Are you passionate about serving your country and looking for an adventurous career? Joining the Indian Army offers a variety of opportunities that go beyond just combat roles. The Indian Army is not only a place for the toughest fighters but also for individuals with diverse skills and interests. From technology enthusiasts to doctors, teachers, and even business professionals, the Indian Army welcomes a wide range of talents.
With 21 different corps to choose from, aspiring candidates can find their perfect fit within the Indian Army. Each corps has its own unique responsibilities and contributions, making it crucial for candidates to understand the options available. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different corps of the Indian Army, categorizing them into three branches – non-technical branches (fighting branches), technical branches, and service branches (support branches).
Non-Technical Branches (Fighting Branches)
These branches are the backbone of the Indian Army, responsible for frontline combat and defense operations. Let’s take a closer look at each of these fighting branches:
1. Infantry Corps
The Infantry Corps is the backbone of the Indian Army, consisting of soldiers who are at the forefront of every operation. Infantry soldiers are trained in close combat and play a crucial role in attacking and defending. They face the enemy head-on and are the first to engage in battle. If you have the courage and dedication to be on the front lines, the Infantry Corps is the ideal choice for you.
2. Armoured Corps
If you have a passion for tanks and armored vehicles, the Armoured Corps is the perfect fit for you. This branch consists of armored regiments that operate tanks and other armored vehicles. The Armoured Corps plays a vital role in providing armored support to infantry units during battles. Joining this corps will allow you to work with advanced machinery and be a part of the armored might of the Indian Army.
3. Artillery Corps
The Artillery Corps is the second largest arm of the Indian Army and is responsible for providing fire support during combat operations. The corps consists of guns, mortars, rocket launchers, unmanned aerial vehicles, and other artillery firepower. It is divided into two main branches – Field Artillery and Corps of Army Air Defence. Field Artillery deals with ground troop support, while Army Air Defence focuses on countering airborne threats. Joining the Artillery Corps will allow you to work with advanced weapons and play a critical role in providing fire support to the Indian Army.
4. Army Aviation Corps
The Army Aviation Corps is responsible for providing air support and logistical assistance to the Indian Army. It operates a fleet of helicopters and provides services like combat search and rescue, artillery lift, combat transportation, logistics relief, and medical evacuation. If you have a passion for aviation and want to provide crucial support from the skies, the Army Aviation Corps offers an exciting career path.
Technical Branches
The technical branches of the Indian Army are responsible for maintaining and operating advanced technology and equipment. Let’s explore the technical branches in detail:
5. Corps of Signals
The Corps of Signals is responsible for handling all military communications within the Indian Army. They work closely with the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to develop command and control software. Joining this branch will allow you to work with cutting-edge communication technology and play a vital role in ensuring seamless communication within the Indian Army.
6. Corps of Engineers
The Corps of Engineers is the technical backbone of the Indian Army, responsible for all engineering-related tasks. They handle combat engineering, construction works, road development, and mapping and surveying. Joining this branch will give you the opportunity to work on various engineering projects, from constructing bridges to developing infrastructure in remote areas.
7. Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME)
The Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME) is responsible for the maintenance and repair of all electrical and mechanical equipment used by the Indian Army. They provide technical advice, conduct recovery operations, and ensure the operational readiness of equipment. Joining the Corps of EME will allow you to work with advanced technology and play a critical role in keeping the Indian Army’s machinery running smoothly.
Service Branches (Support Branches)
The service branches of the Indian Army provide essential support to the fighting forces. Let’s explore these support branches in detail:
8. Army Service Corps
The Army Service Corps (ASC) is responsible for logistics and supply chain management within the Indian Army. They handle the procurement, distribution, and transportation of supplies, including food rations, fuel, and ammunition. Joining the ASC will give you the opportunity to contribute to the smooth functioning of the Indian Army by ensuring the timely provision of essential resources.
9. Army Ordnance Corps
The Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) is responsible for the procurement and maintenance of weapons, ammunition, and other military equipment. They ensure that the Indian Army is well-equipped and ready for any operational requirements. Joining the AOC will allow you to work closely with advanced weaponry and play a crucial role in maintaining the Indian Army’s operational readiness.
