Defence & Police Exam

Category 1: Exam Pattern & Eligibility

1. Q: What is the basic eligibility criteria for the NDA exam?
A:

Nationality: Indian Citizen.
Marital Status: Unmarried.
Age Limit: 16.5 to 19.5 years on the first day of the month in which the course is due to commence.
Educational Qualification:
- For Army Wing: Passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board.
- For Air Force & Navy Wings: Passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics.
  Tip: The age calculation is very specific. Always check the official notification for the exact cut-off date. Female candidates are now eligible; always refer to the latest notification for rules.

2. Q: What is the key difference between the CDS and NDA exams?
A:

NDA: For candidates who are in or just finished Class 12. It leads to a permanent commission after joint training at the National Defence Academy and subsequent service-specific training.
CDS: For university graduates. It leads to a permanent commission with direct training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or Officers Training Academy (OTA).
Tip: If you are a science student in Class 11/12, NDA is your primary target. If you are a graduate (any stream), CDS is your pathway.

3. Q: Is there negative marking? How does it work?
A: Yes, negative marking is a standard feature in almost all defence and police competitive exams.

Typical Rule: For every incorrect answer, 1/3rd of the marks assigned to that question are deducted.
Example: If a question carries 1 mark, a wrong answer will lead to a deduction of 0.33 marks.
Tip: Do not guess blindly. Only attempt a question if you can logically eliminate at least one or two options. If you have no clue, it's better to leave it blank.

4. Q: What is the structure of the UPSC CAPF (Assistant Commandant) exam?
A: It is conducted in two stages:

Paper I: Objective Type (250 Marks)
- General Ability and Intelligence
- Duration: 2 Hours
Paper II: Descriptive Type (200 Marks)
- Essay, Precis Writing, Comprehension, and Report Writing.
- Duration: 3 Hours
Stage III: Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Test (PET) & Medical Tests.
Stage IV: Interview/Personality Test (150 Marks).
Tip: Many aspirants neglect Paper II. Practice writing essays on current affairs, social issues, and security topics regularly to improve speed and clarity.

5. Q: What are the common physical standards for a Police Constable/SI exam?
A: Standards vary by state and central force, but generally include:

Height: e.g., 170-175 cm for males, 157-160 cm for females.
Chest: (For males only) Often 80-85 cm unexpanded with a minimum expansion of 5 cm.
Weight: Proportionate to height and age.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Usually includes a race (e.g., 1600m run for males in 6-7 mins), long jump, high jump, and shot put.
Tip: Check the specific advertisement for your target force. Start physical training early. Focus on running for endurance and bodyweight exercises for strength.

Category 2: Preparation Strategy & Subjects

6. Q: Which subject is the most scoring and important?
A: The "most important" subject depends on the exam:

For NDA/CDS/AFCAT: Mathematics is often the key differentiator. It is objective, practice-based, and can significantly boost your score if mastered.
For Police Exams (SI/CONST/CAPF): General Knowledge/Current Affairs and Reasoning carry the highest weightage and are crucial for selection.
Tip: Build a strong foundation in your key subject but maintain a balanced approach. You cannot afford to fail in any section.

7. Q: How can I effectively prepare for the English section?
A: The English section tests basic comprehension and grammar.

Focus Areas: Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement, Fill in the Blanks, Idioms & Phrases.
Strategy: Read a quality English newspaper daily (The Hindu, Indian Express). This improves vocabulary, comprehension, and grammar intuitively.
Tip: Maintain a vocabulary notebook. Write down 10 new words every day, along with their meaning and a sample sentence.

8. Q: How to tackle the Reasoning and Intelligence section?
A: This section tests logical thinking and problem-solving ability.

Key Topics: Analogies, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Series, Direction Sense, Venn Diagrams, Syllogisms.
Strategy: Practice is the only key. Understand the basic concept of each topic and then solve as many questions as possible.
Tip: Use dedicated reasoning books. Start with basic problems and gradually move to higher difficulty levels. Regular practice drastically improves speed and accuracy.

9. Q: What are the best sources for Current Affairs and General Knowledge?
A: Rely on a few trusted sources to avoid confusion.

Daily: A good newspaper.
Monthly: A current affairs magazine (e.g., Pratiyogita Darpan) or a compendium from a coaching institute.
Digital: Official apps/websites like PIB (Press Information Bureau), PRS India, and Insights on India for defence and governance-related news.
Static GK: Standard books like NCERTs (History, Geography, Polity) and Lucent's GK.
Tip: Make monthly notes. Focus on awards, sports, defence news, new government schemes, important appointments, and international events.

