Which qualification do I need to pass the Indian Army medical test?

The Indian Army demands not just physical strength and mental sharpness, but also robust medical fitness. Whether you're joining as an officer, a soldier (Jawan), or through a special entry like NDA, CDS, or Agniveer, clearing the medical test is an essential and non-negotiable part of the selection process.

But what does this test include? What qualifications or fitness standards must you meet? And how can you prepare for it?

Let’s break down everything you need to know to confidently face and pass the Indian Army medical examination.

1. Why Medical Fitness Matters

The Indian Army operates in the most challenging terrains—high altitudes, deserts, jungles, and conflict zones. Hence, soldiers must have excellent physical and mental health to:

• Withstand environmental extremes
• Carry heavy loads
• Recover quickly from injury or illness
• Avoid long-term service disruptions

The medical test ensures that only those capable of handling the rigors of military life are selected.

2. When is the Medical Test Conducted?

The medical examination is usually conducted after clearing the written exams and physical fitness tests, depending on the entry route:

• NDA, CDS, AFCAT: After the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview
• Agniveer or Jawan Entry: After the physical fitness test in the recruitment rally
• Technical & Specialist Entries: After initial document screening or interview

3. General Qualifications to Pass the Indian Army Medical Test

Here’s what you’ll be evaluated for:

a) Visual Standards (Eyesight)

• Without glasses: 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other (can vary by role)
• With glasses: Maximum permitted is 6/12 in both eyes
• Color blindness: Not allowed for combat roles
• Night blindness: Disqualifying factor

Laser surgery (LASIK) is allowed for some entries but only under specific conditions and with a minimum healing period.

b) Hearing

• You should be able to hear a whisper from 6 meters in both ears.
• Any hearing loss or chronic ear infection can lead to rejection.

c) Dental Health

• A minimum of 14 dental points is required.
• No severe caries, gum diseases, or misalignment allowed.
• Missing teeth must not interfere with chewing or speech.

d) Height & Weight Standards

These vary slightly depending on age, gender, and entry type:

• Male (General Entry): Minimum 157.5 cm (varies for hill or tribal areas)
• Female: Minimum 152 cm
• Weight: Must be proportionate to height and age, based on standard Army charts

Being underweight or overweight can lead to temporary rejection.

e) Chest Measurement

• Minimum chest expansion of 5 cm required.
• For example: If your chest is 80 cm in rest, it must expand to at least 85 cm.

f) Musculoskeletal Fitness

• No deformities like knock knees, flat feet, scoliosis, or limited joint motion
• Healthy posture, gait, and spinal alignment are mandatory

These issues can lead to direct disqualification in combat roles.

g) Skin Conditions

• No chronic skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, or severe acne
• Visible, recurring fungal infections or scars can lead to rejection

h) Internal Organ Health

Using X-rays, blood, and urine tests, the Army checks for:

• No kidney stones or liver abnormalities
• No signs of tuberculosis
• Healthy heart and lungs
• No hernias, hydroceles, or varicose veins

i) Mental Health Evaluation

• Candidates should be free from psychiatric illnesses, depression, epilepsy, or neurological disorders
• Emotional stability is evaluated during the SSB and medical board

4. Temporary vs. Permanent Rejection

• Temporary Rejection (TR): Given for issues like underweight, dental problems, or curable infections. You can reappear after a few weeks with a fitness certificate.
• Permanent Rejection (PR): Issued for uncorrectable conditions like color blindness, flat feet, or severe chronic diseases.

If you feel a rejection is unfair, you may appeal for a Review Medical Board (RMB).

5. Special Entry Medical Standards

Different entries have varying medical criteria:

• Technical Entry: May allow corrected vision or minor flat feet
• Flying Branch (Air Force): Requires near-perfect vision and higher height standards
• Special Forces: Stricter musculoskeletal and psychological evaluation
• Women Entries: Include reproductive health checks in a dignified, confidential manner

6. How to Prepare for the Medical Test

Here are some actionable tips:

• Visit a doctor for a general check-up and eyesight test before applying
• Fix dental issues early—cleaning, cavities, alignment
• Exercise regularly to stay within healthy weight ranges
• Improve posture and avoid bad habits like slouching
• Avoid steroids, energy pills, or crash diets before tests
• Declare all past surgeries or health issues honestly

7. Common Reasons for Rejection

• Color blindness
• Underweight or obesity
• Knock knees or flat feet
• Eye surgeries without proper gap or record
• Past history of seizures or psychiatric illness
• Hernia or hydrocele without treatment

Conclusion

Clearing the Indian Army medical test isn’t just about passing a list—it’s about being genuinely fit for one of the most demanding careers in the world. With the right preparation, awareness, and early attention to health, anyone with the right spirit and commitment can meet the qualifications.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s readiness. After all, a soldier must be prepared for anything.

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