The Defence Services Technical Staff Course (DSTSC 07), comprising 86 officers, including four Directing Staff, 79 Student Officers, and three Foreign Officers from Sri Lanka, visited INS Hansa on April 10, 2025. The visit was organized to provide participants with a deeper understanding of naval aviation, training infrastructure, and operational capabilities.
During their time at INS Hansa, India’s largest naval airbase located near Dabolim in Goa, the officers toured various Air Squadrons and the state-of-the-art Shore Based Test Facility (SBTF). The SBTF, a mock-up of the INS Vikramaditya deck, is used to train and certify navy pilots for carrier-based operations, including the Mikoyan MiG-29K, and for developmental trials of the naval HAL Tejas. The group also viewed static displays of frontline air assets, offering them a firsthand look at the Indian Navy’s aviation capabilities.
The visit aimed to enhance the officers’ operational awareness and decision-making abilities, aligning with the Indian Navy’s focus on strengthening strategic readiness through practical exposure. The inclusion of foreign officers from Sri Lanka underscores India’s ongoing efforts to foster defense collaboration and regional cooperation.
INS Hansa, home to nine Indian Naval Air Squadrons, plays a pivotal role in naval aviation, operating a range of aircraft such as Kamov Ka-28 anti-submarine helicopters, Ilyushin Il-38 May, and TU-142M Bear aircraft, alongside the MiG-29K fighters. The base also supports exercises by the Indian Air Force and provides facilities for the Indian Coast Guard. With over 2,000 military personnel and 1,000 civilians stationed there, INS Hansa remains a cornerstone of India’s maritime defence infrastructure.
The Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA) held its Central Executive Committee Meeting, chaired by Mrs. Shashi Tripathi, President of NWWA. The gathering brought together regional leaders to discuss and reaffirm their commitment to unity, skill-building, and sustainability for naval families. The event underscored NWWA’s ongoing mission to empower and support the naval community through various welfare initiatives.
The meeting featured discussions on enhancing community support programs, with a focus on fostering skill development and promoting sustainable practices. Attendees, dressed in traditional attire, participated in a productive session that highlighted the importance of collaboration among regional chapters to address the needs of naval families.
Following the meeting, the committee members visited the newly inaugurated Nausena Bhawan, the Indian Navy’s first independent headquarters in Delhi, located at Delhi Cantt. The state-of-the-art facility, inaugurated by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, symbolizes the Navy’s growing presence in the capital and its commitment to modern infrastructure for operational efficiency.
NWWA, known for its extensive work in women’s empowerment, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, continues to play a pivotal role in supporting naval personnel and their families. The organization has previously been recognized for initiatives such as block printing classes for women, pre-schools for naval children, and environmental campaigns promoting recycling and waste management.
This meeting further strengthens NWWA’s efforts to anchor the lives of naval families through meaningful and impactful programs.
Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari, the Army Commander of the Eastern Command and Colonel of the Kumaon & Naga Regiment and Kumaon Scouts, visited a Kumaon unit at Panagarh Military Station to conduct a comprehensive review of its operational preparedness. The visit underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining a high state of readiness amid evolving regional security challenges.
During his visit, Lt Gen Tiwari assessed the battalion’s capabilities to address contemporary and future threats, complimenting the unit for its robust operational readiness. He also shared valuable insights with the troops, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of modern warfare challenges. The event highlighted the strategic role of the Kumaon unit under the Brahmastra Corps, a Mountain Strike Corps established in 2013 to serve as a quick-reaction and counter-offensive force along India’s northern borders.
The Kumaon Regiment, with a storied history dating back to the 18th century, is one of the Indian Army’s most decorated infantry regiments. It has produced three Army Chiefs and played pivotal roles in several key operations, including the Siachen Glacier conflict, where its battalions demonstrated exceptional grit and discipline. The regiment’s legacy of valor and its strategic deployment under the Eastern Command make it a cornerstone of India’s defense framework.
