PUNE: The Indian Army has started for the first time a psychometric test for Agniveer candidates on a trial basis, doing so at a recruitment rally in Pune a few days ago.

The test aims to assess their mental capabilities, behaviour and personality traits.“It (the test) is in a primitive stage.

It has not become a formal mandate for the Agniveer recruitment process yet,” Lt Gen NS Sarna, Director-General of Recruiting, told TOI on Saturday.The Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed the test.

The psychological analysis is necessary considering the stressful conditions in the force, sources said.Asked what prompted the test, Lt Gen Sarna said: “We experiment with various new things and technologies at the rallies.”A select group of candidates appeared for a computer-based psychometric test where they had to answer a set of questions, mostly on psychological aspects.

“It was done to gain insights into their aptitude.

It will be further vetted by officers and DRDO experts,” another senior officer said.The recruitment rally was held at the Bombay Engineering Group and Centre in Pune.

Other officers pointed out that the army required physical fitness, mental toughness and the ability to work in isolation in stressful conditions.

“If one does not have the aptitude for the force, these conditions can severely affect the person’s mental health.

The psychometric test will identify this aspect among the aspirants,” a senior officer said.A senior infantry officer stressed that Agniveers serve on the frontlines in tough conditions.

“If a candidate feels he is going to serve only for four years, the individual might not put forth his best.

So, it is necessary to understand their psychological aspects,” the officer said.