M777 is the world’s first 155mm Howitzer weighing less than 10000 lbs (4218 kg). Selected by the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Army as their next generation Medium Force weapon, designated M777. Further U.S., India orders more than a hundred guns. M777 is now in full rate production for the U.S. Armed Forces and is the benchmark for 155mm Lightweight Towed Artillery Systems.
Highly mobile on land, at sea and in the air, the M777 has increased survivability through:
Unsurpassed tactical & strategic mobility
Low thermal & radar signature
Rapid emplacement / displacement
Low silhouette.
In a major boost for the Indian Army, the first two guns out of the 145 M777 ultra light artillery guns, manufactured by BAE Systems in the US, will be delivered to India over this weekend. Notably, the guns come a month ahead of schedule. The M777 ultra-light howitzers will be mostly will be deployed in high-altitude areas in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh, bordering China.
10 Mesmerising Pictures Of Indian Army New Artillery Gun
KONAR PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN U.S. Army Soldiers with Battery C, 1st Battalion, 321st Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 18th Fires Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division from Fort Bragg, N.C., fire 155mm rounds using an M777 Howitzer weapons system, July 6, on Forward Operating Base Bostick, Afghanistan. The Soldiers were registering targets so they will have a more accurate and faster response time when providing fire support. (Photo by U.S. Army Spc. Evan D. Marcy, 55th Signal Company)
A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 helicopter carries a M777 Howitzer on Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 14, 2014. Marines with Landing Support Company, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, attached M777 Howitzers to CH-53 helicopters as part of the training. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Desire M. Mora/Released)U.S. Soldiers with Bravo Battery, 3rd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery Regiment fire a 155mm illumination round using an M-777A2 towed howitzer at Spin Boldak, Afghanistan, Jan. 10. (Photo by: Tech Sgt. Francisco V. Govea II)
Dear Aspirants, I am Payal Panigrahy sharing my story of how I cracked SSB Interview in first attempt and got recommended for,
I was called for my AFSB for the Meteorology entry of the Indian Air Force. Being a first timer, the first day had me a little nervous. We reached the AFSB center escorted by designated personnel and directly taken to the Testing wing. The first test of the day was the OIR (Officer Intelligence Rating). It comprised verbal and non-verbal aptitude questions and there were two such tests conducted. It was fairly simple and also enough examples were given prior to the test. After a short break, chest numbers were given and Picture Perception test began. We were shown a blurry black and white picture and asked to write a story on it within four minutes. I was fairly confident about my story. Then, we were split into groups and led to the Discussion part of the test. First, we all narrated our own stories and then discussed upon a common one. My narration went pretty well. The discussion was also a civilized one, with everyone getting to speak at least once. We decided upon a theme that 4-5 of my fellow mates had in common and build on it. We nominated one to narrate the story to the assessors. After about 20 minutes, the screened in candidates were announced. Four people from my group made it. There were 23 girls screened in. After thorough document check, three of them were sent back due to lack of adequate documents. Finally 20 of us were given permanent chest numbers and ID cards. We were allotted three rooms with around seven in each. The rest of the day was free for us.
Next morning, we were led to the Psychology test consisting of TAT, WAT, SRT, and SDT in that order. While I could do fairly well in TAT and WAT, I did not fare so well in my SRTs. I could only finish 35 out of 60. I had prepared for the SDT already so that went fairly well. I was a little disheartened with my performance in the SRTs but I had my interview immediately after that so I tried to focus on it rather.
My interviewing officer was a lady officer. She was warm and made me comfortable in the first few minutes of the interview. My interview lasted for almost 2 hours. It was the longest in my batch. I had questions regarding my schooling, college and job. The experiences, learning, influences, etc. I was asked about my family background and the various places I have stayed in. I was asked a lot of questions regarding why I decided to pursue this career at this stage of my life when I am already doing very well. I was asked about my inspiration, passion for the forces and a little bit about the recent news and developments regarding the Armed forces in general and the Air Force in particular. I could answer most of the questions satisfactorily and the tone of the interview remained positive throughout. In the latter half, it was getting a little difficult to remember the entire sequence of questions. But I was satisfied with my performance. The rest of the day was again free for us and we spent most of it discussing each other’s interviews, past SSB experiences.
