Introduction
Indian Coast Guard AC 2027 Thousands of young Indians aspire every year to be a part of the Armed Forces and serve the country. Of all the uniformed services, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has a very unique place. In contrast to the Army or Air Force, who are mainly concerned with defending land and air, the Coast Guard is responsible for guarding India’s extensive coastline, maintaining maritime safety, and conducting humanitarian operations at sea.
In 2025, the Indian Coast Guard issued the highly anticipated Assistant Commandant (AC) 2027 Batch Notification. This is not another recruitment campaign—it is an opportunity to enter one of the most prestigious government positions in India. The rank of Assistant Commandant is a Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officer position, which signifies that officers are directly appointed by the President of India and hold high stature, duty, and perquisites.
For engineers and graduates who have the passion to serve with honour, this advertisement provides 170 openings in General Duty (GD) and Technical branches. With competitive salary, formal promotions, and prospects to command operations, this recruitment is a great opportunity for candidates who are seeking both a career of adventure and a secure future.
About the Indian Coast Guard
Before getting into the nitty-gritty of the notification, let’s briefly understand what the Indian Coast Guard is and why it exists.
Creation: The ICG was officially created on 1 February 1977 through the Coast Guard Act, 1978.
Main Function: It guards India’s 7,516 km long coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), one of the largest in the world.
Major Responsibilities:
Maritime law enforcement (smuggling, illegal fishing, piracy prevention).
Search and Rescue (SAR) operations off the coast.
Environmental protection (managing oil spills, marine pollution).
Rescue of distressed fishermen.
War support for the Indian Navy.
Motto: “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect).
Headquarters: New Delhi, divided into five regional commands (North-West, West, East, North-East, Andaman & Nicobar).
Unlike most services, the Coast Guard’s mission is two-fold in nature—military as well as humanitarian. Officers don’t just safeguard national interests but also rescue people at sea, which makes it perhaps one of the most rewarding careers in uniform.
Notification Snapshot (At a Glance)
Below’s a brief summary of the Assistant Commandant 2027 Batch Notification before we dive into in-depth details in the subsequent parts:
Recruiting Authority: Indian Coast Guard (Ministry of Defence).
Post Available: Assistant Commandant (Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officer).
Branches Available:
General Duty (GD) – for graduates with Physics & Maths at 12th level.
Technical (Engineering/Electrical/Electronics) – for engineering degree holders.
Total Vacancies: 170
General Duty (GD): 140
Technical Branch: 30
Application Dates: From 08 Jul 2025 (16:00 hrs) to 23 Jul 2025 (23:30 hrs).
Mode of Application: Only through Online mode at joinindiancoastguard.cdac.in.
Examination Process:
Stage I – Online Written Exam (CGCAT).
Stage II – Preliminary Selection Board (PSB).
Stage III – Final Selection Board (FSB).
Stage IV – Medical Examination.
Stage V – Final Induction & Training.
Training Commencement: January 2027 at Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala.
This notice is time-sensitive and expects candidates to prepare in advance. Because the selection process is in multiple stages, the candidates need to work on academics, personality development, physical fitness, and general awareness about maritime matters.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Coast Guard Assistant Commandant 2027
Eligibility is the initial sieve in every hiring process. Regardless of how well you performed in your studies or how encouraged you are, you can apply only if you fulfill the age, education, nationality, and physical requirements specified in the notification issued by the authorities.
Nationality
You are eligible to apply only if you are an Indian citizen.
You need to present valid government identity proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.) during verification.
Foreign nationals, NRIs, or OCI card holders are not eligible.
Example: If you are an international student from India, you are eligible provided you possess an Indian passport and have the necessary certificates.
Age Limit
General Duty (GD): 21 to 25 years (Between 01 July 2001 and 30 June 2005 inclusive).
Technical Branch (Engineering/Electrical/Electronics): Same age group as GD.
Relaxations in Age
SC/ST: 5 years (Upper age limit can be up to 30 years).
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years (Upper age can be up to 28 years).
Defence Personnel: Relaxations are extra for serving personnel of Army/Navy/Air Force/Coast Guard, if they apply through proper channel with NOC.
Example 1: A 15 June 2000-born candidate (age 25+) is not eligible, except if belonging to SC/ST category, where the age concession makes them eligible to apply.
Example 2: A candidate born on 20 August 2005 is not eligible, as they are under 21 years at the time of induction.
Educational Qualification
The Coast Guard has varying requirements for GD and Technical jobs.
