
NDA Post and Salary
A complete guide for NDA post and salary for defence aspirants
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is the dream of thousands of young aspirants who want to serve the nation in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Apart from the honor and pride of joining the armed forces, candidates often wonder about the posts, ranks, salary structure, and benefits they receive after clearing NDA.
This blog will provide a detailed breakdown of NDA posts, ranks, salary, and career growth. If you’re an NDA aspirant, read till the end to know how Indian Defence Academy can help you achieve this prestigious goal.
Career Path After NDA
After clearing the NDA written exam and SSB interview, candidates undergo three years of training at the National Defence Academy, Pune. Once they complete training, they are sent to their respective service academies:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun – For Army cadets
- Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad – For Air Force cadets
- Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala – For Navy cadets
After completing training at these academies, candidates are commissioned as officers in their respective forces.
NDA Posts and Ranks
Indian Army Ranks After NDA
- Lieutenant
- Captain
- Major
- Lieutenant Colonel
- Colonel
- Brigadier
- Major General
- Lieutenant General
- General (Chief of Army Staff)
Indian Navy Ranks After NDA
- Sub-Lieutenant
- Lieutenant
- Lieutenant Commander
- Commander
- Captain
- Commodore
- Rear Admiral
- Vice Admiral
- Admiral (Chief of Naval Staff)
Indian Air Force Ranks After NDA
- Flying Officer
- Flight Lieutenant
- Squadron Leader
- Wing Commander
- Group Captain
- Air Commodore
- Air Vice Marshal
- Air Marshal
- Air Chief Marshal (Chief of Air Staff)
NDA Officer Salary and Allowances
The Indian Armed Forces offer an attractive salary package along with numerous perks and benefits.
Basic Salary Structure After NDA

Additional Perks and Benefits of NDA Officers
Apart from the basic salary, NDA officers receive multiple allowances and benefits, including:
✅ Military Service Pay (MSP) – ₹15,500 per month (Lieutenant to Brigadier)
✅ Field Area Allowance – ₹10,500 – ₹31,500 per month
✅ Flying Allowance (For Air Force Pilots) – ₹25,000 per month
✅ High Altitude Allowance – ₹3,400 – ₹25,000 per month
✅ Siachen Allowance – ₹42,500 per month
✅ Dearness Allowance (DA) – Based on inflation rates
✅ Uniform Allowance – ₹20,000 annually
✅ Free Accommodation & Rations – Officers get government quarters and free food
✅ Medical Benefits – Free healthcare for officers and their families
✅ Pension and Retirement Benefits – Lifetime pension and gratuity after retirement
Why Choose NDA as a Career?
Joining the NDA is not just about salary—it’s about honor, patriotism, and leadership. Here’s why NDA is a great career option:
Job Security – Permanent government job with promotions and benefits
High Respect & Honor – Defence officers are highly respected in society
Exciting and Adventurous Life – Travel, missions, and challenges keep life exciting
Opportunities for Higher Education – Officers can pursue M.Tech, MBA, and Ph.D.
Foreign Training & Travel – Officers get the opportunity to train abroad
Post-Retirement Benefits – Pension, medical care, and resettlement options
How to Join NDA?
To join NDA, candidates must:
1️⃣ Pass the NDA written exam (conducted by UPSC)
2️⃣ Clear the SSB Interview (5-day selection process)
3️⃣ Undergo a medical examination
4️⃣ Secure a place in the final merit list
Candidates who clear all stages join the NDA for 3 years of rigorous training, followed by further training in IMA, INA, or AFA.
Best NDA Coaching in India – Indian Defence Academy, Dehradun
If you dream of joining NDA, expert guidance is crucial. Indian Defence Academy (IDA), Dehradun, is one of the best NDA coaching institutes in India, providing:
Experienced Ex-Defence Officers as Faculty
Smart Classrooms & Best Study Material
SSB Interview Training by Retired Officers
Hostel & Mess Facility for Students
Regular Mock Tests & Doubt Clearing Sessions
Physical Training as per NDA Standards
Website: www.indiandefenceacademy.in
Join Indian Defence Academy today and start your journey towards becoming an NDA officer!
Final Thoughts
Becoming an NDA officer is not just a career choice but a commitment to serve the nation. Along with a great salary, the honor, discipline, and pride that come with this role are unmatched.
If you have the determination and passion, start preparing now! Indian Defence Academy is here to help you every step of the way.
Start your NDA journey today! Jai Hind! 🇮🇳🚀