The next two days were for the Group testing. We were split into three groups and each group had a Group Testing Officer. The first day, we had Group planning exercise, group discussion, progressive group task, half group task and lecturette. There were two group discussions, the topic for one of it we could choose while the other was given to us by the GTO. Both discussions were smooth and very good points were brought to the table. In the GPE, we were explained the situation, and the layout and then given some time to write our solution down individually. Later, we had a discussion again to get to a common solution. GPE also went really well and we could agree upon a common solution, set the timeline for various tasks and allocate resources appropriately. The PGT and HGT are all about using helping materials to cross obstacles. Our PGT was good and we finished all four obstacles in about 30 minutes. The HGT was not really good for my group. We struggled a lot to agree on solutions and even though we did complete the task, I think we could have thought of better solutions. Next was the lecturette. We would get 4 topics and 2.5 minutes to prepare on anyone of them and speak for 3 minutes. I chose the topic “Border Disputes'” and spoke fairly well on it. Again, we were free after that and we went out to visit the Chamundi temple in Mysore.
The second day of GT began with the Command task. We were all made commanders by turn and asked to cross one obstacle with the help of two subordinates. My command task happened almost in the very end. Initially, the GTO interacted with me asking questions about my job and the decision to join the forces. It was an informal chat for about a minute or so. My task was a little complicated but I managed to cross it in the given time. Then, the GTO changed a few colors in the obstacles and asked for solutions. I could solve all of those scenarios and was then sent back. Next, we had the Individual obstacles. There were 7 obstacles that we were to attempt. I could only do 4 of them (5+1+2+6= 14) in the given time. With this, GT was also over. Since we were free for the rest of the day, we visited the Mysore palace.
The fifth day, Conference was scheduled in the morning. For me, it was a short one. I was asked about my choice of college, grades in college. I was also asked if I could survive in a profession that is dominated by men. It lasted for about 5 minutes.
Then, finally the results were announced. 2 candidates got recommended, including me. It was an overwhelming moment. We stayed back for another 6-7 hours to finish our forms and returned to our homes.
This was my first SSB experience. I had always heard about SSB memories from people and I realized how true it is. Within those five days, you make friends, memories, and conversations for a lifetime. We used to sit in the motivation room and stare at the Uniform-clad officer mannequins, the aircraft models, the badges. Recommended or not, SSB can teach you a lot about your own self and I certainly will cherish it always.
I have my AFCAT entry AFSB in Dehradun on 22nd May, 2017. Looking forward to another wonderful experience.
Cowardly terrorists abduct and martyr a young Army Officer on leave in his hometown in J&K. Lt Ummer Fayaz of 2 RAJRIF presently posted in Akhnoor was only just commissioned in Dec 2016. He was on leave to attend pre-marriage ceremonies at his uncle’s place last night from where he was abducted by terrorists and his bullet-riddled body was found at Harmen (West of Behibagh).
5 Inspiring Facts About Lt. Ummer Fayaz
The officer is ex-NDA. His father is a farmer, has a small time apple business. He was likely to go for Young Officers Course in Sep 17. Was part of Hockey Team of NDA, excellent volleyball player. Physically tough, troops enjoyed being with him.
He was a member of the academy’s volleyball and hockey teams during training from 2012 to 2015. “Fayaz was active in both sports. He was calm by nature. His records at the academy were also good,” an NDA official said. Lt Gen Abhay Krishna, the Colonel of Rajputana Rifles, grew emotional while paying tribute to the lieutenant. “We have lost a very good officer. Lt Fayaz was extraordinarily tough and highly motivated. He was always ready to take on challenges and believed in leading from the front.
