DIPR – Historical Perspective.    The history of the Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR) goes back to the pre-independence era, of 1943 ,when it was established as an Experimental Board at Dehradun for selection of Indian Officers in Armed Forces through psychological techniques.

Post-independence on August 29, 1949, Psychological Research Wing (PRW) was established in Delhi under Defence Science Organization. PRW made a significant contribution in various areas related to armed forces and earned appreciation from the services headquarters and the Defence Ministry. Consequent to this PRW was expanded with a scope and designated as Directorate of Psychological Research (DPR) on June 28, 1962.

Directorate of Psychological Research (DPR) grew into a full-fledged independent Institute and was designated as the Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR) in October 1982.

Introduction.    To become a military psychologist in India, you generally need to pursue a career path that combines psychology education with service in the armed forces, or work as a civilian psychologist within defense organizations like Defence Institute of Psychological Research DIPR.

Join the Armed Forces (Officer Route).    First become an officer and then you can volunteer after serving for a certain period of time in the Indian Armed Forces.

·        Commission as an Officer.   Join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force as an officer through appropriate entry schemes (e.g., NDA, CDS, AFCAT, or direct entry for graduates). 

·        SSB Selection.   If you are already in the armed forces and aspire to work in the Services Selection Boards (SSB), you can apply for the SSB assessor’s course. Selection for this course involves demonstrating aptitude and potential. 

·        DIPR Training.  If you are selected, you will be trained at DIPR for a period of six months. 

Civilian Route (Direct Application).    You'll need to acquire a strong foundation in psychology, potentially including a PhD, and then apply for positions at DIPR when openings are advertised. 

Educational Qualifications.

·        Master's Degree.   You'll need a Master's degree in Psychology (Clinical / Applied or Industrial). Apply to the DIPR (under DRDO) as a Scientist 'B' after completing your Master's degree and potentially NET/JRF in Psychology. 

·        NET/JRF.   Qualifying in the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (NET) with Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) can be an advantage. 

·        PhD.   A doctoral degree in Clinical or Counselling Psychology before the age of 35 also make you eligible.

Apply Directly to DIPR.    When DIPR advertises positions, apply with your qualifications and experience. They may conduct written exams and interviews for selection. 

·        Research and Experience.   Strong qualifications in psychology, relevant research experience, and practical experience in applied human psychology are important.

DIPR's Role

• DIPR, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), conducts research in psychology for the benefit of the armed forces. 
• They provide training in areas like selection, stress management, and soft skills for armed forces personnel. 
• DIPR also offers Junior Research Fellow (JRF) and Research Associate positions to those with a strong interest in psychological research for the armed forces. 

Key Considerations

• National Security.    Be aware that meeting national security clearance criteria is essential. 
• Work Settings.   Military psychologists work in various locations, including research facilities, educational institutions, hospitals, military bases, and even overseas deployments. 
• Continuous Learning.    Staying updated with the latest advancements in military psychology through professional organizations and continuous professional development is important. 

Training and Development

·        DIPR Training.   The DIPR provides specialized training and research opportunities for both military and civilian psychologists. 

·        On-the-Job Training.  Doctoral programs often include internships and postdoctoral placements in military settings to gain practical experience. 

Key Areas of Work

·        Selection and Training.    Military psychologists play a vital role in selecting and training military personnel. 

·        Mental Health Services.      They provide psychological support and counselling to military personnel and their families. 

·        Research.     Military psychologists also conduct research on various aspects of military life, performance, and well-being.

Recommendations.   It is recommended to browse the DIPR website for more details.

https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/labs-establishment/contact-us/defence-institute-psychological-research-dipr

Key Takeaways.      From the historical Psychological Wing dating back to pre-independence era, DIPR has come a long way and full fledge organisation having many papers, manuals and technologies to its credit not only for Indian Armed Forces but other para military forces of India.