Chandigarh, July 2026: Students preparing for civil services and defence examinations often pursue a degree at one institution and examination coaching elsewhere. Chandigarh Vidya Jyoti Eduversity (VJES) is introducing a different academic model by combining higher education with structured preparation for civil services and Armed Forces examinations.
The institution has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian Army for the launch of India’s first Civil & Armed Forces Preparatory College in Chandigarh. The MoU was signed at the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi and includes educational benefits for eligible wards of serving personnel, veterans and martyrs.
The initiative brings together undergraduate and postgraduate education, scholarship support and competitive examination preparation. Eligible students can receive special scholarships of up to 60% and pursue Government University-recognized Diploma, Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes.
Preparation for UPSC, CDS, AFCAT and CAPF
Competitive examinations require preparation over an extended period, and the new programme seeks to integrate this preparation with students’ regular academic schedules.
At VJES, students will receive structured coaching for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, Combined Defence Services (CDS), AFCAT and CAPF, along with preparation for other Defence Services examinations.
The programme also includes SSB Interview preparation. Dedicated Group Testing Officer (GTO) Grounds are available for training related to the selection process.
Rather than restricting the programme to written examinations, the institution’s approach includes several areas of personal development. Communication training, leadership programmes, physical fitness initiatives, NCC and NSS activities and mentoring by experienced defence professionals are part of the proposed learning environment.
Degree Choices Beyond Civil Services and Defence
The college’s academic structure is not limited to students who eventually enter government or defence services.
VJES offers programmes across a broad range of professional disciplines. These include Artificial Intelligence & Information Technology, Business Management, Commerce, Hospitality & Tourism, Health Sciences, Police & Public Administration, Journalism & Mass Communication, Media & Digital Communication, Fashion Design, Interior Design, Graphic & Web Design and Animation & Multimedia.
The institution says its programmes are designed with changing industry requirements in mind, providing students with career options in both public and private-sector fields.
This makes the proposed model relevant to students who want to keep multiple career options open. A student may pursue a professional degree while preparing for a competitive examination, allowing higher education to continue even if a particular examination attempt does not result in selection.
Education with an Emphasis on Leadership
The partnership also places importance on qualities that extend beyond academic performance.
Brig. Raj Kumar, ADG, Indian Army, said the initiative would contribute to the education and professional development of the wards of serving personnel, veterans and martyrs. He also highlighted discipline, leadership and nation-building as important elements of the partnership.
Dr. D. J. Singh, Director, Chandigarh Vidya Jyoti Eduversity, said the institution aims to develop students through leadership, discipline, innovation and professional excellence while preparing them for roles including civil services, defence, entrepreneurship and other professional careers.
The larger vision is to connect academic education with career preparation and personal development. The institution intends to prepare students not only for examinations but also for professional responsibilities that require communication, discipline and leadership.
Admissions for 2026–27
Admissions are open for the 2026–27 academic session.
Chandigarh Vidya Jyoti Eduversity is situated on the Chandigarh–Ambala Highway at Derabassi, District Mohali, Punjab. It offers Government University-recognized Diploma, Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes across professional disciplines.
The new Civil & Armed Forces Preparatory College adds another dimension to the institution’s academic offering by placing higher education, competitive examination preparation and leadership development within the same educational framework.
Chandigarh Vidya Jyoti Eduversity (VJES)
Chandigarh–Ambala Highway, Derabassi, District Mohali, Punjab, India
Officers: +91 78143 01471
PBORs: +91 70874 33055
Website: www.vjes.org
