The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India to recruit commissioned officers in the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA). This examination is a gateway for candidates aspiring to serve the country in the defense forces.
Conducting Body:
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Eligibility:
Nationality: Must be a citizen of India.
Age Limit:
IMA: 19 to 24 years
INA: 19 to 24 years
AFA: 19 to 24 years
OTA: 19 to 25 years (unmarried and married candidates are eligible)
Marital Status: Unmarried for IMA, INA, and AFA. Both unmarried and married candidates can apply for OTA.
Educational Qualification:
IMA and OTA: A degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
INA: A degree in Engineering from a recognized university or institution.
AFA: A degree from a recognized university (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or a Bachelor of Engineering.
Exam Structure:
The CDS Examination is conducted in two stages:
Written Examination
Interview by the Service Selection Board (SSB)
For IMA, INA, and AFA:
English:
Marks: 100
Duration: 2 hours
General Knowledge:
Marks: 100
Duration: 2 hours
Elementary Mathematics:
Marks: 100
Duration: 2 hours
For OTA:
English:
Marks: 100
Duration: 2 hours
General Knowledge:
Marks: 100
Duration: 2 hours
English:
Vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, synonyms, antonyms, comprehension, and usage of words.
General Knowledge:
Current events, history of India, geography, political science, general science, economics, and defense-related issues.
Elementary Mathematics:
Arithmetic: Number systems, fundamental operations, percentages, ratio and proportion, averages, interest, profit and loss, time and distance, time and work.
Algebra: Basic operations, simple factors, HCF and LCM, quadratic equations.
Geometry: Lines and angles, triangles, circles, and mensuration.
Trigonometry: Basic concepts, heights and distances.
Statistics: Collection and tabulation of data, graphs, and measures of central tendency.
Stage I: Screening Test (Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) and Picture Perception & Description Test (PP&DT))
Stage II: Psychological Tests, Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO Tasks), Personal Interview, and Conference.
Understand the Syllabus: Get a thorough understanding of the syllabus for all subjects.
Study Plan: Create a structured study plan covering all topics with dedicated time for revision.
Reference Books:
English: "Wren & Martin High School English Grammar and Composition" by S. Chand, "Objective General English" by S.P. Bakshi.
General Knowledge: "Manorama Yearbook," "Lucent's General Knowledge."
Elementary Mathematics: "Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Aggarwal, NCERT Mathematics textbooks (Class 6-10).
Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers and magazines for updates on current events.
Practice Papers: Solve previous years' question papers and take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
Physical Fitness: Maintain good physical health and fitness, as it is crucial for the SSB interview.
SSB Interview Preparation: Develop communication skills, leadership qualities, and problem-solving abilities. Consider joining coaching classes for SSB interview preparation.
English:
"Objective General English" by S.P. Bakshi
"High School English Grammar & Composition" by Wren & Martin
General Knowledge:
"Manorama Yearbook"
"Lucent's General Knowledge"
Mathematics:
"Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Aggarwal
NCERT Mathematics textbooks for Class 6 to 10
The CDS Examination is a prestigious exam that provides an opportunity to serve the nation as a commissioned officer in the Indian Armed Forces. With thorough preparation, a clear understanding of the syllabus, and consistent practice, candidates can achieve success in this highly competitive exam.