NDA vs ARMY WHATS THE DIFFERENCE ?
The key difference between NDA (National Defence Academy) and the Army (specifically Indian Army entry) lies primarily in the mode of entry, eligibility criteria, and the nature of training.
The NDA is a collaborative defense service academy that prepares candidates for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force following the completion of their 12th standard. Candidates take the NDA entrance exam (for 12th pass students aged 16.5 to 19.5 years), undergo 3 years of academic and military training at NDA, then specialized training at respective service academies like the Indian Military Academy (IMA) for Army cadets. It is an entry point directly after school to become commissioned officers.
Entry into the Army specifically can also be done through the Indian Military AcademyThe IMA intake comprises NDA alumni, CDS graduates, and individuals with technical degrees. through CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam or other routes. IMA training is specialized for Army officers and lasts about 12 to 18 months. IMA intake includes NDA alumni, CDS graduates, and technical graduates. CDS candidates are graduates aged 19 to 25 who take a different exam focused on graduate-level education.