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10 Reasons of Getting Screen Out In SSB Interview

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The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is a critical milestone for candidates aspiring to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. This comprehensive evaluation process is designed to assess a candidate’s potential, intelligence, and personality traits essential for a successful military career.

However, many candidates find themselves screened out during the initial stages, leading to disappointment and frustration. Understanding the common pitfalls can significantly enhance your chances of success. Below, we explore the ten primary reasons candidates often get screened out during the SSB interview.

1. Inattention During Briefings

Importance of Listening

The initial briefing conducted by the assessors is a pivotal moment in the SSB interview process. Candidates must pay close attention during this phase, as it establishes the foundation for the entire evaluation. Ignoring or failing to comprehend the instructions given can lead to unnecessary mistakes.

Consequences of Distraction

When candidates ask irrelevant questions or display ignorance about the process, it reflects poorly on their preparedness. Such behavior raises concerns about their ability to follow instructions, a vital skill in military operations.

Tips for Better Focus

  • Take Notes: Jot down key points during the briefing to reinforce your understanding.
  • Limit Distractions: Stay mentally present and avoid daydreaming.
  • Ask Relevant Questions: If clarification is needed, ensure your questions pertain directly to the briefing.

2. Insufficient Preparation for Intelligence Tests

Understanding the Role of Intelligence Tests

The Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test evaluates logical reasoning, verbal, and non-verbal skills. Many candidates mistakenly assume that academic success alone will suffice for these tests, which require targeted preparation.

Common Mistakes

Candidates often underestimate the format and time constraints of these tests. A lack of familiarity can lead to poor performance, ultimately affecting the overall screening outcome.

Effective Preparation Strategies

  • Practice Regularly: Utilize sample OIR tests to familiarize yourself with the format.
  • Time Management: Work on solving questions under timed conditions to enhance speed.
  • Seek Guidance: Consider joining study groups or coaching sessions focused on SSB preparation.

3. Weak Storytelling in PPDT

Understanding the Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT)

The PPDT assesses a candidate’s ability to interpret visual stimuli and articulate a coherent narrative. Candidates are shown an ambiguous picture and must create a story based on their interpretation.

Pitfalls of Weak Narratives

A poorly constructed story can hinder a candidate’s chances. Assessors look for creativity, relevance, and critical thinking. Stories that are overly dramatic or unrelated to the picture can raise red flags.

Crafting a Strong Story

  • Focus on Clarity: Ensure your story has a clear beginning, middle, and end.
  • Stay Relevant: Base your narrative on elements visible in the picture.
  • Practice Narration: Regularly practice storytelling to improve fluency and confidence.

4. Ineffective Group Discussion Skills

Importance of Group Dynamics

Group discussions are crucial in evaluating how candidates interact with peers. Effective communication and collaboration are essential in a military setting.

Common Group Discussion Errors

Dominating conversations or failing to contribute meaningfully can lead to negative impressions. Candidates must balance assertiveness with openness to others’ ideas.

Enhancing Group Discussion Skills

  • Listen Actively: Pay attention to others’ contributions and build on them.
  • Encourage Participation: Help quieter members share their thoughts to foster a collaborative environment.
  • Maintain Composure: Stay calm and composed, even during heated discussions.

Also Read: 20 SSB Interview Questions For Freshers [With Sample Answers]

5. Lack of Confidence

The Impact of Confidence

Confidence plays a crucial role in the SSB interview. Candidates who appear nervous or unsure can be perceived as lacking the necessary qualities for military leadership.

Identifying Confidence Issues

Signs of low confidence may include fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, and speaking in a shaky voice. Such behaviors can undermine a candidate’s credibility.

Building Confidence

  • Practice Public Speaking: Engage in activities that require speaking in front of others.
  • Mock Interviews: Conduct practice interviews with friends or mentors to simulate the real experience.
  • Positive Visualization: Visualize successful outcomes to help boost self-assurance.

6. Poor Communication Skills

The Importance of Clear Communication

Effective communication is vital in military operations. Candidates must express their thoughts clearly and concisely during the interview process.

Challenges Faced by Candidates

Many candidates struggle with articulating their ideas, leading to misunderstandings and miscommunication, which can significantly impact their overall evaluation.

