On the eve of Vijay Diwas, Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu, graced the Vijay Diwas Reception held at the prestigious Army House to commemorate the monumental victory of the Indian Armed Forces in the India-Pakistan War of 1971. The occasion celebrated the valor, sacrifices, and achievements of those who played a pivotal role in securing India’s decisive win.
A Gathering of Heroes and Dignitaries
The reception provided a platform for the Hon’ble President to interact with a wide spectrum of guests, including:
Veterans who played a crucial role in the 1971 war.
Veer Naris, the families of martyred soldiers, whose sacrifices were honored with heartfelt gratitude.
Members of the diplomatic community, sportspersons, eminent personalities, and achievers from various fields.
Children from Asha Schools, showcasing the support extended by the armed forces to differently-abled students.
The event also highlighted India’s cultural diversity, with the Tribal community presenting their rich traditions and talents, which earned appreciation from the President and attendees alike.
A Tribute to Sacrifice and Resilience
President Murmu’s interaction with the Veer Naris was a poignant moment. She saluted their resilience and sacrifice, underscoring the nation’s eternal gratitude for their contributions to safeguarding India’s sovereignty. Her heartfelt words reflected the deep respect and acknowledgment of the Armed Forces’ sacrifices.
Significance of Vijay Diwas
Vijay Diwas marks the anniversary of India’s historic victory in the 1971 war, leading to the creation of Bangladesh. It stands as a testament to the bravery and strategic acumen of the Indian Armed Forces and their unwavering commitment to the nation.
Celebrating the Spirit of Unity and Patriotism
The reception was a grand celebration of patriotism, unity, and the enduring legacy of 1971. It brought together individuals from diverse walks of life, reaffirming the shared pride and gratitude of a nation towards its defenders.
The Vijay Diwas Reception at the Army House served as a moving reminder of the courage and sacrifices that underpin India’s security and freedom, inspiring future generations to uphold these values.
Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan, AVSM, VM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Air Command, and a proud alumnus of Sainik School Kazhakootam (SSKZM), visited Sainik School Bijapur (SSBJ) recently. Upon his arrival, the Air Marshal was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by the cadets of the school.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Armed Forces Leaders
Addressing the cadets, Air Marshal Manikantan encouraged them to pursue careers in the Armed Forces, emphasizing the opportunities and prestige associated with serving the nation. He spoke about the values of discipline, resilience, and leadership, inspiring the young students to aim for the pinnacle of success.
Review of Training Facilities
The Air Marshal toured the training facilities at SSBJ and expressed his delight at the infrastructure and resources dedicated to shaping the future of the nation. He commended the school’s efforts in nurturing talent and fostering a spirit of excellence among its cadets.
Acknowledging Achievements
Group Captain Pratibha Bisht, Principal of Sainik School Bijapur, apprised the Air Marshal of the school’s recent accomplishments in academics and sports. These achievements reflected the holistic development and rigorous standards upheld by the institution. The Vice Principal, Administrative Officer, Senior Master, and staff were present during the visit, making it a memorable occasion for all.
A Day of Motivation and Recognition
The visit of Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan was a moment of pride and inspiration for the cadets and staff of SSBJ. His interaction highlighted the importance of dedication, discipline, and the role of Sainik Schools in producing leaders for the Armed Forces and beyond.
The Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) is a moment of pride, where young cadets don the prestigious ranks of commissioned officers. Among the new lieutenants this year was 23-year-old Lt Kabilan V, a name that resonated with determination, grit, and unparalleled perseverance.
His journey from a small village near Madurai to the elite Para Regiment is a story of unwavering resolve and inspiration.
A Humble Beginning
Kabilan hails from Melur village in Tamil Nadu, where his father, Vetriselvam P, worked as a daily wage labourer, earning just ₹100 a day. Life was never easy for the family. Tragedy struck when his mother, Panmaiyammal, passed away three years ago due to cancer compounded by Covid-19.