10. Remount and Veterinary Corps
The Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) is responsible for breeding, rearing, and training animals used by the Indian Army. They play a crucial role in providing veterinary care and support to the animals, ensuring their health and well-being. Joining the RVC will allow you to work with animals and contribute to their welfare while serving the Indian Army.
11. Military Farms
The Military Farms were established to provide milk and other dairy products to the Indian Army. While their significance has diminished over the years, they still contribute to the supply of milk products. Joining the Military Farms will allow you to be a part of this unique aspect of the Indian Army’s history and contribute to the provision of essential dairy products.
12. Army Education Corps
The Army Education Corps (AEC) plays a crucial role in imparting education and training to soldiers and officers of all ranks. They provide education in various military academies and post-commission courses. Joining the AEC will allow you to contribute to the educational development of the Indian Army’s personnel and shape their future.
13. Military Intelligence
The Military Intelligence branch is responsible for gathering and analyzing intelligence to support military operations. They play a crucial role in providing strategic and tactical intelligence, counter-terrorism efforts, and detecting spies within the army. Joining the Military Intelligence branch will allow you to work in a highly specialized field, contributing to the security and success of the Indian Army’s operations.
14. Corps of Military Police
The Corps of Military Police (CMP) is responsible for maintaining discipline and enforcing military law within the Indian Army. They handle tasks such as prisoner management, traffic regulation, and basic telecommunication operations. Joining the CMP will allow you to contribute to the maintenance of discipline and the enforcement of military law, ensuring the highest standards of conduct within the Indian Army.
15. Judge Advocate General
The Judge Advocate General (JAG) branch is the legal branch of the Indian Army. They provide legal advice, handle court-martials, and practice military law on personnel within the Indian Army. Joining the JAG branch will allow you to work in a legal capacity, ensuring the fair and just application of military law within the Indian Army.
16. Army Pioneer Corps
The Army Pioneer Corps is responsible for engineering and construction tasks within the Indian Army. They undertake various construction works, including building bridges and other infrastructure required during wartime. Joining the Army Pioneer Corps will allow you to contribute to the construction and development efforts of the Indian Army.
17. Canteen Stores Department
The Canteen Stores Department (CSD) is responsible for the retail management of various products, including household provisions, kitchen appliances, alcoholic drinks, cars, and sports equipment. Joining the CSD will allow you to be a part of one of the most profitable retail chains in India, providing essential products to the Indian Army’s personnel and their families.
18. Defence Security Corps
The Defence Security Corps (DSC) is responsible for the protection and security of designated defense installations against sabotage and pilferage. Comprising mainly of re-employed superannuated soldiers, joining the DSC will allow you to contribute to the security of defense establishments and ensure their integrity.
Armed Forces Medical Services
The Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) is a vital part of the Indian Army, providing healthcare services to all army personnel. Let’s explore the medical branches within the AFMS:
19. Army Medical Corps
The Army Medical Corps (AMC) provides medical services to all army personnel. They ensure the health and well-being of soldiers through medical care, surgeries, and preventive measures. Joining the AMC will allow you to serve as a doctor in the Indian Army, providing essential medical support to soldiers.
20. Army Dental Corps
The Army Dental Corps (ADC) is responsible for maintaining the oral health of army personnel. They provide dental care and hygiene services to soldiers, ensuring their dental well-being. Joining the ADC will allow you to work as a dentist in the Indian Army, contributing to the overall health and readiness of soldiers.
21. Military Nursing Service
The Military Nursing Service (MNS) is an integral part of the Armed Forces Medical Services. MNS officers serve as nurses and play a crucial role in providing medical care to army personnel. They have also participated in United Nations peacekeeping missions abroad. Joining the MNS will allow you to contribute as a nurse in the Indian Army, serving the medical needs of soldiers.
Conclusion
The Indian Army offers a diverse range of career opportunities, catering to individuals with various skills and interests. Whether you are passionate about combat, technology, logistics, or healthcare, there is a corps within the Indian Army that aligns with your aspirations. By understanding the different corps and their responsibilities, you can make an informed decision about which branch to join and contribute to the defense and security of our nation. Join the Indian Army and embark on a fulfilling and adventurous career that allows you to serve your country with pride.
