How to Distinguish between Different Ranks of The Indian Army?

Distinguishing or identifying the Ranks of the Indian Army Personnel is bit hard for the civilians even when they observe anyone in uniform. There are many ranks of an Indian army officer, and if you are a true defence aspirant, you must be able to identify the officer without knowing his rank just by looking at his uniform. We will explain briefly on the ranks of Indian army officers so that if someone ever asks about ranks, you should be able to reply easily.

1. Lieutenant​

On commissioning into Indian Army as an Officer in Pay Level 10
Abbreviation:- Lt.
Insignia:- Two five-pointed stars

2. Captain​

On completion of 2 years reckonable commissioned service.
Abbreviation:- Capt.
Insignia:- Three five-pointed stars

3. Major​

On completion of 6 years reckonable commissioned service subject to clearance of Part B exam.
Abbreviation:- Maj.
Insignia:- National emblem

4. Lieutenant Colonel​

On completion of 13 years reckonable commissioned service subject to clearance of Part D exam.
Abbreviation:- Lt. Col.
Insignia:- National emblem over five-pointed star

5. Colonel​

Colonel & above are Selection Grade. 15 years of commissioned service required for selection. Duration of Time Scale promotion to Colonel is 26 years of commissioned service.
Abbreviation:- Col.
Insignia:- National emblem over two five-pointed stars



Gorget patches (Collar tabs, Collar patches):- Crimson patches with golden braids

6. Brigadier​

By selection. 25 years of commissioned service required
Abbreviation:- Brig.
Insignia:- National emblem over three five-pointed stars in a triangular formation

Gorget patches (Collar tabs, Collar patches):- Crimson patches with One golden star

7. Major General​

By selection. 32 years of commissioned service required.
Abbreviation:- Maj. Gen.
Insignia:- One five-pointed star over a crossed baton and Saber



Gorget patches (Collar tabs, Collar patches):- Crimson patches with Two golden stars

8. Lieutenant General​

By selection. 36 years of commissioned service required. Lieutenant generals appointed as Vice Chief of Army Staff/Army Commanders/Equivalent/NFSG.
Abbreviation:- Lt. Gen.
Insignia:- A five-pointed star over a crossed baton and Saber



Gorget patches (Collar tabs, Collar patches):- Crimson patches with Three golden stars

9. General​

Held only by the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army. equivalent to Cabinet Secretary of India
Abbreviation:- Gen.
Insignia:- National emblem over a five-pointed star, all over a crossed baton and Saber



Gorget patches (Collar tabs, Collar patches):- Crimson patches with Four golden stars

10. Field Marshal​

Only two appointments have ever been made.
Insignia:- National emblem over a crossed baton and Saber in a Lotus Blossom Wreath



Gorget patches (Collar tabs, Collar patches):- Crimson patches with Five golden stars

All the ranks in the order- (left to right) –​

We hope this article on ranks of officers in their order will help you to identify any soldier without even knowing his rank.