The aim of service training at Indian Military Academy is to prepare a Gentleman Cadet for command of an infantry platoon in war and peace. The emphasis is to train them to become competent junior leaders. The training enables a trainee to assume command of men in battle, obtain standards of physical fitness and drill higher than a soldier recruits and acquire basic knowledge of tactics and its applications as a platoon commander. A challenging obstacle course, individual physical efficiency tests, endurance marches, battle efficiency tests, expertise in swimming and equitation training endeavors that a young officer leaving the academy is physically fit and mentally robust, and leads his men by personal example. The large spectrum of games at the Academy enable Gentlemen Cadets to learn those played by Indian troops and pursue individual games of their choice.
Risk, chance, fortune and luck are the hallmarks of successful leaders. These aspects being inherent in adventure activity, the Academy takes keen interest to encourage and provide opportunity to all Gentlemen Cadets to pursue at least one adventure sport. The range of activity spans from white-water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, para jumping, micro light flying, rock climbing, trekking, and mountaineering to desert safaris.
The Editorial Team of SSBCrack consists of a group of Professional writers and aspirants. Their main aim is to provide up to date information regarding SSB Interviews and sharing quality information about Indian Defence to help aspirants. Mail us to join our editorial team now.
Waypoint Personality Solutions helps candidates in preparation for success in SSB (Army, Navy and air force) and PSB/FSB (Coast Guard). Besides the institute also provides focussed training in Spoken English and Personality Development.
Values: Following values guide our day today activities:
Creativity & Learning – Always, experimenting and exploring, we are forever excited about doing new things or doing same things differently.
Trust & Respect – Trust and respect for every individual lies at the core of our training.
Ownership – This is our hallmark. We consider it our responsibility to help you with all the tools and knowledge at our disposal to ensure that you achieve the goal you truly deserve.
Openness & Sharing – You will always find us exchanging notes with all we meet, willing to help and support and seek it in return. We don’t claim to know everything and are not threatened by sharing knowledge and information.
Excellence – We always aim for perfection to achieve excellence. Very often we have to walk that extra mile but we go on keeping in mind that: HARD WORK HAS NEVER KILLED ANYONE.
Team Waypoint
An expert team of committed professionals led by the institute Director Comdt(Retd) Alok Kumar Madhukar is involved in formulating the specific programmes as per market requirements, training methodology etc. so as to deliver maximum and lasting value to all candidates. Comdt Madhukar has been involved with Officers’ selection in Coast Guard since 2008, and he clearly understands the need for training and grooming so that every individual is able to achieve what he/she really deserves. He sincerely believes that with right kind of guidance and training, individuals can achieve targets which seemed impossible at one point of time, and it was this belief that prompted him to open this institute. Team Waypoint is fully committed to this belief and we persevere day and night to see that this institute becomes the final way point to your ultimate destination.
The team functions under the benevolent guidance of Mr Ajit Jha, MA (Sociology) ,an established writer. Waypoint team always looks up to him for providing pragmatic solutions to all problems. His vast experience has been especially handy in formulating the curricula for the various programmes.
We Believe
We believe that every individual is Unique and everyone has immense potential to achieve what he wants. Therefore we look for unique solutions and persevere to help everyone achieve her/his true potential.
Why Waypoint?
We are somewhat unique in the sense that we look for unique solutions based on our belief. Initial phases of training and interaction are aimed at mapping one’s personality traits so that later sessions can be devoted to attending to the individual needs. Observations are recorded in individual dossiers for ready reference and comparison at a later date. Thus, every individual is provided with care and attention that he actually requires instead of treating everyone as a herd.
Who Should Join?
If you are one of these (it does not matter whether you are a student, professional or a house wife)
I wish I had enough confidence!
I wish I had studied hard earlier!
I wish I had studied in a good school!
I wish I were tall/handsome/beautiful/fair!
I wish I was born rich!
I wish I could speak fluent English!
I wish someone could tell me what is holding me back and how I could achieve my desired goal!
In a world of cellular phones, express lanes, traffic snarls, business lunches and social mediocrity, being a gentleman seems to be more and more complicated. The truth of the matter is that being a gentleman is not exactly like rocket science. Being a gentleman requires a little logic, some forethought, and a great deal of consideration for others. It is not about complicated rules and convoluted instructions. Instead, it is about trying to make life easier and more pleasant for one’s self and other people. It is about honestly and sincerely being a ‘nice guy’. For a gentleman, the noblest virtues are camaraderie, dependability, unswerving loyalty and compassion.