Improving Communication Skills

  • Engage in Discussions: Participate in group discussions to practice articulating your thoughts.
  • Read Aloud: Reading books or articles aloud can help improve fluency and clarity.
  • Seek Feedback: Request constructive feedback from peers or mentors to identify areas for improvement.

7. Negative Body Language

The Role of Non-Verbal Cues

Body language can convey confidence, interest, and sincerity. Negative body language, such as slouching or avoiding eye contact, can create a poor impression on assessors.

Identifying Negative Body Language

Candidates may not realize how their body language affects their communication. Inconsistent gestures or lack of eye contact can signal disinterest or insecurity.

Tips for Positive Body Language

  • Maintain Eye Contact: Engage with assessors and peers through consistent eye contact.
  • Stand Tall: Adopt an open posture to convey confidence.
  • Use Gestures: Complement your speech with appropriate hand gestures to emphasize points.

Also Read: 50+ Personal Life Questions Asked In SSB Interview

8. Inability to Demonstrate Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs)

Understanding OLQs

The SSB assesses several Officer-Like Qualities, including leadership, teamwork, and decision-making. Candidates must demonstrate these traits throughout the interview.

Common Shortcomings

Candidates often fail to exhibit these qualities, leading assessors to doubt their suitability for military service. Inconsistent behavior or a lack of initiative can be detrimental.

Strategies for Showcasing OLQs

  • Take Initiative: Volunteer for leadership roles in group activities.
  • Collaborate Effectively: Show your ability to work well with others and respect differing opinions.
  • Be Decisive: Practice making quick, informed decisions during discussions and activities.

9. Inconsistent Responses

The Importance of Consistency

Assessors look for reliability and integrity in candidates. Inconsistent answers or contradictory behavior can raise concerns about a candidate’s honesty.

Recognizing Inconsistencies

Candidates may inadvertently provide conflicting information during different stages of the interview, leading assessors to question their credibility.

Maintaining Consistency

  • Reflect on Your Experiences: Be clear about your motivations and experiences to ensure consistent responses.
  • Practice Common Questions: Prepare for frequently asked questions to reduce the chances of inconsistencies.
  • Stay True to Yourself: Authenticity is key; avoid fabricating stories or exaggerating experiences.

10. Lack of Preparation

The Importance of Being Prepared

Many candidates underestimate the significance of thorough preparation for the SSB interview. Familiarity with the process can greatly enhance performance.

Common Areas of Unpreparedness

Candidates may neglect to research the SSB process, practice for tests, or prepare for potential questions, leading to poor performance.

Effective Preparation Strategies

  • Research the SSB Process: Familiarize yourself with the structure and expectations of the interview.
  • Practice Regularly: Engage in mock tests and group discussions to build confidence.
  • Review Feedback: Seek feedback from previous candidates or mentors to identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

Getting screened out during the SSB interview can be a disheartening experience for aspiring candidates. However, understanding and addressing the common pitfalls can significantly enhance your chances of success. By focusing on preparation, communication, and the demonstration of essential qualities, you can improve your performance and increase your likelihood of passing through the screening stage. Remember, the journey may be challenging, but with dedication and effort, you can achieve your goal of serving in the Indian Armed Forces.

You can also read a few posts of screening tests:

FAQs

  1. What is the SSB interview process like?

    The SSB interview consists of various stages, including intelligence tests, personality assessments, group discussions, and personal interviews. Each stage is designed to evaluate different aspects of a candidate’s suitability for military service.

  2. How can I prepare for the OIR test?

    To prepare for the OIR test, practice sample questions, familiarize yourself with the test format, and work on your time management skills to improve speed and accuracy.

  3. What should I do if I get nervous during the interview?

    If you feel nervous, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization exercises. Engaging in mock interviews can also help build confidence and reduce anxiety.

  4. How important is body language in the SSB interview?

    Body language plays a crucial role in the SSB interview, as it can convey confidence, interest, and sincerity. Positive body language can enhance your overall impression on assessors.

  5. What are Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs)?

    Officer-Like Qualities are traits that the SSB looks for in candidates, including leadership, teamwork, initiative, and decision-making ability. Demonstrating these qualities is essential for a successful interview.

