There are five different ways through which Indian citizenship can be acquired. These are:

1. By Birth:
- According to the Citizenship Act, 1955, any person born in India on or after January 26, 1950, but before July 1, 1987, is considered a citizen of India by birth.
- Additionally, a person born in India on or after July 1, 1987, but before the commencement of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003, is also considered a citizen of India by birth.

2. By Descent:
- A person born outside India on or after January 26, 1950, but before December 10, 1992, is considered a citizen of India by descent if their father was a citizen of India at the time of their birth.
- Similarly, a person born outside India on or after December 10, 1992, but before the commencement of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003, is considered a citizen of India by descent if either of their parents was a citizen of India at the time of their birth.

3. By Registration:
- Individuals who are not citizens by birth or descent can acquire Indian citizenship by registration. This includes individuals who have been residing in India for a minimum of five years, individuals of Indian origin residing outside India, and other specified categories such as refugees.

4. By Naturalization:
- Foreigners who have been residing in India for a minimum of twelve years (eleven years if married to an Indian citizen), and have renounced their citizenship of any other country, can apply for Indian citizenship by naturalization.

5. By Incorporation of Territory:
- If any new territory becomes a part of India, the government may specify the persons who shall be citizens of India by virtue of their connection with that territory.

These five ways provide individuals with different opportunities to acquire Indian citizenship, depending on their circumstances and eligibility criteria. It is important to note that the Citizenship Act, 1955, and subsequent amendments have laid down the legal framework for acquiring and determining Indian citizenship.