IPS Training 2026: An Overview of the Course Structure

INTRODUCTION

Becoming an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer is more than just a career achievement; it is a rigorous academic and physical transformation. For those who have cleared the UPSC CSE, the next step is the comprehensive IPS Training 2026 program. This course is meticulously designed to transition a civilian into a disciplined leader of the police force.

In this guide, we break down the IPS Training Details 2026, focusing on the course structure, the specialized curriculum at SVPNPA, and the intensive physical drills that define life for a probationer.

The IPS Training 2026 course is a two-year journey divided into four distinct phases. Unlike other civil services, the IPS curriculum places an equal emphasis on theoretical law and extreme physical endurance.

Phase 1: The Foundation Course at LBSNAA

The journey begins at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. This 15-week course is common for all Grade A civil services, including IAS, IPS, and IFS.

• Focus: Inter-service camaraderie, Indian Constitution, and basic administrative principles.

• Outcome: Building a unified vision of governance before officer's head to their specialized academies.

Phase 2: Basic Course at SVPNPA (Phase I)

After the foundation, IPS probationers move to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad. This is the heart of the IPS Training 2026 curriculum, lasting approximately 11 months. Here, the focus shifts to professional policing, criminal law, and tactical operations.

Curriculum and Core Subjects in IPS Training 2026

The academic curriculum at SVPNPA is affiliated with Osmania University and is categorized into Indoor and Outdoor subjects.

Indoor Academic Modules

Trainees study the legal framework that governs India. The 2026 curriculum has been updated to include advanced modules on digital forensics and international law.

1. Criminal Laws: Deep dive into the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act.

2. Criminology: Understanding criminal psychology and socio-economic factors leading to crime.

3. Cyber Forensics: In 2026, there is a heightened focus on crypto-crimes, data privacy laws, and dark-web investigation.

4. Human Rights & Ethics: Sensitization toward vulnerable sections of society and ethical leadership.

Outdoor and Tactical Training

The outdoor curriculum is where the "rigor" of the IPS Training 2026 becomes evident. It includes:

• Weapon Handling: Proficiency in revolvers, pistols, SLRs, and AK-47s.

• Equitation: Mandatory horse-riding training to build confidence and command.

• Field Craft & Tactics: Learning ambush maneuvers, map reading (including GPS and GLONASS navigation), and jungle warfare.

Thinking about the preparation phase?

Check out our guide on UPSC Syllabus 2026 to start your journey.

Life at SVPNPA: Physical Drills and Routine

Life at the Academy is governed by a strict clock. A typical day for an IPS probationer in 2026 starts before dawn.

Daily Schedule (Sample)

• 05:00 AM: Wake-up call.

• 06:00 AM – 08:30 AM: Morning PT, Parade, or Cross-country runs (up to 20 km).

• 09:30 AM – 01:30 PM: Indoor academic sessions.

• 02:30 PM – 04:30 PM: Specialized labs (Forensics/IT) or Language classes.

• 05:00 PM – 06:30 PM: Evening games, swimming, or horse riding.

Physical Endurance Standards

To successfully clear the IPS Training 2026, probationers must pass several physical tests:

• The 16 km Route March: Carrying a full battle load and a rifle.

• Obstacle Course: A series of 10-12 high-intensity physical barriers.

• Swimming: Compulsory 50m swim and diving.

Phases of Field Experience: District Practical Training

Following the Basic Course at the Academy, probationers are sent to their allotted cadres for District Practical Training (DPT).

• Duration: 6 months.

• Role: You are attached to a district as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP).

• Objective: To observe the functioning of police stations, shadow senior officers during investigations, and understand local law and order challenges.

After DPT, officers return to SVPNPA for Phase II Training (1 month) to discuss their field experiences and complete advanced leadership modules before their final posting.

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Stipend and Facilities during IPS Training 2026

While the course is demanding, the Government of India provides full support to its probationers.

• Stipend: Probationers receive a monthly stipend equivalent to the Level 10 pay matrix (approx. ₹56,100 basic + allowances).

• Accommodation: Fully furnished hostels at both LBSNAA and SVPNPA.

• Uniform Allowance: Trainees receive a dedicated allowance to procure their formal and tactical uniforms.

FAQs: IPS Training 2026

Q1. What is the total duration of the IPS Training 2026 program?

Ans: The total IPS Training 2026 duration is approximately 2 years. This includes the Foundation Course (3 months), Phase I Basic Course (11 months), District Practical Training (6 months), and Phase II (1 month).

Q2. Is horse riding still mandatory in IPS Training 2026?

Ans: Yes, horse riding (Equitation) remains a compulsory part of the IPS Training 2026 outdoor curriculum. It is designed to develop balance, courage, and a sense of command in probationers.

Q3. Do IPS officers get a salary during the IPS Training 2026 period?

Ans: IPS officers receive a stipend during the IPS Training 2026 period. This stipend is based on the 7th Pay Commission Level 10 starting salary, though deductions for mess and hostel facilities are made at the academy.

Q4. What happens if a candidate fails a physical drill in IPS Training 2026?

Ans: If a candidate fails a physical test during IPS Training 2026, they are usually given additional chances and remedial training. However, passing these tests is mandatory for the successful completion of the probation period.

Q5. Can I choose my state cadre during the IPS Training 2026?

Ans: Cadre allocation is done based on the rank in the UPSC CSE and the candidate's preferences, following the Government's Cadre Allocation Policy. This usually happens before or during the early stages of IPS Training 2026.

Conclusion

The IPS Training 2026 is designed to forge the next generation of police leaders. From the serene hills of Mussoorie to the high-tech forensic labs of Hyderabad, the course ensures that every officer is legally sound and physically formidable. While the 2026 curriculum introduces more technology-driven policing, the core values of "Satya, Seva, Suraksha" (Truth, Service, Protection) remain the bedrock of the academy.

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