Joining the Indian Armed Forces is not just a career option—it is a dream of honor, discipline, and service to the nation. Every year, lakhs of young aspirants appear for exams like the National Defence Academy (NDA), Combined Defence Services (CDS), and Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT). These exams are the entry point for becoming commissioned officers in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. With such prestigious opportunities, the competition is extremely tough. Cracking these exams in 2025 will require smart planning, discipline, and most importantly, the best defence exam books 2025 that cover the syllabus in detail and offer sufficient practice.
Each defence exam has a unique structure and purpose, and therefore requires targeted preparation with the right resources.
While there is some overlap in syllabus, each exam requires separate focus areas. Choosing the best NDA books 2025, CDS preparation books, and AFCAT best study material is the first step.
The NDA exam is designed for Class 12 pass-outs, so it requires strong basics in maths and science, along with general ability and English.
Together, these form a complete set of NDA study resources.
The CDS exam is for graduates aiming to join different academies. The paper is tougher than NDA and requires a higher level of reasoning and GK.
Additionally, Previous Year Papers by Kiran Publications are indispensable for understanding exam trends.
AFCAT is considered one of the most competitive exams because it attracts graduates from all streams. The exam focuses on English, reasoning, numerical ability, and general awareness.
These are widely accepted as the AFCAT best study material for 2025.
While reference guides are essential, NCERT textbooks from Classes 6–12 (especially for science, maths, and social science) remain the foundation. For NDA and CDS, questions are often directly inspired from NCERTs. Many toppers recommend revising NCERTs multiple times before moving on to advanced guides. This combination of NCERTs with reference guides forms the backbone of best defence exam books 2025.
Ashirwad Publication provides all leading publishers under one roof:
These publishers are trusted by thousands of aspirants every year, making them the safest choice for NDA, CDS, and AFCAT aspirants.
Buying books is only the start. To get maximum benefit, students should follow a strategy:
This disciplined approach ensures full use of the NDA books 2025, CDS preparation books, and AFCAT best study material.
Aspirants often fall into the trap of buying too many books. Instead, focus on a few trusted ones. Ignoring current affairs is another mistake, especially for CDS and AFCAT where GK plays a crucial role. Many candidates also neglect English vocabulary, which is heavily tested across all exams. Another mistake is avoiding mock tests; without practice, time management in the exam becomes a big challenge. Avoiding these pitfalls ensures that the chosen defence exam books 2025 deliver maximum value.
The path to joining the Indian Armed Forces is challenging, but with the right preparation it becomes achievable. For NDA, focus on Arihant Pathfinder, Aggarwal’s Maths, and Lucent GK. For CDS, rely on Arihant, Lucent, and Kiran solved papers. For AFCAT, focus on English and reasoning guides from Arihant and Aggarwal. All these, supported by Ashirwad Publication’s complete collection of defence exam books 2025, will help aspirants prepare systematically and with confidence. The dream of wearing the uniform starts with discipline and the right books.
Arihant Pathfinder for CDS is the most comprehensive.
At least 6–8 months of consistent study.
Kiran Publications.
Mathematics for NDA/NA by R.S. Aggarwal and Pathfinder NDA Mathematics by Arihant.
Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi.
Yes, NCERTs of Classes 6–12 form the base for maths and science questions.
A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal.
Lucent General Knowledge.
Objective General English by Arihant and Word Power Made Easy.
Yes, the level of difficulty differs, so separate guides are recommended.
Yes, with self-study and the right AFCAT study material, it is possible.
Yes, Ashirwad offers Arihant, Kiran, Lucent, Oswaal, Disha, and more.
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