How to Write A Story in TAT and PPDT: A Comprehensive Guide

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Writing effective stories for Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) and Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT) is crucial for success in Services Selection Board (SSB) evaluations. Many candidates create what they believe are excellent stories, yet still face rejection. Understanding the psychological principles behind these assessments can significantly improve your chances of selection.

Understanding TAT and PPDT

The Thematic Apperception Test is not a fact-based assessment but rather evaluates your opinions, emotions, values, and attitudes. When you craft a story around the presented image, you’re projecting aspects of your personality through your responses. The assessors examine:

  • What emotional colors and combinations you bring to the narrative
  • Which aspects you emphasize in your story
  • Whether you demonstrate positive values, emotions, and attitudes
  • How you portray helping behaviors, sacrifice, and faithfulness
  • Your ability to face challenges constructively

TAT is fundamentally based on perception—how you organize and interpret sensory information to create meaning. The PPDT follows similar principles but specifically tests your immediate perception and storytelling abilities.

Read10 reasons why you are screened out from SSB

Essential Elements of Effective TAT and PPDT Stories

The Hero Element

The central character or “hero” of your story is critical. This character serves as your alter-ego and should:

  • Match your own demographic profile (age, gender)
  • Share similar character traits with you
  • Represent how you would ideally respond in challenging situations
  • Demonstrate achievement that reflects your own potential

Remember that assessors view the hero’s achievements as manifestations of your own capabilities and character.

Story Structure

A well-constructed story should include:

  1. A clear protagonist who faces challenges
  2. Meaningful obstacles that test the hero’s character
  3. Risk-taking and courage in addressing these challenges
  4. Temporary setbacks that create opportunities for growth (optional)
  5. Ultimate success through perseverance and positive qualities

Psychological Elements to Demonstrate

Successful stories typically showcase:

  • Challenge-taking ability – The hero must willingly enter difficult situations
  • Sense of responsibility – Going beyond basic duties
  • Risk-taking capacity – Making difficult choices with uncertain outcomes
  • Planning and organizational skills – Systematic approaches to problems
  • Competitive spirit – Healthy drive for excellence
  • Leadership by example – Inspiring others through actions
  • Motivation and inspiration – Positively influencing others

Sample Story Analysis

Consider this example story from a PPDT/TAT exercise:

The image shows a young man pointing at another person who is running, set in evening or night.

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Description: It is the picture of a young man pointing out at another person, who is seen running. It is an evening or night scene.

Story: Due to meager representation of youngsters in the recruitment drive of the Army conducted recently, Suresh Kolte, a sports coach started to train the youngsters of Satana village in Maharashtra. In the month of Feb 12, 2008, he started with one boy. After a week the strength went to five. He scheduled morning and evening hours for exercises/race and day/evening for written preparation leaving 6 to 8 hours for other activities. For the entire Feb month, he made them familiar with written and physical tests. Right from March 1, he made the entire course competitive. He started pointing towards the best one to follow the speed and maintain the time in physical as well as written practice session. In the month of April, out the 5 boys, 4 got selected in the recruitment drive organized by the Army at the Southern Command, Pune. Seeing the results, many youngsters joined the centre and started taking training for the next batch.

In the sample story about Suresh Kolte, a sports coach training village youth for Army recruitment, several important psychological elements are demonstrated:

  • Challenge-taking: Addressing the low representation of youth in Army recruitment
  • Responsibility: Developing a training program for the community
  • Planning ability: Creating structured schedules for physical and written preparation
  • Competitive spirit: Using competition to drive improvement
  • Leadership: Achieving results that inspire others
  • Positive impact: Expanding influence as more youth join the program

Also Read: How To Write Selection Grade TAT Stories In SSB?

Interpretation

The Hero under took the challenge, chose the undriven field in that locality (challenging ability). For the said ability, one has to go beyond the duty, which is sense of responsibility. In most of the case, the sense of responsibility is often dubbed with the risk taking ability, which this hero had. His punctuality, dedication of fixing the schedule and training program reveals his planning and organizing ability. Pointing the best one to be followed by the rest one shows competitive ability and motivation. With his hard work and sacrifice, he creates an exemplary result that would mean leadership by example. Seeing the result, youngsters of neighboring villages got themselves motivated and joined the training centre shows the motivation level and inspiration.