“He did three years with the NDA, one year with IMA, and then joined one of the best regiments. Speaks of his commitment to the country and the Army… You felt good when he was around,” the general said. Expressing horror, Lt Gen Krishna said, “They killed a young and promising boy who was on leave to attend the wedding of his cousin and was unarmed. How does killing a young local boy square with the alleged freedom struggle they claim to be waging? This only proves once again that they are just a bunch of criminals.” The killing, he said, must serve as a wake-up call.
“He is a hero because his battle started five years back when he decided to join the NDA…. He has fought that battle successfully and his death will not go waste,” Major General Raju said. The commander told the bereaved family that Fayaz was a martyr and that people, even though silent, were with them.
The army school in Behibagh will be named after Lt. Umar Fayaz which will produce soldiers like young Lt. Umar.
Indian army has finally published the notification of Territorial Army 2019 and for the first time women can also apply for the Territorial army along with male candidates. Candidate who were looking for TA notification 2019 can find more detailed regarding territorial army exam and notification below. Applications are invited from gainfully employed young citizens for an opportunity of donning the uniform and serving the nation as Territorial Army Officers (Non Departmental), based on the concept of enabling motivated young citizens to serve in a military environment without having to sacrifice their primary professions. You can serve the nation in two capacities – as a civilian and as a soldier. No other option allows you such an expanse of experiences. Territorial Army Notification 2019 – For Male and Female
Nationality: Only citizens of India (male and female).
Age Limits: 18 to 42 years on the date of application.
Educational Qualifications: Graduate from any recognized university.
Physical Standards: A candidate must be physically and medically fit in all respects.
Employment:Gainfully Employed.
Note: Serving member of the Regular Army/ Navy/ Air Force/ Police/ GREF/ Para Military and like forces are not eligible.
DATE OF WRITTEN EXAMINATION: 28 JULY 2019. The date of holding the examination as mentioned above is liable to be changed at the discretion of the competent authority.
SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS:The Online Registration and Applications can be filed from 26 MAY2019to 25 Jun 2019till 11.59 PM after which the link will be disabled.
STANDARD: The standard of the papers in Elementary Mathematics will be a Matriculation level. The standard of papers in other subjects will approximately be such as maybe expected of a graduate of an Indian university.
CANDIDATES TO ENSURE THEIR ELIGIBILITY FOR THE EXAMINATION: The candidates applying for the examination should ensure that they fulfill all eligibility conditions for admission to the Examination. Their admission at all the stages of the examination will be purely provisional subject to satisfying the prescribed eligibility conditions.Mere issue of Admission certificate to the candidate will not imply that his candidature has been finally cleared by the competent authority.
TIME: Maximum time for each paper is 02 hrs and will be conducted in two sessions.
TYPE OF EXAM: Objective (OMR Answer Sheet will be used).
QUALIFYING MARKS: Minimum 40% marks in each part of the paper separately and overall average of 50%.
PENALTY FOR WRONG ANSWERS:Candidates should note that there will be penalty (Negative Marking) for wrong answers marked by a candidate in the Objective Type Question Papers.
FEE DETAILS: Candidates’ are required to pay a fee of Rs 200/- (Rupees two hundred only). Candidates should note that payment of examination fee can be made only through the modes prescribed at website. Payment of fee through any other mode is neither valid nor acceptable. Applications submitted without the prescribed fee/mode shall be summarily rejected. Fee once paid shall not be refunded under any circumstances nor can the fee be held in reserve for any other examination or selection.
HOW TO APPLY. Candidates are required to apply online by using the website www.jointerritorialarmy.nic.in. Brief instructions for filling up the online Application Form (IAF(TA)-9 (Revised) Part1)have been given on the website.
EMBODIMENT FOR TRAINING: (a) One month basic training in the first year of commission. (b) Two months annual training camp every year including the first year. (c) Three months Post Commissioning training within first two years at IMA, Dehradun.
Regulation of stipend of Gentlemen or Lady Cadets during pre-commissioning training, and fixation of pay on successful commissioning. Gentlemen or Lady Cadets at Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy at Chennai and Gaya, Cadets Training Wings at College of Military Engineering shall receive a fixed stipend of Rs 56,100/- per month (starting pay in Level 10) for the period of training.