Merely acting like a gentleman is not enough: It is being a gentleman that is important, and that means thinking of others, being there when you are needed and knowing when you are not needed.
It is what you do and who you are-an accumulation of gentlemanly behaviour over the course of a lifetime- that make a man – a gentleman. It truly is possible for a man to learn to be a gentleman if he knows the direction he needs to follows.
A Gentleman Feels for Others: A gentleman knows how to make others feel comfortable. He always perceives a situation from the other person’s perspective and avoids hurting others unnecessarily.
A Gentleman Walks Through a Door: A gentleman always glances behind him when he walks through a door. He never lets a door close in another person’s face. It does not matter whether the other person is a man or a woman. If it is a revolving door, a gentleman pays more attention than usual. He never shares a revolving door section with another person. He respects the other person’s space.
A Gentleman Gets Dressed: In warm weather a gentleman always wears an undershirt. When a gentleman wears a double-breasted suit, he never leaves the jacket unbuttoned. A gentleman’s trouser cuffs fall in a gentle break over his shined shoes. When he stands, his socks do not show.
A Gentleman and his Cologne: A gentleman considers his cologne as an intimate apparel and should be worn accordingly. It should not cause comment, positive or negative, among other people in the room. Instead, it should be saved as a pleasant surprise for people with whom he makes close physical contact. A gentleman understands that a cologne is, after all, an accessory, not a substitute for a deodorant. When worn in excess, the cologne is annoying and raises doubts if odours are being covered up. Desirably a cologne or a perfume is applied on ‘pulse points’ i.e. on the wrists, behind the ears on the neck and the armpits for best results.
A Gentleman’s Shoewear: A gentleman knows that even today, black shoes are considered more formal and serious than brown shoes. In fact, in the legal profession, black shoes remain the only truly acceptable footwear. Semi-formal and formal occasions are best attended wearing black shoes with laces. The loafers and moccasins are best left for informal attendances. Only in your riding clothes you must be conservative. If you can get boots made on English lines, wear them; otherwise wear leggings. And remember, that all leather must be real leather in the first place and polished until its surface is like glass.
A Gentleman and his Cap: A gentleman will probably own a stack of golf/baseball/cricket caps/hats, which he wears after work, on weekends, or on casual days at the office. These accessories are primarily for preventing exposure to the sun and are best used in this manner only. He does not wear his cap inside most public buildings especially houses of worship except in a ‘Gurudwara’. Traditionally, a gentleman would remove his hat if he were greeting a woman or being introduced to a new acquaintance of either sex. A gentleman washes his hair regularly, and he makes every effort to prevent dandruff. “When a gentleman feels the urge to colour his moustache, he should desirably shave it off.”
A Gentleman Knows how to Leave a Tip: Leaving a tip is a delicate matter that concerns only the gentleman and the server. He does not brag about leaving a generous gratuity. If the service has been inferior, a gentleman does not inform his companions that he plans to leave a less than-sizable tip. A gentleman should leave a tip in a restaurant or a bar but not at a self service fast food establishment. The word Tip is even considered as an acronym by some, which is supposed to stand for “To Improve Promptness “which is self explanatory for the process”.
A Gentleman Says the Right Thing: A gentleman knows that “please” and “thank you” continue to be the magic words, and uses them as profusely as possible.
How to Start a Conversation: At a party, a reception, or a business meeting, a gentleman strikes up a conversation with any pleasant person he encounters. To prevent awkwardness, however, he begins with a positive and noncontroversial subject matter. In every case, a gentleman begins by asking a question that does not bring the conversation around to himself. If the person standing next to him responds cordially, he continues with a few more questions until the conversation is under way. A gentleman always avoids Slangs, as it does not beautify, but sullies conversation.
When to Use First Name: Although the world at large is on a first name basis today, a gentleman knows it is always safe, on first meeting, to address a new acquaintance as “Mr” or “Ms” He depends upon this guideline, especially if the new acquaintance is an elder person or if he is dealing with his superior in a formal environment.
