What is the Difference between NDA and NA?

abhi2807 · 2025-08-22T06:10:20+00:00

NDA (National Defence Academy) What it is: An academy/institution where cadets of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force are trained together before going on...

abhi2807

NDA (National Defence Academy)

What it is: An academy/institution where cadets of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force are trained together before going on to their respective service academies (like IMA, INA, AFA).
Purpose: Provides joint training to officer cadets.
Location: Khadakwasla, Pune (Maharashtra).
Exam: The NDA Exam is conducted by UPSC to select candidates for admission to the academy.
After Training: Cadets go to their specific service academies for specialized pre-commission training.

NA (Naval Academy)

What it is: Refers to the Indian Naval Academy, a dedicated training institution for the Indian Navy.
Location: Ezhimala, Kerala.
Exam Pathways: Candidates can enter NA through:
- NDA & NA Exam (conducted by UPSC) → For Navy wing.
- 10+2 (B.Tech) Cadet Entry Scheme.
- NCC Special Entry.
- Direct SSB Entry (for graduates).
Purpose: Trains future officers specifically for the Indian Navy.

Comparison

Feature	NDA (National Defence Academy)	NA (Naval Academy)
Full Form	National Defence Academy	Indian Naval Academy
Location	Khadakwasla, Pune (Maharashtra)	Ezhimala, Kerala
Training Type	Joint training for Army, Navy, and Air Force cadets	Exclusive training for Navy cadets
Exam Conducted By	UPSC – NDA & NA Exam	UPSC – NDA & NA Exam (Navy option) + 10+2 (B.Tech) Cadet Entry + other Navy entries
Eligibility (UPSC route)	10+2 passed/appearing (PCM required for Air Force & Navy)	10+2 passed/appearing with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Math)
Age Limit	16.5 – 19.5 years	16.5 – 19.5 years
Duration of Training	3 years at NDA (joint training) + 1 year at respective academies (IMA/INA/AFA)	4 years (B.Tech + Naval Training)
Degree Awarded	BA / B.Sc / B.Tech (JNU affiliated) + Service commission	B.Tech (JNU affiliated) + Naval commission
Career Path	Army Officer / Air Force Officer / Naval Officer (depending on choice)	Naval Officer only
Focus	Tri-service integration and leadership training	Specialised naval warfare, seamanship, and technology