The visit also featured interactions between Lt Gen Tiwari and the troops, including the presentation of awards and a formal address, reinforcing the Army’s focus on morale and operational excellence. The Eastern Command, headquartered in Kolkata, continues to play a critical role in safeguarding India’s eastern and northeastern frontiers, ensuring a strong and capable military presence in the region.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), visited the Indian Army’s Vajra Corps headquarters today as part of his ongoing tour of the Western Command. The visit focused on assessing the operational preparedness of the formation along the Western Front, a strategically vital region bordering Pakistan. General Dwivedi, who assumed the role of the 30th COAS in June 2024, was accompanied by the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Command during the visit.
The General Officer Commanding, Vajra Corps, briefed General Dwivedi on the current security situation and operational dynamics along the Western borders. The COAS was updated on the Corps’ readiness posture, which is critical given the geopolitical sensitivity of the region. The Vajra Corps, established in 1950 to counter potential threats from Pakistan, plays a pivotal role in India’s defense strategy, particularly in Punjab, under the Western Command’s Area of Responsibility, which spans Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and parts of Jammu.
During the visit, General Dwivedi commended the personnel of Vajra Corps for their unwavering commitment, operational readiness, and professionalism. He emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving security dynamics along the Western Front, urging the troops to remain vigilant and prepared for emerging challenges. The visit underscores the Indian Army’s focus on maintaining a robust defense posture in this critical sector.
This review aligns with the Indian Army’s broader vision under the “Decade of Transformation” (2023–2032), which includes 2025 being designated as the “Year of Reforms” by the Ministry of Defence. The initiative emphasizes technological absorption and self-reliance, with the Army having inducted 37 innovations and secured intellectual property rights for 25 of them by 2025. This push for indigenization reflects India’s commitment to building a future-ready force capable of addressing diverse threats in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
Accompanying the COAS, Sunita Dwivedi, President of the Army Women Welfare Association (AWWA), also reviewed welfare initiatives undertaken by the Vajra Corps. Her visit highlighted the Army’s holistic approach to supporting the well-being of families and ex-servicemen, ensuring comprehensive care for the military community.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), conducted a visit to the forward areas along India’s western borders on Saturday, where he reviewed the operational preparedness of the frontline troops stationed in the region. The visit included a detailed inspection at the Headquarters of the Panther Division in Amritsar, a formation renowned for its historical contributions to India’s defence.
During his visit, General Dwivedi was briefed on the operational aspects and the prevailing security situation in the region. He interacted with the troops, commending their professionalism and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation. The COAS urged the soldiers to embrace cutting-edge technologies, aligning with the Indian Army’s transformation roadmap aimed at achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. This initiative emphasizes technological innovation and self-reliance, key pillars of India’s broader Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign.
The Panther Division, established in 1964, has a distinguished legacy, notably for hoisting the first Indian flag in Western Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. Over the decades, the division has played a crucial role in defending India’s borders while also contributing to nation-building through humanitarian efforts.
General Dwivedi’s emphasis on technology adoption reflects the Indian Army’s ongoing “Decade of Transformation” (2023–2032), a strategic roadmap to modernize India’s defense capabilities. As part of this initiative, the Army has already inducted 37 innovations and secured 25 intellectual property rights, underscoring its commitment to fostering indigenous solutions and building a robust defense manufacturing ecosystem. These efforts are poised to redefine India’s defense landscape by combining resilience, innovation, and self-reliance to strengthen national security.
The visit comes at a time when the Indian Army continues to prioritize operational excellence and modernization, ensuring that its troops remain well-equipped to address contemporary security challenges while contributing to the nation’s long-term development goals.
The Aviation Combat Tactics Course (ACTC) concluded today at Nagtalao, marking the successful training of 10 combat aviators from the Indian Army’s Attack Helicopter platforms. The course, conducted by the Thar Raptors Brigade, emphasized mission planning, operational excellence, target engagement, and evasive maneuvers under near-real combat conditions, preparing the aviators for the demands of modern warfare.
The program was overseen by the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) in Nashik, a premier institution under the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), Shimla, known for its rigorous training modules. Maj Gen Abhinaya Rai, Commandant of CATS, felicitated the student officers during the closing ceremony, commending their dedication and the Thar Raptors Brigade for its exceptional efforts in executing the course. Maj Gen Rai, who assumed leadership of CATS in December 2024, has been instrumental in advancing training methodologies to meet evolving operational needs.
