How to Get Permanent Commission in Indian Army? Complete Guide

If you aim is to establish a long career for our nation with pleasure, knowing how to acquire Permanent Commission in the Indian Army is the key initial step. A Permanent Commission (PC) provides not only the privilege of wearing the uniform, but also a long-term professional career, long-term benefits and a chance to rise to the ranks of senior leadership in our Armed Forces.

In this detail, Trishul Defence Academy, a premium defence training institute in India, explains you with all you need to know about the Permanent Commission: what it is, who is eligible, entry routes, preliminary preparation, and how you get there with the right guidance.

What is Permanent Commission in Army?

Permanent Commission means an officer is entitled to serve with the Indian Army for the duration of their career, subject to discipline, fitness and service requirements. Officers with PC are entitled to full pensions and other post-retirement benefits. It provides a lifelong career with a clear pathway into higher ranks, such as Major, Colonel, Brigadier, etc.

On the other hand, a Short Service Commission (SSC) entitles you to serve for a period of time, generally 10 years, which can be subsequently extended by a further 4 years, after which the officer has the choice of either opting out or applying for Permanent Commission (if eligible).

Permanent Commission vs Short Service Commission

Feature	Permanent Commission (PC)	Short Service Commission (SSC)
Duration	Till retirement	10 years, extendable to 14 years
Career Growth	Eligible for promotion to senior ranks	Limited by tenure and vacancies
Pension & Benefits	Full pension and retirement perks	Limited unless converted to PC
Job Stability	Permanent and secure	Ends after tenure
Conversion Option	SSC officers can apply for PC	Not applicable
Applicability	Open to men and women in various branches	Common for both genders

Although both options can serve the common purpose of nation building, the Permanent Commission is best for someone who views the Indian Army as a lifetime calling, rather than as a job for a period of time.

Entry Routes for Permanent Commission

There are several ways to join the Indian Army and be granted Permanent Commission depending on your age, educational qualification and eligibility. 

Via NDA (National Defence Academy)

Boys who are successful in clearing the NDA exam after Class 12 can go to NDA for schooling and rigorous training. Upon completion, they will be sent to Indian Military Academy (IMA) for further training before being awarded Permanent Commission. 

Via CDS (Combined Defence Services)

Graduates can sit for the CDS exam, which is conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission). The selected candidates will go to IMA, Dehradoon as well and receive Permanent Commission post graduation. 

Via Technical Entry (Engineering schemes)

Engineering graduates can apply via the Technical Entry Schemes (TES) and these engineers will receive Permanent Commission after training. 

Conversion From SSC to PC

It is possible that SSC (Short Service Commission) officers will be converted to Permanent Commission depending on the individual’s performance/merit as well as the number of vacancies. 

Permanent Commission (Special List) 

Junior Commissioned Officers (JCO) and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) may also achieve PC depending on the service and grade of qualification through internal promotion routes.

Who is Eligible for Permanent Commission in Army?

There are multiple aspects that determine the eligibility for a Permanent Commission in the Indian Army:

• Educational Qualification:

Minimum of Class 12 for NDA entries; graduation or engineering degree for CDS and technical entries.

• Age Limit:

Varies by route of entry (16.5-19.5 for NDA, 19-25 for CDS, and so on).

• Physical and Medical Standards:

Candidates must fulfill high physical and medical standards in general and as applicable.

• Performance and Vacancies:

For SSC officers, the transformation to PC depends on performance record and vacancies.

Preparing for a Permanent Commission

Your first step to attaining a Permanent Commission will begin once you get through the NDA or CDS exam and the SSB Interview. It is important to prepare for both your written exam and the defence SSB Interview. Your preparation should include both academic and personality development.

Academic preparation:

• Prepare your basics in Mathematics, English and General Knowledge.
• Follow the syllabus using NCERT books for conceptual clarity.
• Do regular practice to gauge potential speed and accuracy.

SSB Interview Preparation:

• Be ready to demonstrate strong verbal and general communication and leadership skills.
• Be knowledgeable of current affairs and defence-related current events.
• Participate in some kind of physical fitness and outdoor activities.

At Trishul Defence Academy, aspirants receive a comprehensive training plan to prepare them for the written examination and SSB Interview in structured offline and online courses, mock interviews, and mentoring from recently retired officers.

Benefits of a Permanent Commission

Earn Unforgettable Rewards through a Permanent Commission in the Indian Army:

• Sure and Stable Career – You will be employed until retirement with job security.
• Post-Employment Pension and Benefits – Pension and medical facilities full-scale after retirement.
• Promotion and Progression – Move forward in the hierarchy to senior ranks.
• Command and Responsibility – Command your troops, conduct operations and represent your nation.
• Prestige and Glory – You will carry the title of an officer in the Indian Army for the rest of your life.

Challenges of Serving in the Indian Army

There are challenges that come with being a Permanent Commissioned Officer, of which are given below: 

• High Responsibility: The way you conduct yourself is a reflection of your leadership and discipline.
• Frequent Transfers: An Officer may be transferred to a different area based on the operational requirements of the Army.
• Physical and Mental Demands: An Officer must be fit and ready to deploy at all times.
• Vacancy Management and Promotion Pressure: Promotion can only take place based on your service records and merit.

Conclusion

Becoming a Permanent Commission in the Indian Army is more than just a career; it is a lifelong commitment to discipline, leadership, and serving the country. The Indian Army provides stability, honour, and a deeper meaning in your work that very few careers truly offer.

If you want to wear the uniform with pride, begin your journey at Trishul Defence Academy – where your passion meets your preparation and take your first step in becoming a proud officer of the Indian Army.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Permanent Commission in Army?

A Permanent Commission enables an officer to serve in the Indian Army until retirement and receive all the benefits, promotions, and stability of continued service.

What are the main entry routes for Permanent Commission?

The primary route towards Permanent Commission includes NDA, CDS, Technical Entry Scheme and also the SSC may convert to PC by merit.

Can I get Permanent Commission through OTA?

No SSC officers who are commissioned through the Officers Training Academy (OTA) are provided Short Service  Commission possibility based upon orders, performance, and available vacancies.

Do women get Permanent Commission in Indian Army?

Yes, women officers are now eligible for Permanent Commission in multiple branches to serve until retirement.

Who is eligible for Permanent Commission in Army?

Any candidates who meet educational, physical, and age criteria through either NDA, CDS, or Technical Entry can apply to the Indian Army.

Who is eligible for 7th Pay Commission benefits?

Any serving or retired officer, including those with Permanent Commission, will obtain benefits listed under 7th Pay Commission benefits according to government policy.