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CDS Full Form: The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit officers into the Indian Armed Forces, namely the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The CDS examination is a prestigious opportunity for aspirants who dream of serving their nation in a military capacity. This blog will provide a comprehensive understanding of the CDS exam, including how to apply for it, the eligibility criteria, and the selection process.
What is CDS?
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) is a prestigious examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. It is an entrance test for candidates who aspire to join the Indian Military Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy. The CDS exam evaluates the knowledge and aptitude of candidates in subjects like English, mathematics, general awareness, and reasoning abilities. It consists of a written test followed by an interview conducted by the Service Selection Board (SSB). Aspiring candidates are required to meet certain eligibility criteria regarding age, nationality, and educational qualifications. Clearing the CDS exam opens up opportunities for individuals to pursue careers in various branches of defense forces in India. A successful candidate undergoes rigorous training at their respective academy and emerges as a commissioned officer ready to serve their nation with honor and bravery.
CDS Full Form
CDS stands for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam is a national-level examination conducted twice a year to select candidates for officer training academies in the Indian Armed Forces. It is a gateway for young individuals to pursue a career in the defense sector and fulfill their aspirations of serving the nation.
How to Apply for CDS Exam?
If you’re looking to apply for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam, here’s a quick rundown on how to go about it. First and foremost, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria, which includes being a citizen of India, having a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, and falling within the age bracket specified for each respective service. Once you’ve ticked off these requirements, visit the official website of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) – the body responsible for conducting this examination.
To apply for the CDS exam, aspiring candidates need to follow the below-mentioned steps:
a. Online Registration: Visit the official UPSC website and register yourself for the CDS exam by providing the necessary details.
b. Filling the Application Form: Fill in the required personal, educational, and contact information. Carefully review the form before submitting it.
c. Payment of Application Fees: Pay the prescribed application fee through online or offline modes as mentioned in the notification.
d. Uploading Documents: Upload the scanned copies of necessary documents such as photographs, signatures, and other required certificates.
e. Final Submission: After completing the above steps, verify and review the application form before final submission.
CDS Eligibility Criteria
Let’s dive into the eligibility criteria for Combined Defence Services (CDS). If you’re eager to serve your country and join the prestigious Indian Armed Forces through CDS, there are a few boxes you need to tick. Firstly, you need to be an Indian citizen. Secondly, age matters here. For admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), you must be between 19 and 24 years old; for Indian Naval Academy (INA) and Air Force Academy (AFA), it’s between 19 and 22 years; while for Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), both men and women with age range of 19-25 years are eligible. Moreover, educational qualifications are essential too. A degree from a recognized university is mandatory for IMA, INA, and AFA, but for OTA, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required. To ensure physical fitness towards being battle-ready, both males and females should fall within certain height requirements as well. So buckle up folks, make sure you meet these requirements before enlisting yourself in this fantastic journey of serving our nation with pride!
The eligibility criteria for the CDS exam are as follows:
a. Nationality: Candidates must be citizens of India or subjects of Bhutan/Nepal/Tibetan refugees (settled in India before January 1, 1962) or Indian-origin individuals from certain countries.
b. Age Limit: The age criteria vary based on the Service of choice. It ranges from 19 to 25 years for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Indian Air Force Academy (AFA). For Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), the age range is 19-27 years.
c. Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution. Specific educational requirements may vary based on the branch of the armed forces.
CDS Selection Process
The CDS selection process consists of three stages:
a. Written Examination: The first stage is a written examination with objective type questions covering subjects like English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. The exam follows a specific pattern for each academy and assesses the candidate’s knowledge, aptitude, and general awareness.
b. Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test: This test is part of the selection process for the candidates who have applied for the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy. It evaluates a candidate’s cognitive and reasoning abilities.
c. Personality and Intelligence Interview: Shortlisted candidates from the written examination undergo an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). The interview assesses candidates’ personality traits, leadership qualities, and suitability for an officer’s role.
Conclusion
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination presents a gateway for aspiring individuals to serve their nation through the Indian Armed Forces. By understanding the application process, eligibility criteria, and selection process explained in this blog, candidates can better prepare themselves for the CDS exam. Pursuing a career in the defense sector not only provides an opportunity for personal growth and development but also allows individuals to contribute to the security and prosperity of their country.
FAQs on CDS
The full form of CDS is Combined Defence Services.
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam is a national-level examination conducted twice a year to select candidates for officer training academies in the Indian Armed Forces.
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree from a recognized university or institution. Specific educational requirements may vary based on the branch of the armed forces.
During the training period, CDS offers amount of INR 56,100 every month as stipend. After the training and once you become an Officer, your salary can range from INR 56,100 to INR 1,77,500. The exact amount will depend on the rank, experience, and the duties. Additionally, the CDS office will also receive housing, medical expenses, travel allowances, etc.
A CDS (Combined Defence Services) officer is essentially someone who has successfully cleared the rigorous selection process of the Indian Armed Forces. These officers go through extensive training to prepare for combat and leadership roles in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. They are responsible for upholding national security and safeguarding the country from external threats.
Yes, it is certainly possible to join the Combined Defense Services (CDS) after completing your 12th grade. However, there are certain requirements that need to be fulfilled for eligibility.
Both CDS and UPSC exams serve different purposes and have their own unique challenges. Rather than determining which exam is easier or harder, aspiring candidates should focus on choosing the path that aligns with their interests and goals - because that's what truly matters in the long run.
When it comes to the choice between joining the National Defence Academy (NDA) or the Combined Defence Services (CDS), there are a few factors to consider. However, it is up to the personal preferences and circumstances- whether you value an earlier start or prefer a more comprehensive preparation before entering into defence services. What is CDS full form?
What is CDS?
What is the qualification for CDS?
What is the salary of CDS?
What is a CDS officer?
Can I join CDS after 12th?
Is CDS easier than UPSC?
Which is better NDA or CDS?
