Yes, engineering graduates are eligible for the CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam.

The CDS exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year to select candidates for admission into the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers' Training Academy. It is a highly competitive exam and a gateway to a career in the defense services.

Eligibility Criteria for Engineering Graduates:

To be eligible for the CDS exam as an engineering graduate, candidates need to fulfill the following criteria:

1. Nationality: Candidates must be citizens of India or subjects of Bhutan or Nepal. Tibetan refugees who came to India before January 1, 1962, are also eligible.

2. Age Limit: The age limit varies depending on the academy candidates are applying for:
- For Indian Military Academy (IMA): Candidates should be between 19 to 24 years old.
- For Indian Naval Academy (INA): Candidates should be between 19 to 22 years old.
- For Air Force Academy (AFA): Candidates should be between 20 to 24 years old.
- For Officers' Training Academy (OTA): Candidates should be between 19 to 25 years old.

3. Educational Qualification: Candidates should have completed their engineering degree from a recognized university or institution.

4. Physical Fitness: Candidates must be physically fit as per the prescribed standards set by the UPSC.

Selection Process:

The selection process for the CDS exam consists of three stages:

1. Written Examination: The written exam is conducted offline and consists of multiple-choice questions. It tests candidates' knowledge in English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics for IMA, INA, and AFA. For OTA, the written exam includes questions on English and General Knowledge.

2. Interview: Candidates who qualify in the written exam are called for the interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). The interview process evaluates candidates' personality, leadership qualities, and suitability for a career in the defense services.

3. Medical Examination: Candidates who clear the interview stage need to undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the physical and medical standards required for defense service.

Conclusion:

Engineering graduates who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for the CDS exam to pursue a career in the defense services. It is important for candidates to prepare well for the written exam, demonstrate their leadership qualities during the interview, and maintain good physical fitness to increase their chances of selection.