Airforce Flight Cadets shall receive a fixed stipend of Rs 56,100/- per month (starting pay in Level 10) for the period of training.
Naval Cadets or Midshipmen at Indian Naval Academy shall receive a fixed stipend of Rs 56,100/- per month (starting pay in Level 10)for the period of training.
On successful commissioning, the pay in the Pay Matrix of the Officer commissioned shall be fixed in first Cell of Level 10 and the period of training shall not be treated as commissioned service and arrears on account of admissible allowances, as applicable, for the training period shall be paid to cadets. The arrears of stipend shall be paid.
The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved important proposals relating to modifications in the 7th CPC (Central Pay Commission) recommendations on pay and pensionary benefits in the course of their implementation.
Earlier, in June, 2016, the Cabinet had approved implementation of the recommendations with an additional financial outgo of Rs 84,933 crore for 2016-17 (including arrears for 2 months of 2015-16).
The benefit of the proposed modifications will be available with effect from 1st January, 2016, i.e., the date of implementation of 7th CPC recommendations. With the increase approved by the Cabinet, the annual pension bill alone of the Central Government is likely to be Rs 1,76,071 crore.
Right from class 8th I was determined that I had to join the defence forces as an officer. Certain factors like growing up in a defence background helped strengthen the determination.
When I saw the notification for 10+2 TES 37, I wasn’t sure if this is what I wanted but I went ahead and filled the application form. The following day, I searched the web about this entry and found out this was a really good opportunity for me. Also, the fact that TES officers get a few more perks than NDA ones was a good incentive.
I received my call letter in January and despite all planning, ended up doing nothing until 6th of February (just 4 days before my SSB).
My SSB was scheduled from 10th Feb to 14th Feb at Selection Centre North, 32 SSB, Kapurthala.
The next morning I entered the gates of SCN Kapurthala and found a lot of hustle there. Documents and applications were being checked, candidates were having breakfast in the dining hall, freshers and repeaters were being segregated, late comers were being scolded but despite all that hustle, everything was going on in a very organised way. There were around 440 candidates who had come to the centre.
Stage 1 Testing (DAY 0)
We were sent to the testing hall and were given a chest number. The first tests were the OIR (Officer Intelligence Rating) Tests. These consisted of two tests- verbal and non verbal. We were given 20+20 minutes for the test which consisted of 40 questions each. I did around 32 questions in the non verbal section and 27 questions in the verbal section.
Next was the PP&DT (Picture Perception and Description Test). This is a test of perception and speaking ability as the name suggests. A very hazy picture was shown for 30 seconds on the screen. I paid attention to details while I was building up a story for the picture in my mind. Then, 4 minutes were given for to write a story on the picture. I couldn’t finish my story but the officer asked us not to worry as we will get a chance to finish the story later while the discussion test.
We were then divided in groups of 17 individuals. We sat down in a semi-circular fashion and started narrating our stories. None of us could complete the story as the officer said he could figure out the rest just by the introduction part of what we narrated. Then came the group discussion test where the whole group was dominated by one guy. I could not put forward any points until the officer came to my rescue. Taking initiative helps but whatever you do, DO NOT DOMINATE!
The tests were completed by 11 am for the freshers and the results were announced at 3pm. Only 40 candidates made it through. I got chest number 9. The evening followed with a lot of documentation.
Stage 2 Testing
Psychological tests (DAY 1)
TAT (Thematic Appreciation Test)
A series of 11 slides were shown, with pictures which had a lot of small details that needed noticing. The 12th slide was a blank one. The picture was shown for 30 seconds and then we would write a story on it in 4 minutes and this was repeated for all the 12 slides. The 12th story plays great significance so preparing it beforehand helps a lot.
WAT (Word Association Test)
15 seconds were given to analyse the word and write a sentence on it. A total of 60 words were shown and I managed to write a sentence on all the 60 words. The sentences need to be short and even a slight deviation or loss of concentration would mean lag. And trust me when I say you don’t want the lag to pile up. It makes you nervous and stops you from thinking clearly.