10. Q: How important are previous years' question papers?
A: Extremely important. They are the single best resource to understand:

The exam pattern and difficulty level.
The weightage of different topics.
The type and style of questions asked.
Tip: Solve at least the last 5-10 years' papers under strict exam conditions (timed, no interruptions). Analyze your performance to identify weak areas.

Category 3: Physical & Medical Standards

11. Q: What are common medical reasons for rejection?
A: Common reasons include:

Vision: High myopia/hypermetropia, Colour Blindness.
Physical Conditions: Knock Knees, Flat Feet, Overweight/Underweight, Hernia, Piles.
Other: Hearing impairment, chronic diseases, any surgical history that impedes physical performance.
Tip: Get a pre-medical checkup from a knowledgeable doctor before you apply. This gives you time to correct any remediable issues.

12. Q: What does 6/6 or 6/9 eyesight mean?
A: It's a measure of visual acuity.

6/6 vision is "perfect" sight – you can see at 6 meters what a "normal" person sees at 6 meters.
6/9 vision means you can see at 6 meters what a normal person can see at 9 meters (i.e., your vision is slightly weaker).
Requirements: The allowed limits vary. For example, NDA requires 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other, correctable to 6/6.
Tip: LASIK/Laser surgery is now permitted for many entries, but there is a mandatory cooling-off period (e.g., 6-12 months post-surgery). Check the latest policy.

13. Q: How should I train for the Physical Efficiency Test (PET)?
A: PET requires dedicated and consistent training.

Running (1600/800m): Focus on both endurance (long, slow runs) and speed (interval training - sprints mixed with jogs).
Jumps (Long/High): Practice plyometric exercises (like jump squats) to improve explosive power.
Shot Put: Focus on technique and upper body strength training.
Tip: Start training at least 3-4 months in advance. Join a local sports academy or find a running partner to stay motivated. Practice the exact events as per your exam's requirements.

Category 4: Interview & Personality Test

14. Q: What is the 5-day SSB interview process?
A: The Services Selection Board (SSB) is designed to assess Officer Like Qualities (OLQs).

Day 1: Screening Test. Includes Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and the Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT). Candidates who clear proceed.
Day 2: Psychology Tests. Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), Situation Reaction Test (SRT), Self-Description (SD).
Day 3 & 4: Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks. Group Discussions, Group Planning Exercise, Progressive Group Tasks, Half Group Tasks, Individual Obstacles, Lecturette, Command Task, Final Group Task.
Day 5: Conference. Each assessor discusses the candidate, and the final decision is made.
Tip: Be natural and honest. The system is designed to see through fakeness. Work on your communication skills, general awareness, and confidence.

15. Q: What are the Officer Like Qualities (OLQs) they look for?
A: There are 15 OLQs, broadly categorized as:

Planning & Organizing (Effective Intelligence, Reasoning Ability)
Social Adjustment (Social Adaptability, Cooperation)
Social Effectiveness (Sense of Responsibility, Self-Confidence, Speed of Decision)
Dynamicity (Courage, Stamina, Initiative)
Tip: Participate in group activities, sports, and take up responsibilities in college/society. This is the best way to develop these qualities genuinely.

16. Q: What documents are crucial for the interview/document verification?
A: Keep these ready in a file (both originals and attested photocopies):

Class 10th & 12th Marksheets and Certificates.
Graduation Degree/Provisional Certificate and all semester marksheets (for CDS/AFCAT/CAPF).
Domicile Certificate.
Caste/Category Certificate (if applicable).
NCC Certificate (if applicable).
Photo ID Proof (Aadhar, Voter ID, Driver's License).
Passport-sized photographs.
Tip: Missing documentation is a common reason for cancellation. Prepare this file well in advance and keep it updated.

Category 5: General Queries & Myths

17. Q: Can I prepare for multiple exams at the same time?
A: Absolutely, and it is highly recommended. The syllabus for exams like NDA, CDS, AFCAT, and CAPF has a massive overlap (Maths, English, GK, Reasoning).
Tip: Create a unified study plan that covers the common syllabus thoroughly. This strategy maximizes your chances of clearing one or more exams.

18. Q: How many attempts am I allowed?
A: It varies by exam:

NDA: No limit on attempts, only an age limit.
CDS/CAPF (via UPSC): General category candidates have 6 attempts until age 32. Relaxation for reserved categories.
State Police Exams: Varies by state; check the specific notification.
Tip: Know the rules for your category. Don't waste an attempt by appearing completely unprepared.

19. Q: Is coaching necessary to crack these exams?
A: No, it is not mandatory. With the abundance of high-quality online resources, video lectures, and standard books, self-study is very much possible.

However, coaching provides structure, discipline, peer interaction, and expert guidance, which can be very helpful.
Tip: If you are disciplined and can follow a strict schedule, self-study is sufficient. For the SSB interview, consider attending a short-term orientation course.