Manner in which to end a Conversation: A gentleman recognizes that every conversation has its own natural rhythm. He is not being rude or inconsiderate when he attempts to bring any conversation; no matter how pleasant or how important to a timely close. When talking on the telephone, a gentleman accepts the responsibility for ending any conversation he has begun. On the telephone, he may say something as simple as, “It’s been very good talking to you”.
Words in WAT are designed and arranged in such a manner, as to discover spontaneous reaction of the candidate, which helps the psychologist read a candidates’ personality traits. WAT helps psychologist to understand the real behavior of the candidate under pressure. The time limit for this test is short so a candidate has a very little time to think which drives out the personality of a candidate in the test. This test evaluates your quality of ideas associated with all the 60 words shown on the screen. Do not write quotation in WAT. Do not write borrowed ideas in WAT.
Each word is shown through slides for 15 seconds which focuses mainly on candidate’s personality and practice. Candidates are supposed to make out positive sentences on each word shown in the slide. Candidate’s performance depends mainly on “personality” and practice.
Personality traits assessed in the WAT
Alert
Cheerful
Courage
Discipline
Energy
Honesty
Initiative
Curiosity
Optimism
Organisational Ability
Self Confidence
Generous
Friendly
Helpful
Progressive
Spontaneous
Quick
Adaptation
Energetic
Determination
Enthusiastic
Cooperative
Team Player
Practical
Sense of Responsibility for the Country
Unselfishness
Hardworking
I am writing some examples of word association test. I hope these examples help you in writing WAT. I have also give the Tips for WAT, you can go and check out the link about the Tips of WAT.
Atomic power is used in India for electricity and eventually development.
India uses its atomic energy for peaceful purpose.
Accident
Proper execution of traffic laws helps to reduce accident.
Strangers accidently become best friends.
Assist
A team player and a cooperative person assist others in their work.
A team player assists his seniors in work.
Annoy
A cool and patient person don’t get annoyed
Agrees
A team player easily agrees and, help them in executing a plan.
Abuse
Gentlemen always use decent tone.
Affection
We all have affection towards our country.
Love and affection makes a person content and lively.
Appeal
Indian army dress and conduct is very appealing.
Accept
A leader accepts all the point of views of his team.
Leader accepts and takes responsibility for a job.
Accomplish
A proper planning and execution by a leader accomplish the plan.
Attack
Indian soldiers are well trained to neutralize attacks.
Attacking at the right time leads to an easy win.
Army
Indian army is the 3rd largest army of the word.
Indian army keeps vigil at the border.
Indian army is the real hero of our country.
Afraid
A courageous and a brave person don’t get afraid of impediments.
Attempt
AA brave person regularly and continuously attempts to reach to his goals
Alone
Company of friends and family removes loneliness.
Avoid
Proper planning and execution helps to avoid errors.
Active
Spontaneous and adaptive people are always active and alert.
Admire
Courageous and brave acts are always admired.
This test evaluates your quality of ideas associated with all the 60 words shown on the screen. Do not write quotation in WAT. Do not write borrowed ideas in WAT.
Anurag Joshi is a defence aspirants, he has completed B.tech Graduate with Electronics subjects. He lives in Vasundhara, Ghaziabad. His area of interest are aligns sports, general awareness and social reforms.
Nestled approximately 43 kilometers northwest of the vibrant twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal stands as a beacon of excellence in the Indian Air Force’s training landscape. As the premier institution for molding the future pilots, ground duty, and technical officers of the Indian Air Force (IAF), AFA Dundigal represents a pivotal chapter in the annals of military education in India. This article delves deep into the ethos, history, and the rigorous training regimen that makes AFA not just an academy, but a crucible where Air Warriors are forged.
Vision and Mission
The AFA Dundigal is more than just a training facility; it is the culmination of a long-felt need to centralize the training of officers across all branches of the IAF under one roof. The academy’s mission is to inspire and transform outstanding young men and women into courageous, dynamic, intellectual, and cultured Air Warriors, poised to lead one of the world’s foremost aerospace forces in service to the nation. At its core, AFA strives to imbue every cadet with the values of honour, integrity, and the spirit of camaraderie, ensuring the graduation of officers worthy of the IAF’s esteemed ranks.
