UPSC CDS 2 Notification Out

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), symbolizes both career aspirations and national service for countless Indians. Scheduled for 1st September 2024, the upcoming exam beckons aspirants to navigate through its complexities.

The UPSC CDS 2 Exam 2024 is scheduled for September 1, 2024, with the application deadline set for June 4, 2024. Prospective candidates should thoroughly review the eligibility criteria established by UPSC for the CDS before submitting their applications. 

This exam is a significant opportunity for those aiming to join the esteemed Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Applications for the UPSC CDS 2 2024 Exam can be submitted on the official website from May 15, 2023, to June 4, 2024. Additionally, candidates should be aware that the application correction window is open from June 5 to 11.

Eligibility Criteria

Before aspiring candidates embark on their journey to crack the CDS exam, it’s crucial to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria set forth by the UPSC. The eligibility criteria are as follows:

Nationality:

Candidates must be citizens of India or subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, Tibetan refugees, or Indian-origin migrants from certain countries.

Age Limit:

The age criteria differ for various academies and services. Candidates should be between 19 and 25 years old to be eligible.

Educational Qualification:

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution to be eligible for all academies. Specific educational qualifications are required for different academies and services.

Application Process

The application process for the UPSC CDS exam primarily takes place online through the official UPSC website. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:

The candidates need to create OTR profile by following steps:

1. Navigate to the official website: UPSC website.
2. Locate and select the registration link.
3. Click on the “New Registration” tab.
4. Provide the required details such as Name, Mother’s Name, Father’s Name, Mobile Number, Email ID, etc.
5. A password will be sent to the registered email ID and mobile number.
6. Log in again to your account and reset the password as per your preference.
7. Upon re-login, access your account and click on the CDS 2 application form link to proceed with the exam application.

After creating an OTR profile, candidates can proceed to fill out the form.

• Visit the official website at upsconline.nic.in.
• Sign in to your account on the One-Time Registration (OTR) platform, following the registration process explained earlier.
• Complete the required details for part 1 registration.
• Upload your photograph, signature, and photo identity proof as part of the application process.
• Proceed to make the application fee payment to complete your application.
• Select the desired exam center for the UPSC CDS 2 examination.
• Finally, submit the completed application form.

Documents Required:

The following documents are typically required for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination application process:

1. Photograph: Recent passport-sized color photograph in JPG format.
2. Signature: Scanned copy of the candidate’s signature in JPG format.
3. Photo Identity Proof: A valid photo identity proof such as Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID Card, Driving License, or PAN Card.
4. Educational Certificates: Scanned copies of educational certificates to verify eligibility criteria.
5. Category Certificate: If applicable, candidates belonging to reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC) need to provide scanned copies of their category certificate.
6. Disability Certificate: If applicable, candidates with disabilities need to provide a scanned copy of their disability certificate.
7. Domicile Certificate: Some candidates may be required to submit a domicile certificate as per the eligibility criteria.

Downloading the Admit Card:

The candidates can download their admit card by following steps:

1. Visit the official website.
2. Select the CDS admit card link.
3. Click on the CDS Admit card link.
4. Read the instructions provided carefully.
5. Fill in the required details such as application number, date of birth, etc.
6. Click on the submit button.

Exam Fee:

1. General/OBC Candidates: ₹200
2. SC/ST/Female Candidates: No fee (Exempted)

Exam Date:

The CDS exam, scheduled for 1st September, is a highly anticipated event for thousands of aspirants nationwide. It’s a day that holds the potential to shape the future of many young individuals aspiring to serve their country in various defense capacities.

Exam Pattern:

The CDS exam consists of three papers:

1. English Language (100 marks)
2. General Knowledge (100 marks)
3. Elementary Mathematics (100 marks)

Each paper is of 2 hours duration. The English paper evaluates candidates on comprehension skills, vocabulary, and grammar. The General Knowledge paper tests their awareness of current events, history, geography, and other relevant topics. The Elementary Mathematics paper assesses mathematical aptitude and problem-solving abilities.

For aspirants opting for OTA, they will only appear for English and General Knowledge exams.

Syllabus:

English:

The examination paper is structured to evaluate candidates’ comprehension of English language and grammar.

Maths:

• Arithmetic (Number System, Percentage, Ratio and Proportion, Time and Work, Time, Speed and Distance)
• Algebra
• Trigonometry (Trigonometric Ratios, Heights and Distances)
• Geometry
• Mensuration (Area, Perimeter, Volume)
• Statistics (Data Interpretation, Graphs, Probability)
• Sets and Functions

General Studies:

1. Current Affairs: Events of national and international significance, recent developments in politics, economy, sports, science, and technology.
2. History: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian history, major events, prominent personalities, and cultural heritage.
3. Geography: Physical geography, Indian and world geography, landforms, climate, rivers, mountains, and important geographical features.
4. Indian Polity: Constitution of India, governance, political system, key institutions, and recent political developments.
5. Economics: Basic economic concepts, Indian economy, budget, economic policies, and recent economic developments.
6. Science: General principles of science, physics, chemistry, biology, recent scientific advancements, and discoveries.
7. Environment: Environmental issues, conservation efforts, biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable development.
8. Defense and Security: Basic knowledge of defense-related topics, armed forces, defense organizations, and recent developments in defense and security.
9. Miscellaneous: Awards and honors, books and authors, sports, important days and events, national and international organizations, etc.

Further Process:

Upon passing the written examination, candidates advance to the next stage of the selection process, which includes the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, medical examination, and document verification. The SSB interview is an in-depth evaluation of a candidate’s personality, intelligence, and suitability for a career in the armed forces. This assessment involves a series of tests, including psychological evaluations, group discussions, and personal interviews.

Conclusion:

With the release of the UPSC CDS 2 notification, candidates can now put their months of hard work and dedication to the test. Success in the CDS exam not only paves the way to prestigious career opportunities but also represents a commitment to serving the nation with honor and integrity. Good luck to all the aspirants!