What entry routes are available for women officers in the Indian Army?

Women can join the Indian Army as Short Service Commission (SSC) officers through several routes: SSC (Non-Technical) entry for graduates in any discipline through CDS exam; Army Education Corps entry for postgraduate degree holders; Judge Advocate General (JAG) entry for law graduates; SSC Technical Women entry for engineering graduates in notified streams; and NCC Special Entry for NCC C-certificate holders. The Supreme Court's 2020 ruling now allows women to be considered for Permanent Commission in most arms and services on the same merit list as men.

What are the physical standards for women Army officers?

Physical standards for women Army officer candidates include a minimum height of 152 cm, weight proportionate to height as per Army standards, and chest expansion of at least 5 cm. Eyesight requirements are 6/6 in the better eye correctable to 6/6. Women candidates undergo a full medical examination that includes additional assessments specific to female health. Physical fitness is assessed at the SSB through the 1.6 km run and other fitness components.

In which arms and services can women officers serve after the 2020 Supreme Court ruling?

Following the landmark Supreme Court judgement of February 2020, women officers are now eligible for Permanent Commission in most non-combat arms and services of the Indian Army. These include Army Service Corps, Army Ordnance Corps, Intelligence Corps, Corps of Signals, Army Education Corps, Judge Advocate General Department, Army Medical Corps, Army Dental Corps, Remount Veterinary Corps, and Military Nursing Service. Combat arms (Infantry, Armoured Corps, Artillery, etc.) remain male-only.

What is the difference between Short Service Commission and Permanent Commission for women?

Short Service Commission (SSC) initially provides a 10-year commission extendable by 4 more years, totalling 14 years of service. Under the Supreme Court ruling, SSC women officers can now opt for Permanent Commission (PC) after completing their SSC tenure based on merit and vacancy. PC allows service up to retirement age (54–58 years depending on rank). Women who do not opt for or are not selected for PC are released at the end of their SSC tenure with a release gratuity.

How should women aspiring to be Army officers prepare for the SSB?

SSB preparation for women officer candidates should focus on developing leadership qualities, situational awareness, and a strong sense of duty. Reading extensively about Indian defence, national security, and current affairs builds confidence for the personal interview. Practising group discussion, TAT stories, and WAT responses helps in the psychological testing phase. Physical fitness preparation — including stamina and strength training — is essential as the SSB outdoor tasks are physically demanding. Mock SSBs at coaching institutes can provide valuable practice.