Rigorous Training Regimen
The training at AFA Dundigal is meticulously designed to foster moral values, leadership qualities, a sense of honour and duty, and mental and physical prowess. Cadets undergo a comprehensive curriculum that includes character building, discipline, military and academic subjects, physical exercise, drill, sports, and adventure activities. The academy emphasizes duty, honour, integrity, and self-esteem, recognizing these qualities as essential for every flight cadet. With a curriculum that keeps pace with current doctrines and technological advancements, cadets are prepared to embrace the principles of the military profession while being at the forefront of technological innovation.
Historical Genesis
The idea of establishing a permanent Air Force Academy was conceived as early as 1953, with the vision of consolidating the training of all fresh entrants into the flying and ground duty branches, except for the technical branch, at a single location. After years of planning and overcoming challenges in acquiring a suitable site, approximately 6700 acres of land were secured from the government of Andhra Pradesh, laying the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of military training in India. The choice of Dundigal, with its satellite bases for advanced training and favorable weather conditions, proved ideal for the academy’s objectives.
From Humble Beginnings to Grandeur
The foundation stone of AFA Dundigal was laid by the then President of India, Dr. Zakir Hussain, on October 11, 1967, marking the beginning of a visionary project to centralize the officer training of the IAF. The academy’s journey from its humble beginnings, with officers and men braving the elements in tents amidst wildlife, to its current state of grandeur, is a testament to the resilience and dedication of its founders and successive generations of IAF personnel. Air Commodore JD Aquino, the first Commandant, and his team’s pioneering efforts have culminated in an institution that stands as a proud testament to the spirit and aspirations of the Indian Air Force.
Conclusion
Today, the Air Force Academy Dundigal is not just a training ground but a symbol of excellence and commitment to the nation’s defense. It continues to evolve, embracing new technologies and methodologies to prepare future generations of Air Warriors. As the academy moves forward, it carries with it the legacy of its illustrious past, ever committed to producing officers of the highest calibre, dedicated to the service of India and the noble cause of peace and security.
The Army Cadet College (ACC) Wing at Indian Military Academy provides training to the soldier, airmen, and sailor s from the regular army, navy, and air force for commission as officers in the Indian Army. The ACC is also known as the Siachin battalion now.
The training at IMA is aimed at the optimum development of intellectual, moral and physical qualities essential for leadership in the profession of arms. Training at the IMA inculcates those qualities of mind and heart, patriotism, character, dynamism, initiative and understanding that are the very basis of leadership in war as well as in peace.
The Army Cadet College Wing headed by a Brigadier is the fifth Battalion of IMA located in Tons Campus. It consists of three Companies with three platoons each and an Academic Department headed by a Principal. The latter is organized into various departments under the Humanities and Science Streams and each department is being headed by a Professor / Associate Professor.
All About ACC Entry?
The ACC exam is conducted 2 times every year.
The age limits for ACC is 20-27 years.
One must have minimum 02 years of service.
For ACC entry you must have 10+2 or its equivalent as your educational qualification.
Both married and unmarried soldiers can apply.
You can avail maximum 03 chances for ACC entry.
ACC Exam Selection Procedure
First of all, before applying for ACC, the jawan must have a good ACR.
One must have a clean record without any disciplinary action.
A unit-level written exam will be conducted by the CO/OC to find the potential soldiers who can go ahead for ACC entry.
Candidates who clear the written exam will be interviewed by the senior officers for further screening and selected candidates’ documents will be forward to the higher formation.
Selected candidates will be sent for a 10 Weeks class at Command HRDCs ( Human Resource Development Centers).
The respective formations will be sending the names of the candidates and ACC exam will be conducted at Command HRDCs.
The ACC exam is usually conducted near February and August for January and July courses respectively.
The Result will be declared by DGMT/MT-15 -Director General of Military Training MT-15.
A merit list of 500 candidates will be made who will face the SSB interview. (05 x 100 in each batch)
These 500 candidates will go for a preliminary screening test similar to the actual SSB interview.
After the screening test, 200 candidates will be selected to go for the Young Leaders Course (YLC) at OTA Chennai and the remaining candidates will go for Personality Development Training (PDT) at AEC Centre and Command HRDCs.
The likely dates for the ACC SSB interview will be Sep- Nov for Jan Course and Jan-March for July Course.