Practical Tips for Writing Effective Stories

  1. Go beyond the obvious – Look deeper than the surface elements of the picture
  2. Use your imagination constructively – Create meaningful narratives, not just descriptions
  3. Maintain positive outcomes – Even when including temporary setbacks
  4. Demonstrate OLQs (Officer-Like Qualities) – Courage, determination, leadership, etc.
  5. Balance emotion and practicality – Show both human understanding and practical problem-solving
  6. Create coherent narratives – Ensure your story has logical flow and resolution
  7. Practice with sample images – Develop your storytelling skills before the actual test

Remember that these tests evaluate not just your creativity but your personality traits and potential as a leader. The stories you create reveal how you perceive challenges and solutions—key insights into your suitability for officer roles.

By understanding these principles and practicing regularly, you can craft stories that genuinely reflect the qualities assessors are seeking, improving your chances of success in SSB screenings.

Also Read

Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar Visits Jhenida Brigade, Commends Troops for Dedication

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Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, Army Commander of the Northern Command, conducted a significant visit to the Jhenida Brigade on Thursday to evaluate its operational preparedness and security measures. The visit underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to maintaining vigilance and readiness along the strategically vital northern borders, particularly in the Jammu and Kashmir region.

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During his visit, Lt Gen Kumar closely interacted with the troops, inspecting various aspects of the brigade’s readiness, including manpower, equipment, and tactical procedures. Accompanied by senior officers, he reviewed the brigade’s operational framework, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance to safeguard national interests in a region known for its complex security challenges, including frequent ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC).

Lt Gen Kumar commended the soldiers for their unwavering dedication and professionalism, urging them to uphold the highest standards of operational effectiveness. The Army Commander appreciated the troops for their commitment to duty and encouraged them to maintain excellence in all operations.

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The Jhenida Brigade, a key component of the Northern Command’s defense architecture, plays a pivotal role in ensuring stability in the region. The Northern Command has been at the forefront of operations in Jammu and Kashmir, including counter-insurgency missions like Operation Rakshak (1990) and humanitarian efforts such as Operation Megh Rahat (2014), which rescued over 200,000 people during the floods in the region, as documented by historical records.

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This visit comes amid heightened focus on military readiness in the region, where the Indian Army has been actively engaged in maintaining peace and security. The Northern Command’s efforts align with the broader objectives of the Indian Armed Forces to ensure operational excellence, as emphasized in a 2019 study on military ethics published by ResearchGate, which highlighted the importance of discipline, loyalty, and professionalism in fostering trust within the ranks and with the nation.

Lt Gen Kumar’s directive to the Jhenida Brigade reflects the Army’s strategic priority to strengthen its operational capabilities while nurturing the morale of its soldiers, ensuring they remain prepared to address any challenges along India’s northern frontier.

JAG 35 CLAT Cut Off Marks Published Now

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The Indian Army has officially released the CLAT PG 2024 cut-off marks for the JAG Entry Scheme 35th Course (October 2025). Candidates who meet the cut-off scores have been shortlisted for the upcoming SSB interview round.

As per the latest update:

  • Male Candidates: Cut-off set at 27 marks and above
  • Female Candidates: Cut-off set at 24 marks and above

This shortlisting marks a significant step forward for law graduates aspiring to join the Judge Advocate General (JAG) Branch as Short Service Commissioned (SSC) Officers.

Key Details of JAG 35 Entry Scheme

Commencement: October 2025
Total Vacancies: 8 (4 Men, 4 Women)

Eligibility Criteria

  • Age: 21 to 27 years (born between July 2, 1998, and July 1, 2004)
  • Education:
    • Minimum 55% marks in LLB (3-year after graduation or 5-year after 10+2)
    • Must have appeared for CLAT PG 2024
    • Eligible for registration with the Bar Council of India
  • Nationality: Indian citizens or individuals of Indian origin permanently settled in India

Selection Process

  1. Shortlisting: Based on CLAT PG 2024 scores
  2. SSB Interview: Scheduled for May/June 2025
  3. Medical Examination: For candidates clearing the SSB
  4. Merit List: Final selection based on overall performance

Training Details

  • Academy: Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai
  • Duration: 49 weeks
  • Stipend: ₹56,100 per month during training

Career Growth

  • Commissioning Rank: Lieutenant
  • Engagement Period: Up to 14 years (initially 10 years, extendable by 4 years)
  • Permanent Commission: May be offered after 10 years of service

A Prestigious Path for Law Graduates

The JAG Entry Scheme offers a unique career path that combines legal expertise with military service. It is a golden opportunity for young law graduates to wear the olive green and serve the nation through the Indian Army’s legal wing.

