The Indian Airforce has been busy celebrating it’s 87th anniversary today. With the IAF Chief’s address to the nation, the Shastra Puja, marchpast, wreath-laying ceremony, flypast, to awarding the brave air warriors with gallantry medals being some of the highlights of the aerial extravaganza, it has indeed been quite the spectacle! So, on the occasion of air force day, SSBCrack will be examining five of the IAF’s deadliest helicopters flown by India’s air warriors.
IAF day flypast
1.) Apache Attack Helicopter
IAF’s new Apache attack chopper
The Apache attack helicopter is widely regarded as the world most elite attack chopper and has been used extensively by the United States and Israel in their military campaigns. These famed attack uber elite attack helicopters serve as the primary attack chopper for the worlds most powerful military’s. The original Apache AH-64 was built as a four-blade, twin-engine attack chopper. The Apache boasts a 2X GE T-700 turbo-shaft engine; the chopper is armed with 16X laser-guided Hellfire missiles, Hydra general purpose 70 mm rockets and a 30 mm automatic cannon. The chopper is operated by a two-person crew comprising of a pilot and a gunner.
Designed by the Boeing Aerospace company, the Chinook transport helicopter is one of the worlds most superior heavy-lift choppers. The uber-sophisticated multi-mission helicopter was initially designed for the United States Army, and its military allies. India’s purchase of the Chinook gives the IAF a boost in its strategic airlift capability, enhancing its overall logistics potential. Other than cargo, the Chinooks are even used to transport Special Operations Forces Personnel and regular troops to their designated operational zones.
3.) Mil Mi-17 V5 Transport Helicopter
Mi-17 with an all-women crew
The Russian made Mi-17 V5 is another highly sophisticated transport helicopter in the IAF’s arsenal. The twin-turbine transport chopper is used by the IAF to transport the country’s prime minister domestically. Beyond being designated to fly the Indian head of state the Mi-17 V5 transport helicopter is used in a host of other transport and logistics roles such as transporting troops and rations to the Siachen glacier and other remote helipads. The helicopter is even used in search and rescue operations.
4.) Mil Mi 25 and Mi 35 Attack Choppers
Mi 35 attack helicopter
Before the induction of the legendary Apache attack helicopter, it was the Soviet-designed Mi 25 and Mi 35 which served as the primary attack chopper in the IAF. The Mi 35 attack helicopter was inducted in April 1990 to boost the forces offensive capabilities. The chopper comes armed with a four-barrel 12.7 mm rotary gun. The attack helicopter has the capability to carry 1,500 kilograms of external ordnance including Scorpion anti-tank missiles. The highly potent Mi 35 has a maximum cruise speed of 310 km/hr.
5.) HAL Chetak Utility Helicopter
Army variant of the HAL Chetak
The famed HAL Chetak utility helicopter has been manufactured in India under the official licence of the Defence Public Sector Undertaking Company (DPSU) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The soon to be replaced heptr, had been originally developed by the French-based aircraft firm Sud-Aviation with single-engine utility chopper christened as the Aerospatiale Alouette III. The Chetak has since its induction, been used extensively in Siachen and other high-altitude areas for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC), communication and liaison roles. The chopper can cruise at a maximum speed of 220 km/hr and carry six personnel or 500 kilograms of cargo load.
With Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announcing the Fit India campaign, former Special Forces officer, doctor and renowned international athlete, Major Surendra Poonia, VSM, moved by the prime minister’s initiative has decided to use his decade’s worth of combined military, sporting and medical experience to promote a spirit of fitness throughout the country, launching his flagship initiative, FitBharat. Speaking exclusively to SSBCrack, the renowned Para Special Forces Officer, who has served in the famed President’s Bodyguard proudly says, “Being a Special Forces veteran and a medical professional, I believe it is my soldierly duty to continue to serve the country by promoting an environment of health and fitness.” Major Poonia like a dutiful soldier, is on a mission to counter the country’s most significant national threat, the silent killer known as lifestyle diseases.
Major Surendra Poonia in his Special Forces Uniform
The root causes of these disorders have been linked with a lack of regular exercise and today’s sleep-deprived corporate culture. Being a former military man, the Ex-Special Forces Major came to the conversation armed to the teeth, this time with facts! The officer explains that “Lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, poor nutrition and improper sleep cycles are some of the leading causes of health-related ailments in India.” Elaborating on this, he says “7.1 per cent of the adult population in India are suffering from diabetes. There were an estimated 69.1 million cases of diabetes in India in the year 2015, and it has exceeded to around 70 million as of 2019! By 2030, almost 100 million of my fellow countrymen will suffer from diabetes.” The former Special Forces Commando says this with fiery conviction!
