The Indian Army is set to open doors for aspiring candidates through the NCC 124 Notification, which outlines the Special Entry Scheme for the 124th course commencing in October 2026. This initiative is a golden opportunity for unmarried male and female candidates, including the wards of battle casualties from Army personnel, to join the prestigious ranks of the Indian Army as Short Service Commission (SSC) Officers.
Overview of the NCC 124 Notification
The NCC 124 Notification has officially been announced. Notably, there is no written examination for this recruitment; candidates will be shortlisted based on their qualifications and eligibility as stated in their applications.
Key Dates
| Service | Indian Army |
| Recruitment Name | 124th NCC Special Entry |
| Online Application (For Men) | 12th February 2026 to 16th March 2026 |
| Online Application (For Women) | 13th February 2026 to 16th March 2026 |
| Course Commencement | October 2026 |
| Official Website | joinindianarmy.nic.in |
Application Process
Candidates interested in applying for the NCC 124 Special Entry Scheme can do so through the official Indian Army recruitment portal. The application process is straightforward, requiring candidates to fill out the online form with accurate personal and educational details, upload necessary documents, and submit their application before the deadline.
NCC 124 Notification
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of Entry | NCC Special Entry Scheme – 124th Course (October 2026) Short Service Commission (NT) Men & Women (Including Ward of Battle Casualties of Army Personnel) |
| Open for | Unmarried Male & Unmarried Female (Graduates) |
| Education Qualification | Graduation Degree and Minimum of ‘B’ Grade in ‘C’ Certificate exam of NCC |
| Age | 19 to 25 Years as on 01 July 2026 |
| Medical Standards | As given on www.joinindianarmy.nic.in |
| Selection Process | Application > Shortlisting > SSB > Medical > Merit List > Joining Letter |
| Date for shortlisting for SSB | Tentatively First week of May 2026 |
| Likely Duration and dates for SSB | Five days SSB in May/June 2026 (Choice for SSB dates open for 15 days in April) |
| Pre Commission Training Academy | Officer Training Academy, Chennai |
| Duration of Training | 49 weeks from Oct 2026 |
| Stipend during Training | Rs 56,100 Per month |
| Rank after Training | Lieutenant |
| Salary on Commissioning | CTC approx. 17-18 Lac per annum (Excluding Free Medical cover & Travel to Home town once a year) |
| Type of Commission | Short Service Commission |
| Minimum Engagement Period | 10 Years |
| Maximum Engagement Period | 14 Years |
| Option for Release | First – After 05 Year of Service Second – After 10 Year of Service Third – After 14 Year of Service |
| Option for Permanent Commission | After 10 Years |
| Primary Arms / Service for Commission | All Arms & Services of IA |
| Release Benefits | Depending on service on release |
Eligibility Criteria
Aspiring candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify for the NCC 124 Special Entry Scheme. The requirements vary slightly for different categories, which include NCC ‘C’ Certificate holders and wards of battle casualties.
For NCC ‘C’ Certificate Holders
NCC Service: Candidates should have served in the Senior Division/Wing of NCC for a minimum of two years and obtained at least a ‘B’ grade in the ‘C’ Certificate examination.
Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. (Final-year students can apply)
For Wards of Battle Casualties
- Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is required. The NCC ‘C’ Certificate is not mandatory for this group.
Age Limit
Candidates must be between 19 to 25 years of age as of July 1, 2026. This means they should have been born between July 2, 2001, and July 1, 2007, both dates inclusive.
Selection Process
The selection process for the NCC 124 Special Entry Scheme is designed to assess candidates’ suitability for the role of an officer in the Indian Army. The procedure consists of several stages:
Initial Shortlisting
Eligible candidates will be shortlisted based on their academic performance and NCC credentials. This initial screening will determine who progresses to the next phase.
SSB Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a two-stage SSB (Services Selection Board) selection process:
- Stage I:
- Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test
- Picture Perception and Description Test (PP&DT)
- Stage II:
- Psychological Tests
- Group Tasks
- Personal Interviews
Candidates who successfully clear Stage II will undergo a detailed medical examination to ensure they meet the required medical standards.
Merit List
A merit list will be compiled based on candidates’ performance in the SSB process, their medical fitness, and overall eligibility criteria.
Training Details
Once selected, candidates will undergo a rigorous training program at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai. The training will last for 49 weeks and will prepare them for their roles as officers in the Indian Army.
Training Highlights
- Duration: 49 weeks
- Location: Officers Training Academy, Chennai
- Certification: Graduates will be awarded a Short Service Commission along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Defence Management and Strategic Studies from the University of Madras upon successful completion.
Application Fee
One of the appealing aspects of the NCC 124 Special Entry Scheme is that there is no application fee for candidates. This means that all interested applicants can apply without any financial burden, making the recruitment process accessible to a broader audience.
NCC 124 Vacancies
| Category | General Category | Wards of Battle Casualties | Total Vacancies |
|---|---|---|---|
| NCC Men | 63 | 7 | 70 |
| NCC Women | 5 | 1 | 6 |
How to Apply Online
The application process for the NCC 124 Special Entry Scheme is user-friendly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the Indian Army’s recruitment portal at joinindianarmy.nic.in.
- Select Officers Entry: Click on the ‘Officers Entry’ section.
- Choose NCC Special Entry Scheme: Find and select the link for the ‘NCC Special Entry Scheme 124th Course’.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in the online form with accurate personal and educational details.
- Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of all required documents, including educational certificates, photographs, and NCC certificates.
- Review and Submit: Verify all details carefully, submit the application online, and print a copy for your records.
Conclusion
The NCC 124 Notification for the Special Entry Scheme presents a significant opportunity for young individuals looking to serve their country as officers in the Indian Army. With no application fee and a streamlined selection process, this recruitment initiative aims to attract talented candidates who are ready to embrace the challenges and responsibilities of military service.
Aspiring candidates should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria, prepare thoroughly for the selection process, and seize this chance to contribute to the nation’s defence.