Candidates who clear the SSB interview and medical tests will be called to join the Indian Military Academy, ACC wing.
The ACC training will be for 03 years after which 01 year training at IMA, Dehradun.
How to Prepare for the ACC Exam and SSB Interview?
SSBCrackExams understands the needs of a serving soldier who is preparing for the ACC exam, the lack of time and no proper guidance can lower your chances of clearing the ACC exam and SSB interview.
If you are a serious ACC aspirant, you must enroll in our ACC Exam Online Course. The course is specially made for the serving soldiers who are preparing for the ACC exam. You can also Download our Learning App to access the course.
The Army Cadet College (ACC) Wing at Indian Military Academy provides training to the soldier, airmen, and sailor s from the regular army, navy, and air force for commission as officers in the Indian Army. The ACC is also known as the Siachin battalion now.
The training at IMA is aimed at the optimum development of intellectual, moral and physical qualities essential for leadership in the profession of arms. Training at the IMA inculcates those qualities of mind and heart, patriotism, character, dynamism, initiative and understanding that are the very basis of leadership in war as well as in peace.
The Army Cadet College Wing headed by a Brigadier is the fifth Battalion of IMA located in Tons Campus. It consists of three Companies with three platoons each and an Academic Department headed by a Principal. The latter is organized into various departments under the Humanities and Science Streams and each department is being headed by a Professor / Associate Professor.
All About ACC Entry?
The ACC exam is conducted 2 times every year.
The age limits for ACC is 20-27 years.
One must have minimum 02 years of service.
For ACC entry you must have 10+2 or its equivalent as your educational qualification.
Both married and unmarried soldiers can apply.
You can avail maximum 03 chances for ACC entry.
ACC Exam Selection Procedure
First of all, before applying for ACC, the jawan must have a good ACR.
One must have a clean record without any disciplinary action.
A unit-level written exam will be conducted by the CO/OC to find the potential soldiers who can go ahead for ACC entry.
Candidates who clear the written exam will be interviewed by the senior officers for further screening and selected candidates’ documents will be forward to the higher formation.
Selected candidates will be sent for a 10 Weeks class at Command HRDCs ( Human Resource Development Centers).
The respective formations will be sending the names of the candidates and ACC exam will be conducted at Command HRDCs.
The ACC exam is usually conducted near February and August for January and July courses respectively.
The Result will be declared by DGMT/MT-15 -Director General of Military Training MT-15.
A merit list of 500 candidates will be made who will face the SSB interview. (05 x 100 in each batch)
These 500 candidates will go for a preliminary screening test similar to the actual SSB interview.
After the screening test, 200 candidates will be selected to go for the Young Leaders Course (YLC) at OTA Chennai and the remaining candidates will go for Personality Development Training (PDT) at AEC Centre and Command HRDCs.
The likely dates for the ACC SSB interview will be Sep- Nov for Jan Course and Jan-March for July Course.
Candidates who clear the SSB interview and medical tests will be called to join the Indian Military Academy, ACC wing.
The ACC training will be for 03 years after which 01 year training at IMA, Dehradun.
How to Prepare for the ACC Exam and SSB Interview?
SSBCrackExams understands the needs of a serving soldier who is preparing for the ACC exam, the lack of time and no proper guidance can lower your chances of clearing the ACC exam and SSB interview.
If you are a serious ACC aspirant, you must enroll in our ACC Exam Online Course. The course is specially made for the serving soldiers who are preparing for the ACC exam. You can also Download our Learning App to access the course.
Congratulations to all those who have cleared CDS exam, and to those who couldn’t make it, there is always a next time. Now a question must be popping up in your mind that what next after clearing the written exam, this article is for those of you. If you know the CDS exam pattern then you must be aware that this is a two stage exam, hence the bigger part of testing is yet to begin. So in short after clearing the CDS exam written it’s time now to preparefor the SSB. SSB is a procedure to test not only a person’s knowledge but also the whole personality.
Hence here are a few things that you can do after you have cleared the CDS exam:
Complete all the documents required: Look up for the documents required in general and try to gather them all, even the Xeroxes and attested copies pile them up and keep them together so that when you are packing up finally for the SSB then you have everything with you. This will save you from last moment tensions.
