Indian Coast Guard Navik (General Duty) 2026: Notification, Exam Dates, Syllabus, Salary
Indian Coast Guard Navik (General Duty) 2026 – Exam Overview
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducts the Navik (General Duty) recruitment exam to select young, disciplined, and motivated candidates for serving in India’s maritime security force. The Navik (GD) post offers a prestigious opportunity to contribute to coastal security, search and rescue operations, and national defense support.
The recruitment process ensures only physically fit, mentally alert, and capable candidates join the Coast Guard to perform duties at sea, on ships, and in coastal stations. The job provides challenging responsibilities, respect, career growth, and job stability under the Ministry of Defence.
The Navik (GD) exam attracts aspirants from across the country due to its honorable service role, stable career, and the pride of serving the nation at sea.
What is Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD)?
The Navik (General Duty) is a sailor-level post in the Indian Coast Guard responsible for:
- Patrolling and safeguarding India’s coastal and offshore regions.
- Conducting search and rescue operations at sea.
- Protecting the marine environment and ecology.
- Preventing smuggling, piracy, and illegal activities at sea.
- Assisting fishermen and coastal communities in distress.
- Supporting the Indian Navy and other forces during national emergencies.
These duties are vital for maintaining India’s maritime safety, security, and law enforcement.
Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) Exam 2026 Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Conducting Body | Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Ministry of Defence |
| Exam Name | Indian Coast Guard Navik (General Duty) 2026 |
| Post Name | Navik (General Duty) |
| Level of Exam | National-Level Recruitment |
| Job Location | Across India (Coastal areas, Offshore stations, Ships) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Mathematics and Physics |
| Selection Process | Written Exam (Stage I) → Physical Fitness Test (PFT) & Document Verification (Stage II) → Medical Examination (Stage III) → Final Merit List & Joining (Stage IV) |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Subjects in Exam | English, Mathematics, Science, Reasoning, General Knowledge |
| Notification Release | Expected in January 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online through official portal |
| Official Website | https://indiancoastguard.gov.in/ |
Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) – Important Dates (2025)
Candidates aspiring to join the Indian Coast Guard as Navik (General Duty) must keep track of the official schedule to avoid missing deadlines. The recruitment notification is expected to be released in January 2026, and the exam process will continue until training begins at INS Chilka.
Below is the tentative timeline of important events for the ICG Navik (GD) 2026 exam:
Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) 2026 – Exam Dates (Tentative)
| Events | Tentative Dates |
|---|---|
| Release of Official Notification | January 2026 |
| Start of Online Application | January 2026 (2nd week) |
| Last Date to Apply Online | January 2026 (Last week) |
| Release of Admit Card (Stage I – CBT) | February/March 2026 |
| Stage I – Written Examination (CBT) | March 2026 |
| Result of Stage I (Shortlisting for PFT/Stage II) | April 2026 |
| Stage II – Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Document Verification & Initial Medicals | May 2026 |
| Stage III – Final Medical Examination at INS Chilka | June/July 2026 |
| Publication of Merit List | July/August 2026 |
| Commencement of Basic Training at INS Chilka | August/September 2026 |
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To apply for the Indian Coast Guard Navik (General Duty) 2026, candidates must fulfill specific eligibility requirements related to nationality, age, educational qualification, and physical fitness standards. Meeting all the criteria is mandatory to proceed with the recruitment process.
1. Nationality
- The candidate must be a citizen of India.
2. Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 22 years
- Candidates should be born between 01 September 2004 and 31 August 2008 (tentative for 2026 cycle; exact dates will be in notification).
Age Relaxation
- SC/ST candidates: 5 years
- OBC candidates: 3 years
3. Educational Qualification
Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Mathematics and Physics as subjects from an education board recognized by the Council of Boards for School Education (COBSE).
4. Physical Fitness & Medical Standards
(a) Height
- Minimum height: 157 cm
- Height relaxation as per region:
- Gorkhas & North Eastern candidates: up to 5 cm relaxation
- Lakshadweep candidates: up to 2 cm relaxation
(b) Chest
- Well proportioned, with minimum expansion of 5 cm
(c) Weight
- Proportionate to height and age (+/–10% acceptable)
(d) Visual Standards
- 6/36 (unaided) and 6/9 (corrected with glasses) in better eye
- 6/36 (unaided) and 6/12 (corrected with glasses) in worse eye
- Color blindness not permitted
(e) Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
To qualify for further stages, candidates must clear the PFT, which includes:
- 1.6 km run in 7 minutes
- 20 squat ups (Uthak Baithak)
- 10 push-ups
✅ Candidates must be physically and medically fit as per Indian Coast Guard standards. Any permanent tattoos, except those on the inner forearm or back of the hand (permitted as per policy), may lead to disqualification.
Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) 2026 – Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The Indian Coast Guard Navik (General Duty) selection process consists of a Computer-Based Written Exam (Stage I), followed by the Physical Fitness Test (Stage II), Document Verification, Medical Examination, and Final Merit List preparation.
The written exam tests candidates’ knowledge in Mathematics, Science, English, Reasoning, and General Awareness, based on the 10+2 curriculum.
1. Exam Pattern (Stage I – Written Test)
- Total Questions: 110
- Total Marks: 110
- Exam Mode: Online (CBT)
- Type of Questions: Objective (MCQs)
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answer, no negative marking
- Exam Language: English and Hindi
| Sections | Subjects | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section I | English, Science, Mathematics, Reasoning, General Knowledge | 60 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| Section II | Physics & Mathematics (10+2 level, for Navik GD only) | 50 | 50 | 30 minutes |
2. Syllabus
The syllabus is based on Class 10+2 level (CBSE/NCERT standard).
(a) English
- Comprehension Passage
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Error Detection
- Idioms & Phrases
- Active & Passive Voice
- Direct & Indirect Speech
- Vocabulary & Grammar
(b) Science
- Laws of Motion
- Gravitation
- Work, Power & Energy
- Properties of Matter
- Heat & Thermodynamics
- Waves & Oscillations
- Current Electricity & Magnetism
- Optics
- Modern Physics (Atoms, Nuclei, Semiconductors)
(c) Mathematics
- Algebra (Quadratic Equations, Polynomials)
- Trigonometry (Heights & Distances, Identities)
- Coordinate Geometry
- Calculus (Differentiation & Integration basics)
- Probability & Statistics
- Vectors & 3D Geometry
- Matrices & Determinants
(d) Reasoning
- Coding-Decoding
- Series (Number & Alphabet)
- Blood Relations
- Analogy
- Direction Sense Test
- Syllogism
- Non-Verbal Reasoning (Figures & Patterns)
(e) General Knowledge
- Indian History, Geography, Polity
- Current Affairs (National & International)
- Economy & Banking Awareness
- Sports & Awards
- Defence-related news
- Environmental & Social Issues
- General Science (Everyday Applications)
3. Physical Fitness Test (PFT – Stage II)
After qualifying in the written exam, candidates must clear the PFT, which includes:
- 1.6 km run in 7 minutes
- 20 squat ups (Uthak Baithak)
- 10 push-ups
4. Final Selection Stages
- Stage III: Document Verification & Detailed Medical Exam
- Stage IV: Final Merit List (based on performance in all stages and availability of vacancies)
Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) 2026 – Vacancy Details
The Indian Coast Guard Navik (General Duty) 2026 recruitment notification will mention the total number of vacancies available for various categories. The vacancies are distributed among different categories as per Government of India reservation rules.
While the exact vacancy details for 2026 will only be confirmed in the official notification, candidates can get an idea from the previous recruitment cycles. On average, 300–350 vacancies are released every year for Navik (GD).
Category-Wise Expected Vacancies (2026)
| Category | Expected Vacancies | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 150–160 | Largest share of vacancies |
| OBC | 70–80 | Includes Non-Creamy Layer |
| SC | 40–50 | Reserved as per Govt. norms |
| ST | 20–25 | Reserved as per Govt. norms |
| EWS | 25–30 | As per 10% reservation rule |
| Total | 300–340 (Approx.) | Final details in notification |
Important Notes on Vacancies
- Final numbers may vary depending on the operational requirements of the Indian Coast Guard.
- Vacancies are category-wise and will determine the cut-off marks.
- Some seats may be reserved for candidates under sports quota, if specified in the notification.
- The official vacancy distribution will be available on the recruitment portal at the time of notification.
Official Website for Vacancy Updates: https://indiancoastguard.gov.in/
Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) 2026 – Salary and Job Profile
The Indian Coast Guard Navik (General Duty) post offers not only an adventurous and disciplined career but also a secure government job with good salary, allowances, and career growth opportunities. Candidates selected as Navik (GD) will be serving as sailors in the Coast Guard and will contribute to safeguarding India’s maritime borders.
Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) Salary Structure
- Basic Pay (Initial Stage): ₹21,700 (Pay Level 3 as per 7th CPC).
- Dearness Allowance (DA): As applicable (revised from time to time).
- Additional Pay/Allowances:
- Sea Duty Allowance
- Kit Maintenance Allowance
- Travel Allowance
- Free Rations, Clothing, and Medical Facilities
- HRA (if government accommodation is not provided)
- Promotion Benefits: With promotions, the pay scale can go up to ₹47,600 (Pay Level 8) along with additional allowances.
👉 On average, a Navik (GD) earns around ₹30,000–₹35,000 per month initially, depending on location and allowances.
Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) Job Profile
The job of a Navik (GD) is challenging yet rewarding. Key responsibilities include:
- Patrolling and Surveillance: Ensuring the safety of India’s maritime zones through coastal patrols.
