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Ex-servicemen (ESM) enjoy significant reservations and benefits in Indian government jobs as recognition of their service. If you or a family member has served in the Armed Forces, here is exactly what benefits are available and how to claim them.
An Ex-Serviceman is a person who has served in the Armed Forces of India (Army, Navy, Air Force) and has been released on completion of assignment, on medical grounds, or for any other reason after earning their pension. This does NOT include those who are dismissed or removed due to disciplinary reasons.
In Group C central government posts: 14.5% reserved for ESM. In Group D: 24.5% reserved for ESM. For CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) positions: 10% reservation. Many state governments have their own ESM reservation (3–20% depending on state). Unreserved posts can also be filled by ESM under horizontal reservation.
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The age relaxation formula for ESM: Actual age - Period of military service + 3 years = Effective age. Example: Candidate aged 38, served 10 years in Army, applying for a post with 30-year upper limit. Effective age = 38 - 10 + 3 = 31. Since 31 < 30 + relaxation allowed? Actually: 38 - 10 = 28 + 3 = 31. Yes, eligible. This applies across central government exams.
Discharge Book (original + copies). Pension Payment Order (PPO). Service Certificate from the unit. Domicile certificate. Caste certificate if applicable. Identity card issued by Record Office or Zila Sainik Board. ESM identity card from respective Sainik Welfare Board.
Ex-servicemen with disability attributable to military service get additional preference. Disability pension holders are treated as PwD for the purposes of age relaxation (10 years additional relaxation for General ESM with disability). They also get preference in Group D appointments.
In online applications, select 'Ex-Serviceman' in the category dropdown. Upload discharge certificate and service certificate. At the time of document verification, carry original Discharge Book, PPO, and Sainik Welfare Board ESM identity card. Some exams require a specific ESM certificate from the Zila Sainik Board — check the notification.
By Sarkaari Saathi Editorial Team · Published 22 March 2026 · Last updated 16 July 2026. Information verified against official government sources.
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