Qualifying NDA, National Defence Academy, the exam is appreciative. Though it’s a marked calibre to qualify for the same it’s not similar to IPS in any way. Both are defined with totally different eligibilities.
For appearing for the NDA exam the minimum qualification level is +2 while for appearing in the IPS entrance exam the minimum requirement of qualification is graduation accompanied by a score of a minimum of 60% of marks from any reputed institution/University. Also, you need to apply for the CSE exam organised as per UPSC specifications. Hence, both the fields hold a dissimilarity even at the preliminary phase. An NDA officer holds an office in the armed forces, may it be army, navy or air force.
IPS stands as a completely different opportunity when the two are compared. Also, IPS (Indian Police Service) criteria define the expected age of the candidate as varying from 21-30 years, while for being an NDA officer the minimum age requirement is 18-19 years.
Under the process of selection of candidates both the fields include an aptitude/written test plus an interview plus the medical test at three levels.
Highlighting the requirements for being an IPS officer
- Graduation accomplished affiliated to a reputed university.
- The candidate should be a citizen of India.
- Age limits: 21 to 30 years (in context of general category), for other backward classes the same extends to 33 years of age while for SC/ST candidates the upper limit is extended to 35 years of age with valid proof and identification.
- Physical requirements may include the height which should be at least 165 cms in case of males and 150 cms in case of female candidates.
- The biometrics are defined as male chest to be 84 cms with the expansion of 5 cms while in females it’s kept to be 79 cms plus 5 cms.
- The eyesight of the male and female candidates should be 6/6.
Exams have two distinct processes: the first one is an objective type preliminary basis and the next is the written exam followed by an interview and medical test.
It should be noted that the general category is entitled only to a total of four attempts while the OBCs have a limit of 7 and on the contrary, the SC/ST have unlimited attempts.
Chances and follow up
Though there is no restriction to try for another career option after becoming an NDA officer. So, if one is interested in becoming an IPS officer even after securing a rank in armed services, you need to fulfil the above-mentioned requirements. Once you are done with all the above you can continue with attempting the UPSC civil services exam (entrance test) and once you crack the same with a reputed lead/rank you are good to move towards your goal. The physical fitness of the candidate is assessed during the medical tests and training sessions.
It should be noted that the civil services UPSC entrance exam (conducted every year) is considered as one of the highly recognised and competitive level exams that may wipe out the brains in no time. So the decision should be taken keeping all the important points in mind and prepare with best exam preparation app i.e. BYJU’s Exam Prep.
Considerations before planning to switch from NDA to IPS
It’s not a piece of cake to quit the armed services. If you wish to switch from being an armed force officer to an IPS officer you need to return the money spent on you by the government and that may be approximately ₹ 1000/ for a day. It should be noted that if you are already commissioned as an armed officer a twenty-year bond is to be signed and forfeiture of the same may demand the payment.
So be wise while making the choices. Use brains to make a perfect choice and not the heart.