Just three months ago, Vetriselvam suffered a debilitating stroke, leaving him paralysed and wheelchair-bound. Despite these adversities, Kabilan’s dream of serving the nation as an officer in the Indian Army never wavered.
Kabilan’s educational journey began at a government school in his village. Excelling academically, he pursued a civil engineering degree from Anna University. Though his family struggled financially, Kabilan worked tirelessly to balance his studies and responsibilities. His aspiration to join the armed forces was fueled by courage and determination, but the path was far from straightforward.
Kabilan faced multiple rejections while applying for various Army entries, including NCC and graduate-level exams. Each failure only strengthened his resolve. He once shared, “I failed so many times, but I had to get into the defence forces, and I did it. If someone like me, the son of a daily wage labourer, can achieve this, then anyone can.”
Balancing Family and Dreams
Following his mother’s demise, Kabilan took on the responsibility of supporting his family. He ensured his younger brother could pursue his dream of becoming a civil servant while caring for their ailing father. To make ends meet, Kabilan worked as a waterboat supervisor with the Delta Squad, a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) volunteer group. Despite his taxing schedule, Kabilan made time to prepare for Army exams.
Kabilan’s mentor, Sub Lt (Retd) Sugal Esan, who was present at the Passing Out Parade, recalled how Kabilan balanced his commitments: “He had to sustain his family while chasing his dream. His perseverance was unmatched.”
Courage Under Fire: NDRF Volunteerism
During his tenure with the NDRF, Kabilan played a pivotal role in rescue missions during the Chennai and Kanyakumari floods, saving nearly 200 lives. These experiences not only showcased his courage but also reinforced his desire to serve the nation. Kabilan’s routine involved working from 10 am to 4 pm and studying rigorously from 6 pm to 10 pm with a group of like-minded aspirants.
A Dream Realized: Joining the Para Regiment
Kabilan’s hard work bore fruit when he was selected for the Indian Military Academy. On December 15, 2024, he was commissioned as an officer in the Indian Army. His decision to join the Para Regiment, known for its grueling training and unmatched esprit de corps, reflects his indomitable spirit.
During the parade, Kabilan’s father watched with pride, holding a photograph of Kabilan’s late mother, whose absence was deeply felt. This emotional moment symbolized the culmination of years of struggle and sacrifice.
An Inspiration for All
Lt Kabilan’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, courage, and determination. Speaking about his achievement, he said, “This is not just my personal success; it belongs to everyone who aspires to join the Indian Army. If I can do it, anyone can.”
His story inspires countless young Indians, especially those from humble beginnings, to dream big and work relentlessly to achieve their goals. Lt Kabilan’s life serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that no dream is too distant when pursued with unwavering dedication.
As he embarks on his journey in the Para Regiment, Lt Kabilan carries with him the hopes and aspirations of his family, his village, and every individual who dares to dream against all odds.
Lieutenant Jatin Kuma’s journey to becoming one of the most celebrated officers at the Indian Military Academy’s (IMA) Autumn Passing Out Parade is nothing short of inspiring. On a momentous Saturday, Kumar was awarded the prestigious Sword of Honour and the President’s Silver Medal, an achievement that underscores his unwavering determination, resilience, and commitment to his dream of serving the nation.
Overcoming Rejections with Grit
Behind the glittering accolades lies a story of perseverance. Lieutenant Jatin Kuma revealed that his path to IMA was not easy:
“I got rejected twice by SSB, but I never lost hope. My family has always been my strength, and with their support, I am celebrating the most memorable day of my life.”
It was his father’s dream for him to become an Army officer, and that dream became his own during his formative years at Sainik School. Eleven years later, after countless hours of hard work and preparation, he stood tall as a proud officer, ready to lead and serve.
A Legacy of Service
Lieutenant Jatin Kuma’s background played a significant role in shaping his aspirations. He hails from Palwal, Haryana, and comes from a family with a legacy of military service. His father, a retired Havaldar in the Indian Army, served until 2018 and provided Kumar with a living example of dedication to the nation. Speaking about his family, Kumar said:
“My parents are like my backbone. I also got inspired by my teachers and senior officers.”
