The 4-Stage Agniveer Bharti Selection Architecture

Recruitment into the Indian Armed Forces (Army, Navy, and Air Force) under the Agnipath scheme follows a structured, transparent four-phase selection methodology designed to identify physically robust and mentally agile personnel.

Phase 1: Common Entrance Examination (CEE)

The recruitment cycle commences with an all-India computer-based Common Entrance Examination (CEE) conducted across designated testing centers. Candidates are tested on General Knowledge, General Science, Mathematics, and trade-specific technical subjects.

Phase 2: Physical Fitness Test (PFT) at the Rally Ground

Shortlisted candidates report to their respective Zonal Recruiting Offices (ZRO) or Army Recruiting Offices (ARO) rally grounds for the rigorous Physical Fitness Test:

  • 1.6 KM (1 Mile) Run:
    • Group I: Completed up to 5 minutes 30 seconds: 60 Marks
    • Group II: Completed between 5 minutes 31 seconds and 5 minutes 45 seconds: 48 Marks
  • Beam (Pull-Ups):
    • 10 Pull-Ups: 40 Marks
    • 9 Pull-Ups: 33 Marks
    • 8 Pull-Ups: 27 Marks
    • 7 Pull-Ups: 21 Marks
    • 6 Pull-Ups: 16 Marks (Minimum pass mark)
  • 9 Feet Ditch Jump: Mandatory to clear (Qualifying only).
  • Zig-Zag Body Balance: Mandatory to clear without falling (Qualifying only).

Phase 3: Physical Measurement Test (PMT)

Candidates clearing the run and obstacle courses immediately undergo precise biometric and physical measurements: height (measured using standardized height stadiometers), unexpanded/expanded chest circumferences, and body weight proportioned to age and height.

Phase 4: Medical Examination by Armed Forces Medical Officers

The medical board inspects candidates according to DGAFMS (Directorate General Armed Forces Medical Services) guidelines. Key examination stations include:

  1. Surgical & Orthopaedic: Carrying angle (10°-15° normal), knock-knees clearance, flat foot rigidity, varicose veins, and spinal alignment.
  2. Ophthalmology: Uncorrected visual acuity (6/6 in better eye), color perception (CP-II/CP-III on Ishihara plates), and absence of squint.
  3. ENT & Dental: Tympanic membrane (ear drum) integrity, wax clearance, and minimum 14 Dental Points with healthy gums.
Pre-Rally Inspection Tip: Over 35% of temporary rejections (TR) occur during the Phase 4 medical examination due to minor, fixable issues like ear wax, mild carrying angle deviations, or incorrect standing posture. Pre-screen your photos on AgniFit before reporting to the ground.