The Indian Army Aviation Corps, established in 1986, plays a critical role in combat search and rescue, logistics support, medical evacuation, and tactical operations. The corps currently operates helicopters such as the HAL Chetak, Cheetah, and Dhruv, though many of these ageing aircraft are in need of replacement with modern platforms to enhance tactical lift and combat capabilities. The ACTC is part of ongoing efforts to ensure aviators are equipped to handle diverse missions, including reconnaissance, observation, and special forces operations, often in challenging terrains.
The ceremony also highlighted the Army Aviation Corps’ commitment to maintaining high operational standards, with the Thar Raptors Brigade earning praise for its professionalism. This training initiative underscores the Indian Army’s focus on strengthening its aviation capabilities amid the evolving demands of modern warfare.
The School of Artillery at the Artillery Centre in Nashik Road recently hosted a group of young officers for an immersive drone training session, focusing on next-generation warfare technologies. The visit, part of their ongoing course, aimed to deepen their understanding of drone operations and handling, a critical skill in modern military strategies.
The officers gained hands-on experience in the Drone Maneuver Battlefield Arena, a specialized facility designed to simulate real-world combat scenarios. They were also introduced to various drone platforms currently employed in training at the School of Artillery. This initiative underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies into its operations, aligning with the Regiment of Artillery’s broader modernization efforts.
The Artillery Centre in Nashik has been a key hub for such advancements, building on its legacy as a premier army training institution. The Indian Army’s Southern Command emphasized that this training is a step toward preparing officers for the evolving nature of warfare, where drones play an increasingly vital role in counter-insurgency operations, offering precision targeting with minimal collateral damage.
This program also reflects the Army’s strategic shift toward self-reliance in defense technologies. In 2023, the Southern Command launched initiatives to reduce dependence on costly imported equipment, fostering collaboration with academia, industry, and startups to develop indigenous solutions. The drone training at Nashik is a testament to the Army’s ongoing “Decade of Transformation,” aiming to equip its forces with cutting-edge tools to address contemporary security challenges.
In a significant step towards enhancing India’s defence capabilities through cutting-edge technology, officers from the Indian Army’s Southern Command visited the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Pune. The visit aimed to foster collaboration in the field of quantum technology, aligning with the government’s #AtmaNirbharBharat initiative to promote self-reliance in defence innovation.
The delegation engaged with researchers and experts to explore potential applications of quantum technology in military operations. Key focus areas included quantum computing, secure quantum communication through Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), and the development of AI-enabled defense networks. These technologies are poised to revolutionize secure communications and enhance computational capabilities for defense purposes, offering robust protection against emerging cyber threats, including those posed by quantum computing attacks on traditional encryption systems.
This initiative is part of the Indian Army’s broader #YearOfTechAbsorption and #DecadeOfTransformation (2023–2032) strategies, which aim to modernize military capabilities by integrating advanced technologies. The collaboration underscores the importance of military-civil fusion, leveraging India’s research ecosystem to develop indigenous solutions for national security. Institutions like C-DAC, a premier R&D organization under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, are at the forefront of such advancements, with expertise in areas like supercomputing, cybersecurity, and quantum technology.
Photographs from the visit showed army personnel in discussions with researchers in a high-tech laboratory, examining advanced equipment likely related to quantum experiments. Another image depicted a formal meeting in a conference room, where presentations on quantum technology applications were shared, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the initiative. The visit marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards becoming a leader in quantum technology for defense applications, reinforcing the synergy between academia, industry, and the armed forces.
The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is a pivotal step for candidates aspiring to become officers in the Indian Armed Forces. This rigorous evaluation process is designed to identify individuals who possess the necessary traits and attributes to lead effectively. Central to this assessment are the 15 Officer Like Qualities (OLQs), which serve as a foundation for determining a candidate’s suitability for military leadership. Understanding and embodying these qualities can significantly enhance a candidate’s chances of success.
The 15 Officer-Like Qualities (15 OLQs) hold significant importance in the Service Selection Board SSB Interview process. The SSB interview is conducted to assess candidates for officer positions in the Indian Armed Forces, and the 15 OLQs serve as a framework to evaluate the suitability of candidates for leadership roles.
