If you aspire to serve your country and have a passion for the sea, joining the Indian Naval Academy (INA) can be a fulfilling career choice. The Indian Naval Academy, located in Ezhimala, Kerala, is the premier training establishment for officers of the Indian Navy. It is where young men and women are groomed to become leaders and warriors of the seas. In this blog, we will guide you through the process of How to Join the Indian Naval Academy in the 2023-2024 intake.
What is Indian Naval Academy?
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The Indian Naval Academy (INA) is the initial training establishment for officers of the Indian Navy. It is the gateway to a prestigious and challenging career in the naval forces. The academy focuses on developing leadership qualities, physical fitness, and professional competence among its cadets.
The training at INA is rigorous and comprehensive, encompassing both academic and practical aspects of naval operations.
Ways to Join the Indian Naval Academy After 12th
After completing your 12th grade education, there are two primary ways to join the Indian Naval Academy after you pass class 12th with Science stream.
National Defence Academy (NDA) Entry:
The NDA is a joint services academy that trains cadets for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. To join the INA through the NDA entry, you need to appear for the NDA entrance examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
The exam consists of a written test followed by an interview by the Services Selection Board (SSB). Successful candidates are then admitted to the NDA, where they undergo three years of training. After completion of their training at the NDA, candidates go on to the INA for an additional one year of training specific to the Indian Navy.
Naval Academy (10+2 B.Tech) Entry:
This entry scheme is for candidates who wish to pursue a technical career in the Indian Navy. To be eligible, candidates must have completed their 12th grade education with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects.
The selection process includes a shortlisted of the candidates on the basis of the marks scored in the class 12th board, followed by an SSB interview. Upon selection, candidates undergo a four-year B.Tech degree course at the Indian Naval Academy, after which they are commissioned as officers in the Indian Navy.
Basic Eligibility Criteria to Join INA:
To be eligible to join the Indian Naval Academy, Here are the some required eligibility criteria that you must have in every manner to apply for the NDA and Naval Academy B.tech Entry Scheme.
Nationality: You must be a citizen of India.
Age Limit:
- For the NDA entry, you must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years of age.
- For the Naval Academy (10+2 B.Tech) entry, the age should be between 16.5 and 19 years.
Educational Qualifications:
- For the NDA entry, you must have completed your 10+2 education with Science Stream.
- For the Naval Academy (10+2 B.Tech) entry, you must have completed your 12th-grade education with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects.
Physical Fitness: Candidates must be physically fit and meet the specified medical standards set by the Indian Navy.
INA Selection Process:
The selection process for joining the Indian Naval Academy consists of the following stages. It is mandatory for each students to clear the each stages of selection individually.
First Stage of Selection:
Written Examination For NDA: Candidates need to appear for a written examination conducted by UPSC. The exam includes subjects such as Mathematics, General Ability, and English.
Shortlisted of the candidates for B.tech Entry Scheme: A candidates will be shortlisted for the SSB Interview on the basis of the marks scored in the class 12th board.
Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview:
Shortlisted candidates from the written examination are called for an SSB Interview (Service Selection Board Interview), which consists of psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. The interview assesses the candidate’s aptitude, personality, and suitability for a career in the Indian Navy.
Medical Examination:
Candidates who qualify the SSB interview undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure they meet the medical standards set by the Indian Navy. The Medical Examination includes tests for physical fitness, visual acuity, hearing ability, and overall health.
Merit List and Final Selection:
After the medical examination, a merit list is prepared based on the candidate’s performance in the written examination, SSB interview, and medical examination. The final selection is based on the vacancies available and the candidate’s position in the merit list.
Training at the Indian Naval Academy
Once selected, candidates undergo training at the Indian Naval Academy, which is divided into two phases:
Basic Training: The basic training phase at INA aims to transform young individuals into well-rounded naval officers. It includes physical training, academic courses, seamanship, naval orientation, leadership development, and character building. The training also focuses on developing skills in navigation, engineering, weaponry, and communication.
Specialization Training:
After completing basic training, candidates undergo specialization training in their chosen field. This phase includes more advanced courses and practical training in specific branches such as executive, engineering, electrical, and logistics.
Throughout the training period, emphasis is placed on discipline, teamwork, and professionalism. The training at INA instills a sense of responsibility, leadership, and a strong commitment to the values of the Indian Navy.
Pay and Allowances after Training at INA:
Upon successful completion of training at the Indian Naval Academy, officers receive a monthly salary and various allowances. The pay structure for officers in the Indian Navy is based on rank and experience. As officers progress in their careers, they are entitled to promotions and corresponding salary increases. Apart from the basic pay, naval officers receive allowances such as:
- Dearness Allowance
- House Rent Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Medical Benefits etc and more.
These allowances are designed to provide financial support and cater to the needs of officers and their families. Additionally, officers enjoy various non-monetary benefits, including subsidized accommodation, access to recreational facilities, medical facilities, educational opportunities, and pension benefits.
Read More: Indian Navy Rank wise Salary and Job Profile
Navy as a Career after 12th:
To Join the Indian Naval Academy is a dream for many individuals who wish to serve their country and embark on a challenging and rewarding career in the Indian Navy. you can begin your journey towards becoming an officer in the Indian Naval Academy. Prepare yourself academically, physically, and mentally, and seize the opportunity to contribute to the defense and security of the nation while fulfilling your aspirations to serve on the seas.