Major Poonia hitting the gym early in the morning!
Speaking about widespread obesity, Major Poonia says, “Obesity has become one of the leading health epidemics in the 21st century, with morbid obesity affecting approximately five per cent of the national population! This means over 6.8 million Indians suffer from morbid obesity. Being a sportsman it truly pains me to have to acknowledge that over 13.5 crore Indians are morbidly obese!” According to several research papers shared by Major Poonia to SSBCrack, it has been ascertained that obesity in the country has doubled in the past ten years. Going by the research presented by the retired officer, it has been found that the urban population and states with higher income groups have a higher rate of obesity.
Obesity leads to lower energy levels and, is a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases in India
While conversing with SSBCrack, Major Poonia shared his observations, splitting the anatomy of the leading causes of obesity and its implications on productivity, self-esteem, mental health and youth development. The former military medical professional spoke extensively, about the surge of junk food, appealing advertisements promoting unhealthy food choices, mobile games such as PUBG and Fortnite and their effects on the youth. “These mobile games have confined the youth in their rooms and have trapped them in a vicious cycle of unhealthy life choices”, he declares enraged! “A lack of importance given to sports and fitness in educational institutions is disheartening and a cause of grave concern,” says Major Poonia with a sense of genuine concern.
The Ex-Special Forces commando is still fighting fit!
During one of SSBCrack’s in-depth conversations with the former Special Forces doctor, he stressed on the vital role educational institutions have to play in promoting a spirit of fitness, among young school-going students. Major Poonia cited his discontent towards the syllabus of physical education in Indian schools. He says “Even physical education is taught through textbooks, and is evaluated through written exams! How is this physical fitness?”, the commando asks rhetorically. “This neglect,” he says “results in a generation of academically burdened youth with no outlet to vent their burdens.” Furthermore, they “lose out on so many benefits of taking part in sporting endeavours such as problem solving, teamwork, purpose, camaraderie, overcoming obstacles. This criminal neglect at an early stage follows them throughout their lives!” says the commando with great passion.
Major Poonia flexing after a tough swim!
Touching more on this, he says, “The lack of fitness being imbibed in young children at an early age haunts them when they become working professionals. The increasingly exploitative corporate work environment has resulted in significant health problems.” Putting out another chilling statistic, the former president’s bodyguard says, “63 per cent corporate professionals are overweight. This leads to heart conditions leading to death as aforementioned. It results in “lowered productivity, leading to stalled career progression, ultimately making an employee feel dejected and stressed.” This “stress,” the officer says, “results in poor sleep patterns, improper nutrition and host of mood swings affecting one’s mental and spiritual well being. It is an interconnected vicious cycle.”
The former special forces doctor indulging himself in a strenuous workout regime
Major Poonia keeps on reinforcing passionately, the need for regular, sustained exercise and healthy eating. “Being an athlete and a soldier serving in the elite special forces, I was fortunate to be in an environment where fitness was prioritised…Soldiering is a high stress a high-risk job, however, what I experienced was that the rigorous fitness regimen we were subjected to, significantly alleviated the stress which came from such a hazardous profession!” Drawing from his personal observations, the Special Forces doctor empathises the plight of corporate professionals, saying, “Corporate professionals play a crucial part in our nation-building process. They are the ones who provide us with essential services, design the softwares and infrastructure required to make our lives easier, and put our country on the world stage. They work tirelessly in the pursuit of nation-building, yet do not get the time or encouragement to give time to their own health!”
Winning accolades for India
Answering SSBCrack’squestions on what FitBharat hopes to achieve, the ex-commando says, “FitBharat, aims to imbibe a sense of physical fitness not only to our youth who are our future but even working professionals who are building our nation’s present.” Major Poonia stresses on the benefits of exercise on increased productivity at the workplace. “Focusing on personal health will undoubtedly help in enhanced mood and energy levels, resulting in better workplace productivity.” Efficient productivity, he says, “leads to superior output resulting in higher national growth!” The former army man says, “I believe that if we are physically fit as individuals, we can grow as a community, for me, fitness itself is a major national service!”
