The Indian Army’s Officer Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai is set to welcome the 123rd batch of cadets for the NCC Special Entry Scheme in April 2026.
Overview of the NCC 123 Special Entry Course
The NCC Special Entry Scheme is a unique opportunity for men and women who have been part of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) to join the Indian Army as commissioned officers.
The 56th course for men and women will begin in April 2026 at the Officer Training Academy, Chennai. Candidates from all over India have competed fiercely, and the merit list highlights the top performers.
Key Points:
- Total Vacancies:
- Men: 70 vacancies (63 for General Category and 7 for Wards of Battle Casualties of Army personnel)
- Women: 6 vacancies (5 for General Category and 1 for Wards of Battle Casualties of Army personnel)
- Selection Criteria:
- The merit list is based on various factors including academic performance, NCC achievements, and the SSB interview results.
- Candidates have been provisionally selected and will receive joining letters based on their final verification of documents, medical fitness, and meeting all eligibility criteria.
- Commencement of Training:
- The training for selected candidates will begin in April 2026 at OTA Chennai, where they will undergo rigorous military training to become future leaders of the Indian Army.
Top 10 Toppers in NCC 123 Merit List (Men)
| Merit No | Roll No | Name of Candidate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 805506 | Varun Sharma |
| 2 | 803189 | Akash Kumar |
| 3 | 811633 | Garge Ved Vineet |
| 4 | 801433 | Shivam Sen |
| 5 | 804116 | Abhinav Bhar |
| 6 | 807381 | Gagandeep |
| 7 | 807800 | Arun S |
| 8 | 804588 | Chirag Jain |
| 9 | 808592 | Digvijay Singh Shekhawat |
| 10 | 805373 | Abhinav Pundir |
Top 10 Toppers in NCC 123 Merit List (Women)
| Merit No | Roll No | Name of Candidate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 850155 | Elizabeth Mohan |
| 2 | 853763 | Jadhav Avanti Ajit |
| 3 | 853096 | Ankita Yadav |
| 4 | 855750 | Kashish Singhal |
| 5 | 852202 | Arushi Sharma |
| 6 | 850361 | Desdimona Borah |
| 7 | 850012 | Priyanka Sharma |
| 8 | 851298 | Theertha Chandran |
| 9 | 852780 | More Srushti Sunil |
| 10 | 852131 | Palepu Sita Prapurna |
Conclusion
The NCC 123 Merit List is a testament to the dedication and excellence of the young men and women who have chosen to serve their country through the Indian Army.
The Officer Training Academy in Chennai will shape these individuals into capable leaders, ready to take on the challenges of military service. The journey ahead is rigorous and demanding, but the opportunity to serve the nation is a reward like no other.
Candidates on the merit list are advised to promptly complete all required documentation and medical formalities as per the instructions provided by the Indian Army to ensure their place in the course.
As these cadets step into the academy in October, they will embark on a transformative journey towards becoming the future defenders of India’s sovereignty and integrity.
