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If you would like to be a pilot in the Indian Air Force, you can do so by taking the NDA entrance exam after Class XII (Phys & Math). In this case your training is free and you will be paid a decent stipend throughout your three years of training at the National Defence Academy, followed by specialised training at the Air Force Academy. After this, you will be commissioned as a Flying Officer and posted as a pilot at an Air Force Station.
Note: Once you get into the air force, you cannot leave at your own discretion and there are legal tools to prevent IAF pilots from leaving the force. Pilots cannot be released unless they are not required by the IAF and the IAF permits them to leave.
Scholarships
~ The following scholarships are available at and administered through IGRUA, in Rae Bareilly (Uttar Pradesh):
1. Indian Airlines scholarships
Two scholarships of Rs 4,00,000, each given on merit-cum-means basis per batch.
2. Air India scholarships
Two scholarships of Rs 4,00,000, each given on merit-cum-means basis per batch.
3. Rajiv Gandhi Foundation
For two women pilots on merit-cum-means to the extent of Rs 3,00,000 each per batch.
4. Scholarships for SC/ST candidates
Rs 2,00,000 on training fee.
Additional Rs 2,00,000 by IGRUA to three SC/ST candidates per batch by selection on merit cum means basis.
Some state governments award scholarships to SC/ST candidates for training at IGRUA. Eligible candidates may approach the respective State SC/ST Welfare Directorate for the same.
5. JRD Tata Memorial scholarships
For four students, of an amount not less than Rs 1,00,000 on merit-cum-means basis. The JRD Tata Trust offers up to Rs 10 lakhs per year to trainees as decided by its Board of Directors.
Vist the IGRUA web site for more details.
~ The Madras Flying Club offers a government scholarship as well.
Eligibility: Class X + 10+2; you must also have a Private Pilot License from the Madras Flying Club.
Address
Madras Flying Club Ltd
Madras Air Port, PO
Madras - 600 027
~ A government scholarship for pilot training is available for SC/ST candidates who have completed SSC/10+2.
You may write to:
The Central Government
M/s Internal Aviation 4-A
Garden Rose, Four Bungalows
Andheri West
Mumbai - 400 053