SHILLONG: The East Khasi Hills District Administration on Monday organised a comprehensive career guidance programme at the Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong, aimed at preparing local youth for the upcoming Agniveer (Indian Army) and Agniveervayu (Indian Air Force) recruitment drives scheduled for 2026.
The initiative focused on sensitising aspiring candidates about eligibility criteria, recruitment procedures, and physical preparation required for entry into the Armed Forces.
The programme was attended by East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner R. M. Kurbah, along with senior defence officials including Col. Vinay Kumar, Director of the Army Recruiting Office; Retd. Lt. Col. Sebastian Marbaniang, Zila Sainik Welfare Officer; and Wing Commander A. Muralidharan of the Indian Air Force.
Addressing participants, Deputy Commissioner R. M. Kurbah encouraged Meghalaya’s youth to take advantage of career opportunities in the Armed Forces, highlighting that recruitment rallies would be conducted in Shillong to improve accessibility for local candidates.
She noted that more than 700 candidates from the region were successfully recruited into the Agniveer scheme and Border Security Force (BSF) last year, demonstrating the growing participation of local youth in national defence services.
Col. Vinay Kumar outlined key aspects of the 2026 Army recruitment process and stressed the importance of early registration and physical readiness.
Key Highlights:
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Registration Deadline: April 1, 2026
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Online Examination: June 1 – June 15, 2026
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Educational Qualification: 10+2 or equivalent
Physical Standards for Women:
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Standard Height: 162 cm
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Northeast Relaxation: 158 cm minimum
1.6 km Run Requirement:
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Group I: Under 7 minutes 30 seconds
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Group II: 7 minutes 31 seconds – 8 minutes
Wing Commander A. Muralidharan announced a dedicated Agniveervayu open recruitment rally for candidates from the Northeast region.
The rally will be held on March 20, 2026 at the Headquarters of Eastern Air Command, Nonglyer, Upper Shillong. The qualification required is 10+2 with minimum 50% aggregate marks and 50% in English with a height requirement of 152 (Male) and 147 (Female).
The selection process will include a Physical Fitness Test followed by a Written Examination.
He further informed that up to 25% of Agniveers may be absorbed into the permanent cadre based on performance and service evaluation.
Wing Commander Muralidharan made a special appeal encouraging female candidates to participate, noting that the Indian Air Force currently offers increased intake opportunities for women, making it an opportune time to apply.