His journey reflects not just his personal resolve but also the collective strength and sacrifices of his family.
Before joining the Indian Military Academy, Lieutenant Jatin Kuma had already demonstrated his exceptional caliber at the National Defence Academy (NDA), from where he graduated as a silver medallist. His achievements at NDA paved the way for his stellar performance at IMA.
Winning the Sword of Honour
The Sword of Honour, the most coveted award for an IMA cadet, is a recognition of overall excellence in training, leadership, and discipline. Reflecting on his achievement, Kumar expressed deep gratitude:
“Our daily activities are meticulously scrutinised, and all awards are given accordingly. It is with the blessing of my parents that I received this honour, and I dedicate it to them.”
This prestigious award stands as a testament to his hard work, integrity, and ability to inspire confidence in those around him.
Inspiring Others: A Humble Message of Determination
Lt. Kumar’s success story serves as a beacon of hope for countless aspiring military officers. His journey from rejection to recognition demonstrates that with resilience and support, any obstacle can be overcome. Kumar’s humility and gratitude shine through as he dedicates his success to his family, mentors, and peers.
A Shared Moment of Pride
The Autumn Passing Out Parade was also a proud moment for Mayank Dhyani from Pauri Garhwal, who was awarded the bronze medal. Like Kumar, Dhyani attributes his success to his family, particularly his father, an ex-serviceman. Dhyani shared:
“I come from a modest family background. If an ordinary person like me can fulfill his dream, anyone can achieve it with determination.”
A Call to Aspiring Leaders
Lieutenant Jatin Kuma and other cadets from the IMA Autumn Passing Out Parade remind us that the path to greatness is often paved with challenges, but with determination, discipline, and support, no dream is too big. As these officers take their first steps into the service of the nation, they inspire countless others to pursue their dreams with the same unwavering spirit.
Their stories serve as a powerful reminder that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and every challenge is an opportunity to rise higher.
India continues to shine on the global stage as 1,165 Indian Army personnel and 17 daughters of the nation serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have been awarded UN medals for their exemplary contributions in Upper Nile State, South Sudan.
These brave Indian peacekeepers have made invaluable contributions in various areas, ranging from vital road repair work that ensures connectivity in challenging terrains to organizing large-scale veterinary camps, providing essential care for livestock critical to the local community’s livelihood.
Additionally, their flood mitigation measures have protected countless lives and property in the flood-prone region, showcasing their commitment to humanitarian efforts under the UN flag.
The recognition comes as a testament to their unwavering dedication and professionalism in a mission marked by adversity. Working tirelessly in difficult conditions, these men and women have upheld India’s legacy as a leading contributor to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations.
The nation salutes the courage, resilience, and selflessness of these peacekeepers, who have not only strengthened the bond between India and South Sudan but have also brought immense pride to the tricolor. Their efforts underline India’s global commitment to peace, stability, and humanity.
In a solemn tribute, the Director General Border Roads (DGBR) and all ranks of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) mourn the loss of Spr Mahesh N Wali, of 13 BRTF (7 Engineer Regiment), who made the supreme sacrifice on 14 December 2024 while performing his duty in Ladakh.
Spr Mahesh Wali was operating a 20-ton rock breaker on the Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, a vital and strategic third axis to Leh. Despite the extreme challenges posed by treacherous terrain and bone-chilling temperatures of -20°C, he exhibited unparalleled courage, dedication, and devotion to duty. His efforts were a testament to the indomitable spirit of the BRO, which continues to build and maintain critical infrastructure in some of the harshest environments in the world.
The Nimmu-Padum-Darcha Road, crucial for connecting remote areas in Ladakh, is a strategic lifeline, and Spr Wali’s contribution to this mission reflects the BRO’s commitment to the nation. His bravery and selflessness will forever remain an inspiration for future generations.
