National Defence Academy (NDA) India

History of National Defence Academy (NDA)

The National Defence Academy was established in 1954. The academy was formed by the amalgamation of the Royal Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun, and the Joint Services Wing (JSW), which was earlier located at the Air Force Station in Jodhpur. The aim was to provide joint training to cadets from all three services to produce officers who could work together in perfect coordination.

National Defence Academy (NDA) Entry

The admission process to the National Defence Academy is highly competitive. The selection process consists of a written examination, followed by a Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. The written examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), twice a year. The exam is conducted in two stages – the first stage is a written examination, and the second stage is the SSB interview.

National Defence Academy (NDA) Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for admission to the NDA are as follows:

• Age: The candidate must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years of age.
• Educational Qualification: The candidate must have passed a 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
• Nationality: The candidate must be a citizen of India, Nepal or Bhutan.

National Defence Academy (NDA) Training

National Defence Academy Training: The training at the National Defence Academy is rigorous and extensive. The academy aims to develop all-around skills in cadets to make them competent officers. The training is divided into three phases:

• Phase I: The first phase of training is common to all cadets. It is a six-month-long training program, aimed at imparting basic military skills to cadets. The training includes physical training, drill, and weapon training.
• Phase II: The second phase of training is service-specific training. Cadets are trained according to their chosen service – Army, Navy, or Air Force. The training includes academic, physical, and practical training related to their service.
• Phase III: The final phase of training is aimed at making cadets ready for commissioning. It is a six-month-long training program, where cadets undergo intensive training, including field exercises and manoeuvres. This phase culminates with a passing-out parade, where cadets are awarded their commission.

National Defence Academy (NDA) Infrastructure

The National Defence Academy is spread over 7,015 acres and has state-of-the-art infrastructure. The academy has its airfield, where cadets are trained in flying. It also has a swimming pool, gymnasium, and other sports facilities. The academy has a vast library with a collection of books, journals, and periodicals related to defence studies.

Commandant of National Defence Academy

The head and overall in-charge of the National Defence Academy is known as the Commandant, who is a three-star rank officer from the three Services on a rotational basis. The first commandant of JSW at IMA was Major General Thakur Mahadeo Singh, DSO, while Major General Enaith Habibullah was the last head of the JSW and the first Commandant of NDA at Pune. The current Commandant of the National Defence Academy is Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, AVSM, NM

What After Training of National Defence Academy (NDA)?

The National Defence Academy provides excellent career opportunities to cadets. After completion of training, cadets are commissioned as officers in the Indian Armed Forces. They can choose to serve in any of the three services – Army, Navy, or Air Force. The officers have excellent opportunities for career advancement and growth. They can also pursue further studies in defence-related courses.

The National Defence Academy is one of the most prestigious training institutions in the world. It provides an excellent opportunity for young aspirants to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. The academy provides comprehensive training in all aspects of military life, making cadets competent officers. The NDA has a rich history and has produced some of the finest officers in the Indian Armed Forces. It is a matter of pride for all Defence Aspirants.