Yes, you can join the Indian Military Academy (IMA) after clearing the Combined Defense Services (CDS) exam. The CDS exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to select candidates for various defense academies, including the IMA.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for the CDS exam and subsequently join the IMA, you need to fulfill the following criteria:

1. Nationality: You must be a citizen of India or a subject of Bhutan, Nepal, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India.

2. Age Limit: The age limit varies depending on the entry you are applying for. For admission to the IMA, the age limit is between 19 and 24 years.

3. Educational Qualification: You must have a bachelor's degree from a recognized university or institution.

4. Physical Standards: You need to meet certain physical standards in terms of height, weight, and visual acuity. These standards are specified by the Indian Army and can be found in detail on the official website.

Selection Process:

The selection process for joining the IMA through the CDS exam involves the following stages:

1. Written Examination: The CDS exam consists of a written examination, which is conducted in an offline mode. It comprises multiple-choice questions and tests your English language proficiency, general knowledge, and elementary mathematics skills.

2. SSB Interview: Candidates who qualify the written examination are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. The SSB interview consists of a series of tests, including intelligence tests, psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.

3. Medical Examination: Candidates who clear the SSB interview are required to undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure they meet the medical standards set by the Indian Army.

4. Final Merit List: The final merit list is prepared based on the candidate's performance in the written examination, SSB interview, and medical examination. The candidates who make it to the merit list are then offered admission to the IMA.

Training at the IMA:

Once selected, candidates undergo rigorous training at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. The training curriculum at the IMA is designed to develop leadership skills, physical fitness, and military knowledge. The training period is for one year, during which candidates are exposed to various aspects of military life, including drills, weapon training, physical training, and classroom lectures.

Conclusion:

To join the Indian Military Academy (IMA) after clearing the CDS exam, you need to meet the eligibility criteria, qualify the written examination, clear the SSB interview, pass the medical examination, and secure a place in the final merit list. The training at the IMA is intense and prepares you for a career in the Indian Army.