In this hour of grief, the BRO family extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family of Spr Mahesh Wali. His sacrifice will be remembered as a shining example of unwavering service to the nation.
Lt General Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Spear Corps, visited an Indian Army formation at the Likabali Military Station in Arunachal Pradesh to assess its operational readiness and review measures to enhance combat effectiveness in the strategically significant region.
During his visit, the Corps Commander was given a comprehensive briefing on the combat preparedness of the formation. He reviewed the integration of technological innovations aimed at serving as force multipliers, which are crucial in achieving operational supremacy on the battlefield. The focus on modern technology reflects the Indian Army’s commitment to staying ahead in an evolving combat landscape.
Lt Gen Pendharkar also interacted with the troops stationed at the Military Station, appreciating their unwavering tenacity and dedication despite the challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions of the region. His words of encouragement reinforced the soldiers’ morale and underscored the critical importance of their role in safeguarding national security in Arunachal Pradesh, a region of immense strategic importance.
The visit highlighted the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining a state of high readiness and adaptability, ensuring operational excellence in demanding environments. The steadfast efforts of all ranks at the Likabali Military Station were lauded by the GOC, who emphasized the importance of resilience and innovation in tackling the challenges posed by the rugged terrain and harsh weather of the northeastern frontier.
This engagement reaffirms the Spear Corps’ vital role in securing India’s northeastern borders while embracing technological advancements to enhance combat effectiveness.
In a key visit aimed at assessing operational readiness and infrastructure development, Maj Gen Vikas Bhardwaj, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Jharkhand & Bihar Sub Area, toured the Punjab Regiment Centre at the Ramgarh Military Station. The visit reflects the Indian Army’s emphasis on ensuring top-notch training facilities and preparedness at regimental centres.
Maj Gen Bhardwaj conducted a comprehensive review of the Centre’s infrastructure, training methodologies, and overall operational preparedness. He commended the Centre’s efforts in integrating modern facilities and innovative training methods for the Agniveers, the new cadre of recruits under the Agnipath Scheme.
The forward-looking approach adopted by the Punjab Regiment Centre underscores the Army’s commitment to equipping its soldiers with the skills and resilience needed to excel in a rapidly evolving battlefield environment.
During the visit, the GOC also engaged directly with the Agniveer trainees, taking the time to understand their experiences and challenges. He expressed his admiration for their enthusiasm and dedication, urging them to strive for excellence in the service of the nation.
His interaction served as an inspiration for the recruits, reinforcing their commitment to their rigorous training and their future roles in the defense of the country.
The visit by Maj Gen Bhardwaj highlights the Indian Army’s focus on readiness, modernization, and personnel motivation, ensuring that both infrastructure and human resources are prepared for current and future challenges.
The Punjab Regiment Centre continues to set benchmarks in training and infrastructure, reflecting the ethos of discipline and excellence that the Indian Army is renowned for.
Ayodhya Cantt witnessed a significant visit by Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Central Command of the Indian Army, to review the operational and administrative readiness of the Dogra Regimental Centre. The visit underscored the Army’s commitment to maintaining high standards of training and welfare for both serving personnel and veterans.
During his visit, Lt Gen Sengupta closely reviewed the training programs at the Regimental Centre, particularly focusing on the preparations for training Agniveers under the Agnipath scheme. The Army Commander lauded the efforts of the Dogra Regimental Centre in upholding rigorous training standards and ensuring the operational effectiveness of new recruits.
The General also interacted with veterans at the Regimental Centre, emphasizing the Indian Army’s continuous support for its retired personnel. As part of this initiative, he inspected the Sainik Sadan transit facility, a welfare facility designed to provide comfort and convenience to veterans during their stay. Lt Gen Sengupta appreciated the high standards maintained at the transit facility and commended the Centre for its dedication to veteran welfare.
