Indian Army Implements Stricter Fitness Policy to Combat Declining Physical Standards
The Indian Army has introduced a revamped fitness policy aimed at addressing concerns over “declining physical standards among officers” and the increasing prevalence of “lifestyle diseases,” according to a report by the Indian Express.
Stricter Fitness Requirements and Penalties
The updated policy enforces stricter fitness standards, imposing punitive measures on overweight personnel who fail to show improvement within 30 days. Additionally, the policy introduces enhanced physical tests to assess army personnel more rigorously.
Appointment of Brigadier Rank Officer for Oversight
Unlike the previous system, where a commanding officer oversaw quarterly assessments, the new policy assigns a Brigadier rank officer to supervise the procedure. Each officer is required to maintain an Army Physical Fitness Assessment Card (APAC) to track progress, ensuring greater uniformity in testing protocols.
Quarterly Physical Tests and Performance Tracking
The current fitness evaluation process includes the Battle Physical Efficiency Test (BPET) and the Physical Proficiency Test (PPT) every three months. BPET assesses endurance through exercises such as running, sprinting, and rope climbing within a designated time based on age. Similarly, PPT involves additional strength and agility exercises. These test results are now directly linked to each officer’s Annual Confidential Report (ACR) to track overall performance.
Introduction of New Endurance and Swimming Tests
The latest policy introduces a 32-km route march and a 10-km speed march every six months, enhancing endurance benchmarks. Additionally, a 50-meter swimming proficiency test has been made mandatory for all personnel annually. Previously, this test was only conducted at select facilities where resources were available.
Mandatory Progress Tracking and Performance Consequences
To ensure continuous monitoring, all personnel must regularly update their APAC records and submit their fitness results within 24 hours. Those classified as “overweight” will be given a 30-day window to improve their fitness levels. Failure to meet the required standards may result in curtailed leave and restricted access to temporary duty (TD) courses, reinforcing the importance of physical fitness in career progression.
The Indian Army’s latest fitness policy underscores the institution’s commitment to enhancing the overall well-being and operational readiness of its personnel.
By rolling out its tougher fitness policy, the Indian Army is taking decisive action to reverse the “declining physical standards” among its personnel and curb the rise of lifestyle-related health issues. Key reforms—such as mandating APAC fitness tracking, introducing demanding quarterly BPET/PPT tests, and adding endurance challenges like 10 km speed marches, 32 km route marches, and annual swimming assessments—underscore the seriousness of this initiative. Elevating the oversight of fitness evaluations with Brigadier-led panels and linking performance to Annual Confidential Reports ensures accountability across all ranks. While overweight or unfit individuals are now subject to counseling, leave restrictions, and even punitive steps under military regulations, the policy signals a renewed commitment to operational effectiveness and combat readiness. In essence, the Army is sending a clear message: staying fit is not optional—it’s foundational to serving and advancing in India’s armed forces.
✅ Trusted Sources
- News18 – “Indian Army Introduces New Fitness Policy to Fight ‘Declining Physical Standards’”
In-depth breakdown of test types (BPET, PPT, route marches), APAC tracking, leadership oversight, and follow-up actions. - Business Standard – “Indian Army implements new fitness policy to tackle ‘lifestyle diseases’”
Highlights punitive measures for overweight personnel, mandatory swimming tests, and linking fitness records to ACR.
