A career in Defence is more than just a job; it involves serving the nation with honor and discipline. In India, the Armed Forces offer outstanding career opportunities for students after 10th and 12th grades, providing job security, respect, and adventure. As of 2026, Defence careers remain among the most prestigious paths for young aspirants. In this article, we have provided details about career options in defence after 10th and 12th.
Why Choose a Career in Defence?
Pride of serving the country
Fixed salary + allowances
Free medical facilities
Pension & job security
Adventure & leadership skills
Career Options in Defence After 10th
Students can join the Defence services right after passing Class 10 through the following options:
1. Indian Army (Soldier Entry)
- Trades: General Duty, Technical, Clerk, Tradesman
- Eligibility: 10th pass (varies by trade)
- Age: Usually 17.5 to 21 years
- Selection Process: Physical Test, Medical Test, Written Exam
2. Indian Navy – Sailor (MR)
- MR (Matric Recruit): Chef, Steward, Sanitary Hygienist
- Eligibility: 10th pass
- Age: 17.5 to 21 years
3. Indian Air Force – Airmen (Group X & Y – limited)
- Certain non-technical posts allow 10th-based entry (as per notification)
4. Defence Support Services
- Military Schools, Army Ordnance Corps (AOC), and other technical/support roles
Career Options in Defence After 12th
After completing 12th, students have a wider range of opportunities:
1. National Defence Academy (NDA)
- Entry for: Army, Navy, Air Force
- Eligibility:
- Army: Any stream
- Navy & Air Force: Science (Physics & Maths)
- Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years
- Selection: NDA Exam + SSB Interview
2. Indian Navy
- Sailor (AA & SSR) – Science stream
- Agniveer Navy – Multiple trades
- Officer Entries – Through NDA or later exams
3. Indian Air Force
- Agniveer Vayu
- Airmen (Technical & Non-Technical)
- Officer Entry – NDA / AFCAT (later stage)
4. Indian Army
- Agniveer (General Duty, Technical, Clerk, Tradesman)
- Technical Entry Scheme (TES) – For Science students
- NDA Entry – Officer rank
- Best NDA Foundation Course after 10th and 12th
- Best NDA Coaching in India | List of Top 5 NDA Coaching in India
- Best Airforce Coaching in Lucknow, India | Air force Coaching Classes with Hostel
- Best Army Coaching in Lucknow, India | Army GD, Clerk, NA Coaching in India with Fees
Physical & Medical Requirements
- Height, weight, chest standards
- Good eyesight & hearing
- No major medical issues
Agnipath Scheme (2026)
Under the Agnipath Scheme, selected candidates serve as Agniveers for four years:
- Competitive salary with risk and hardship allowances
- “Seva Nidhi” package after completion
- Opportunity for permanent absorption for a percentage of Agniveers
- Skill certificates for civilian careers
Salary & Allowances (Approx.)
| Rank | Salary |
|---|---|
| Soldier / Airman | ₹21,700 – ₹30,000 |
| Lieutenant | ₹56,100 + allowances |
| Flying Officer | ₹56,100 + flying pay |