SRT (Situation Reaction Test)
This is one of the most significant tests in the entire SSB. 60 situations were given. We needed to write our reaction to those situations in 30 minutes. I could complete 40. Write short sentences or you would end up missing situations in the end like I did.
Self Description Test
We were supposed to write a paragraph on our teacher’s, friend’s, parent’s and our own opinion about us. The last paragraph required us to write what kind of a person we would like to be i.e. the changes or amendments we would like to see in ourselves.
Respect the psychologist and the time limitations. You must remember that everything you do is being noticed. Immediately after this, the interviews started. The interviews are spread over 3 days. The timings are notified by the staff.
We were divided into 4 groups of 10 individuals now. We spent the evening talking to each other and joking around. Now, this is what gave us an edge over other groups. Since we stayed up late and joked around about each other, there was a pretty good chemistry developing between us. Having a good group is half the battle won.
Ground Testing-1 (DAY 2)
The first task was Group discussion. We sat in a circular manner and were asked to choose a topic for group discussion from the ones provided by the GTO. After we had reached a conclusion, the GTO gave us a topic of his choice and asked us to discuss the topic. Now all the joking around last night worked miracles as everyone was getting along and the group discussion went very smoothly as opposed to what happened with the other groups.
For the GPE (Group Planning Exercise), we were shown a map with 4-5 situations. We were supposed to write our response to those situations and then discuss and come to a common solution to the problems. Again, this went very smoothly, thanks to the chemistry between us.
Then we had the Snake Race. We had to cross six obstacles in a group with a rolled up tent which looked like a snake and hence the name. A certain set of rules were to be followed. All the groups were told that they had finished first by their respective GTOs (The GTOs made sure everyone finished together). Make sure you worry about helping your team cross the obstacle more than winning the race. This is where I was noticed by the GTO. Being tall and of a strong build, I was helping other people get through before I negotiated the obstacle myself.
This was followed by PGT (Progressive Group Task). We were supposed to cross over to the finish line with the help of provided helping materials. A series of small structures were present which posed as obstacles. All of us were supposed to cross the finish line with the load given following a set of rules. The series of obstacles kept getting trickier much like levels of a game. Give ideas which are workable and be flexible with it. Unnecessary attempt to hog attention will do nothing except for creating chaos.
The Lecturette was the final task for the day. This is a test of public speaking skills where we were given a choice from 4 provided topics on spot. We are supposed to deliver a lecture of 3 minutes on the given topic. Having participated in numerous co-curricular activities in school days helped me. I have studied from Kendriya Vidyalaya –AFS Thane, AFS Srinagar, Ballygunge and Mysore. (Yes, all four of these!) Thanks to all the public speaking experience and classroom activities, there wasn’t even a hint of nervousness in me. Also, having good knowledge of various topics helps as the content of your speech carries marks.
This was again followed by interviews scheduled for the day.
Ground Tests -2 (DAY 3)
The second set of Ground test consisted of HGT and FGT (Half and Full Group Tasks) which were basically the same tasks as the PGT. For HGT, the group is made to work in smaller sub groups and the FGT is when the whole group works together.
The next task at hand was the Command Task where we need to choose sub-ordinates and command them across a set of obstacles. The chosen sub-ordinates will only follow you and will not suggest any ideas. Choose the sub-ordinates wisely. Go for guys who will follow your instructions instead of the ones who have performed well in PGT or FGT. Also, make sure you greet them, properly brief them and thank them before leaving. I was called 6 out of 9 times as a sub-ordinate.
Then comes the Individual Obstacle course. Listening to the GTO’s instruction properly is a must. The test requires you to tackle obstacles for physical testing. Avoid looking at other guys as they tackle the obstacles, it will only make you nervous. Injuries are very common here. Presence of mind is the only way to avoid it.
After this I was finally called for the interview. I was in the track suit and was sent to the office straight from the GT ground. On the way, I washed myself and drank a glass of water. My interview was with the president of the board. I answered all the questions confidently except for a few that I didn’t know. The Interviewer was a jolly man and I didn’t feel intimidated at all. The officer observes you very minutely. Even the slightest movement of hand or feet is noted. My interview went on for about 80 minutes and I didn’t even realise how the 80 minutes passed by.
