The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) invites applications from male Indian citizens for recruitment to the posts of Navik (General Duty & Domestic Branch) and Yantrik (Technical) through the Coast Guard Enrolled Personnel Test (CGEPT) for the 01/2026 and 02/2026 batches. A total of 630 vacancies are announced.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), under the Ministry of Defence, offers an exceptional opportunity for young and dynamic male Indian citizens to serve the nation through the Coast Guard Enrolled Personnel Test (CGEPT) for the posts of Navik (General Duty), Navik (Domestic Branch), and Yantrik. These posts form the backbone of operational and technical branches in the Indian Coast Guard, an Armed Force of the Union, tasked with protecting maritime interests and enforcing maritime law. The recruitment process involves a multi-stage selection comprising a computer-based online exam (Stage I), assessment tests, physical fitness tests and document verification (Stage II), further verification and medical tests at INS Chilka (Stage III), and final enrolment formalities (Stage IV). Candidates must be physically and mentally fit, and all original documents must be verified at various stages of the process.

The Navik (General Duty) is responsible for a variety of operations, including patrolling, search and rescue, and law enforcement on the high seas. This role requires a Class 12 pass qualification with Physics and Maths. The Navik (General Duty) performs multifaceted duties aboard Indian Coast Guard ships and establishments, assisting in communication, navigation, and general seamanship. This role demands a high level of discipline, adaptability, and physical endurance.

The Navik (Domestic Branch), on the other hand, focuses on essential onboard tasks such as cooking, housekeeping, and assisting in logistical operations. The minimum qualification is a Class 10 pass, and candidates serve aboard ships and at shore establishments. Although the tasks may seem routine, this role is crucial in ensuring the daily sustenance and smooth functioning of Coast Guard units.

The Yantrik position is highly technical and vital to ship operations. Candidates must have a Class 10 pass and a Diploma in Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics, or Telecommunication (Radio/Power) Engineering from a recognized AICTE institution. The Yantrik operates and maintains complex machinery, ensuring seamless functioning of propulsion systems, power generation, and control systems aboard the vessels. A Yantrik may specialize in Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics systems, and is essential for ship readiness and mission capability.

All roles come with a well-defined promotional structure and offer ample scope for career advancement. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous training, starting at INS Chilka, followed by sea training and professional training in their respective fields. The training curriculum is designed to instill discipline, technical skills, leadership, and a deep understanding of maritime operations. The basic pay starts from ₹21,700 for Navik (GD/DB) and ₹29,200 for Yantriks, with additional allowances and benefits such as free medical facilities, accommodation, ration, clothing, Leave Travel Concession, and CSD canteen privileges.

The recruitment process emphasizes transparency and fairness. Stage I includes a computer-based written examination specific to the post applied. For Navik (GD), questions are based on 10+2 Maths and Physics; for Navik (DB), questions are from Class 10 level; and for Yantriks, questions are from diploma-level engineering subjects. Stage II includes document verification, physical fitness test (1.6 km run in 7 minutes, 20 squats, and 10 push-ups), and a basic assessment test. Candidates must clear each stage to proceed further. Medical standards such as minimum height, weight, hearing ability, and absence of permanent tattoos (except in permitted areas for tribal candidates) are strictly enforced.

Stage III is conducted at INS Chilka where final document verification, medical checks, and police verification are carried out. Stage IV involves enrolment and further scrutiny of documents by external authorities to confirm authenticity. Candidates providing false information or forged documents will be disqualified at any stage. All selected candidates are required to submit police verification from their place of residence or domicile.

The Indian Coast Guard values integrity and merit, and any malpractice, misrepresentation, or impersonation during the recruitment process will lead to immediate disqualification and legal action. The recruitment is entirely online and transparent; candidates must be vigilant and avoid any intermediaries or agents promising selection.

Apart from the challenging and honorable nature of the job, the Coast Guard offers long-term security and perquisites. Personnel are entitled to pension under NPS/UPS, gratuity, insurance cover of ₹75 lakhs, and ECHS (Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme) benefits post-retirement. They also enjoy job satisfaction from serving the nation in maritime security, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and humanitarian missions.

The Indian Coast Guard plays a pivotal role in safeguarding India's maritime borders and resources, especially in the vast coastal and exclusive economic zones. The enrolled personnel, whether Navik or Yantrik, are integral to these missions. They operate high-speed boats, hovercrafts, aircraft, and ships, making the ICG one of the most versatile forces in India. Joining the Indian Coast Guard not only offers a dignified uniformed service but also a chance to be part of a technologically advanced and strategically vital force.