The majority of the candidates face their SSB interview without any preparation and have no clue about the officers like qualities that the board is looking for.
Understanding Officer Like Qualities (OLQs)
The 15 OLQs are a set of characteristics that the SSB evaluates to gauge a candidate’s potential as a future officer. These qualities encompass a range of personal attributes, from cognitive abilities to social skills. The OLQs are grouped into four major factors, each reflecting a different aspect of leadership and effectiveness in military roles.
Factor I: Planning and Organizing
This factor assesses a candidate’s ability to strategize, prioritize, and execute tasks efficiently. Key qualities within this category include:
Effective Intelligence: The capacity to apply knowledge to real-world situations, demonstrating practical problem-solving skills.
Reasoning Ability: The skill to analyze information logically and draw sound conclusions.
Organizing Ability: The aptitude for arranging resources and tasks systematically to achieve desired outcomes.
Power of Expression: The ability to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively.
Factor II: Social Adjustment
Social adaptability is crucial for officers who must work effectively with diverse teams. This factor includes:
Social Adaptability: The ability to fit into various social environments and interact positively with different individuals.
Cooperation: The willingness to work harmoniously within a group, prioritizing collective goals over personal ambitions.
Sense of Responsibility: The commitment to fulfilling obligations and duties with integrity and reliability.
Factor III: Social Effectiveness
This factor evaluates how well a candidate can influence and motivate others. The qualities assessed include:
Initiative: The readiness to take proactive steps in unfamiliar situations and drive actions toward goals.
Self-Confidence: The belief in one’s capabilities, particularly in challenging circumstances.
Speed of Decision: The ability to make timely and effective decisions, considering practicality and feasibility.
Ability to Influence the Group: The skill to inspire and guide others toward achieving common objectives.
Liveliness: The capacity to maintain enthusiasm and positivity, even in difficult situations.
Factor IV: Dynamic Qualities
This factor focuses on resilience and determination, encompassing:
Determination: The persistence to pursue goals despite obstacles and challenges.
Courage: The willingness to face risks and challenges head-on.
Stamina: The physical and mental endurance to withstand prolonged stress and pressure.
Understanding the significance of OLQs is essential for candidates preparing for the SSB interview. These qualities not only define a candidate’s potential for leadership but also play a critical role in their overall effectiveness as officers. Here are some reasons why OLQs are vital:
Leadership Potential: OLQs help identify candidates who can inspire and lead others, a fundamental requirement for any officer.
Decision-Making Skills: Qualities such as effective intelligence and reasoning ability are crucial for making sound decisions in high-pressure situations.
Teamwork and Collaboration: The ability to cooperate and adapt socially ensures smooth functioning within diverse teams.
Integrity and Responsibility: A strong sense of responsibility reflects a candidate’s commitment to ethical standards and duty fulfillment.
Effective Communication: Clear and confident communication is essential for leadership and coordination within military operations.
Preparing for the SSB Interview
To excel in the SSB interview, candidates must invest time in developing the 15 OLQs. Here are some strategies to enhance these qualities:
Self-Assessment
Begin by conducting a self-assessment of your existing qualities. Identify strengths and areas for improvement related to the OLQs. This reflection will provide a roadmap for your preparation.
Engage in Group Activities
Participating in group discussions, team sports, or community service can help improve social adaptability, cooperation, and leadership skills. These activities provide opportunities to practice influencing and motivating others.
Develop Decision-Making Skills
Enhance your reasoning ability and speed of decision-making by engaging in activities that require critical thinking. Puzzles, strategy games, and real-life problem-solving scenarios can be beneficial.
Build Communication Skills
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Engage in public speaking, join debate clubs, or participate in workshops that focus on effective communication.
Cultivate Resilience
Building stamina and determination requires facing challenges head-on. Set personal goals and gradually push your limits to develop mental and physical resilience.
The Role of OLQs in Military Leadership
Officers in the armed forces are expected to lead by example, and the OLQs play a significant role in shaping their leadership style. Here’s how these qualities contribute to effective military leadership:
Fostering Trust and Respect
Officers who embody OLQs are more likely to earn the trust and respect of their subordinates. This trust is essential for maintaining morale and cohesion within a unit.