The evening followed with a trip to the marketplace. Everyone was relaxed now after the 3 days of testing. Don’t get me wrong, the 4 days you spend at the centre are some of the best days you’ll spend -you get to meet new people, discover a new place, away from all the assignments & the tension. Spend the evening playing a sport you like, watching television or maybe just chatting with fellow candidates. You’ll love the 4 days.
The conference day is another memorable day. Everybody was dressed up smartly in proper formal apparel and went for the conference. My number flashed on the screen and I went in with a smile. The room had an aura to itself. The officers had a very chivalrous look with their uniforms on. The president asked me a couple of general questions and then wished me luck.
We were seated in the same hall where we wrote the first test to get screened in. The deputy president addressed us and the speech he gave really had mixed feelings. One second he would motivate us, the next second he would get furious that most of the candidates didn’t have much information about army. After he left, there was silence in the hall and I remember people talking to each other saying “Lagta hai washout hai!”
Then at around 12pm after the conference I remember myself going numb on hearing my chest number being called out in the list of recommended candidates. I was given a new chest number which read 16. The only difference being it was the white one this time. 5 of us made it through. I can never forget the joy on our faces that day. There were a hint of tears in our eyes but they were tears of joy. The entire week surely was nothing short of amazing! We said goodbye to our friends who hadn’t made it and wished them luck. After that, we went ahead for the further formalities.
The most important thing to crack SSB is to know yourself inside out. Strengths, weakness, likes, dislikes, everything there is about you! Being yourself is important. Trying to show-off or giving false details when asked is not at all appreciated. The officers are experienced assessors and know the difference between a genuine gentleman and a show-off. Bluffing or giving vague replies is a big NO! I would also suggest knowing the testing procedure and what the tests are designed to check. Also a sound knowledge of the organisation is required (Army, Navy, or Air Force). Also pick up a sport (preferably a team one) to build co-ordination and team spirit in you and get healthy at the same time.
To all those who think the assessors are lenient for children from defence background, its actually the other way round. They have higher expectations from people with defence backgrounds. Other candidates look up to them and they are supposed step in when nobody is taking initiative.
Last but not the least; SSBCrack helped me a lot to anchor my determination and provided a lot of information about the Technical Entry Scheme which is one of the lesser known entries into the Indian Army. I used SSBCrack to get all the information I needed about the various tests conducted during the SSB and the motto behind it. I now recommend it to all my juniors. I would like to thank SSBCrack for being the best source out there for SSB aspirants!
A few days back, I was sitting in the waiting room of SSB Allahabad with many other candidates waiting for the results after Conference was over with mixed feelings of hope and pessimism.
Pessimism won! Needless to say, this was one of the worst rejection of my life. I felt like some dreams never comes true. I was again down-sliding into pessimism. But then I asked myself, will this rejection always be the worst rejection of my life. NO. There will be even tougher situations and bigger rejections. Instead of lamenting over this rejection, I should prepare to face the future.
I realized that more than rejection, the question, “What others will think of my failure?” haunts us. But believe me, if they judge you on the basis of your achievements, they are not worth it.
I called my mother and told her, “Once again conferenced out”. She said, “Koi baat nahi beta” in a normal tone.
Early success is always sweet. But not everyone can deal with the series of failures.
If I take the number then from last 5 years my life and 7 attempts to SSB I have failed to get recommended but still, those failures are unable to let my enthusiasm down. I can deal with failures. I am great with perseverance and I am sad about my failures but I am learning like hell and I am moving. I have lost many good contacts and I am alone just because of those dreams… I am obsessed. I am emotional. I am stupid but apart from all this, I am moving with great ambitions. I see my failures as a story that I would reveal someday to people so that they too can digest and move like a champion.