Candidates who made the cut should now gear up for the SSB interview process and prepare thoroughly to take the next big step toward their dream career.

SSC Tech 65 and SSCW Tech 36 SSB Interview Dates Out Now

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The Indian Army has officially opened the SSB date selection link for shortlisted candidates of the Short Service Commission (Tech) Men 65th Course and Short Service Commission (Tech) Women 36th Course, scheduled to commence in October 2025 at Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai.

SSB Interview Date Selection – Now Live!

Candidates who have been shortlisted based on their engineering academic performance can now log in to their respective Join Indian Army profiles and select their SSB interview dates.

Important Details:

  • Entry: SSC Tech Men 65th (October 2025) & SSCW Tech Women 36th (October 2025)
  • SSB Date Selection Link Status: OPEN
  • Last Date to Select SSB Dates: 22 April 2025, 1600 Hrs

Candidates must log in to the official Join Indian Army portal and visit their dashboard to access the date selection link. It is crucial to select your preferred SSB interview date before the deadline, as non-selection may result in the system allocating a date automatically, or worse, missing the chance altogether.

What’s Next After Date Selection?

Once you select your SSB date, make sure to:

  1. Download your SSB Call Letter from the portal when it becomes available.
  2. Prepare all documents (educational certificates, identity proof, etc.) as per the call letter instructions.
  3. Start preparing for the SSB Interview – focus on OLQs (Officer Like Qualities), psychological tests, GTO tasks, and personal interviews.

Don’t Wait – Book Your Date Now!

Whether you’re a male candidate under SSC Tech 65 or a female aspirant under SSCW Tech 36, this is your moment. Visit the Join Indian Army portal and lock in your SSB interview date before 22 April 2025, 4 PM.

The 65th Short Service Commission Technical (SSC Tech) for Men and the 36th Short Service Commission Technical (SSCW Tech) for Women are recruitment courses announced by the Indian Army for engineering graduates and widows of defense personnel. Below are the key details:

Course Details

  • Commencement: October 2025
  • Training Location: Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai
  • Duration: 49 weeks

Vacancies

  • SSC Tech (Men): 350 vacancies across various engineering streams
  • SSCW Tech (Women): 29 vacancies
  • Widows of Defense Personnel:
    • Non-Tech Entry: 1 vacancy
    • Tech Entry: 1 vacancy

Eligibility Criteria

Nationality

Candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Citizen of India
  • Nationals of Nepal or Bhutan
  • Tibetan refugees who migrated to India before January 1, 1962
  • Persons of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, or certain African countries intending to settle in India

Age Limit

  • SSC Tech (Men and Women): 20 to 27 years as of October 1, 2025 (Born between October 2, 1998, and October 1, 2005)
  • Widows of Defense Personnel: Maximum age is 35 years as of October 1, 2025

Educational Qualification

  1. For SSC Tech (Men and Women):
    • Engineering degree or final-year engineering students who can provide proof of passing by October 1, 2025.
  2. For Widows of Defense Personnel:
    • Non-Tech Entry: Graduation in any discipline.
    • Tech Entry: B.E./B.Tech in any engineering stream.

Application Details

  • Application Window: January 7 to February 5, 2025
  • Application Fee: No fee required

Selection Process

The selection process involves:

  1. Shortlisting based on academic performance.
  2. SSB interview.
  3. Medical examination.

Successful candidates will be commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army upon completing training.

This opportunity is ideal for engineering graduates seeking to serve in a technical capacity in the Indian Army.