Enhancing Operational Effectiveness
Effective leaders who possess OLQs can make timely decisions, adapt to changing circumstances, and motivate their teams to achieve operational objectives.
Promoting Ethical Standards
A strong sense of responsibility and integrity ensures that officers uphold ethical standards, fostering a culture of accountability within the military.
Encouraging Innovation
Officers with initiative and effective intelligence are more likely to encourage innovation and creative problem-solving within their teams, leading to improved operational outcomes.
Officer qualities must be differentiated from other factors assessed at the selection. Broadly defined, these personal qualities (PQs) or Officer Like Qualities( 15 OLQs) as they are called in Indian context refer to traits, states, needs, motives, goals, attitudes, interests, determining tendencies and general dispositions towards personal/social situations.
They are different from cognitive, intellectual factors and medical factors which will also be examined in that they usually form an intrinsic part of officer selection.
Officer Like Qualities(15 OLQs)
Factor – I (Planning and Organising) (a) Effective Intelligence (b) Reasoning Ability (c) Organising Ability (d) Power of Expression Factor – II (Social Adjustment) (e) Social Adaptability (f) Co-operation (g) Sense of Responsibility Factor – III (Social Effectiveness) (h) Initiative (i) Self Confidence (j) Speed of Decision (k) Ability to Influence the Group (l) Liveliness Factor – IV (Dynamic) (m) Determination (n) Courage (o) Stamina
What are 15 OLQs required in Officers
1. Effective Intelligence
Is the intelligence utilized in coping with practical situations of varying complexity. It is different from basic intelligence which is the capacity to perceive relations or to do abstract thinking.
Basic intelligence is assessed by the use of intelligence tests may be verbal or non verbal effective intelligence includes the following:
(a) Practical intelligence. The capacity to evolve independent solutions of practical problems and situations.
(b) Resourcefulness. The capacity to use the available means for the desired end with the help of improvisation of resources and finding a solution when in a tight corner.
* Generally students with higher effective intelligence are bright, mentally sharp, penetrating, innovative and inventive.
2. Reasoning ability
The ability to grasp the essentials well and to arrive at conclusions by rational & logical thinking. It includes receptivity, inquiring attitude, logical reasoning and seeing the essentials of a problem.
(a) Receptivity. The ability to understand and absorb new impressions. It involves interest, attention and grasping power.
(b) Inquiring attitude. Healthy curiosity resulting in an urge to increase one’s general knowledge and experience in life.
(c) Logical reasoning. The ability to arrive at conclusion or judgment based strictly on a presses of rational thinking and excluding emotional factors.
(d) Seeing essentials of a problem. The ability by which the individual is not only clear in his knowledge of the situation at hand, but also is able to analyses various factors, shift them in order of importance and make best use of them towards achieving a solution.
* Students with higher reasoning ability are exceptionally sharp, analytical, highly imaginative, logical & practical.
3. Organising ability
The ability to arrange the resources in a systematic way so as to produce effective results. It can also be defined as the ability to put to the best use of the available means for attainment of a desired objective.
* Students with higher organising ability are very meticulous in planning est dealing with complex issues without over looking details, use commonsense, original in actions and quick in comprehension.
4. Power of expression
This is the most important tools of personality where his/her ability to put across ideas adequately with ease and clarity are assessed.
* Students with this quality are more eloquent, forceful, lucid, precise & effective in their expression.
5. Social adaptability
The ability of an individual to adapt himself to the social environment and adjust well with persons and social groups, with special reference to superiors, equal and subordinates. Social adaptability includes social intelligence, attitude towards others, tact, and adaptability.
(a) Social Intelligence. It is the intelligence ability applied in social field. It is the ability to understand people & adjust well in new surroundings.
(b) Attitude towards others. The ability to put oneself into the other man’s position so as to appreciate justifiable difficulties, to enable rendering help in a proper way.
(c) Tact. Skillful management of the feelings of the persons dealt with.
