Page 280 - SSB Interview: The Complete Guide, Second Edition

Section 1

Service-Related Information

INDIAN ARMY

1. The Indian Army is perhaps one of the largest standing armies of the
world. It is a purely volunteer army and is 1.3 million strong and is led

by a 50,000-strong officer cadre. In terms of sheer strength, the Indian
Army is reportedly ranked third in the world behind China and the

United States. The shortage in the officer cadre is dynamic and evolving

and continues to fluctuate.

Supreme Commander

2. The President of India is the Supreme Commander of the Indian
Defence Forces, which includes the ARMY, NAVY and AIR FORCE.

Army Headquarters (AHQ)

3. The AHQ is located at Delhi and is the vital interface between the

Government and the field force. It is also responsible for the overall

command, control, operations, coordination and administration of the
entire force. The CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF (COAS) heads this force

and is the only FOUR STAR GENERAL in the entire Army who can

serve up to the age of 62 or three years in chair, whichever is earlier.