(A) General Duty (GD)
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
Must have Maths and Physics at 12th standard.
Engineering graduates are eligible (as their 12th will have Maths & Physics).
Example:
Ravi did B.A. Political Science but didn’t study Physics or Maths at 12th → Not Eligible.
Priya did B.Com and had Maths at 12th → Eligible.
Kiran did Diploma + B.Tech in Mech Engg → Eligible, as long as Physics & Maths were included in the diploma or 12th.
(B) Technical Branch (Engineering/Electrical/Electronics)
Engineering degree in one of the following:
Naval Architecture
Mechanical
Marine
Automotive
Mechatronics
Industrial & Production
Metallurgy
Design
Aeronautical / Aerospace
Electrical / Electronics / Telecommunication
Instrumentation & Control
Electronics & Communication
Power Engineering / Power Electronics
Candidates should also have Physics and Mathematics at 12th standard.
Example:
Ananya completed B.Tech in Civil Engineering → Not Eligible (since Civil is not mentioned).
Rohit completed B.Tech in Electrical Engineering with Physics & Maths in 12th → Eligible.
Nisha is in the last year of B.Tech in Electronics (exam due on May 2026) → Eligible, but should produce her degree on or before 31 October 2026.
Other Conditions
Final Year Students: Eligible, as long as they can produce their degree and marksheets on or before 31 October 2026.
Integrated Courses: If you’re doing an integrated PG (such as M.Tech after B.Tech), you are eligible on the basis of your UG degree.
Diploma + Degree Route: Permitted, provided Physics & Maths were done at some point.
Disqualifications
The candidates will be disqualified if they belong to any of these categories:
- Disciplinary Grounds:
Expelled/withdrawn from Indian Naval Academy, NDA, OTA, IMA, Air Force Academy, or any defence academy.
Dismissed for indiscipline from NCC or defence academies.
- Criminal Record:
Pending criminal case.
Convicted by a court.
FIR registered for moral turpitude or serious offence.
- Debarred Candidates:
Candidates who are debarred from sitting in UPSC/SSC/defence exams are not eligible.
- False Information:
Mismatch in education details, caste certificates, or age proof results in blacklisting forever.
Example: If a candidate conceals the information that he was expelled from NDA previously, he can clear written stages but will be rejected during background verification.
Summary of Eligibility
Nationality: Only Indian.
Age: 21–25 years (Relaxations: +3 OBC, +5 SC/ST).
Education:
GD – Any Graduate + Physics & Maths in 12th.
Technical – Engineering degree (specific branches) + Physics & Maths in 12th.
Final Year Students: Permitted (degree to be completed by 31 Oct 2026).
Disqualifications: Criminal record, disciplinary expulsion, false information.
Vacancy Distribution and Branch Importance
When the government issues a recruitment notification, one of the first things aspirants check is the number of posts and how they are distributed. This gives candidates a sense of competition and helps them decide whether they should target General Duty (GD) or the Technical Branch.
Vacancy Table
Branch / Post SC ST OBC EWS UR Total
General Duty (GD) 25 24 35 10 46 140
Technical (Engg/Elect.) 03 04 08 02 13 30
Total 28 28 43 12 59 170
General Duty (GD)
The General Duty wing constitutes the backbone of the Indian Coast Guard. GD officers serve on ships, aircraft, and coastal establishments. They perform a combination of operational, administrative, and leadership responsibilities.
Operational Responsibilities: Enforcement of maritime law, search and rescue, anti-smuggling operations.
Leadership: Leading small units aboard ships and planning operations.
Future Development: GD officers frequently end up serving in the highest posts in the Coast Guard.
Importance: If you desire a careers as full-time adventurers with highest visibility to sea operations, GD is the way to go.
Technical Branch
The Technical Branch officers deliver engineering skills to ensure the Coast Guard’s ships, aircraft, and systems remain operational.
Engineering Responsibilities: Engine maintenance, radar, communication system, and weaponry management.
Innovation & Support: Support of indigenization projects, safety compliance.
Career Prospects: Technical officers usually go on to do specialized jobs like design, logistics, and base-level administration.
Importance: If you are interested in defence technology as an engineer, this field enables you to merge your technical expertise with national service.
Why Vacancies Matter
Higher GD Vacancies: 140 out of 170 posts are for GD. That is greater competition, but selection chances are more due to higher intake.
Technical Posts Fewer but Important: 30 posts only, but fewer engineers than general graduates, which means there’s a balance in the competition.