(d) Adaptability. The ability to adjust to the environment with special reference to the social situations in that environment. When considering service aspect it involves not only a resilient nature shown by and accommodative tendency but also keenness and interest in service life.
* Persons with higher adaptability are genial, very spontaneous in adjusting well in short time, outgoing, amiable, accommodative, flexible understanding, friendly & sympathetic.
6. Cooperation
The attitude of an individual to participate willingly in harmony with others in a group, in achieving the group goal. This implies a belief in the collective effort being more productive than the individual effort. Cooperation includes the element of joint effort and team spirit.
Team spirit indicates loyalty to the aims and objects of the group to the extent of subordinating individual aim to the group aim.
* Such persons are altruistic, selfless, volunteers workers with tremendous esprit – de corps. They are also humane, warm hearted, spontaneous and group minded people.
7. Sense of Responsibility
It enable a person to be dependable and to willingly discharge his obligation. It includes sense of duty but is much more comprehensive in meaning and scope.
It implies:
(a) Sense of duty Faithfully and firmly doing what one is ordered to do.
(b) Discipline. A trained sense of acting strictly in accordance with rules, regulations and conventions. This factor promotes development of self control and keeps one within bounds of social and normal standards.
Sense of responsibility therefore means:- (a) A through understanding of the values of duty, social standard, and of what is required of an individual and then to give it his energy and attention of his own accord.
(b) Doing one’s best, carrying out even unspecified and probably unforeseen duties and obligations rather than faithfully carrying out what one is told to do. It demonstrates moral willingness to bear the consequences.
* Persons with higher sense of responsibility are exceptionally dutiful, faithful and respectful to authority. They are very conscientious and go out of the way to soldier responsibilities.
8. Initiative
The ability to originate purposeful action. It has the following aspects:- (a) Ability to take the first steps in an unfamiliar situation. (b) In the right direction. (c) Sustain it, till the goal is achieved.
* Persons with higher initiative display plenty of originality in thoughts & actions. Persons with positive initiative never get stuck, they are pushing, enterprising, persistent and will come out with numerous fresh idea.
9. Self-confidence
It is the faith in one’s ability to meet stressful situations particularly those that are unfamiliar.
* People with higher self – confidence are totally composed, rationally active, have abundant faith in their abilities, self reliant and constructive in difficulties.
10. Speed of decision
The ability to arrive at workable decisions expeditiously. It comprises:- (a) Then appropriateness and cost-effectiveness. (b) Feasibility & practicability. (c) The quickness in arriving at the decision.
* Persons with this ability are Infallible, prompt, judicious and take sound decisions with a considerable sense of urgency.
They are never wavering, impulsive, hesitant, erratic in their decisions.
11. Ability to influence the group
The ability which enables an individual to bring about the willing effort from the group for achieving the objective desired by him. This influence is the prime cause of cooperative and willing effort of a group towards the achievement of a set objective.
* Persons with this quality are highly inspiring with magnetic charm, indispensable, impressionable, assertive, persuasive, firm & have considerable capacity to overcome opposition.
12. Liveliness
The capacity of an individual to keep himself buoyant when meeting problems and bring about a cheerful atmosphere
13. Determination
A sustained effort to achieve objectives in spite of obstacles and setbacks. It implies fixedness of purpose: mental concentration and strength of will.
It includes:-
(a) Application to work. The capacity of physical application to work.
(b) Drive. The inner motive power at the disposal of an individual. It is the capacity to force oneself along when under pressure and urgency, towards the achievement of the object. It may inspire energetic action in others towards the achievement of a common goal.
* They are highly resolute, unwavering, advent, industrious, firm and steady, persevering and persistent.
14. Courage
The ability to appreciate and take purposive risks willingly. It includes:
(a) Ability to meet appreciated dangers.
(b) Spirit of adventure, and enterprising spirit and a willingness to dare or risk a hazard.
(c) Capacity to keep oneself composed in adverse situations enabling to be steady in facing and handling such situations.
* They are doubtless risk takers, daring, aggressive, creative, bold & plucky with tremendous physical & moral courage.
15. Stamina
The capacity to withstand protracted physical and mental strain. It emphasizes endurance.
