The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has officially released a recruitment notification for the post of Assistant Central Intelligence Officer Grade-II/Executive (ACIO-II/Exe) in the Intelligence Bureau (IB). With 3,717 vacancies, this is a significant opportunity for aspiring candidates, particularly Ex-Servicemen, to serve the nation once again – this time as a part of India’s elite internal security agency.
The notification clearly highlights reservation, age relaxation, and special eligibility criteria for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) candidates, making it a highly relevant and attractive prospect for those who have retired from armed forces duty.
🛡️ Position Details:
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Assistant Central Intelligence Officer Grade-II/Executive (ACIO-II/Exe) |
| Total Vacancies | 3,717 posts |
| Pay Scale | Level-7 (₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400) |
| Special Security Allowance | 20% of basic pay |
| Service Nature | Group-C (Non-Gazetted, Non-Ministerial) under Central Government |
| Place of Posting | Anywhere in India |
🎖️ Special Provisions for Ex-Servicemen:
Reservation Quota: Vacancies are reserved for ESMs as per Government norms. If suitable ESMs are unavailable, these posts will be filled from other candidates of the same category.
Age Relaxation: The upper age limit shall be relaxed for Ex-Servicemen as per existing Government rules – typically the length of military service plus 3 years, subject to upper limits.
Exemption from Exam Fee: ESMs who are not already employed under the Government on civil posts will be exempt from paying the ₹100 examination fee. However, the processing fee of ₹550 is mandatory for all.
Currently Serving Armed Forces Personnel: Those who are yet to be discharged must submit a certificate (Appendix-4) from their unit.
Undertaking for Fee Waiver: Eligible ESMs must submit an undertaking (Appendix-5) to claim fee exemption.
🎓 Eligibility Criteria:
Educational Qualification: Graduation or equivalent from a recognized university.
Desirable: Basic knowledge of computers.
Age Limit: 18 to 27 years as on 10 August 2025.
Age Relaxation for ESM: As per central government norms (usually military service duration + 3 years).
🗓️ Important Dates:
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | 19 July 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 10 August 2025 |
| Fee Payment via Challan (Last Date) | 12 August 2025 |
💻 How to Apply:
Interested candidates must apply only through online mode via:
👉 www.mha.gov.in or
👉 www.ncs.gov.in
🔹 Application Process:
Step 1: Register on the portal using a valid email and mobile number.
Step 2: Fill in personal, academic, and service details.
Step 3: Upload photograph, signature, and required documents.
Step 4: Pay the processing fee (₹550). Examination fee (₹100) is waived for eligible ESMs.
📝 Exam Pattern & Selection Process:
The selection will take place in three tiers:
📘 Tier-I: Objective Test (100 marks, 1 hour)
Subjects: Current Affairs, General Studies, Numerical Aptitude, Reasoning, and English (20 marks each)
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks per incorrect answer
✍️ Tier-II: Descriptive Test (50 marks, 1 hour)
Essay Writing: 20 marks
English Comprehension & Precis: 10 marks
Short-answer questions (current topics): 20 marks
🎙️ Tier-III: Interview (100 marks)
🧾 Document Requirements:
Class 10th & 12th mark sheets
Graduation degree
Photo ID (Aadhar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.)
Passport-sized photo and signature (in specified format)
Discharge Certificate for Ex-Servicemen
Appendix-4 (for serving personnel)
Appendix-5 (for fee waiver declaration)
🏙️ Exam Centres:
Candidates will be asked to select five cities of preference during application. Final exam centers will be allotted at the discretion of the bureau.
⚠️ Important Instructions for Ex-Servicemen:
Ex-Servicemen currently employed in civil posts under Central Govt are not eligible for fee exemption.
All service-related documents should be valid and verifiable.
Candidates must ensure that details provided match the service records.
Any false declaration may lead to cancellation of candidature and legal action.
📌 Final Selection Criteria:
Tier-I Minimum Qualifying Marks: UR – 35, OBC – 34, SC/ST – 33, EWS – 35
Shortlisting for Tier-II: Based on Tier-I merit (10 times the number of vacancies)
Tier-II Minimum Marks: 33%
Final Selection: Based on cumulative scores of Tier I + Tier II + Interview
🔒 About Intelligence Bureau (IB):
The IB is India’s internal intelligence agency, one of the most prestigious and sensitive organizations under the Ministry of Home Affairs. A job in the IB is more than a profession – it’s a commitment to national security.
For Ex-Servicemen who’ve already served the nation with pride, this opportunity presents a chance to continue safeguarding India in a new avatar – as an intelligence officer.
📌 Conclusion:
The IB ACIO-II/Executive Recruitment 2025 is a golden opportunity for Ex-Servicemen looking to return to service in a challenging and rewarding role. With clear age relaxations, reservation quotas, and fee exemptions, the process is made inclusive and supportive of India’s veterans.
🔗 Apply online by 10 August 2025 – do not miss this opportunity to become the eyes and ears of the nation!
🔖 Useful Links:
Official Notification: www.mha.gov.in
Online Application Portal: www.ncs.gov.in