I started dealing better with rejection when I realized that the number of successes you have is directly proportional to the number of failures/rejections. In other words, if you’re not being rejected enough, then you’re not trying hard enough – and are destined to lead a boring, “in-your-comfort-zone-only” life, without any major achievements.
One needs to realize that there is so much that life has to offer. Failures and rejections are bound to happen.
It’s like this saying “Shit happens, but it’s up to you to use it as a Nostril Burner or a Fertilizer.”
Rejection is a part of life. It’s not fatal and it’s not final. Every success story has a lots of rejection in them and I hope one day, I will mention this rejection in my success story 🙂
WOMEN IN IAF: The IAF has, for decades, actively supported the cause of empowerment of women through its selection policies. The women have been an integral part of the Indian Air Force for over twenty years now. The women in the IAF have made a mark in all the branches of IAF including adventure activities.
The process of direct induction presently for men and women is through AFCAT. Earlier, the NCC special entry for “C” Certificate holder was only for the male candidates. For the first time in the IAF, special entry for women (NCC Cadets) in Flying branch (SSC) has been started.
The induction of officers through NCC special entry would be Permanent Commission (PC) for male candidates & Short Service Commission (SSC) for male and women candidates. The online registration and submission would commence from 20 May 17 and would be open till 15 Jun 17.
This might be a little lengthy but do read on. I filled the application for 10+2 Btech Navy in Jan 2017 when I was in the NCC Republic day camp New Delhi. After not getting the call-up letter until march I decided to go for Basic Mountaineering course at NIMAS Dirang. When I was going to Dirang, I get a call from my father saying you need to come back, SSB call up has come. I asked him to get the date changed. (Request accepted by SSB )
JOURNEY TO NSB VIZAG (NSB: Navy Selection Board)
My SSB was on the 7th of April. Took a flight from Bangalore on 6th morning. Stayed at the railway station dormitory for the day.
DAY 1
We were taken to NSB Vizag. A total of 136 candidates had reported. Fresher, screen out and conference out candidates were separated and supplied with chest numbers. I was 15. Document checking and breakfast went on simultaneously.
We were made to sit chest number wise in 2 rooms. 1st in line was the OIR.
17mins 40 questions. Twice. 1st round I finished 28(17mins went like a flash). In the 2nd round, I finished all 40 with a change of strategy.
Next in line was the PP&DT. An extremely(not kidding) blur picture was shown for 30secs. And we were required to write the action and probable story on the picture. And after lunch, in batches of 13 called in and were asked to narrate our stories one by one and finally discuss and conclude by giving one story. My story was short hence my narration was short as well. After everyone had finished the discussion started. Everyone revolved around the point made by the initiator. I put forward my opinion which differed and within 3-4 mins the discussion was done and we were asked to leave.
At 3 pm we were asked to deposit our chest numbers and sit in the order of our chest numbers. At 3.30 an officer walked in and gave a motivational speech and declared in. 18 chest numbers were called out including mine, supplied with new chest numbers(I got 03) and asked to get our luggage. Others were asked to pick their luggage and board the bus immediately. Screened in candidates were made to fill a lot of forms and were told the dos and don’ts of the campus and were shown our accommodation (which was good). After dinner in a roll call, we were told about the next day’s schedule (psych tests and interview for few candidates).
DAY 2
At 8.30 am our testing started with the 1st test being the TAT. 12 pictures were shown one after the other with a gap of 5 mins each. 30 secs to observe the picture and 4.5 mins to write our story. The last picture is always blank and we can write the story we want. Compared to PP&DT the pictures were so clear that a movie could be made around the picture(not literally). I kept all my stories short. The 12th story plays great significance hence I had prepared it.
Next was the WAT.
60 words. 15 secs each. 15 mins and the test got over just like that. I managed to write 56 out of 60.
Next was SRT’s.
60 situations. Our reaction in 30 mins. I wrote 48.
Next was the SDT’s(Self description test)
Where we are required to write 5 paragraphs in 15 mins. About
what our teachers think about us.
what our parents think about us.
what our friends think about us.
our opinion about ourselves.
What kind of a person we would like to become.
