Q. Which of the following is/are correctly matched in terms of equivalent rank in the three services of Indian Defence forces?

1. Brigadier - Air Commodore - Commander
2. Major General - Air Vice Marshal - Vice Admiral
3. Major - Squadron Leader - Lieutenant Commander
4. Lieutenant Colonel - Group Captain - Captain

Select the correct answer using the code given below: (UPSC Prelims 2024)
Answer: 3 only
Notes: The correct answer is [D] 3 only. The Indian Armed Forces maintain a specific equivalence of ranks across the Army, Navy, and Air Force based on the pay level and seniority.

• Major - Squadron Leader - Lieutenant Commander (Statement 3 – Correct): These are considered equivalent "Field Grade" or middle-management ranks. A Major (Army) is equivalent to a Squadron Leader (Air Force) and a Lieutenant Commander (Navy).
• Brigadier - Air Commodore - Commander (Statement 1 – Incorrect): While Brigadier and Air Commodore are equivalent, the naval equivalent is a Commodore. A Commander in the Navy is a lower rank, equivalent to a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army.
• Major General - Air Vice Marshal - Vice Admiral (Statement 2 – Incorrect): Major General and Air Vice Marshal are equivalent (two-star rank). However, a Vice Admiral is a three-star rank (equivalent to a Lieutenant General). The correct naval equivalent for a Major General is a Rear Admiral.
• Lieutenant Colonel - Group Captain - Captain (Statement 4 – Incorrect): A Lieutenant Colonel is equivalent to a Wing Commander in the Air Force and a Commander in the Navy. Group Captain (Air Force) and Captain (Navy) are higher ranks, equivalent to a Colonel in the Army.

The hierarchical structure ensures seamless joint operations and protocol during inter-service postings and ceremonies.