The Indian Army has opened doors for aspiring engineers through the prestigious Technical Graduate Course (TGC), a pathway to secure a Permanent Commission as officers in various technical branches. While recent notifications have focused on TGC-142 for the January 2026 batch, the upcoming TGC-143 is anticipated for mid-2026, continuing the tradition of recruiting unmarried male engineering graduates. As of October 2025, the TGC-143 notification is expected to be released soon, following the pattern of previous entries like TGC-142, which commenced applications in April 2025. This recruitment drive aims to bolster the Army’s technical cadre, offering selected candidates rigorous training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, before commissioning as Lieutenants. With vacancies typically ranging from 30 to 50 across engineering streams, TGC represents a golden opportunity for graduates to serve the nation while leveraging their technical expertise.
The TGC entry scheme is designed for final-year or passed-out engineering students, emphasizing leadership, discipline, and specialized skills in areas like civil, mechanical, and electronics engineering. Successful candidates enjoy job security, attractive pay scales starting at Level 10 (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500), and additional perks such as housing, medical facilities, and pension benefits. As the notification for TGC-143 is released, eligible candidates are urged to prepare their applications meticulously through the official portal.
Eligibility Criteria for TGC-143
To qualify for TGC-143, candidates must meet stringent criteria set by the Indian Army. Primarily, applicants should be unmarried male engineering graduates or in their final year of a full-time B.E./B.Tech degree from a recognized university. Final-year students must submit proof of passing by January 1, 2027 (adjusted for the course commencement), and produce their degree certificate within 12 weeks of training start.
Age limit is a key factor: Candidates must be between 20 and 27 years as of the course commencement date, typically born between July 2, 1999, and July 1, 2006, for a 2027 batch. There is no upper limit on attempts, but candidates must have no backlogs and meet minimum academic standards—cumulative marks up to the final semester for passed candidates or up to the sixth semester for final-year students.
Nationality requirements include Indian citizens or persons of Indian origin migrated from specified countries with an eligibility certificate. Physical fitness is mandatory, with candidates undergoing medical examinations as per Army standards. No prior experience is required, making it accessible for fresh graduates. Engineering streams like Civil (expected 8 vacancies), Mechanical (6), Electrical (2), Computer Science (6), Electronics (6), and Miscellaneous (2) are typically notified, though exact numbers for TGC-143 will be confirmed in the official release. Variations in degree nomenclature may lead to disqualification, so applicants should verify stream equivalence against the notification.
Application Process: How to Apply Online
The online application for TGC-143 will be hosted exclusively on the official website, joinindianarmy.nic.in, with no other modes accepted. Once released, candidates should follow these steps:
- Visit joinindianarmy.nic.in and navigate to the “Officers Entry Apply/Login” section.
- Click on the TGC-143 link under “Technical Graduate Course.”
- Register using a valid email and mobile number, providing Aadhaar Card and Matriculation certificate details for verification.
- Fill in personal, educational, and stream-specific information accurately.
- Upload scanned photographs, signatures, and required documents (e.g., degree provisional certificates).
- Submit the form and take a printout of two copies for records.
There is no application fee, and only one application per candidate is allowed. Mismatched details or incomplete submissions may result in rejection. Based on TGC-142 timelines, applications for TGC-143 are likely to open around September-October 2025 for a July 2026 course, closing within 30 days. Shortlisting for Services Selection Board (SSB) interviews will be based on cumulative academic percentage, with cut-offs announced post-application (e.g., TGC-142 cut-offs were released in July 2025).
Selection Process and Training
The TGC selection is merit-based and rigorous, comprising:
- Shortlisting: Based on engineering degree marks; no written exam.
- SSB Interview: A five-day process at centers like Allahabad or Bhopal, assessing psychological aptitude, group tasks, and personal interviews.
- Medical Examination: Comprehensive checks for fitness.
- Merit List: Final ranking determines joining, with possible offers for Short Service Commission if permanent vacancies are filled.
Selected candidates undergo 49 weeks of training at IMA, Dehradun, covering military tactics, technical applications, and leadership. Upon completion, they are commissioned as Lieutenants in technical corps like Corps of Engineers or Signals.
Why Join Through TGC-143?
TGC offers not just a career but a legacy of service. Officers contribute to national defense, disaster relief, and infrastructure projects, with opportunities for promotions to higher ranks. The scheme aligns technical prowess with military discipline, fostering holistic growth. As India advances its defense capabilities, TGC recruits play a vital role in modernizing the Army’s technical infrastructure.
Important Dates and Tips
Monitor joinindianarmy.nic.in for the TGC-143 notification, expected imminently. Prepare by reviewing past cut-offs, practicing SSB tasks, and ensuring document readiness. Candidates withdrawn from military academies on disciplinary grounds are ineligible. For queries, contact Army helplines or visit recruitment rallies.
In conclusion, TGC-143 is a call to action for engineering talent to embrace leadership in uniform. Apply promptly upon release to secure your place in this esteemed institution. Serve with pride—Jai Hind!
