The Indian Army has officially sounded the bugle for the Agniveer Recruitment 2026, opening doors for over 25,000+ candidates to join the ranks under the transformative Agnipath Scheme. If you possess the grit to serve and the physical prowess to match, this is your chance to wear the olive green.
Unlike the older notification you provided, the current recruitment cycle for 2026 is already underway, with the registration window set to close soon on April 1, 2026.
Key Recruitment Highlights (2026 Cycle)
| Feature | Details |
| Organization | Indian Army |
| Post Name | Agniveer (General Duty – GD) |
| Total Vacancies | 25,000+ (Across all categories) |
| Application Start | February 13, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | April 1, 2026 |
| Exam Date (CEE) | June 1 to June 16, 2026 |
| Official Website | joinindianarmy.nic.in |
Eligibility Criteria: Do You Have What It Takes?
The General Duty (GD) role is the backbone of the Indian Army. To be eligible for this cycle, candidates must meet the following strict criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Class 10th/Matric pass with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks and at least 33% in each subject.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be between 17.5 to 21 years of age. Specifically, for the 2026 intake, your date of birth should typically fall between October 1, 2005, and April 1, 2009.
- Marital Status: Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
Physical Standards & Testing
Candidates must meet regional physical standards. Generally, for the Western Plains, the minimum height is 170 cm and the chest must be 77 cm (with 5 cm expansion).
The Physical Fitness Test (PFT) at the rally site carries significant weight:
- 1.6 KM Run: Group I (Within 5m 30s) earns 60 marks.
- Pull-Ups: 10 pull-ups earn 40 marks.
- Balance & Ditch: Zig-zag balance and 9-foot ditch (Qualifying only).
Selection Process: The Three-Phase Journey
The selection process has been modernized to prioritize merit and transparency:
- Phase I: Online CEE: A Computer-Based Entrance Exam testing General Knowledge, General Science, Maths, and Logical Reasoning.
- Phase II: Recruitment Rally: Shortlisted candidates undergo the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and Physical Measurement Test (PMT).
- Phase III: Medical Exam: Final verification of physical and mental fitness to ensure you are battle-ready.
Salary & Benefits: The “Seva Nidhi” Package
Selected Agniveers will serve for a period of four years. The pay structure is designed to provide financial security both during and after service:
- 1st Year: ₹30,000 per month (₹21,000 in-hand).
- 4th Year: ₹40,000 per month (₹28,000 in-hand).
- Exit Benefit: After 4 years, you receive the Seva Nidhi Package of approximately ₹11.71 Lakh (tax-free), including accrued interest.
- Life Insurance: Non-contributory life insurance cover of ₹48 Lakh.
How to Apply
- Visit the official portal: joinindianarmy.nic.in.
- Complete the “New Registration” using your Aadhaar or Matriculation certificate.
- Fill in your personal and educational details carefully.
- Pay the application fee of ₹250 (applicable for all categories except EWS in some regions; check notification for local exemptions).
- Download and print your application for the rally.
Don’t wait for the last minute! The portal often experiences high traffic as the April 1st deadline approaches. Secure your chance to serve the nation today.