20. Q: Does having an NCC 'C' certificate help?
A: Yes, significantly.

Bonus Marks: NCC 'C' certificate holders get bonus marks in the written exam of CDS and AFCAT (as per official notifications).
SSB Advantage: NCC cadets are often more comfortable with group tasks, drills, and the overall environment of the SSB.
Tip: If you are in school or college, joining the NCC is one of the best investments you can make for a defence career.

Category 6: Specific Exams & Roles

21. Q: What is AFCAT and what branches does it cover?
A: AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is the entry exam for the Indian Air Force as a Commissioned Officer in the following branches:

Flying Branch: To become a Pilot.
Technical Branch: For engineers (Mechanical, Computer Science, Electronics).
Ground Duty Branch: Includes Administration, Logistics, Accounts, and Education.
Tip: The Technical and Ground Duty branches have specific educational qualifications (e.g., B.Tech for Technical, Post-Graduation for Education). Check the notification carefully.

22. Q: What is the difference between a Constable and a Sub-Inspector (SI) in police?
A:

Constable: This is a frontline, non-gazetted post. Duties include beat patrolling, law and order maintenance, and assisting investigating officers.
Sub-Inspector (SI): This is the lowest-ranking investigating officer and a non-gazetted executive post. An SI can lead a police station, investigate cases, and file charge sheets.
Tip: The exam for SI is more competitive and has a higher educational requirement (usually a graduation degree) compared to the Constable exam.

23. Q: What are the various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) one can join?
A: The major CAPFs under the Ministry of Home Affairs are:

BSF (Border Security Force): Guards India's land borders.
CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force): Major role in internal security and counter-insurgency.
CISF (Central Industrial Security Force): Provides security to critical infrastructure (e.g., airports, PSUs).
ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police): Guards the Himalayan borders.
SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal): Guards borders with Nepal and Bhutan.
Tip: Research each force's role and ethos to see which aligns best with your interests.

24. Q: What is the difference between the Indian Army and the CAPF?
A:

Indian Army: A military force primarily responsible for external threats, defending the country from aggression, and wartime operations. It operates under the Ministry of Defence.
CAPF: A paramilitary force primarily responsible for internal security, border guarding, and counter-insurgency operations. It operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Tip: Your choice depends on your career goals: defending borders against external threats (Army) or managing internal security and borders (CAPF).

25. Q: What is the role of an Assistant Commandant (AC) in the CAPF?
A: An Assistant Commandant is a Group 'A' Gazetted Officer. They are the first-level commander responsible for leading a company of about 100-125 personnel, conducting operations, training their men, and managing administration.
Tip: It is a leadership role from day one, requiring sharp tactical and managerial skills.

Category 7: Deep Dive into Preparation

26. Q: How to create an effective study plan for these competitive exams?
A:

Analyze the Syllabus: Break it down topic-wise.
Assess Yourself: Identify your strong and weak areas.
Create a Timetable: Allocate time daily to each subject, giving more time to weak areas and high-weightage topics.
Include Revision: Dedicate one day weekly for only revision of what you studied that week.
Practice Mock Tests: Schedule full-length mocks on weekends to simulate exam conditions.
Tip: The plan should be realistic and flexible. Consistency is more important than studying for 10 hours one day and then burning out.

27. Q: How to improve reading speed and comprehension for the English/GK section?
A:

Practice Skimming and Scanning: Learn to quickly identify main ideas and keywords in a passage.
Read Daily: Force yourself to read editorials and complex articles from newspapers every day.
Summarize: After reading a paragraph or news item, try to summarize it in your own words in one line.
Tip: This skill is crucial for tackling Reading Comprehension and saving time in the exam.

28. Q: Are there any specific topics in History that are frequently asked?
A: Yes, focus on:

Ancient India: Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Period, Mauryan & Gupta Empires.
Medieval India: Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire (especially Akbar), Bhakti & Sufi Movements.
Modern India: Revolt of 1857, Indian National Movement (1885-1947) – especially Gandhian Era, Important Congress Sessions.
Tip: NCERT history books (Classes 6 to 12) are the bible for building a foundation in history.

29. Q: How to remember facts and figures for General Knowledge?
A:

Don't Cram, Understand: Relate facts to a story or a context.
Use Mnemonics: Create acronyms or funny phrases to remember lists (e.g., the order of planets).
Make Charts/Mind Maps: Visual learning aids memory. Stick charts of "First in India," "GI Tags," etc., on your wall.
Revision is Key: Revise your GK notes frequently—weekly and then monthly.
Tip: Active recall (trying to remember without looking) is more effective than passive reading.