- Search and Rescue Operations: Assisting in saving lives during sea accidents, cyclones, or natural disasters.
- Law Enforcement: Preventing smuggling, illegal fishing, and other unlawful activities in Indian waters.
- Assisting Navy & Civil Authorities: Supporting Indian Navy and civil administration during emergencies and national duties.
- Ship and Aircraft Operations: Manning various duties on ships, boats, and aircrafts of the Coast Guard.
- Disaster Relief Operations: Providing relief material and aid during floods, cyclones, and other calamities.
Career Growth & Promotion
- Navik (GD) officers can rise through the ranks based on performance and seniority.
- Navik (GD) → Uttam Navik → Pradhan Navik → Adhikari (Assistant Commandant through departmental exam).
- Candidates also get opportunities for departmental promotions and can even reach officer ranks over time.
Key Benefits of Joining as Navik (GD)
- Job security with a prestigious government role.
- Adventure-filled career with opportunities to work at sea and along the coastline.
- Free medical treatment for self and dependents.
- Pension and retirement benefits after service.
- Opportunities to serve the nation in critical maritime defense roles.
How to Apply for Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) 2026
Candidates who wish to join the Indian Coast Guard as Navik (General Duty) must apply online through the official recruitment portal. The application process is simple but requires careful attention to detail to avoid rejection.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Step 1: Visit the Official Website
- Go to the Indian Coast Guard recruitment portal: www.joinindiancoastguard.cdac.in.
- Click on the "Navik (GD) Recruitment 2026" link.
- Step 2: Registration
- Click on "New Registration" if you are applying for the first time.
- Fill in your basic details like:
- Full Name (as per 10th certificate)
- Email ID
- Mobile Number
- Date of Birth
- Aadhaar Number (mandatory for registration)
- Set a password and complete the registration.
- Step 3: Login and Application Form Filling
- Use your registered email/mobile and password to log in.
- Fill out the application form carefully:
- Personal Details (Name, Father’s Name, Mother’s Name, Category, etc.)
- Educational Qualifications (10th & 12th marks, Board, Year of Passing, etc.)
- Choice of Examination Centre (select as per availability)
- Domicile State and other required details.
- Step 4: Upload Documents
- Upload scanned copies of required documents in the specified format:
- Passport-size recent photograph (JPEG, 20–50 KB).
- Signature (JPEG, 10–30 KB).
- 10th & 12th mark sheets.
- Caste certificate (if applicable).
- Domicile certificate.
- Photo ID proof (Aadhaar/Passport/Voter ID).
- Upload scanned copies of required documents in the specified format:
- Step 5: Pay Application Fee
- Application Fee: ₹300 (General/OBC/EWS).
- Exempted: SC/ST candidates.
- Payment Modes: Debit/Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking.
- After payment, take a screenshot/print of the confirmation for future use.
- Step 6: Submit Application
- Review all the details carefully.
- Click on “Final Submit” to complete the process.
- After submission, download and save the Application Form & Fee Receipt.
- Step 7: Print Admit Card
- Once the application is processed, candidates can download the Admit Card from the official website before the exam date.
- Admit card will contain details like exam centre, date, and reporting time.
Important Points to Remember
- Use a valid email ID and mobile number throughout the recruitment process.
- Ensure that all details match your educational and identity documents.
- Keep multiple copies of your photograph and signature in the required format.
- Apply well before the last date to avoid technical issues.
- Incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected.
Preparation Tips for Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) 2026
- Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus thoroughly to plan your preparation effectively.
- Make a Daily Study Plan and stick to it consistently for better time management.
- Focus on your Weak Areas and work on improving accuracy in those topics.
- Practice Previous Year Papers and Mock Tests regularly to get familiar with the exam format and time management.
- If you’re using a learning app like Invictaa Plus, make sure to utilize the Mock Tests provided and carefully analyze your performance after each test to identify and improve your weak points.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is the Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) exam?
The Indian Coast Guard Navik (General Duty) exam is a national-level recruitment examination conducted by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) to select young and capable candidates for the role of Navik (GD). The exam is conducted annually, usually twice a year, and thousands of candidates apply from across India. The post of Navik (GD) is highly respected as it involves working in India’s maritime security force, safeguarding the nation’s vast coastal and offshore interests.
As a Navik (General Duty), the role is operational in nature, which means you are trained to perform patrolling duties at sea, assist in search and rescue missions, ensure maritime law enforcement, and provide humanitarian assistance during natural calamities. The recruitment is aimed at selecting candidates who can handle both the physical demands and the technical requirements of the job. Since this is a defense-related career, the selection process is tough and requires a combination of mental ability, physical strength, and discipline.
Q2. Who is eligible to apply for Navik (GD) 2026?
