The Complete Guide to ANM Government Exams in India – Your Gateway to a Secure Career in Healthcare

Written by: Nursing Experts

In the vast world of healthcare, few roles are as impactful and community-centered as that of an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM). Whether you’re just completing your ANM diploma or already working in the field, you’ve probably considered applying for a government ANM post — and rightly so.
Government ANM jobs offer more than just employment. They offer job security, respect, financial stability, and most importantly, the chance to serve where healthcare is needed the most — in rural areas, urban slums, maternal clinics, anganwadis, and community health centres.
If you’re planning to appear for the ANM exams conducted by DSSSB, NHM, State PSCs, or other government boards, this blog is your complete roadmap — written by India’s leading nursing educators at Nursing Experts.

What is the ANM Government Exam?

The ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwife) government exams are conducted by various state and central health agencies to recruit trained ANM diploma holders into government health services.
Popular ANM Exams
:

  • DSSSB ANM (Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board)
  • NHM ANM (National Health Mission) – State-wise
  • Rajasthan ANM, UP ANM, Bihar ANM, MP ANM, Chhattisgarh ANM Exams
  • ESIC ANM, AIIMS ANM Posts, and others through direct recruitment
These exams are usually objective (MCQ-based) and test your knowledge in:
  • Core nursing and midwifery subjects
  • General science and health awareness
  • Non-nursing subjects like reasoning, GK, and local language (e.g., Hindi for UP/Bihar)

Why Should You Aim for an ANM Government Job?

Let’s break it down honestly.
Being a government ANM gives you:

  • Fixed and timely salary (with annual increments)
  • Pension or retirement benefits
  • Work-life balance compared to private jobs
  • Job security (especially for women looking for long-term career)
  • The pride of serving in public health missions (like immunization, maternal care, rural health outreach)
It’s more than just a job. It’s a public service, backed with all the stability and respect that comes with a government badge.

ANM Government Exam: Eligibility Criteria

To appear for most ANM exams, here are the standard criteria:

1. Educational Qualification:

  • ANM Diploma from a recognized institute (INC-approved)
  • Must be registered with the State Nursing Council 

2. Age Limit:

  • Generally between 18–40 years
  • Relaxations apply for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates as per state norms

3. Domicile/Local Language:

  • Many state exams require domicile or local language proficiency
  • E.g., Rajasthan ANM requires Rajasthani applicants, Bihar ANM requires Hindi knowledge

Exam Pattern & Syllabus: What to Expect

Most ANM exams follow a single written test format. Here’s a breakdown:

Subject
                                                                                         Weightage
Community Health Nursing                                                        15–20%
Midwifery & Obstetrics                                                                20–25%
Primary Health Care & First Aid                                                 10–15%
Child Health Nursing                                                                    10%
Nutrition                                                                                          5%
Fundamentals of Nursing                                                            10–15%
General Science (Bio + Health Awareness)                              10%
Reasoning, GK, Maths, Hindi/English                                        10–15%

Note:
DSSSB ANM includes Delhi-specific health schemes, while NHM exams include national health programs like RCH, NRHM, RMNCH+A.

How to Start Preparing — Step-by-Step

Step 1: Know the Syllabus Thoroughly

  • Get a copy of the official syllabus of the board (DSSSB/NHM/State PSC). Highlight core topics and compare it with your ANM course.

Step 2: Make a Study Plan
Don’t study all day — study smart. Aim for:

  • 3–4 hours daily
  • Focus on 2 subjects per day
  • Revise regularly
  • Solve MCQs side-by-side

Step 3: Use Standard Materials
Avoid outdated nursing books or random YouTube content. Choose materials that are:

  • Updated as per latest syllabus
  • Include case-based MCQs, image-based questions, national health program details

Step 4: Practice Tests are a Must
Mock tests help you:

  • Improve speed
  • Identify weak areas
  • Build exam confidence

Join test series with real DSSSB/NHM patterns. Nursing Experts offers one of the most accurate test simulations.

Smart Tips from Our Toppers

🎯 “Revise maternal health every week — it always comes.”
🎯 “Don’t ignore General Knowledge and Science. Even 5 marks can change your rank.”
🎯 “Focus on community programs like Janani Suraksha Yojana, JSY, ASHA Scheme.”
🎯 “Solve at least 20–30 MCQs daily. That’s non-negotiable.” 

How to Apply for ANM Exams?

Each exam has its own application process. Here’s a general overview:
DSSSB ANM:

• Apply online via dsssb.delhi.gov.in
• Regular notifications in newspapers & employment portals
NHM ANM (State-wise):

• Visit State NHM websites (e.g., UP NHM, MP NHM)
• Check eligibility & apply online
Documents Required:
• ANM diploma certificate
• Nursing Council Registration
• Domicile certificate (if applicable)
• ID proof
• Photograph and signature

Coaching or Self Study — What Works?

Let’s be real — you can clear ANM exams by self-study, but it requires the right strategy.
However, with coaching, you get:
• Daily discipline
• Concept clarity (especially in clinical topics)
• Continuous motivation
• Real-time doubt solving
• Updated study material and structured MCQ practice
If you’re confused between two, choose a hybrid format — join live classes and also keep time for self-revision.
Nursing Experts’ DSSSB ANM Batch offers exactly that — structured daily live sessions + 8-month recorded access + printed notes + weekly mock tests.

Upcoming ANM Exams in 2024–25

Exam                                                      Tentative Month                 Vacancies
DSSSB ANM                                        May–August 2024                    100+
UP NHM ANM                                      June–Sept 2024                       800+
Bihar ANM                                                August 2024                          900+
MP NHM                                               June–July 2024                        500+
Rajasthan ANM                                   September 2024                        600+
Note: Vacancies vary by year. Always refer to the official notifications.

Life After Selection – What Does a Government ANM Do?

Once selected, ANMs are posted in:

  • Primary Health Centres (PHCs)
  • Sub-Centres
  • Anganwadi centers
  • Community outreach teams
  • Maternity and Child Health Programs
You’ll be responsible for:
  • Immunization
  • Antenatal and postnatal care
  • Health education
  • Newborn care
  • Record-keeping and reporting
It’s a respected field role, with impact at the grassroots level.

Words from a DSSSB ANM Topper

“I was an ANM graduate with no clue how to prepare. Nursing Experts helped me with live lectures, clinical MCQs, and constant motivation. Today, I’m posted at a Delhi PHC and proud to serve.”
Kajal Verma, DSSSB ANM 2023 Topper

Final Advice for ANM Aspirants

  • Don’t wait for notification — start preparing before.
  • Choose the right study material and stick to it.
  • Keep track of your performance via weekly tests.
  • Join a focused community for doubts and support.

Nursing Experts is With You!

Whether you’re preparing for DSSSB, NHM, or any other ANM exam — Nursing Experts is committed to guiding you at every step. Our platform is trusted by thousands of nursing students across India.
We offer:

  • Structured ANM test series
  • Live + recorded courses
  • Printed & digital study material
  • Mentorship from experienced faculty

Need Help?

Call/WhatsApp: +91-9278444000
Website
www.nursingexperts.in
App: Nursing Experts (Google Play Store)
Email: support@nursingexperts.in

Ready to Begin?

Don’t wait for “the right time.” The right time is now.
Start preparing for your ANM government exam with Nursing Experts — and take the first step towards a secure, impactful, and proud healthcare career.