Friends I suggest you prepare these beforehand. And make the last paragraph ambitious while being practical. And when the psychologist says stop please stop. There is no chance that you are the smartest person in the room. Its always the psychologist. You cannot cheat him.
And the tests finished.
After lunch, I was called for interview. My interview went on for a good 70 mins + – 5 mins.
Covered my entire life in those mins. The interviewer is interested in knowing about us. No point in being nervous or tensed. Answer what you know. Try and answer relevant things for the questions you do not know. Talk about concepts only if you havin-depthth knowledge. The IO can easily identify show offs.
DAY 3 <GTO tasks day 1>
It started with group discussion. The topics given were wonderful and thought provoking. As expected it became a fish market. I put my point forward and again it became a fish market. LOL. The gto stopped the GD within time. Do not wait for the intensity of the discussion to pacify. Two GD’s were conducted.
Next was GPE.
A board on which a map was drawn was kept in front of us. A narrative which consisted of 4 problems were given. We had to provide an individual and a group solution in writing and verbally respectively. Again I had a different opinion as to what has to given the first priority. I put forward my opinion but couldn’t convince my group(because they ganged up :p). The group solution was given. Did not speak after the conclusion was given.
Lecture
4 topics were given, we had to choose and prepare on one topic. I chose communalism(avg level topic) and spoke about it in a mix of English and Hindi.
Next was PGT and Followed by HGT.
Workable ideas were to be given to practical and not-previously-known problems. We are given few helping materials and a few rules are told which we are to strictly adhere to.
In half group task group reduces to half. And another task is given.
I took active part in it and put forward ideas which I thought was workable and my group accepted them. We need to keep in mind that though there are many workable ideas we need to stick to one of them.
Next Group Obstacle Race(GOR)
We were given a snake like thing which we had to carry during the obstacles. Unlike the individual obstacle, we need to work as a group here and follow rules. The groups reach more or less at the same time.
Day 3 testing got over. After lunch we went out to explore vizag. (VERY Beautiful)
Day 4(GTO Tasks day 2)
Started with individual obstacles. We were briefed as to how each obstacle has to be performed. Rules were explained. And GTO gave few hints(TRUST HIM).
When my chance came I was ready and confident. I performed a total of 13 obstacles. (Number of obstacles totally immaterial).
After breakfast command task was next.
2 subordinates were to be called and our commanding skills would be checked after a small conversation with the GTO. 6 out of 9 people of my group called me as their subordinates.
And the last task was Final group task. This got over in 10 mins.
Again Explore Vizag V2.
Day 5 Conference. Everyone wore their best clothes. We were asked to sit in a hall. The Deputy president of the board walked in wearing crisp and shiny white uniform. (He was my IO)
Gave a motivating speech covering what is expected in SSB, what OLQ’s are, how the procedure has been evolved etc. Conference started. When my chance came they made me wait for 25mins(either they discussed about me or had their tea break because it was tea break time :p ).
When my number was flashed I went in with a smile. Questions were asked. I answered confidently. Quickly gazed at the officers. I must say the aura of the room was really great. I did not feel nervous or scared because the assessment had already been done. The president of the board asked me “ How confident Rakshith are you of getting recommended”. I smiled and replied “pretty sure sir”. I was then asked to leave. I thanked him and all the officers there and left.
After all the candidates had finished their conference, Bada khana was served was exceedingly delicious.
We were made to assemble in the hall again. After an hour of chit chat and selfie/photo session we were asked be seated. An officer came in gave a very motivational speech and announced the results. The heart beats were audible to the next next person.
2 numbers were called out. Chest number 2 and 3(me). The feeling was mixed. Extremely happy and sad because your friends would be leaving you in some time. We said good bye and they left soon. We were asked to fill lots n lots of forms again.
Highlights:
All friends I made there were awesome and unique. I miss ’em all.
We had a really great recreational hall. With HD channels and a TT table.
It was a no phone area.
I did not take any coaching and was my 1st attempt.
Being around officers and behaving like an officer helps.
NCC and Republic day camp-2017 motivated me to the core.