* such persons possess Herculean physical & mental capabilities & can withstand plenty of physical & mental stress. They are indefatigable, calm & are very tough individuals.
Importance of 15 OLQs
Leadership Potential: OLQs help identify candidates with the potential to lead and inspire others, a crucial requirement for officer positions.
Decision-making Abilities: OLQs such as effective intelligence, reasoning, and speed of decision-making assess a candidate’s ability to make sound and prompt decisions in various situations.
Teamwork and Cooperation: The OLQs related to social adaptability, cooperation, and team spirit evaluate a candidate’s inclination and capability to work effectively in a team and collaborate with others.
Responsibility and Integrity: OLQs like sense of responsibility and integrity are essential to gauge a candidate’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and fulfilling the duties and obligations of an officer.
Effective Communication: The OLQ of effective communication assesses a candidate’s ability to convey ideas clearly and confidently, which is crucial for effective leadership and coordination.
Initiative and Self-Confidence: These OLQs determine a candidate’s willingness to take charge, show confidence in decision-making, and exhibit proactive behavior.
Physical and Mental Attributes: OLQs like courage, stamina, determination, and emotional stability assess a candidate’s physical and mental capabilities, which are essential for facing the challenges of military service.
Adaptability and Flexibility: OLQs related to adaptability and dynamism evaluate a candidate’s ability to adjust to changing circumstances and demonstrate flexibility in their approach.
Positive Attitude: OLQs regarding a positive attitude help gauge a candidate’s ability to maintain optimism, resilience, and motivation even in adverse situations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the 15 Officer-Like Qualities is essential for candidates aspiring to succeed in the SSB interview and excel as officers in the Indian Armed Forces. By understanding the significance of these qualities and actively working to develop them, candidates can enhance their leadership potential and make meaningful contributions to the military.
FAQs
What are OLQs?
Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs) are a set of 15 personal attributes evaluated during the SSB interview to assess a candidate’s suitability for military leadership.
Why are OLQs important in the SSB interview?
OLQs help identify candidates with the potential to lead effectively, make sound decisions, and work collaboratively within teams.
How can I improve my OLQs?
Engage in self-assessment, participate in group activities, develop decision-making skills, build communication abilities, and cultivate resilience.
What role do OLQs play in military leadership?
OLQs foster trust, enhance operational effectiveness, promote ethical standards, and encourage innovation among military leaders.
Can OLQs be developed over time?
Yes, with conscious effort and practice, candidates can develop and enhance their OLQs to succeed in the SSB interview and military leadership roles.
During a visit to the frontline areas of Punjab, General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, presented a Commendation Disc to an Inspector of the Border Security Force (BSF) in recognition of his exemplary service. The award ceremony highlighted the officer’s outstanding coordination and liaison work between the BSF and the Indian Army, underscoring the importance of synergy between the two forces in bolstering national security.
General Dwivedi, who assumed the role of COAS on June 30, 2024, lauded the BSF Inspector for his professionalism and dedication. He emphasized that the officer’s efforts not only reflected individual merit but also symbolized the strong collaborative relationship between the Indian Army and the BSF. The COAS’s words of appreciation underscored the shared commitment of both organizations to strengthen India’s defence mechanisms, particularly along the sensitive Punjab frontier.
The BSF, often regarded as the first line of defense for India’s borders, has a storied history of safeguarding the nation’s boundaries. In the 1980s and 1990s, the force played a pivotal role in counter-insurgency operations in Punjab, including significant operations like Blue Star and Black Thunder, before shifting its focus to Jammu and Kashmir to address rising militancy in the region. Today, the BSF continues to modernize its operations, equipping its formations with advanced technology and vehicles to enhance border security.
This recognition ceremony is part of a broader initiative to foster greater integration and cooperation between the Indian Army and the BSF. By honoring the BSF Inspector, General Dwivedi reaffirmed the commitment of both forces to work together in ensuring a vigilant and robust defense framework for the country. The event also served as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two organizations, which is vital for maintaining security along India’s borders and addressing emerging challenges.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed call for unity and coordination among all defence organizations, with General Dwivedi emphasizing the importance of such efforts in safeguarding India’s sovereignty and security.
