The Technical Graduate Entry Scheme (TGC) is a direct entry recruitment scheme for male engineering graduates. No written is required. Candidates can directly appear in SSB and fulfil their dream to join Indian Armed Forces and serve the country.
The Technical Graduate Entry Scheme (TGC) is a good opportunity for engineering graduates to join the Indian Army as commissioned officers. It is a direct entry scheme for male engineering graduates, allowing them to serve as technical officers in the armed forces. This scheme is a twice-a-year opportunity for candidates who aspire to have a challenging and honourable career in the Indian Army.
In this article, we will discuss in detail :
- What is the Technical Graduate Entry Scheme?
- Why is it a great career option for engineers?
- Eligibility criteria and requirements to apply
- Selection process
- Training schedule at IMA Dehradun
- Pay structure and allowances
- Future career growth in the Indian Army
- Benefits provided by the government after retirement
Let’s understand why TGC is one of the best career opportunities for engineering graduates.
1. What is the Technical Graduate Entry Scheme (TGC) ?
The Technical Graduate Entry Scheme (TGC) is a direct entry recruitment scheme for male engineering graduates. It allows candidates to become technical officers in the Indian Army without appearing for a written exam. Shortlisted candidates are directly called for the SSB interview, making it an excellent opportunity for engineers.
Every year, the Indian Army releases notifications twice (in March/April and September/October) for this entry. Selected candidates undergo one-year military training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun before being commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army.
2. Why is TGC a Great Career Option for Engineers?
Choosing the Indian Army as a career after engineering is a prestigious and secure option. Here’s why:
(i) Job Security – A stable and permanent job in the government sector.
(ii) No Written Exam – Direct SSB interview for shortlisted candidates.
(iii) Excellent Pay & Perks – High salary, allowances, and numerous benefits.
(iv) Adventure & Discipline – A challenging yet fulfilling lifestyle.
(v) Opportunity for Higher Studies – Sponsored courses and foreign training.
(vi) Post-Retirement Benefits – Pension, medical facilities, and welfare schemes.
This scheme is a golden opportunity for engineering graduates who want to serve the nation while having a highly respected and rewarding career.
3. Eligibility Criteria and Requirements to Apply
To apply for TGC, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
(i) Age Limit : 20 to 27 years
(ii) Educational Qualification : BE/B.Tech degree in notified engineering streams
(iii) Nationality : Indian
(iv) Marital Status : Unmarried males only
How to Apply ?
Candidates can apply online through the official website of the Indian Army:
👉 www.joinindianarmy.nic.in
Applications open as per the official notification released by the Directorate General of Recruiting in leading newspapers and the Employment News.
4. Selection Process for TGC Entry Scheme
The selection process for Technical Graduate Entry Scheme (TGC) consists of the following stages:
Step 1 : Shortlisting of Applications
Candidates are shortlisted based on their engineering discipline and marks in BE/B.Tech.
There is no written exam for TGC; only SSB interviews are conducted.
Step 2 : SSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates are called for the SSB (Services Selection Board) Interview, which consists of:
- Stage 1 : Screening – Includes OIR test and PPDT (Picture Perception & Description Test).
- Stage 2 : Psychological Tests – TAT, WAT, SRT, SD.
- Stage 3 : Group Testing – Group discussion, military planning exercises, physical tasks.
- Stage 4 : Personal Interview – Conducted by senior Army officers.
- Stage 5 : Conference – Final selection based on performance.
Candidates who clear SSB undergo a medical examination. The final merit list is prepared based on SSB performance and medical fitness.
5. Training Schedule at IMA Dehradun
Training Academy: Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
- Duration : One Year
- Commencement of Training : January & July each year
- Selected candidates join IMA, Dehradun, for rigorous military training.
- They undergo physical fitness training, weapons training, leadership development, and tactical exercises.
- On successful completion, they are commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army.
6. Pay Structure and Allowances
Officers recruited through TGC receive an attractive salary package with various allowances:
- Stipend during Training : Rs 56,100 per month
- After Commissioning: Rs 56,100 – Rs 1,77,500 per month (Level 10 Pay Matrix)
- Other Allowances :
Military Service Pay (MSP) – Rs 15,500 per month
Flying/Technical Allowances – Rs 25,000+
Uniform Allowance, Field Area Allowance, and Special Duty Allowance
Free medical facilities, travel concessions, and insurance coverage are also provided.
7. Future Career Growth in the Indian Army
Engineers selected through TGC have excellent career growth opportunities :
Promotions:
(i) Lieutenant – After 1 year of training
(ii) Captain – After 3 years
(iii) Major – After 6 years
(iv) Lt Colonel – After 13 years
(v) Colonel – Based on Selection
(vi) Brigadier, Major General, Lt General, and General – Higher promotions based on merit and performances.
- Higher Education Opportunities : Officers can pursue M.Tech and MBA degrees sponsored by the Army.
- Foreign Assignments & Training : Opportunity to serve in UN Peacekeeping Missions and train in prestigious foreign institutions.
8. Benefits Provided by the Government After Retirement
After retirement, officers receive numerous benefits, ensuring a secure and comfortable life.
- Pension : Lifetime pension as per government rules.*
- Medical Benefits : Free medical treatment in Armed Forces hospitals for the officer and family.
- CSD Facilitie s: Subsidized goods through CSD (Canteen Stores Department).
- Housing Benefits : Affordable housing through Army Welfare Housing Organization (AWHO).
- Employment Opportunities : Preference in government jobs, PSU recruitments, and corporate roles.
The Indian Army ensures financial stability and dignity even after an officer retires.
Conclusion : Why Choose TGC ?
The Technical Graduate Entry Scheme (TGC) is an excellent career opportunity for engineering graduates who want to serve the nation with pride. It offers verities of roles.
- A stable career with high pay & perks*
- Exciting challenges and leadership roles
- Opportunities for higher studies and foreign training
- A secure post-retirement life with multiple benefits
If you are an engineering graduate and aspire to wear the uniform, lead a disciplined life, and serve the country, TGC is the perfect choice for you!
** Join the Indian Army and become a part of the world’s finest military force.