The eligibility criteria for Navik (GD) are clearly defined to ensure that only the right candidates apply for the position:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed 10+2 (Class 12) with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects from a recognized education board in India. Students from any stream without these subjects are not eligible.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be between 18 to 22 years at the time of application. For the 2026 cycle, this means the candidate should be born between 1st September 2004 to 31st August 2008 (tentative, exact dates will be confirmed in the notification).
- Age Relaxation: SC/ST candidates get a relaxation of 5 years, while OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates get 3 years relaxation.
- Medical Standards: The candidate must meet specific medical and physical fitness standards, such as minimum height of 157 cm, proper vision (6/6 or 6/9 corrected), and overall good physical health.
- Nationality: Only Indian male candidates are eligible for Navik (GD).
Q3. What is the selection process for Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD)?
The recruitment process for Navik (GD) is divided into multiple stages to test both the intellectual and physical ability of candidates:
- Written Examination (Stage I) – This is the first step, where candidates answer objective-type questions from Mathematics, Physics, English, Reasoning, and General Knowledge. The paper is set at the Class 12 level and is conducted in online mode. Candidates must secure the minimum cut-off marks to qualify.
- Physical Fitness Test (PFT) (Stage II) – Shortlisted candidates must appear for the PFT, which includes:
- 1.6 km run in 7 minutes
- 20 squats (Uthak-Baithak)
- 10 push-ups
- Medical Examination – Candidates who qualify the PFT undergo a comprehensive medical exam conducted by authorized military doctors. Vision standards, hearing ability, dental health, and overall fitness are tested to ensure suitability for sea service.
- Final Merit List & Document Verification – Based on performance in all stages, a final merit list is prepared. Selected candidates are then called for training.
Q4. What is the exam pattern of Navik (GD)?
The written exam is one of the most important stages of selection. The pattern is as follows:
- Section I:
- Mathematics
- Science (Physics, Chemistry basics)
- English (grammar, comprehension, vocabulary)
- Reasoning (verbal and non-verbal)
- General Knowledge (current affairs, geography, polity, sports, history)
- Section II (for advanced stages):
- Higher-level Mathematics
- Advanced Physics
- General Awareness
Q5. How much salary does a Navik (GD) get?
The salary of a Navik (GD) is highly attractive for an entry-level defense job:
- Basic Pay: ₹21,700 (Pay Level 3 as per 7th CPC).
- Allowances: In addition to basic pay, Naviks receive Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, Sea Duty Allowance (when posted at sea, which can significantly increase the pay), Uniform Allowance, and medical benefits.
- Gross Salary: After allowances, the monthly salary generally ranges between ₹30,000 to ₹35,000, depending on posting.
- Other Benefits:
- Free medical treatment for self and dependents
- Canteen facilities
- Insurance cover
- Pension and retirement benefits after service
Q6. What is the job profile of Navik (GD)?
The job responsibilities of Navik (GD) are diverse and challenging:
- Operational Duties: Manning ships during patrols and operations, assisting in rescue missions, and maintaining maritime law and order.
- Navigation Support: Helping officers in operating navigation equipment, ensuring safe movement of ships, and monitoring maritime communication systems.
- Search and Rescue Operations: Playing an active role during emergencies like floods, cyclones, and natural disasters to save lives.
- Administrative Work: Supporting senior officers in ship and office-related documentation and communication.
- Training and Maintenance: Regularly undergoing physical and skill-based training to stay combat-ready, and assisting in the maintenance of equipment.
Q7. How can I apply for Indian Coast Guard Navik (GD) 2026?
The application process is completely online and conducted on the official recruitment portal: https://indiancoastguard.gov.in/. The steps are:
- Visit the official website and register using your email ID and phone number.
- Fill the application form with personal, academic, and communication details.
- Upload scanned documents – photograph, signature, Class 10 & 12 mark sheets, caste certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the application fee – ₹300 for General/OBC/EWS, while SC/ST candidates are exempt.
- Submit the form and take a printout for reference.
Q8. What is the application fee for Navik (GD) 2026?
The application fee is nominal:
- ₹300 for General, OBC, and EWS candidates.
- Exempted (no fee) for SC and ST candidates.
Q9. Can female candidates apply for Navik (GD)?
Currently, the Navik (GD) entry is open only to male candidates. However, the Indian Coast Guard has been expanding opportunities for women in various branches. Female candidates can apply for Assistant Commandant (AC) positions or other officer-level roles when vacancies are released.
Q10. Is there negative marking in the Navik (GD) exam?
Yes, the Navik (GD) written exam has negative marking to maintain fairness and discourage guessing. For every wrong answer, 0.25 marks (1/4th) are deducted. No marks are deducted for unanswered questions. Therefore, candidates must answer carefully and attempt only those questions they are confident about.