Category-Wise Distribution: Informing the candidates where their opportunity lies. For instance, OBC candidates have a total of 43 posts and EWS has 12 posts.
Strategy Based on Branch
If you are a Maths & Physics graduate: Apply to GD, as most of the seats are available here.
If you’re an engineer: Apply for both GD and Technical if possible. Technical provides you with a fall-back option with less number of applicants.
Selection Process (Stage I & II in Depth)
Indian Coast Guard has a five-stage selection process, but Stage I and Stage II are the most crucial as they remove most of the aspirants.
Stage I – Coast Guard Common Admission Test (CGCAT)
Mode: Online Computer-Based Exam
Duration: 2 Hours
Number of Questions: 100 Multiple Choice Questions
Marking: +4 for correct, –1 for incorrect
Topics Covered:
English – 25 Questions
Reasoning & Numerical Ability – 25 Questions
General Science & Maths – 25 Questions
General Knowledge – 25 Questions
Tips for Preparation:
Pay special attention to Class 10 & 12 level Maths and Physics.
Practice reasoning with mock tests.
Read daily current affairs and GK updates.
Refrain from revising grammar rules for English.
Normalization: As exams are conducted in more than one shift, marks are normalized. That is, even if one shift is more difficult, marks are fairly adjusted.
Preliminary Selection Board (PSB)
Successful candidates from Stage I are summoned to Stage II at centres of selection such as Noida, Chennai, Kolkata, Shillong, Gandhinagar, and Goa.
Stage II tests are:
- Computerised Cognitive Battery Test (CCBT) – Tests intelligence and aptitude.
- Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PP&DT) – An image is displayed to the candidate and he/she is required to write a story, then a group discussion.
Why Important:
PP&DT assesses leadership, thinking under pressure, and communication.
CCBT makes sure you possess mental acuteness to work at the officer level.
Document & Biometric Verification:
Original certificates, photos, ID proof are to be carried by the candidates.
Biometric (fingerprint/iris) is captured to avoid impersonation.
Selection Process (Stage III, IV & V)
???? Stage III – Final Selection Board (FSB)
Conducted at Coast Guard Selection Board, Noida.
Duration: 4–5 days.
Tests administered:
Psychological Tests (Thematic Apperception, Word Association).
Group Tasks (leadership, teamwork).
Personal Interview (in-depth analysis of knowledge and personality).
Why It Matters: FSB is the most challenging stage. A large number of candidates who pass written tests are rejected at this stage for lack of officer-like qualities (OLQs).
Medical Examination
Carried out at Base Hospital, Delhi Cantt.
Special medical board for appeals.
Standards
Height: 157 cm minimum (hilly/tribal relaxations).
Weight: In proportion to height & age.
Chest: At least 5 cm expansion.
Vision: 6/6 (corrected), 6/9 (uncorrected).
Tattoos: Only on forearm/hand back permitted.
Induction & Training
Final merit list prepared using Stage I + Stage III scores.
Training starts in January 2027 at Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala.
Training Duration:
GD – 44 weeks
Technical – 22 weeks
Cadets are given physical training, seamanship, navigation, engineering fundamentals, and leadership modules.
Step by Step Application Process
Online Application
- Open official site: joinindiancoastguard.cdac.in.
- Register using valid email ID and phone.
- Enter personal, educational, and branch details.
- Scan and upload documents:
Photo (name/date).
Signature.
10th & 12th certificates.
Degree certificate (final year proof).
Caste/EWS/NOC if required. - Pay Fee: ₹300 (General/OBC), SC/ST exempt.
- Choose exam centre preferences.
- Download application printout.
Mistakes to Avoid
Uploading old photo without name/date.
Writing wrong category (SC/OBC without certificate).
Multiple applications → rejection.
Incomplete education information.
Medical Standards in Depth
Medical fitness is not negotiable in Coast Guard. Even the best candidates can be rejected if medically unfit.
Physical Standards
Height: 157 cm (relaxation for Gorkhas, Kumaonis, Andaman Nicobari tribes).
Weight: Proportionate ±10%.
Chest: 5 cm expansion required.
???? Eyesight
GD: 6/6 & 6/9 without glasses.
Tech: 6/36 uncorrected, 6/6 corrected.
No colour blindness is permitted.
???? Tattoos
Permitted only on inner forearm and back of hand.
Tattoos on face, neck, and other exposed areas → Not allowed.
???? Hearing & Dental
Normal hearing essential.
Candidates must not have serious dental problems.
