Indian Army Tradesman Exam - Eligibility Criteria, Procedure, And More 

By Tushar Saha Nov 22, 2025, 11:40 IST

The Indian Army is known for discipline, honor, and dedication to the nation. In terms of what the Army does, also which role it plays, the Soldier Tradesman stands out which is a which is a mix of military duty and also very basic day-to-day support. In the Soldier Tradesman category, which also serves as a log base and everyday management within the force, that is what the post is about. We see an annual great turnout of candidates. Also reported that the post of Soldier Tradesman is very much sought after by the aspirants each year.

What Does a Soldier Tradesman Do?

The tradesman category includes a large spectrum of responsibilities. By trade, a candidate may become a Chef, Dresser, Tailor, Painter, Steward, Artisan, Support Staff, Washerman, House Keeper, Mess Keeper, or Syce (which is a term for a horse caretaker). In to the practical aspect of these roles, the Army has divided them into two groups: General Duties (GD) and Specified Duties (SD).

Recruitment Procedure

The Indian Army organizes the selection process for Soldier Tradesmen, which is conducted several times a year and is published in Employment News and other leading newspapers. The recruitment process includes the following stages:

  1. Document Verification
  2. Physical Measurements
  3. Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
  4. Medical Examination
  5. Written Test (Common Entrance Examination CEE).
  6. Preparation of Merit List
  7. Enrolment and dispatch of chosen candidates to training centers.

Only those who pass through all rounds are included in the final merit list.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Tradesman post, the candidate must meet the following criteria:

  • Nationality: Only Indian unmarried citizens and individuals from Nepal may apply.
  • Education: Minimum educational requirement is to have at least grade 10.
  • Age Limit: Age Requirement:
    • Soldier Tradesman (General Duties): 17.5 - 20 years.
    • Soldier Tradesman (Specified Duties): 17.5 - 23 years.

Physical and Medical Standards

Physical norms vary in India, which is a result of geographic diversity. Height, weight, and chest measures are separate for Himalayan, Plains, Central, Southern, and also Other regions. Also, there are special provisions for Ladakhis, Gorkhas, Tribals, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Medically, a candidate must have good health of body and sound mind, normal vision and hearing, good dental health (at least 14 points), and no chronic diseases or deformities.

Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

The PFT assesses stamina and strength. It includes:

  • 1-mile run (60 marks maximum)
  • Pull-ups (40 marks maximum)
  • Balance test (qualifying)
  • 9-feet ditch jump (qualifying)

Written Exam

Candidates who pass the physical and medical rounds will write the CEE. This is conducted 6 times a year, usually on the fourth Sunday of January, March, May, July, September, and November. The paper has questions on General Knowledge, Numerical Ability, Intelligence, and Current Affairs, which are out of 100 marks, with 32 being the pass mark.

Application and Recruitment Locations

Recruitment is conducted at Army rallies, which are held in different zones and states. Aspirants must keep themselves updated via Employment News or the official website and report with original documents, photos, and certificates.