Open a book or two: You can start reading about the general things and different varieties of topics for your lecturette and Group Discussion. The topics for the same you can get from our website. You can read from a good essay book or other types of magazines. You can also practice for OIR test by doing some reasoning questions from competitive books.
Time your writing: Start timing your writing by practicing for Psychological tests, because writing speed is very important for this test.
Work on your speaking skills: You can do so by practicing a lecturette every day. This will give you an idea about your voice tone and speed of speaking, as well as give you an awareness of the 3 minutes time. Doing this will also increase your confidence level and increase your knowledge.
Start doing some jogging/running: Overall physical fitness is also necessary for SSB as you are required to do some physical tasks. Hence start maintain a good and healthy lifestyle by doing some light exercise and/or some running or jogging to keep up your stamina. Doing so will also improve your posture and way of walking a lot and fill you up with confidence.
Gather awareness: This will include awareness about self and also about current affairs happening in national and international sphere. You are required to know about strength weakness of yourself, family, friends and also details about work of your closed ones. In the Current affairs section you are required to be updated about the recent happening and how they are affecting India, if they are affecting at all.
Gather Service awareness: Read about the recent procurements, plans of advancements in the service you have applied for, i.e. Army, Navy and Airforce.
Join a Coaching class: Of course this is not a must but for those of you are looking forward to join a coaching the right time to do so is now. Hence find a coaching which caters your requirements and suitability and join it now.
Regularly visit SSBCrack: Well in order to stay updated about the SSB dates and other things this is a must isn’t it?
Prepare for the upcoming CDS: One more important thing to do is to prepare for the upcoming CDS exam. Of-course it applies to those you were eligible to fill the form (Age wise).
She is a defense aspirant from Varanasi completed her BCA. She has attended SSB Interview at 1 AFSB Dehradoon and has more SSB coming up. She is confident about joining Defence Forces one day. Here, she is sharing her views and experience. Mail us to join our editorial team now.
The Army Cadet College or ACC is a pioneer institute of the Indian Army to train soldiers into officers. The regular soldiers of Army, Navy and Airforce are trained into officers through this institution which is now a part/wing of Indian Military Academy, and is now known as Siachen Bn (ACC Wing). The ACC has a diverse history associated with it.
Army Cadet College Indian Army
If you look into the history you’ll find that after independence the need was felt to give the serving soldiers a chance to join the officer cadre as per their efficiency. So the Kitchner College (forerunner of Army Cadet College) was revived. Earlier before independence Kitchner College has served as a feeder institution for IMA. Now after revival Kitchner college came to be known as Army Cadet College and was revived in 1960 with the aim to provide deserving soldiers a chance to join the officer cadre of Indian Army. It was established in Nowgaon, Madhya Pradesh. In 1962, after Chinese Aggression Officer Training Institute was established in Ghorpuri, Pune to meet the needs of the Emergency Commission. ACC was then shifted to Ghorpuri, Pune. From there as well it kept on sending Cadets to IMA for commissioning. In 1971 ACC along with NDA became a full-fledged degree college, after the Government’s decision to raise the eligibility criteria for Permanent Regular Commission to a Graduation Degree. Thus NDA and ACC both got affiliated to Jawaharlal Nehru University, which in itself is a prestigious institute. The year of 1977 saw the shifting of Army Cadet College from Pune to Dehradun and was attached to the Indian Military Academy as a separate wing. In 2006, ACC Wing was renamed as Siachen Bn and was integrated into the folds of the Academy as a training Battalion.
The training of ACC and NDA are almost of the similar nature. Except in NDA civilian candidates are enrolled and in ACC already serving soldiers of Indian Army, Navy and Airforce are enrolled. ACC molds the raw talents of soldiers into the finest traits of an officer. A cadet of ACC undergoes a three year academic course which also offers him the chance to take part in different sports and also a military training is imparted on the cadet. Then after completion of three years of training the cadet undergoes a final year pre-commissioning training in IMA. Thus an ex-ACC cadet is given one year training in IMA. After which he passes out proudly as an officer.
The admissions in the Army Cadet College are based on a written test followed by Service Selection Board (SSB) interviews for the written qualified candidates. Army Cadet College has always served as a feeder institution for IMA, producing notably brave and great Officers. It still continues to do its job. The cadets of ACC are definitely more Army-like since they have already served in the services. It is an opportunity for all deserving soldiers to rise and perform as per best of their capabilities.