30. Q: What is the best way to practice Mathematics?
A: The mantra is "Practice, Practice, Practice."

Concept First: First, understand the theory and formula behind a topic (e.g., Profit & Loss).
Start Simple: Solve basic problems to get comfortable.
Increase Difficulty: Gradually move to higher-level problems from previous years' papers.
Learn Shortcuts: Learn Vedic Math tricks and shortcuts to save precious time in the exam.
Tip: Identify your weak areas (e.g., Algebra, Trigonometry) and hammer them with relentless practice.

Category 8: Application Process & Myths

31. Q: What is the application fee for these exams?
A:

UPSC exams (NDA, CDS, CAPF): ₹100 for male General/OBC candidates. Female/SC/ST candidates are exempted from the fee.
State Police Exams: Varies by state but is usually nominal, with exemptions for reserved categories.
Tip: Always keep a digital copy of your photograph and signature as per specified dimensions (e.g., 10-20 kb) for online application forms.

32. Q: I wear glasses. Will I be rejected?
A: No, not necessarily. Myopia (short-sightedness) and hypermetropia (long-sightedness) are acceptable within specified limits that are correctable with glasses.
Tip: The concern is usually about high myopia beyond the permitted limits or colour vision deficiency (colour blindness), which is typically a disqualification for technical and combat roles.

33. Q: Is the final selection based only on the written exam?
A: No, it is a multi-stage process. The final merit list is usually based on a combination of:

Written Exam Score
Physical Standard Test (PST) / Physical Efficiency Test (PET) Score (Qualifying or scored)
Interview/Personality Test Score (e.g., SSB for defence, Interview for CAPF)
Tip: You must clear each stage to proceed to the next. Excellence in one stage can compensate for a slightly lower score in another.

34. Q: Is it true that only "well-connected" or rich people get selected?
A: This is a complete myth. The selection process for defence and police exams is one of the most transparent and merit-based in the country. The written exam is objective, the PET is physical, and the interview/SSB is conducted by multiple officers to ensure fairness.
Tip: Your success depends solely on your preparation, knowledge, physical fitness, and personality. Focus on what you can control.

35. Q: Can I have tattoos?
A: Policies have been relaxed but with restrictions.

Content: Tattoos with offensive, indecent, or communal content are strictly prohibited.
Location: Tattoos on inner forearms, back, chest, and legs are often acceptable. Tattoos on face, neck, hands, and elbows are usually not permitted.
Tip: The final decision rests with the medical board. If you have a tattoo, be prepared to declare it and explain its meaning if asked.

Category 9: Post-Selection & Career

36. Q: What is the training period after selection?
A:

NDA: 3 years of training at NDA, Khadakwasla, followed by 1 year of pre-commission training at IMA/AFA/INA.
CDS (IMA/INA/AFA): 1.5 years of training.
CAPF (AC): Approximately 2 years of training at various academies like HGs, NPA.
Police SI: Typically 1-2 years of training at a state police academy.
Tip: Training is rigorous and includes academics, physical training, weapon handling, and field craft. Be mentally prepared.

37. Q: What is the salary structure for a Lieutenant in the Army or an Assistant Commandant in CAPF?
A: As per the 7th Pay Commission, the starting salary (including allowances like DA, HRA, Transport Allowance) for these Level 10 positions is approximately ₹70,000 - ₹80,000 per month in-hand. This does not include various special duty and risk allowances.
Tip: The pay is respectable and comes with immense job security, subsidized accommodation, rations, and lifelong pension benefits.

38. Q: What are the growth prospects like?
A: Growth is based on a time-scale and vacancy basis, and it is structured.

Defence Services: Lieutenant -> Captain -> Major -> Lt. Colonel -> Colonel -> Brigadier -> Major General -> Lt. General -> General.
CAPF: Assistant Commandant -> Deputy Commandant -> Commandant -> DIG -> IG -> ADG -> DG.
Tip: A career in uniform offers stable and assured progression, provided you maintain a good service record.

39. Q: What is the "Short Service Commission (SSC)" vs "Permanent Commission (PC)"?
A:

Permanent Commission (PC): You serve until the age of retirement.
Short Service Commission (SSC): You serve for a shorter tenure (e.g., 10+4 years for SSC in Army). After this, you can opt for a Permanent Commission (subject to selection) or retire with a lump sum amount and seek civilian employment.
Tip: SSC is a great way to experience a life in uniform without a lifelong commitment.

40. Q: Is a life in the defence or police forces difficult for family life?
A: It can be challenging due to:

Frequent Transfers: Postings change every 2-3 years.
Field Postings: Long periods away from family in difficult areas.
Risk Factor: Inherent risk in the job profile.
However, it also fosters immense discipline, camaraderie, and a unique sense of pride and purpose that few other careers offer.
Tip: Discuss the challenges and rewards with your family before committing to this path. Their support is crucial.