The visit reaffirmed the Central Command’s focus on readiness and welfare, ensuring that both operational efficiency and personnel support remain at the forefront of the Indian Army’s priorities. The Dogra Regimental Centre’s continued efforts in effective training and welfare programs were praised as a testament to its legacy of excellence and commitment to national service.
This visit highlights the synergy between operational readiness and welfare initiatives, showcasing the Indian Army’s holistic approach to personnel management and its unwavering support for both its serving members and veterans.
PPDT pictures are very helpful for the SSB interview as they are an essential component of the Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT). PPDT is a test that evaluates a candidate’s ability to observe, comprehend, and create a situation, as well as to assess their thinking, imagination, and communication skills.
By practicing with PPDT pictures, candidates can develop their observation skills, imagination, and creativity, as well as learn to write a coherent and compelling story within a set time frame.
PPDT pictures are usually simple, everyday scenes or scenarios that can have multiple interpretations, and practicing with them can help candidates become more confident in their ability to perform well in the PPDT and improve their chances of selection in the SSB interview.
The Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT) is one of the critical tests conducted on the first day of the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview process, also known as the screening test. It evaluates a candidate’s perception, imagination, communication, and group interaction skills. Here’s a detailed breakdown of PPDT:
For those seeking PPDT stories or images for practice in preparation for the SSB Interview, detailed answers and videos are available to assist in crafting stories within a set time limit.
The article “50 PPDT Pictures For SSB Interview” is a comprehensive guide for defence aspirants who are preparing for the Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT) in the SSB interview. The article contains 50 original PPDT pictures that are designed to improve a candidate’s observation, imagination, and storytelling skills.
Each picture is accompanied by a detailed description and a video tutorial that explains how to write a compelling story within the given time limit. The article is an essential resource for candidates who want to excel in the PPDT and increase their chances of selection in the SSB interview.
PPDT stands for Picture Perception and Description Test. It is a psychological test that forms part of the selection process for officer recruitment in the Indian Armed Forces. During the PPDT, candidates are shown an ambiguous or unclear picture for 30 seconds, followed by four minutes to write a story based on their observations and interpretation of the image.
The story should be creative, logical, and follow a certain structure as prescribed by the SSB. The purpose of this test is to evaluate the candidate’s ability to observe, comprehend, and create a situation, as well as to assess their thinking, imagination, and communication skills.
PPDT pictures are usually simple, everyday scenes or scenarios that can have multiple interpretations, and it is up to the candidate to construct a compelling story based on their perception of the picture.
What is PPDT in SSB
PPDT stands for Picture Perception and Description Test. It is a psychological test used in the selection process for officer recruitment in the Indian Armed Forces. During the PPDT, candidates are shown an ambiguous or unclear picture for 30 seconds, followed by four minutes to write a story based on their observations and interpretation of the image.
The story should be creative, logical, and follow a certain structure as prescribed by the SSB. The purpose of this test is to evaluate the candidate’s ability to observe, comprehend, and create a situation, as well as to assess their thinking, imagination, and communication skills.
PPDT pictures are usually simple, everyday scenes or scenarios that can have multiple interpretations, and it is up to the candidate to construct a compelling story based on their perception of the picture.
What is TAT in SSB
TAT stands for Thematic Apperception Test. It is a psychological test used in the selection process for officer recruitment in the Indian Armed Forces. During the TAT, candidates are shown a series of ambiguous or unclear pictures and are asked to construct a story based on their interpretation of the images.
The candidate must describe the situation, the characters’ emotions, their motives, and the likely outcome of the scenario. The stories should be creative, coherent, and follow a certain structure as prescribed by the SSB.
The purpose of this test is to evaluate the candidate’s ability to observe, comprehend, and interpret social situations, as well as to assess their thinking, imagination, and communication skills.
The TAT pictures can have multiple interpretations, and it is up to the candidate to create a compelling story based on their perception of the image.