The Progressive Group Task (PGT) is the first outdoor field exercise in the GTO (Group Testing Officer) series during the SSB Interview. It plays a pivotal role in forming your initial impression on the GTO, which can influence how you are assessed in subsequent tasks.
Since first impressions matter, performing well in PGT can set a positive tone for the rest of the GTO activities.
In the PGT, you and your group must cross a designated piece of land using structures painted in different colors, each with its own set of restrictions. You are also given a few helping materials—usually a rope, a wooden plank, and a wooden log—and a load that you must carry across the obstacles. The objective is to reach from the start line to the finish line together, strictly following certain rules (Group Rule, Color Rule, Rule of Infinity, Rule of Rigidity, Jump Rule, etc.).
Why Is It Important?
Checks Practical Working Sense: The task simulates real-life military situations where one must use minimal resources (like building makeshift bridges during floods or emergencies).
Assesses Leadership and Teamwork: You must show initiative, guide your team, and ensure everyone (including the load) crosses safely.
Evaluates Risk-Taking and Enthusiasm: Military personnel often face risky conditions, so this exercise reveals your willingness to step forward, test solutions, and motivate others.
Tests Quick Thinking: How rapidly you generate feasible ideas under constraints reveals your practical intelligence and problem-solving ability.
2. Rules to Remember
Group Rule: The entire team must move ahead together. No one (including the load) can be left behind at any stage.
Color Rule: Structures are painted in multiple colors, each indicating whether it can be touched by you, the helping material, or both. (Exact colors and their meanings can vary, but typically:
White: Both candidate and helping materials are allowed.
Black/Yellow: Only candidates can step; no materials allowed.
Red: Out of bounds for both candidate and materials.)
Rule of Infinity: You cannot bypass obstacles by going around them. The start and end lines extend infinitely, so crossing must be done through the structure.
Rule of Rigidity: You cannot tie two rigid objects together (e.g., the plank and the log), but you can tie them to the obstacle or use the rope appropriately.
Jump Rule: You cannot jump a distance more than a certain limit (commonly four feet). If the gap is larger, you must bridge it using the helping materials.
3. Tips and Strategies for PGT Success
Use Simple Physics
Employ basic lever and cantilever principles to create stable bridges.
Aim for solutions that remain intact without constant human support.
Lead by Example
If you propose an idea, offer to demonstrate or implement it.
Step onto the makeshift bridge first to show confidence and reduce hesitation in the group.
Be Willing to Take Risks
Don’t fear failure; even if the bridge collapses, try again with a new approach.
Maintain a positive attitude—SSB values initiative.
Remember the Load and Materials
Always keep track of the load and any rope/plank/log you used.
Do not leave them behind.
Respect and Support Your Group Members
Avoid shouting or criticizing; encourage everyone politely.
If someone is hesitant, guide them calmly or offer help only if genuinely needed.
Adhere to Rules and Accept Mistakes
If you accidentally break a rule (touch a red area, jump too far, etc.), acknowledge and correct it.
Integrity is a highly regarded quality in an officer.
Be Energetic and Motivating
Keep the momentum going; a slow or indecisive approach can hinder the entire group.
Ensure nobody feels left out or discouraged.
Stay Alert to GTO Instructions
When the GTO speaks, stop and listen attentively.
Avoid looking at the GTO for approval during the task; focus on the group and the challenge.
4. What the GTO Observes
Team Spirit: Are you actively cooperating, or just imposing ideas without listening?
Leadership Skills: Do you show initiative in solving problems and guiding your peers?
Communication: Clear and concise instructions foster efficient teamwork.
Practical Thinking: Quick, logical solutions that adhere to the rules.
Risk Management: Balancing bold moves with safety and group cohesion.
5. Final Thoughts
The Progressive Group Task is not just about crossing obstacles; it’s about showcasing your potential as a team player and a future leader. By blending creativity, confidence, empathy, and discipline, you will leave a strong impression on the GTO.
Remember, a genuine display of officer-like qualities in PGT can set the stage for success in the tasks that follow.
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About SSBCrack Editorial Team
Anurag Joshi, Editorial Team
Tashi Mishra, Editorial Team
