Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is a gateway to prestigious officer roles in the Indian Armed Forces, including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).
Apart from clearing the written exam and the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, candidates must meet stringent medical standards to ensure they are physically and mentally fit for the demanding roles in the armed forces.
This article outlines the medical standards required for the CDS Exam, explains the evaluation process, and addresses common questions.
Overview of Medical Standards for CDS Exam
The medical examination for CDS candidates is conducted by the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS). It ensures that candidates are free from any physical, mental, or physiological conditions that could impair their ability to perform their duties effectively.
Key Medical Standards
The following table summarizes the key medical standards:
| Parameter | Indian Army (IMA/OTA) | Indian Navy (INA) | Indian Air Force (AFA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height (Minimum) | Male: 157.5 cm, Female: 152 cm | Male: 157 cm | Male: 162.5 cm |
| Weight (Proportional) | According to height and age | According to height and age | According to height and age |
| Chest (Minimum Expansion) | 5 cm expansion | 5 cm expansion | 5 cm expansion |
| Vision (Distant) | 6/6 in one eye, 6/9 in the other | 6/6 in one eye, 6/9 in the other | 6/6 in one eye, 6/6 in the other |
| Vision (Near) | N-5 each eye | N-5 each eye | N-5 each eye |
| Color Perception | CP-III | CP-II | CP-I |
| Hearing | Normal | Normal | Normal |
| Dental | Good set of teeth; at least 14 dental points | Same as Army | Same as Army |
Key Medical Tests
General Physical Fitness
- Candidates should not have any physical deformities.
- BMI should be within acceptable limits.
Visual Standards
- Candidates must meet minimum distant and near vision requirements.
- Spectacles or corrective surgeries like LASIK are acceptable under specific conditions, particularly for non-flying roles.
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Health
- Candidates must have normal blood pressure and no history of cardiovascular diseases.
- Pulmonary function should be normal with no history of asthma or chronic respiratory conditions.
Hearing Standards
- The candidate should be able to hear a forced whisper at 610 cm with each ear.
Orthopedic Conditions
- No evidence of congenital or acquired bone and joint deformities.
- Spine should be normal with no history of scoliosis, kyphosis, or other spinal abnormalities.
Neurological and Mental Health
- No history of seizures, mental illness, or neurological disorders.
- Candidates should be mentally sound and stable.
ENT and Dental
- Good dental hygiene and at least 14 dental points.
- Free from ENT conditions like sinusitis or otitis media.
Surgical and Other Conditions
- Candidates must not have undergone major surgeries that may affect their fitness.
- Should be free from chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, or tuberculosis.
Special Conditions for Flying Branch (AFA)
Candidates aspiring for flying roles must meet stricter standards:
- Height and Leg Length: Minimum leg length: 99 cm; maximum: 120 cm.
- Thigh Length: Maximum 64 cm.
- Sitting Height: Minimum: 81.5 cm; Maximum: 96 cm.
- Vision Standards: Unaided visual acuity of 6/6 in both eyes.
Disqualifying Conditions
Certain conditions can lead to disqualification, including:
- Chronic diseases like epilepsy, asthma, or diabetes.
- Major physical deformities or loss of limb function.
- History of psychiatric illness.
- Permanent tattoos on body parts other than the inner side of the forearm.
