Indian Air Force Jobs 2026: ₹30,000 Starting Salary For High School Pass Candidates, How To Apply

The Indian Air Force has announced a major recruitment drive under the Agnipath Scheme, opening doors for young men and women who have completed high school. Applications for the Agniveervayu Intake 01/2027 will begin from January 12, 2026, offering eligible candidates a chance to serve the nation in a four-year tenure. With structured training, fixed remuneration and a post-service financial package, the recruitment has generated strong interest among defence aspirants across the country.

Agniveervayu Recruitment Under Agnipath Scheme Explained

The Agniveervayu recruitment is part of the Agnipath Scheme, a flagship initiative aimed at bringing younger talent into the armed forces. Selected candidates will be inducted as Agniveervayu personnel in the Indian Air Force for a period of four years.

During this tenure, candidates will undergo rigorous training and operational exposure. Based on performance, discipline and organisational requirements, up to 25 percent of Agniveervayu personnel may be offered permanent roles in the Indian Air Force at the end of their service period.

Application Timeline And Eligibility Conditions

Online applications for the Agniveervayu Intake 01/2027 will be accepted from January 12, 2026, and the registration window will remain open until 11 PM on February 01, 2026. The recruitment is open to unmarried male and female candidates only, as per the guidelines of the scheme.

Candidates must ensure that they meet all eligibility conditions before applying, as applications found ineligible at later stages are liable to be rejected.

Educational Qualifications Required

Educational eligibility varies depending on the academic stream of the applicant. Science stream candidates must have passed Class 12 with Physics, Mathematics and English, securing at least 50 percent marks in aggregate and 50 percent marks in English.

Candidates who have completed a two-year vocational course with Physics and Mathematics are also eligible, provided they have secured a minimum of 50 percent overall marks. Arts stream candidates must have passed Class 12 in any subject combination, with at least 50 percent marks in aggregate and 50 percent in English.

Age Criteria For Applicants

Age eligibility is a critical requirement for Agniveervayu recruitment. Applicants must not exceed 21 years of age at the time of enrolment. Candidates born between January 1, 2006, and July 1, 2009, are eligible to apply for this intake.

Applicants must carefully verify their date of birth against the prescribed range, as no relaxation beyond the notified limits is permitted.

Physical Standards And Height Requirements

Physical fitness and body standards form an essential part of the selection process. For both male and female candidates, the minimum height requirement is 152 cm.

However, relaxations have been provided for candidates from specific regions. Applicants from hilly areas of the North-East and Uttarakhand are eligible with a minimum height of 147 cm. Candidates belonging to Lakshadweep must meet a minimum height of 150 cm.

All candidates will be measured as per standard procedures during the physical assessment stage.

Salary Structure And Seba Nidhi Package

Agniveervayu personnel will receive a structured monthly remuneration during their four-year service period. In the first year, the monthly salary will be Rs 30,000. Out of this, approximately Rs 21,000 will be paid as in-hand salary, while the remaining amount will be contributed to a government-designated corpus fund.

At the end of the four-year tenure, candidates will receive a Seba Nidhi package of approximately Rs 10 lakh. This amount is designed to support individuals as they transition to civilian life or pursue further career opportunities.

Application Fee And Registration Process

Candidates applying for the Agniveervayu recruitment will be required to pay an application fee of Rs 550, inclusive of GST, at the time of registering for the online examination.

Applications must be submitted through the official recruitment portal of the Indian Air Force. Applicants are advised to complete the form carefully and retain copies of submitted documents and payment confirmation for future reference.

Selection Process Explained Step By Step

The selection process begins with an online written examination designed to assess candidates’ aptitude, reasoning and subject knowledge. Those who qualify the written test will be invited to appear for a Physical Fitness Test.

Candidates clearing the physical stage will undergo a detailed medical examination. The medical test ensures that applicants meet the health and fitness standards prescribed by the Indian Air Force for operational readiness.

Final selection will be based on performance across all stages of the recruitment process.

Why Agniveervayu Recruitment Attracts Young Aspirants

The Agniveervayu programme offers a structured and disciplined environment, financial stability during service and a substantial exit package. It also provides valuable skills, work experience and exposure that can be useful in future careers, whether within defence services or the civilian sector.

For many young Indians, the opportunity to serve in the Indian Air Force, even for a fixed tenure, represents both national pride and professional growth.

Key Points Applicants Should Remember

Candidates must ensure they meet eligibility, age and physical criteria before applying. Timely submission of applications, preparation for written and physical tests, and awareness of medical standards are crucial for success.

With a limited application window and competitive selection process, aspirants are encouraged to prepare early and apply with care.