Eye Eligibility for Indian Army, How to Fix Weaker Eye Sight
Joining the Indian Army is a dream for many, but strict medical standards, including vision requirements, must be met. If you have weak eyesight, can you still qualify? What are the permissible limits, and how can you improve your vision to meet the criteria?
This detailed guide covers:
- ✅ Eyesight standards for the Indian Army
- ✅ Common vision problems that disqualify candidates
- ✅ Proven ways to improve weak eyesight naturally & medically
- ✅ FAQs on LASIK, PRK, and other corrective surgeries for Army aspirants
1. Indian Army Eyesight Eligibility Criteria (2024)
The Indian Army follows strict medical standards for eyesight, which vary slightly based on the entry scheme:
A. For NDA, CDS, and TES Entries
Parameter |
Requirement |
Uncorrected Vision (Distant Vision) |
6/6 in one eye & 6/9 in the other (correctable to 6/6 with glasses) |
Myopia (Near-Sightedness) |
Not exceeding -3.50D (including astigmatism) |
Hypermetropia (Far-Sightedness) |
Not exceeding +3.50D (including astigmatism) |
Colour Vision |
CP-II (Colour Perception) acceptable for certain roles |
Laser Surgery |
Permitted (LASIK/PRK) if done before or after applying, with proper recovery |
B. For Technical Entries (TGC, SSC Tech)
- Better eye: 6/6
- Worse eye: 6/18 (correctable to 6/6)
- Myopia limit: -5.00D
- Hypermetropia limit: +5.00D
C. For Non-Technical Entries
- Uncorrected vision: Up to 6/60 (must be correctable to 6/6 with glasses)
Note:
- Cataract, glaucoma, or severe astigmatism are disqualifying conditions.
- Candidates with LASIK/PRK surgery must provide medical proof of stability (usually after 6 months).
2. Common Eyesight Problems That Can Disqualify You
Some vision issues can permanently disqualify you from joining the Indian Army:
- ❌ High Myopia or Hypermetropia (Beyond permissible limits)
- ❌ Color Blindness (CP-III or CP-IV)
- ❌ Night Blindness (Nyctalopia)
- ❌ Keratoconus (Thinning Cornea)
- ❌ Squint (Strabismus) – Unless Corrected Surgically
Did You Know?
The best eye hospital in Noida specializes in treating squint, cataract, and LASIK surgeries that can help candidates meet Indian Army vision standards.
3. How to Fix Weak Eyesight & Meet Army Standards
If your eyesight is weak but within permissible limits, you can improve it naturally or through medical procedures.
A. Natural Ways to Improve Eyesight
1. Eye Exercises
- Palming (Rub hands, place over closed eyes for relaxation)
- Focus Shifting (Alternate focus between near & far objects)
- 20-20-20 Rule (Every 20 mins, look 20 feet away for 20 sec)
2. Diet & Nutrition
- Vitamin A (Carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes)
- Omega-3 (Fish, flaxseeds)
- Lutein & Zeaxanthin (Eggs, kale)
3. Lifestyle Changes
- Reduce screen time & use blue light filters
- Wear UV-protected sunglasses outdoors
- Avoid reading in dim light
B. Medical & Surgical Solutions
1. Corrective Glasses/Contact Lenses
Must meet Army's vision standards after correction
2. LASIK/PRK Surgery
- Allowed by Indian Army if done 6+ months before medical test
- No complications (dry eyes, halos, etc.) should persist
3. Cataract & Squint Surgery
- If you have cataracts, early surgery can restore vision.
- Squint correction surgery can make candidates eligible.
4. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Special overnight contact lenses that reshape the cornea
4. FAQs on Eyesight & Indian Army Eligibility
Q1. Can I join the Indian Army with glasses?
✅ Yes, if your vision is correctable to 6/6 and within the refractive error limits.
Q2. Is LASIK allowed in the Indian Army?
✅ Yes, but you must:
- Wait 6 months after surgery
- Provide medical records
- Have no post-surgery complications
Q3. Can color-blind candidates join the Army?
🚫 No, if diagnosed with CP-III or CP-IV (Complete color blindness). CP-II (mild deficiency) is allowed for some roles.
Q4. How can I check if my eyesight meets Army standards?
✔ Get a comprehensive eye test from a military-approved ophthalmologist.
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Final Thoughts
If your eyesight is weak but within permissible limits, corrective measures (glasses, LASIK, or lifestyle changes) can help you qualify. However, severe conditions like high myopia or color blindness may disqualify you permanently.
Pro Tip: For surgical corrections like LASIK or cataract surgery, always choose experienced ophthalmologists who follow strict medical protocols.