaders.
To join the NDA, a candidate needs to appear for a written exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) followed by an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). The written exam includes questions from Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The GAT includes questions from English, General Knowledge, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.
Candidates who clear the written exam and SSB interview are sent for medical examination, and those who are declared medically fit are admitted to the NDA for three years of training. The training is divided into two phases. The first phase is conducted at the NDA, and the second phase is conducted at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun for Army cadets, Naval Academy, Ezhimala for Naval cadets, and Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad for Air Force cadets.
During the training, cadets undergo rigorous physical and mental training, which includes academic studies, military training, and physical fitness. The training is aimed at developing the qualities of leadership, courage, and determination in the cadets.
After the successful completion of training, the cadets are awarded a Bachelor’s degree in Arts, Science, or Computer Applications from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). They are then commissioned as officers in the respective services and are responsible for safeguarding the country’s national security.
Joining the NDA is a prestigious achievement, and it requires hard work, dedication, and commitment. The NDA offers an opportunity to young men to serve the country and make a difference. It is a gateway to a rewarding career in the Indian Armed Forces and a chance to be a part of something larger than oneself.