5 Air Force Hospital, Jorhat Celebrates World Health Day 2025 with Focus on Maternal and Newborn Health

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In alignment with the global theme of World Health Day 2025, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” 5 Air Force Hospital in Jorhat organized a series of impactful events to promote maternal and newborn health. The initiative, held on April 7, 2025, aimed to inform, educate, and engage the dependent clientele of the hospital through a range of activities focused on improving health outcomes for mothers and their babies.

The hospital conducted informative lectures targeting unit Sanginis—women of childbearing age—emphasizing the critical importance of regular antenatal checkups, post-partum care for newborns, and proper nutrition during lactation. These sessions were designed to empower women with knowledge about healthy behaviors during pregnancy, addressing gaps in maternal and newborn survival, a key focus of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) year-long campaign launched on World Health Day.

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A significant highlight of the event was the launch of a new child health record book, aimed at ensuring better tracking and care for children’s health milestones. Additionally, a vibrant new playroom in the hospital’s paediatric ward was inaugurated, providing a nurturing and cheerful environment for young patients. The playroom, adorned with colorful murals featuring cartoon characters like Winnie the Pooh, includes swings, slides, and toys to support the emotional well-being of children under care.

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The launches were officiated by Mrs. Deepika Kinra, President of the Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA) (Local), who cut the ribbon to the playroom and unveiled the child health record book alongside hospital staff and dignitaries. The event saw participation from medical professionals, air force personnel, and families, reflecting a collective commitment to improving healthcare for women and children.

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The initiative comes at a crucial time, as global data from UNICEF highlights that only 58% of pregnant women in South Asia, including India, receive the recommended minimum of four antenatal care visits, with WHO now advocating for at least eight visits to reduce perinatal mortality and enhance maternal care. The efforts by 5 Air Force Hospital underscore the importance of such programs in regions with high maternal mortality rates, contributing to the broader global movement for healthier families and communities.

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5 Air Force Hospital, established in 1959 and located in Nowsolia Gaon, Jorhat, remains a cornerstone of healthcare for the air force community in the region, continuing its legacy of service with this meaningful celebration of World Health Day 2025.

India Clears ₹63,000-Crore Deal for 26 Rafale Marine Jets to Strengthen Naval Aviation

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In a major boost to India’s naval strike capabilities, the government has cleared a ₹63,000-crore government-to-government deal with France for the purchase of 26 Rafale M (Marine) fighter jets for the Indian Navy. This marks the Navy’s first significant fighter aircraft acquisition in decades.

The long-anticipated deal includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater Rafale M variants, which are tailored for aircraft carrier operations. These advanced jets will primarily be deployed aboard India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, enhancing maritime operations and power projection in the Indian Ocean Region.

First proposed in July 2023, the deal has been under negotiation between the Defence Ministries of India and France. It also includes a full support package: fleet maintenance, logistics, crew training, and the local manufacturing of components under the ‘Make in India’ initiative via offset obligations.

The official agreement is expected to be signed later this month during the visit of French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu to India. Deliveries are anticipated to begin five years from the signing, with the full fleet expected to be inducted by 2031.

The Rafale M is regarded as one of the most advanced naval fighters globally. It features reinforced landing gear by Safran Group, folding wings, tailhooks, and a rugged undercarriage to withstand the demanding conditions of carrier-based operations.

According to sources, the addition of Rafale Ms will complement the Navy’s existing MiG-29K fleet, which will continue operations aboard INS Vikramaditya. The Rafales will also enhance interoperability with the Indian Air Force, which operates 36 Rafale C variants from two northern bases, particularly through systems like the ‘buddy-buddy’ aerial refuelling system that extends operational range and endurance.

The Navy also plans to induct indigenous fifth-generation deck-based fighter jets being developed by the DRDO, as part of the broader modernization strategy. These twin-engine fighters will be the naval version of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program being developed for the Air Force.

As tensions in the Indo-Pacific continue to evolve, this strategic acquisition underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and maintaining a robust naval deterrent.

AWWA Changed Name to Army Women’s Welfare Association

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In a progressive move towards inclusivity, the Indian Army’s welfare body AWWA has officially rebranded itself as the Army Women’s Welfare Association. Previously known as the Army Wives Welfare Association, the name change marks a significant step in expanding the organisation’s scope and outreach.