Here are some tips on how to use PPDT pictures for SSB interview preparation:
Find PPDT pictures: Look for PPDT pictures on the internet or in books that are specifically designed for SSB interview preparation. These pictures usually depict a scene or a situation that can be interpreted in different ways.
Observe the picture: When you are shown a PPDT picture, observe it carefully for the first 30 seconds. Take note of the setting, characters, objects, expressions, and anything else that catches your attention.
Create a story: After observing the picture, use the next 4 minutes to construct a story based on what you have seen. Be creative and try to come up with an interesting plot, characters, and a logical conclusion.
Follow the structure: There is a specific structure that you should follow when writing your PPDT story. This includes introducing the characters and the setting, describing the situation, highlighting the conflict or problem, and providing a conclusion.
Practice regularly: The more you practice with PPDT pictures, the better you will become at it. Try to practice regularly, and get feedback from others to improve your story writing skills.
Focus on your strengths: Focus on your strengths and try to showcase them in your stories. This could be your creativity, communication skills, or ability to think on your feet.
By following these tips, you can use PPDT pictures effectively to prepare for the SSB interview and improve your chances of selection.
50 PPDT Pictures and Images
PPDT Picture 1
PPDT Picture 2
PPDT Picture 3
PPDT Picture 4
PPDT Picture 5
PPDT Picture 6
PPDT Picture 7
PPDT Picture 8
PPDT Picture 9
PPDT Picture 10
PPDT Picture 11
PPDT Picture 12
PPDT Picture 13
PPDT Picture 14
PPDT Picture 15
PPDT Picture 16
PPDT Picture 17
PPDT Picture 18
PPDT Picture 19
PPDT Picture 20
How to Write PPDT Picture Stories
Here are some tips on how to write PPDT stories:
Observe the picture carefully: Take a good look at the picture and try to understand the scene and the characters present in it. This will help you to create a logical and coherent story.
Create a plot: Use your imagination and create an interesting plot that is based on the picture. The plot should be engaging and should include a problem or conflict that needs to be resolved.
Focus on the characters: The characters in the picture should be the central focus of your story. Try to give them personalities, motivations, and emotions that are relevant to the plot.
Write a clear and concise story: Your story should be clear, concise, and well-structured. Make sure that your sentences are grammatically correct and easy to understand.
Use the given time effectively: You will have only four minutes to write your story, so use the time effectively. Make a rough plan of your story in the first minute and then write it down in the remaining time.
Stick to the theme: The story should be related to the theme of the picture. Make sure that your story is relevant and has a logical connection to the picture.
Showcase your strengths: Try to showcase your strengths in your story. This could be your creativity, communication skills, or ability to think on your feet.
By following these tips, you can write a compelling PPDT story that showcases your skills and improves your chances of selection in the SSB interview.
PPDT Story Suitable Action
To write a suitable action for a PPDT (Picture Perception and Description Test) picture, you can follow these tips:
Analyze the picture carefully: Observe the picture and try to understand the situation and the characters involved. Identify the problem or conflict in the picture.
Create a protagonist: Create a protagonist who is the central character of your story. Give your protagonist a name, age, and a background.
Develop a plot: Develop a plot that revolves around your protagonist and the problem in the picture. The plot should have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Create a suitable action: Create a suitable action that your protagonist can take to resolve the problem. The action should be logical and relevant to the situation. It should also showcase your protagonist’s strengths and abilities.
Write a coherent story: Write a coherent story that connects the problem, the action, and the outcome. The story should be well-structured and easy to understand.
Stick to the given time: Remember that you have only 4 minutes to write your story, so use the time wisely. Make a rough plan in the first minute and then write the story in the remaining time.
By following these tips, you can write a suitable action for a PPDT picture and create a compelling story that showcases your skills and abilities.
In the PPDT (Picture Perception and Description Test) of the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview, only one picture is shown to the candidates.
How to write a suitable action for PPDT picture
Analyze the picture carefully: Observe the picture and try to understand the situation and the characters involved. Identify the problem or conflict in the picture.
