Indian Army – NCC Entry

NCC Special Entry  in the Indian Army: Apply Online, Eligibility, SSB Tips, and More

HIGHLIGHTS

• Learn about NCC Special Entry.
• Steps to apply for NCC Special Entry 55 Course.
• Online application process, benefits, SSB procedure, and tips for NCC Special Entry candidates
• Applicable for Boys (Senior Division) & Girls (Senior Wing)

What is NCC Special Entry in the Army?

The NCC Special Entry Scheme is a recognition of the contributions and dedication of ex-cadets of the National Cadet Corps (NCC). This scheme provides an opportunity for NCC cadets to join the Indian Armed Forces as officers through a direct selection process conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). It is a matter of pride and a continuation of the values and skills learned from NCC training.

Notable Ex-NCC Cadets:

• Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, awarded Param Vir Chakra posthumously.
• Captain Vikram Batra, also awarded Param Vir Chakra posthumously, inspired many with his bravery and motto, “Yeh Dil Maange More.”

The NCC training encompasses personality and character development, physical fitness, weapon training, and adventurous activities, making it a solid foundation for a career in the armed forces.

Eligibility for NCC Special Entry 2024

The NCC Special Entry scheme is one of the simplest ways to join the Indian Army as an officer without taking the UPSC written examination. To be eligible, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Age :19 years to 25 years.
• Minimum 50% marks in graduation.
• Should have served for a minimum of three academic years in the NCC.
• Should have obtained a minimum “B” grade in the NCC ‘C’ certificate exam.

Advantages of Joining the Indian Army through NCC Special Entry Scheme

1. Institutional Training: NCC training serves as a stepping stone to basic military training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA).
2. Familiarity with Training: Experience in physical and weapon training through NCC is beneficial at OTA.
3. Personality Development: The balanced and matured personality traits groomed by NCC training are advantageous.
4. No UPSC Exam: Candidates are exempt from the UPSC written examination and its cut-off marks.
5. Fit and Motivated: NCC cadets are typically mentally and physically fit, self-confident, disciplined, and motivated.
6. Permanent Commission: Opportunity to take a permanent commission after fulfilling specific terms and conditions.

Vacancies for NCC Cadets

Every year, the Indian Armed Forces reserve seats for NCC cadets. For the NCC Special Entry scheme, candidates join via OTA, Chennai. The vacancies are as follows:

For Men:

• General: 45
• Wards of battle casualties of Indian Army Personnel: 5

For Women:

• General: 4
• Wards of battle casualties of Indian Army Personnel: 1

This is a Short Service Commission (Non-Technical) Course. NCC cadets can also apply under other courses such as CDSE to get a permanent commission in the Army. The NCC vacancy in such courses is 64 (32 per course/year).

How to Apply for NCC Special Entry Online

To apply for the NCC Special Entry scheme, follow these steps:

1. Visit joinindianarmy.nic.in.
2. Click on ‘Officer Entry Apply/Login’ and then click ‘Registration’ (if not already registered).
3. Fill out the online registration form.
4. After registration, click on ‘Apply Online’ under the Dashboard.
5. Click ‘Apply’ shown against Short Service Commission NCC Special Entry Course.
6. Fill in the details in the application form.
7. Save and continue each time before moving to the next segment.
8. After completing all segments, check and edit the entries on the ‘Summary of your information’ page.
9. Submit the form and take out two copies of the application.

Important Dates:

• Application submission start date: 05 July 2023
• Last date of submission: 03 August 2023 at 3 PM (1500 hrs)

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Documents Required for NCC Special Entry

• Original NCC “C” Certificate.
• Marks sheets from 12th standard and graduation (or provisional degree sheets).
• Marks sheets of all years/semesters.
• Certificate from the college principal stating the candidate is awaiting final examination/results.
• Proof of nationality.
• Individual declaration on non-submission of original certificates beyond personal capacity.

Process for SSB Interview

The SSB interview process consists of various tests to evaluate the officer qualities (OLQ) in candidates. The process is as follows:

Stage I:

Screening test on the day of reporting, including Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) and Picture Perception & Description Test (PP & DT).

Stage II (3-4 Days):

• Psychological Test: Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), Situation Reaction Test (SRT), Self Description Test (SDT).
• Group Testing Officer (GTO): Group Discussion (GD), Group Planning Exercise (GPE), Progressive Group Task (PGT), Half Group Test (HGT), Individual Obstacle Test (OT), Command Task (CT), Group Obstacle Race (GOR), Lecturette, Final Group Task (FGT).
• Personal Interview: Based on personal details submitted at the time of reporting at SSB.

Final Conference:

Formal interaction with the complete team of officers responsible for selecting potential officers.

Medical Examination:

Conducted at a Defence Force Hospital to determine medical fitness.

Avoid These Mistakes Before Your SSB

1. Lack of understanding of the selection procedures.
2. Inability to communicate real ideas/thoughts during testing.
3. Unplanned and non-prepared answers during the interview.
4. Over-trained and highly polished responses.
5. Hiding natural behaviour and characteristics.
6. Showing overconfidence.
7. Non-observant nature and lack of knowledge about surroundings.
8. Reluctance to change or accommodate others’ viewpoints.
9. Show-off behaviour and lack of acceptability.
10. Joining the Army for job opportunities rather than commitment.
11. Non-sharing nature due to upbringing.
12. Confused state of mind and aimless future.
13. Difficulty leaving comfort zones.

Improving self-awareness and making deliberate attempts to correct these behaviour can help in clearing the SSB.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1) How many times does NCC Special Entry come in a year?

A: The NCC Special Entry Scheme comes twice a year, offering candidates the chance to join OTA with a total vacancy of 100 (50 per course/year).

Q2) What are the chances of NCC students clearing SSB through NCC Special Entry?

A: NCC cadets generally have an upper hand due to their training, but they must meet the SSB’s requirements for officer qualities.

Q3) How many applicants apply for the NCC Special Entry Scheme?

A: On average, more than 5000 candidates receive SSB call letters for the NCC Special Entry Scheme, including about 4000 for the Indian Army and 1000 for the Air Force and Navy.

Conclusion

The NCC Special Entry Scheme provides NCC cadets with a unique opportunity to join the Indian Armed Forces through a direct interview process. It builds on the values and training received in the NCC and offers a pathway to serve the nation as an officer. If you are an NCC cadet or aspiring to be one, this scheme can be a significant step towards a rewarding career in the Indian Army.