Established in 1966 and registered with the Registrar of Societies, Delhi Administration, AWWA has long described itself as the “invisible hand that shapes the punch of the Indian Army.” The renaming, which took effect on April 2, reflects the evolving social fabric of Army families and aims to accommodate a broader demographic beyond just the wives of serving personnel.

A senior Army source, speaking to The Statesman, explained the rationale behind the change:

“Earlier, AWWA was often perceived as a platform only for the wives and daughters of serving Army personnel. The new identity includes spouses and dependents of both serving and retired personnel, as well as veterans and veer naaris (war widows).”

The rebranded AWWA now also extends support to unmarried or divorced daughters, and mothers of unmarried serving or retired personnel—including those who were martyred in action.

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The association has already updated its name across social media platforms, including Twitter and Instagram.

According to AWWA’s official website,

“The welfare of troops remains a top priority in the Indian Army. A soldier performs best knowing his family is supported. AWWA’s mission is to complement the Army’s welfare efforts, focusing on the families, children, and widows of all ranks—including retired personnel.”

Recently, AWWA President Sunita Dwivedi, wife of Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, met with President Droupadi Murmu alongside regional AWWA presidents. During the meeting, President Murmu was briefed on various initiatives supporting veer naaris, widows, veterans, and children with special needs.

Discussions also touched on expanding outreach to women in remote and underserved areas, with regional heads presenting new projects centered on skill development, women’s empowerment, and education.

The Indian Army’s move mirrors a similar step by the Navy in 2022, when the Navy Wives Welfare Association rebranded itself as the Navy Welfare and Wellness Association, further indicating a growing trend toward inclusive and gender-sensitive welfare structures within the Armed Forces.

Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta Reviews Training and Welfare Initiatives at Punjab Regiment Centre in Ramgarh

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Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Indian Army’s Central Command and Colonel of the Punjab Regiment, visited the Punjab Regiment Centre in Ramgarh to assess the ongoing training, infrastructure, and welfare initiatives for the troops.

The visit, marked by a Special Sainik Sammelan held on April 8, 2025, underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining high standards of combat preparedness and ensuring the well-being of its soldiers.

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During the event, Lt Gen Sengupta emphasized the importance of operational readiness and regimental pride, engaging directly with instructors and young soldiers to reinforce the ethos of professionalism within the Punjab Regiment.

The Punjab Regiment, one of the oldest units of the Indian Army with roots tracing back to 1705, has a storied history of service, including significant contributions to UN peacekeeping missions such as the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), where Lt Gen Sengupta himself commanded an infantry brigade.

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The visit featured a series of activities, including a ceremonial guard of honor, a wreath-laying ceremony at a memorial, and a review of training facilities, where soldiers demonstrated their skills at an indoor firing range. Lt Gen Sengupta also interacted with the troops during a community meal, fostering camaraderie and boosting morale among the ranks.

This event aligns with the Indian Army’s broader focus in 2025, declared as the “Year of Defence Reforms” by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The reforms aim to modernize the armed forces through jointness, technology integration, and enhanced human resource management, ensuring a future-ready army capable of multi-domain operations.

The Punjab Regiment Centre’s efforts in upgrading training infrastructure and prioritizing troop welfare reflect these transformative goals, contributing to the Army’s vision of operational excellence and soldier well-being.

Captain Shraddha Becomes First Woman Pilot in Indian Army’s Cheetah Fleet

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Breaking barriers and inspiring generations, Captain Shraddha has etched her name in history as the first woman pilot in the Indian Army’s Cheetah helicopter fleet.

Commissioned in 2020, Captain Shraddha earned her coveted flying wings in 2023 and has since amassed an impressive 165 solo flying hours. She now holds full operational status, a testament to her skill, dedication, and determination.

In a landmark moment, she co-piloted the Cheetah aircraft alongside Lieutenant Colonel KS Bhalla with the Army Commander onboard. This remarkable achievement underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and empowering environment for women officers and soldiers.

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The Dhruva Command, under which this flight took place, remains at the forefront of promoting gender inclusivity and empowering women in combat and operational roles. Captain Shraddha’s journey is a shining example of how women continue to break new ground in the Indian Armed Forces.

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This milestone not only celebrates Captain Shraddha’s personal accomplishments but also marks a significant step forward in the journey of women’s empowerment in the Indian Army.