Relaxation in Physical Standards for Candidates from Hilly or Mountainous Regions in NDA Exam

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is a highly competitive examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to select candidates for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The physical standards for candidates appearing in the NDA exam are strict, but there are certain relaxation measures in place for candidates from hilly or mountainous regions who avail reservation benefits. Let's explore these relaxations in detail.

1. Geographical Considerations
- Candidates belonging to hilly or mountainous regions are given relaxation in physical standards due to the harsh geographical conditions and the tough terrain they are accustomed to.
- This relaxation is intended to ensure equal opportunities for these candidates, recognizing the challenges they may face in meeting the regular physical standards.

2. Height Relaxation
- The height requirements in the NDA exam vary based on the candidate's region of origin.
- For candidates from hilly or mountainous regions, there is a relaxation of up to 2.5 cm in the minimum height requirement.
- This relaxation allows candidates from these regions to meet the height criteria more easily, taking into account the genetic and environmental factors that may affect their growth.

3. Chest Measurement Relaxation
- The chest measurement requirements in the NDA exam also consider the geographical factors.
- Candidates from hilly or mountainous regions are provided with a relaxation of up to 5 cm in the minimum chest measurement criteria.
- This relaxation acknowledges the possibility of comparatively smaller chest sizes among candidates from these regions and ensures fairness in evaluation.

4. Other Physical Standards
- Apart from height and chest measurements, candidates from hilly or mountainous regions are expected to meet the regular physical standards for weight, vision, hearing, and overall fitness.
- These standards are universal and do not have any specific relaxations for candidates from any particular region.

It is important to note that the relaxation in physical standards for candidates from hilly or mountainous regions is only applicable if they avail reservation benefits. The reservation policies vary based on the candidate's state of origin and are subject to the guidelines provided by the UPSC.

In conclusion, candidates from hilly or mountainous regions availing reservation benefits in the NDA exam are provided with relaxation in height and chest measurement criteria. These relaxations recognize the unique challenges faced by candidates from these regions and ensure fair evaluation of their physical fitness for joining the armed forces.