Indian Navy Agniveer SSR 2026 Recruitment: Apply by Apr 6

The Indian Navy has announced a significant recruitment drive for unmarried male and female candidates to join as Agniveer (SSR) for the 01/2027 and 02/2027 batches. This presents a golden opportunity for eligible individuals seeking a dynamic career in the Indian Armed Forces under the Agnipath scheme. The application window is open from March 14, 2026, to April 06, 2026. Candidates will undergo a rigorous selection process including a computer-based INET exam, Physical Fitness Test (PFT), and Medical Examination.

Quick Overview

Vacancy Details

The Indian Navy will determine the trade-wise distribution of vacancies for male and female Agniveers based on service requirements. Specific numbers for each batch (01/2027 and 02/2027) are not mentioned in the official notification.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• 10+2 Qualification: Passed 10+2 with Mathematics & Physics from Boards of School Education recognized by the Ministry of Education, Govt of India, with minimum 50% marks in aggregate.
• OR Diploma Holders: Passed Three years diploma course in Engineering (Mechanical/ Electrical/ Automobiles/ Computer Science/ Instrumentation Technology/ Information Technology) from Central, State and UT recognized Polytechnic Institute with 50% marks in aggregate.
• OR Vocational Course Holders: Passed Two years Vocational Course with Non-vocational subjects viz, Physics and Mathematics from Education Boards recognized by Central, State and UT with 50% marks in aggregate.
• Note: Candidates appearing in the Class 12th Board Exam of the academic year 2025-26 are also eligible, provided they fulfill all other criteria and produce the original marksheet during subsequent recruitment stages with minimum laid down marks.

Age Limit

Candidates must meet the specific age criteria for each batch:

Note: Candidates born between 01 Dec 2004 – 31 Oct 2009 are eligible to apply for INET 2026. Further eligibility for Stage II recruitment process will be as per the age criteria shown above.

Marital Status

• Only unmarried Indian male and female candidates are eligible.
• Candidates must provide a certificate of being ‘unmarried’ at the time of enrolment.
• Agniveers are not permitted to marry during their entire four-year tenure in the Indian Navy.

Physical Standards

Candidates must meet the following physical standards:

• Minimum Height: 157 cms for both male and female.
• Visual Standards: Uncorrected Vision: 6/12, 6/12; Corrected Vision: 6/6, 6/6; Colour Perception: CP PASS.
• Tattoos: Permanent body tattoos are only permitted on the inner face of forearms (from inside of elbow to the wrist) and on the reversed side of the palm/back (dorsal) side of hand. Tattoos on any other part of the body are not acceptable.
• Medical Fitness: Candidates must be in good physical and mental health, free from any disease/disability.

Experience

No prior experience is required for this recruitment drive; it is open to fresh eligible candidates.

Application Fee

Candidates must pay an examination fee for Stage I – INET application:

• Fee once paid is non-refundable and cannot be held in reserve for other examinations.
• No separate fee will be charged for the Stage II process.

Important Dates

Note: All dates are tentative and subject to change. Exact dates will be promulgated on the Candidates Registration Portal.

Selection Process

The selection process for Agniveer (SSR) involves multiple stages:

1. Stage I – INET 2026 (Computer-Based Examination):
   • 100 objective-type (multiple-choice) questions, 1 mark each.
   • Duration: 1 hour.
   • Bilingual (Hindi & English).
   • Sections: English, Science, Mathematics, and General Awareness (10+2 standard).
   • Candidates must pass in all sections and in aggregate.
   • Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer.
   • Exam centers are allocated at the discretion of the Indian Navy.
2. Shortlisting for Stage II:
   • Candidates will be shortlisted based on marks obtained in Stage I – INET 2026.
   • Shortlisting will be carried out state-wise, and cut-off marks may vary by state.
   • In case of same percentage, candidates with earlier Date of Birth (D.O.B.) will be given priority.
   • Sponsor candidates and NCC ‘C’ Certificate holders are exempted from Stage I INET exam and will be directly called for Stage II based on eligibility.
3. Stage II – Physical Fitness Test (PFT):
   • Mandatory and qualifying. Candidates undertake PFT at their own risk.
   • Male Standards: 1.6 Km run in 06 min 30 sec, 20 Squats (Uthak Baithak), 15 Push-ups, 15 Bent Knee Sit-ups.
   • Female Standards: 1.6 Km run in 08 min, 15 Squats (Uthak Baithak), 10 Push-ups, 10 Bent Knee Sit-ups.
4. Stage II – Written Examination:
   • Conducted only for candidates who qualify PFT.
   • Similar to Stage I – INET: 100 objective-type questions, 1 mark each, 1 hour, bilingual.
   • Sections: English, Science, Mathematics, and General Awareness (10+2 standard).
   • Candidates must pass in all sections and in aggregate.
5. Recruitment Medical Examination:
   • Conducted by authorized military doctors as per prescribed medical standards.
   • Candidates found medically unfit can appeal for review at a designated military hospital within 05 days.
6. Provisional Select List:
   • Prepared based on performance in Stage II written exam, subject to qualifying PFT and Medical Examination.
   • Merit List for Agniveer (male and female) will be state-wise.
7. Pre-Enrolment Medicals: Conducted at INS Chilka. Induction is subject to qualifying these medicals.
8. Training: Tentatively commences Dec 2026 for 01/2027 batch and May 2027 for 02/2027 batch at INS Chilka, Odisha.
9. Enrolment as Sailors (Regular Cadre): On completion of four years, up to 25% of each specific batch of Agniveer may be offered an opportunity for permanent enrolment in the Indian Navy based on organizational requirements and performance.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply online for the Indian Navy Agniveer (SSR) recruitment:

1. Visit the official Indian Navy recruitment website: https://joinindiannavy.gov.in.
2. Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria before proceeding with the application.
3. Register yourself on the portal if you are a new user, or log in if you already have an account.
4. Fill out the online application form with correct details. Incorrect information may lead to cancellation of candidature.
5. Upload scanned copies of all required original documents, including certificates, mark sheets, Domicile certificate, and NCC certificate (if held).
6. Upload a recent passport-size color photograph (taken not before March 2026) of size 10 KB to 50 KB. The photograph must be taken with the candidate holding a black slate in front of their chest with their name and date of photograph taken, clearly written with white chalk in capital letters.
7. A live photograph will be captured through the webcam during the application form filling process. Ensure it is of good quality.
8. Pay the application fee of ₹550/- + 18% GST through online mode (Net banking, Visa/Master/RuPay Credit/Debit Card/UPI).
9. Submit the application form and take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.

Important Links

Job Profile & Career Scope

As an Agniveer (SSR) in the Indian Navy, you will serve for a period of four years, contributing to the nation’s maritime security. The role involves various duties associated with the Sailor branch, including operating sophisticated equipment, maintaining ships and submarines, and participating in naval operations. This scheme offers a unique opportunity for youth to experience military life, develop discipline, and gain valuable skills.

After the four-year tenure, Agniveers will be given an opportunity to apply for permanent enrolment in the Indian Navy. Up to 25% of each batch will be selected based on their performance during the engagement period and the organization’s requirements. Those not re-enrolled will receive a ‘Seva Nidhi’ package, which can aid in their transition to civilian life or further education. The experience and skills gained as an Agniveer are highly valued in both public and private sectors, opening doors to diverse career paths.

Preparation Tips

For INET/Stage II Written Exam

• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the 10+2 standard syllabus for English, Science (Physics & Chemistry), Mathematics, and General Awareness.
• Focus on Core Subjects: Strengthen your fundamentals in Physics and Mathematics, as they are crucial for SSR.
• General Awareness: Stay updated with current affairs, basic history, geography, and Indian polity. Lucent’s General Knowledge is a good resource.
• Practice Regularly: Solve previous year’s question papers and sample papers available on the official website to understand the exam pattern and improve time management.
• Mock Tests: Regularly take full-length mock tests to simulate exam conditions and identify weak areas.
• Negative Marking: Be cautious of the 0.25 negative marking. Attempt questions only if you are reasonably sure of the answer.

For Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

• Start Early: Begin physical training well in advance to build stamina and strength.
• Running Practice: Focus on improving your 1.6 Km run timing. Include interval training and long-distance runs.
• Strength Training: Practice squats, push-ups, and bent knee sit-ups regularly to meet the prescribed standards.
• Proper Form: Ensure you perform exercises with correct form to avoid injuries and maximize effectiveness.

For Medical Examination

• Maintain Good Health: Lead a healthy lifestyle, eat nutritious food, and get adequate sleep.
• Basic Hygiene: As advised in the notification, get your ears cleaned for wax and tartar removed from teeth prior to the medical examination.
• Be Honest: Disclose any medical conditions truthfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the Agnipath scheme?

A: The Agnipath scheme is a recruitment policy for soldiers into the Indian Armed Forces. Agniveers are recruited for a four-year tenure, after which up to 25% may be absorbed into permanent service based on organizational requirements and their performance.

Q2: Can married candidates apply for Agniveer (SSR)?

A: No, only unmarried Indian male and female candidates are eligible for Agniveer (SSR). Agniveers are also not permitted to marry during their entire four-year tenure.

Q3: Is there a negative marking in the INET exam?

A: Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in the Stage I – INET exam.

Q4: What documents are required during the application process?

A: You need to scan and upload original certificates, mark sheets, Domicile certificate, and NCC certificate (if held). A recent passport-size color photograph with specific details is also required.

Q5: What happens after the four-year tenure as Agniveer?

A: After four years, Agniveers will be given an opportunity to apply for permanent enrolment. Up to 25% of each batch will be selected. Those not selected will receive a ‘Seva Nidhi’ package and will be released from service.

Q6: Can candidates from any state apply?

A: Yes, candidates from across India can apply. However, shortlisting for Stage II and the final merit list will be prepared state-wise, and cut-off marks may vary from state to state.

Q7: What if I face issues during the online application or payment?

A: For online payment issues where money is deducted but the admit card is not generated, wait for 7 working days for an automatic refund. For other technical issues, candidates should refer to the official website or contact the support mentioned there. Avoid multiple applications as it can lead to rejection.

Q8: Are NCC ‘C’ certificate holders exempted from the INET exam?

A: Yes, verified NCC ‘C’ certificate holders are exempted from the Stage I – INET exam and will be directly issued call-up letters for the Stage II recruitment process based on eligibility.

Q9: What are the benefits for Agniveers during their service?

A: Agniveers receive a package of ₹30,000 per month with a fixed yearly increment, risk/hardship, dress, and travel allowances. They are also entitled to 30 days of leave per year, sick leave, a non-contributory life insurance cover of ₹48 Lakh, and medical/CSD facilities.

Q10: What is the correction window for application details?

A: A 2-day correction window will be provided after the application closing date, and an additional 2-day window will be activated post-INET exam for corrections. No further corrections/amendments will be entertained thereafter.