India's foreign intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) is considered to be the eyes and ears of the country. It was established in 1968 and since then this agency has been playing an important role in India's security, strategy and foreign intelligence matters. But often people have a question in their mind that how to become a RAW agent? Is there any direct recruitment for this or is there any special secret method of selection?

How to become a RAW agent

Actually, there is no direct recruitment in RAW. To become a RAW agent, it is necessary to be in some other government service beforehand. Mainly experienced officers from civil services, armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force), paramilitary forces, IB (Intelligence Bureau) and central services (IAS, IPS, IRS etc.) are selected for this. Most of the recruitment is done from IPS and IB. Apart from this, sometimes Group-A level officers are taken on deputation through RAW's front organization 'Research and Analysis Services (RAS)'.

How is recruitment done

To join RAW, the candidate first has to take admission in a prestigious government service through UPSC Civil Services Examination or Defense Services Examination (CDS). After this, they have to gain service experience for a few years. If the officer's qualification, record, confidentiality and analytical abilities meet the standards of RAW, then he is called through the internal screening process through the Intelligence Bureau (IB). Sometimes separate recruitment is also done on contract basis under the Cabinet Secretariat, but they are very limited and confidential.

One has to work anonymously

So if someone dreams of becoming a RAW agent, the first step is to clear exams like UPSC, CDS or CAPF, then serve the government honestly for years and only then become a part of the selection process. A job in RAW is not only challenging but it is a field where working quietly for the country is the biggest honour. Without any fame and without any open identity.