Salary, Perks, and Career Growth
Pay Scale
Rank Pay Level Basic Pay (₹)
Assistant Commandant 10 56,100
Deputy Commandant 11 67,700
Commandant (JG) 12 78,800
Commandant 13 1,23,100
DIG 13A 1,31,100
IG 14 1,44,200
ADG 15 1,82,200
DG 16 2,05,400
Perks
Free lodging / HRA.
Medical for family + parents.
Group Insurance cover of ₹1.25 crore.
Free ration.
CSD facilities.
Adventure sports, foreign transfers.
Career Growth
Assistant Commandant → Deputy Commandant → Commandant → Deputy Inspector General → Inspector General → Additional Director General → Director General.
– INA Ezhimala training
Venue: Indian Naval Academy, Kerala.
Duration:
GD – 44 weeks.
Technical – 22 weeks.
Modules: Physical training, seamanship, weapon handling, law of the sea.
Discipline: Any candidate who does not prove worthy is likely to be discharged.
Life at INA is demanding but makes candidates leaders. Days start at 5 AM with PT, followed by classes, drill, and night games.
General Instructions, Reasons for Rejection, Conclusion
Reasons for Rejection
Spurious documents.
Age disparity.
Medical unsuitability.
Criminal antecedents.
Using unfair practices in exam.
General Instructions
Maintain mobile/email active until 2027.
Admit cards only online.
No mobiles in the centres.
Don’t get trapped by fake agents.
Conclusion
Indian Coast Guard Assistant Commandant 2027 Notification is the finest chance for engineers and graduates to become part of a prestigious uniformed force. With 170 vacancies, great salary, and a fulfilling career, candidates should apply within the time limit and work hard sincerely.
Applications are to be submitted by 23 July 2025. Training starts January 2027 at INA Ezhimala.
This is not employment—it is a life of service, honour
ముఖ్యమైన లింక్లు
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Indian Navy & Coast Guard Notification 2025
- What is the Indian Coast Guard Assistant Commandant Notification 2025?
The Assistant Commandant 2025 notification is an official recruitment announcement by the Indian Coast Guard under the Ministry of Defence for selecting young graduates and engineers as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers.
- How many vacancies are available in the Indian Coast Guard Assistant Commandant 2025?
A total of 170 vacancies have been announced:
General Duty (GD): 140
Technical (Engineering/Electrical/Electronics): 30
- What is the age limit for Indian Coast Guard Assistant Commandant 2025?
Candidates must be 21 to 25 years as of 01 July 2025.
OBC candidates: up to 28 years.
SC/ST candidates: up to 30 years.
- What is the educational qualification required?
For GD: Bachelor’s degree with Maths & Physics at 12th level.
For Technical: Engineering degree in specified branches (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, etc.) with Maths & Physics at 12th.
- Can final-year students apply?
Yes ✅, final-year candidates can apply provided they submit their degree and mark sheets by 31 October 2026.
- What is the selection process for Indian Coast Guard Assistant Commandant 2025?
The selection has five stages:
- Stage I – CGCAT (Written Test).
- Stage II – Preliminary Selection Board (PP&DT, CCBT).
- Stage III – Final Selection Board (Psychological tests, group tasks, interview).
- Stage IV – Medical Examination.
- Stage V – Final Merit List & Training at INA Ezhimala.
- Where will the training take place?
Training will begin in January 2027 at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala.
GD Officers: 44 weeks training.
Technical Officers: 22 weeks training.
- What is the salary of an Assistant Commandant in the Indian Coast Guard?
The basic pay starts at ₹56,100 (Level 10 as per 7th CPC). With allowances (HRA, DA, medical, transport), the monthly salary comes to ₹75,000 – ₹85,000 approximately.
- Is there an application fee?
Yes.
General & OBC: ₹300
SC & ST: Exempted (No fee)
- How can I apply online for Indian Coast Guard Assistant Commandant 2025?
You can apply only through the official website:
👉 joinindiancoastguard.cdac.in
Fill the form, upload documents, pay the fee (if applicable), and download the application copy for future use.
- Are tattoos allowed in Indian Coast Guard?
Tattoos are permitted only on the inner forearm and back of the hand. Tattoos on face, neck, or visible areas are not allowed.
- What are the important dates for this recruitment?
Online Application: 08 July 2025 to 23 July 2025
Stage I Exam: September 2025
Stage II: November 2025
Stage III: January – October 2026
Medicals: March – April 2026
Training Starts: January 2027
Im interested