Army Ranks in India 2025 Complete Guide - Summary
Knowing about the Army ranks in India is important if you’re interested in how this key defence force is organized. These ranks show responsibility and authority and mark a path of dedication and service. This guide looks into the different Army ranks, what they mean, their symbols, and offers a useful resource for further reading. For a quick reference, you can download a PDF covering the Army ranks in India 2025.
Understanding the Structure: Army Ranks in India
The Indian Army’s ranks are grouped into three main levels: Commissioned Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and Other Ranks. This setup is based on systems used by Western militaries, especially those with British and Commonwealth roots. Using both traditional and Western titles helps keep historical ties and makes things clear.
The Path of a Commissioned Officer
Joining the Indian Army as a commissioned officer starts with training as an officer cadet, where no rank badge is worn. Moving up depends on several things like time served, passing courses, and doing well in exams. Promotions up to Lieutenant Colonel usually depend on time and passing certain tests. Ranks from Colonel and up are based on selection and outstanding service records.
| Rank | Description | Collar Patch |
|---|---|---|
| Field Marshal | National emblem over a crossed baton and sabre within a lotus wreath. | Crimson patches with five golden stars and a golden laurel wreath. |
| General | National emblem above a five-pointed star over crossed baton and sabre. | Crimson patches featuring four golden stars with a golden laurel wreath. |
| Lieutenant General | National emblem over crossed baton and sabre. | Crimson patches with three golden stars and a golden laurel wreath (for army and theatre commanders). |
| Major General | Five-pointed star above crossed baton and sabre. | Crimson patches with two golden stars. |
| Brigadier | National emblem over three five-pointed stars arranged triangularly. | Crimson patches with one golden star. |
| Colonel | National emblem over two five-pointed stars. | Crimson patches with golden braids. |
| Lieutenant Colonel | National emblem over one five-pointed star. | No collar patch. |
| Major | National emblem. | No collar patch. |
| Captain | Three five-pointed stars. | No collar patch. |
| Lieutenant | Two five-pointed stars. | No collar patch. |
| Officer Cadet | Shoulder tags bearing the training academy name. | Term and company badges. |
Visualizing Army Ranks: Insignia Guide and PDF Resource
It’s easier to understand Army ranks in India with pictures. The badges worn clearly show the rank and position.
Commissioned Officers Rank Badges:
Junior Commissioned Officers and Other Ranks Badges:
Download the Army Ranks in India PDF
For a complete chart and easy reference of all Army ranks in India, you can easily download the Army Ranks in India PDF. This resource is great if you’re preparing for defence exams or just want to know more about the Indian Army’s setup in 2025.
