At AVASH Trust, we work to empower young individuals to build meaningful careers and contribute to national development. Joining India’s paramilitary forces, officially known as the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), is one of the most honourable ways to serve the nation. This article provides a comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide for youth who dream of joining CAPFs — along with how AVASH Trust can support them.
Understanding India’s Paramilitary Forces
The CAPFs include:
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BSF – Border Security Force
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CRPF – Central Reserve Police Force
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CISF – Central Industrial Security Force
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ITBP – Indo-Tibetan Border Police
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SSB – Sashastra Seema Bal
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Assam Rifles
These forces play a vital role in border security, disaster response, internal security, VIP protection and national emergencies.
Entry Routes to Join Paramilitary Forces
1. UPSC Route – Assistant Commandant (Officer Entry)
A prestigious entry path for becoming a Gazetted Officer (AC).
Eligibility:
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Age: 20–25 years
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Education: Graduation in any stream
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Nationality: Indian
Selection Process:
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Written Examination (General Ability & Intelligence + Essay & Comprehension)
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Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
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Medical Examination
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Interview / Personality Test
This is ideal for youth aspiring for leadership roles in CAPFs.
2. SSC GD Constable Route (Non-Gazetted Entry)
The most popular recruitment for 10th-pass youth.
Eligibility:
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Age: 18–23 years (age relaxations apply)
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Education: Matriculation/10th Pass
Selection Process:
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Online Computer-Based Exam (CBE)
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PET/PST
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Medical Test
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Document Verification
Vacancies are usually announced for all CAPFs including BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB and Assam Rifles.
Subordinate Officer Through SSC CPO SI Exam
The Subordinate Officers are recruited in the Paramilitary Forces through the SSC CPO SI exam, conducted by the Staff Selection Commission.
| Eligibility Criteria: | |
|
Subordinate Officer Through SSC CPO SI Exam Eligibility Criteria |
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| Age | 20 to 25 Years |
| Educational Qualifications | Graduation from any stream |
| Height | Male: 170 cm |
| Female: 157 cm | |
| Chest | Male: 81 – 86 cm |
| Female: N/A | |
| 100 Meters Race | Male: 16 Seconds |
| Female: 18 Seconds | |
| Race | 1.6 Km for Male: 6 Minutes 30 Seconds |
| 800 Meters for Female: 4 Minutes | |
| High Jump (In 3 Chances) | Male: 1.2 Meters |
| Female: 0.9 Meters | |
| Long Jump | Male: 3.65 Meters (In 5 Chances) |
| Female: 2.7 Meters (In 3 Chances) | |
| Short Put (In 3 Chances) | Male: 4.5 Meters (7.2 kg) |
| Female: N/A | |
Selection Process:
| Stage | Type of Examination | Mode of Examination | Maximum Marks |
| Tier 1 | Objective Multiple Choice (Quantitative Aptitude & English Comprehension) | Online Computer Based Test | 200 |
| PET / PST | Running, Long Jump, High Jump, and Shot Put | Physical Exam | – |
| Tier 2 | Objective Multiple Choice (English Language & Comprehension) | Online Computer Based Test | 200 |
| Final Stage | Medical Test | – | – |
Assistant Commandant Through UPSC CAPF Exam
The UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandant Exam is the only exam through which an aspirant can join Indian Para Military Forces as a Gazette Officer.
Eligibility Criteria:
| UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandant Exam Eligibility Criteria | |
| Age | 20 to 25 Years |
| Educational Qualifications | Graduation from any stream (No specific percentage needed) |
| Height |
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| 100 Meters Race |
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| 800 Meters Race |
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| Long Jump (In 3 Chances) |
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| Shot Put |
|
Selection Process:
| Stages | Paper | Subject | Number of Questions | Time Allotted | Maximum Marks |
| Stage 1: Written Exam | Paper 1 (Objective Paper) | General Ability & Intelligence | 125 | 2 Hours | 250 |
| Paper 2 (Descriptive Paper) | General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension | – | – | 200 | |
| Stage 2: Physical & Medical Test | Physical Efficiency Test / Physical Standard Test | – | – | – | |
| Stage 3: Interview | – | – | – | – | 150 |
| Total | 600 | ||||
3. Reserved Quota for Ex-Agniveers
The government provides special 10% reservation for trained Agniveers in CAPF recruitment, with certain relaxations in physical and age criteria.
Physical and Medical Standards
To serve in paramilitary forces, candidates must be physically fit and medically sound.
Typical Physical Tests Include:
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1.6 km run within a fixed time
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Long Jump
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High Jump
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Shot Put (for certain categories)
Common Medical Requirements:
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Good vision (with or without correction, depending on post)
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No major deformity or chronic illness
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Healthy BMI
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Normal hearing, blood pressure, and posture
Aspiring candidates must start physical training early to meet these standards.
Why Join Paramilitary Forces?
Benefits:
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A respected government career
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Job security and pension benefits
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Opportunity to serve the nation
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Growth through promotions
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Adventure, discipline and leadership development
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Social prestige & community respect
Joining CAPFs is not just a career — it’s a mission of honour.
How AVASH Trust Supports Aspirants
As part of our youth empowerment initiatives, AVASH Trust provides:
1. Awareness & Guidance Camps
Information sessions on CAPF recruitment, eligibility, and preparation strategies.
2. Career Counselling
Personalized guidance to help youth choose the right path — SSC GD or UPSC AC.
3. Physical Training Support
Basic training camps, endurance preparation, and fitness guidance before PET/PST.
4. Motivational and Skill Development Programmes
Workshops to build confidence, discipline, leadership, and communication skills.
5. Support for Economically Weak Aspirants
Helping eligible candidates with training resources or exam-related guidance.
How to Start Your Journey Today
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Follow SSC and UPSC official announcements regularly.
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Begin physical training (running, muscle strength, flexibility).
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Develop general knowledge, reasoning, and communication skills.
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Attend an AVASH Trust orientation or counselling programme.
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Stay motivated and disciplined — the journey is challenging but rewarding.
Conclusion
Joining India’s paramilitary forces is a noble journey of courage, commitment and service. AVASH Trust is proud to guide and motivate the youth of our community towards such national responsibilities. With the right preparation, dedication and support, any young aspirant can build a prestigious career in CAPFs.
If you wish to take guidance, training or counselling, AVASH Trust is always ready to help.
