Indian Army JAG Entry Scheme 2026: Complete Guide(123rd Course)

Last Updated: August 8, 2025 at 12:29 pm

The Indian Army has announced the JAG Entry Scheme 123rd Course for April 2026, opening doors for law graduates to serve the nation as Judge Advocate General officers. This prestigious opportunity offers a Short Service Commission for unmarried male law graduates who wish to combine their legal expertise with military service.

What is the Indian Army JAG Entry Scheme?

The Judge Advocate General (JAG) Entry Scheme is a specialised recruitment programme that allows law graduates to join the Indian Army as commissioned officers in the legal branch. JAG officers handle military law, court proceedings, legal advisory services, and administrative matters within the armed forces.

Official Source: Join Indian Army – Official Website

Key Highlights of JAG Entry 123rd Course

Course Type: Short Service Commission (SSC) Entry
Duration: 14-year tenure with release options
Training Period: 49 weeks at Officer Training Academy, Chennai
Starting Rank: Lieutenant
Vacancies: 05 positions for male candidates
Application Period: 04 August 2025 to 03 September 2025

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Army JAG Officers

Age Requirements

Age Limit: 21 to 27 years as on 01 January 2026
Birth Date: Between 02 January 1999 and 01 January 2005 (both dates inclusive)
Only matriculation certificate date of birth will be accepted

Educational Qualifications

Primary Requirement: LLB degree with minimum 55% aggregate marks
CLAT PG Score: Mandatory CLAT PG 2025 score for all applicants
Registration: Must be eligible for Bar Council of India/State registration
University Recognition: Degree from Bar Council of India recognised institution

For detailed CLAT information, visit Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs)

Other Eligibility Conditions

Marital Status: Unmarried male candidates only
Nationality: Indian citizens or eligible categories as per government norms
Character: No criminal record or previous debarment from examinations

Selection Process and Timeline

Application Process

Online Application: Submit applications only through www.joinindianarmy.nic.in

Important: For step-by-step documents required, refer to our detailed tutorial on Documents Required

Required Documents:

Matriculation and 12th class certificates
Graduation and LLB degree certificates
All semester mark sheets
CLAT PG 2025 score card
Bar Council registration certificate

Official Application Portal: Join Indian Army – Officer Entry

Selection Stages

Application Shortlisting: Based on CLAT PG scores and vacancy ratio
SSB Interview: Five-day selection process at designated centres
Medical Examination: Comprehensive fitness assessment
Merit List: Final ranking based on SSB performance
Joining Instructions: Issued according to merit and availability

SSB Centres: Prayagraj, Bhopal, Bengaluru, and Jalandhar

Expected Timeline:

SSB Shortlisting: Second week of November 2025
SSB Interviews: November/December 2025
Training Commencement: April 2026

For official SSB guidelines, visit Directorate General of Recruiting

Training Details at Officer Training Academy

Training Structure

Location: Officer Training Academy (OTA), Chennai
Duration: 49 weeks comprehensive training programme
Academic Recognition: Post Graduate Diploma in Defence Management and Strategic Studies

Physical Fitness Standards

Before joining OTA, candidates must meet minimum fitness requirements:

2.4 km run: 10 minutes 30 seconds
Sit-ups: 30 repetitions
Push-ups: 40 repetitions
Swimming: 25 metres in any stroke

Get fit for defence services with our Physical Fitness Preparation Guide: Complete Training Manual for Success

Official fitness guidelines: Indian Army Fitness Standards

Training Benefits

Monthly Stipend: ₹56,100 during training
Insurance Coverage: ₹1.25 crore under Army Group Insurance Fund
All Expenses: Government bears complete training costs

Salary Structure and Career Progression

Starting Benefits

Initial Rank: Lieutenant
Starting Salary: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10)
Annual Package: Approximately ₹17-18 lakhs including allowances
Military Service Pay: ₹15,500 per month (fixed)

Promotion Timeline

Rank	Service Period	Pay Level
Lieutenant	On commissioning	Level 10
Captain	After 2 years	Level 10B
Major	After 6 years	Level 11
Lt Colonel	After 13 years	Level 12A

Additional Allowances

Dearness Allowance: As per civilian rates
Field Area Allowances: Up to ₹53,125 for remote postings
Transport Allowance: ₹3,600-₹7,200 based on location
Children Education Allowance: ₹2,812.50 per child
Annual Dress Allowance: ₹25,000

Compare with other defence services: Agniveer vs Regular Army: Benefits, Risks & Career Guide

Official pay scales: 7th Pay Commission for Defence Personnel

Service Terms and Conditions

Commission Duration

Initial Period: 10 years extendable by 4 years
Total Maximum: 14 years service
Permanent Commission: Available after 10 years (subject to selection)

Release Options

Early Release: After 5 years of service (on application)
Extended Period: Additional 4 years with release provisions
Reserve Liability: 5+2 years or until age limits

Career Benefits

Professional Growth: Legal specialisation in military law
Leadership Development: Command and administrative roles
Post-Service Opportunities: Strong foundation for legal practice
Pension Benefits: Applicable for permanent commission officers

Explore alternative legal careers: Government Defense Recruitment 2026

How to Apply Successfully

Application Strategy

Prepare Early: Gather all required documents well in advance
CLAT PG Focus: Strong CLAT PG score crucial for shortlisting
Document Verification: Ensure all certificates match exactly
Physical Preparation: Start fitness training immediately

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Multiple applications (leads to cancellation)
Incorrect personal details
Missing CLAT PG score verification
Incomplete document submission

Important Dates to Remember

Application Opens: 04 August 2025, 1500 hours
Application Closes: 03 September 2025, 1500 hours
No Extension: Strict adherence to timeline

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can LLM graduates apply for this scheme?

Ans: Yes, but CLAT PG 2025 score remains mandatory for all applicants.

Q: Is there any application fee?

Ans: The notification doesn’t mention any application fee for this scheme.

Q: Can candidates change their SSB centre or date?

Ans: No, requests for changes in SSB centre or dates are not entertained.

Q: What happens if I fail the medical examination?

Ans: Medical proceedings are confidential, and candidates cannot be informed of specific reasons.

Final Tips for Aspirants

The Indian Army JAG Entry Scheme offers an excellent opportunity for law graduates to serve the nation while building a rewarding career. Success requires thorough preparation, strong academic background, and genuine commitment to military service.

Focus on maintaining excellent physical fitness, prepare thoroughly for the SSB interview, and ensure all documentation is complete and accurate. The legal background combined with military training provides a unique career path with opportunities for professional growth and national service.

Ready to Apply? Visit www.joinindianarmy.nic.in and begin your journey towards becoming an Indian Army JAG officer. Remember, only serious and committed candidates should apply, as this career demands dedication, integrity, and a strong sense of duty towards the nation.

Apply Now!