Services Preparatory Institute


Services Preparatory Institute is a state-run institution in Aurangabad, Maharashtra that prepares youth for the officer cadre of the Indian Armed Forces. The institute has consistently performed well in the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy entrance examinations.

History

After the establishment of the NDA at Khadakwasla, Pune in 1954, it was observed that although the academy was located in Maharashtra, few candidates from the state were being admitted. The Government of Maharashtra therefore formed a committee under the chairmanship of Lt. Gen. S. P. P. Thorat, Kirti Chakra, Padma Shri, DSO, to study the issue and recommend solutions. Based on the committee’s recommendations, the Services Preparatory Institute was established in Aurangabad in 1977 with the aim of preparing boys academically, mentally, and physically for entry into the NDA and other defence academies.

Objectives and Training

SPI serves as a feeder institution for the NDA, the 10+2 Technical Entry Scheme, and the INA. The institute emphasizes comprehensive education and personality development. It provides coaching for the Union Public Service Commission NDA written examination, and its training curriculum also prepares students for SSB interviews.

Admissions and Achievements

In 2017, SPI received 9,017 applications for 60 seats. In 2019, 13 cadets were selected to the NDA and INA. In 2020, there were over 13,000 applicants for 60 seats, and 22 cadets were selected to the Indian Armed Forces.
In 2021, SPI received 5,779 applications, and 11 cadets were selected to the NDA and INA.
In 2023, 44 cadets cleared the UPSC–NDA examination.

Girls Services Preparatory Institute

From 2023, a separate SPI for girls, known as the Girls Services Preparatory Institute , was established in Nashik by the Government of Maharashtra. Three girls from the first course cleared the UPSC–NDA written exam, and in 2025, two girl cadets from the SPI made it to the NDA.

Administration

Since 9 October 2025, Col. Makarand Deshmukh serves as the Director of SPI.