Serving under President Abdul Kalam
Ending the conversation with SSBCrack on a positive note, Major Poonia maintains an optimistic mindset towards the success ofFitBharat. He speaks about the gradual but increasing trend towards health and fitness in the country, and how more and more people are “indeed putting efforts towards their well being.” When asked on how he aims to promote the message of FitBharat to his target audience, he replied saying “We have already started with the Soldierathon, which is a marathon organised once a year, and it has received a nationwide response. Going on further we aim to tie up with several sporting brands to highlight youth inspiring messages, in order to promote our young guns to take the first step. We shall also partner with sports regulatory bodies and organise inter-college and university sporting events.” He stresses on the reach of social media platforms and portals like SSBCrack to further the message, saying, “In today’s day and age, social media and youth-based websites are a potent tool, through which we can advocate fitness, give health and nutrition advice to bridge the knowledge gap!” FitBharat intends to come out with hashtag based challenges, creating a supportive online community dedicated to one another’s growth!
Major Poonia showcasing his sports medals
Speaking about his roadmap for the long run, the fit commando says “Over time, we shall work with the Ministry of Human Resource Development, to develop state of the art sporting facilities in schools and educational institutions to inculcate sports and fitness at a much younger age.” Major Poonia being a battle-hardened commando is hopeful but remains a pragmatist, acknowledging the challenges for the road ahead. “See it will not happen overnight, it is not simple to change attitudes and I recognise it will take time and a lot of effort however I am satisfied beyond any doubt that we shall succeed, there is now a tremendous internal drive towards fitness, and this is something that will continue to increase and can be channelised for the betterment of society and the nation at large!”
Since its inception in 1971, Air Force Academy (AFA) at Dundigal has built a formidable reputation as the premier training institution of the Indian Air Force. It is situated 43 km from Hyderabad. Candidates, short-listed for Indian Air Force after the initial selection procedure, go through a rigorous three-year training regimen at the National Defence Academy at Khadakwasla, followed by specialised training at one of the training establishment. Thereafter, they are Commissioned as Permanent Commission Officers and posted as pilots at any of the Air Force Stations.
The Air Force Academy imparts training to Flying, Ground Duty (Technical & Non-technical) Branches as well as flying training to officers of the Army and Navy. It prepares you, both in mind and spirit, to take on the responsibilities of an Air Force Officer. Apart from developing the required skills, you are also trained to inculcate the service code of conduct and etiquette that are expected of an officer. The curriculum encompasses plethora of techniques like projects, case studies, On-job training, presentations, debates, book reviews, guest lectures, public speaking, drill, games, swimming, weapon training, Yoga, fieldcraft training and cultural activities to enhance knowledge base as well as to ensure overall development of a trainee as gentleman officer.
The Indian army had launched their flagship civilian outreach program, Operation Sadbhavna in the valley in 1998. The objective of the military’s civic action initiative was to give Kashmir a healing touch, eradicating insurgency by winning the hearts and minds of the local population. Sadbhavna, since the inception of Sdbhavna over two decades ago, The Indian army has launched several successful civilian aid programs. Thes military outreach initiatives have done their best to counter venomous insurgent propaganda. To change public perception about the military being an occupying force. Lastly and perhaps most importantly make the lives of civilians simpler in a militancy prone environment.
A soldier from the Rashtriya Rifles distributing books to children as part of the army’s Operation School Chalo in 2016
Here is a glimpse of some of the army’s aid programs in the valley in the past two years
Army’s Super 30 gets Kashmiri youth into IIT’s
Inauguration of the Super 30 initiative
Indian Army started their second batch of Super-30, an initiative to provide free coaching to youths.”It is an Indian Army, NEIDO and HPCL initiative, an initiative to provide them with the chance to hone their skills,” says Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen KJS Dhillon. Students appearing for medical entrance exams like MBBS, AIIMS and NEET will get an opportunity to study in this educational centre. Under this initiative, the students will get coaching and guidance for a period of twelve months for entrance examinations of various Medical Colleges spread across India.
Kashmiri students studying under the Super 30 program
Mission Reachout
Indian army doctor checking an elderly lady’s blood pressure
The Indian army spearheaded several relief activities following the historic repeal of article 370 of the Indian Constitution. Indian soldiers were hard at work to establish communication centres in J&K amidst a massive communication blockade by the centre. The communication centres set up by the army eased communication gaps between the local Kashmiri’s and their friends and families in the mainland during such one of contemporary India’s most challenging decisions. Indian soldiers further assisted the locals by providing essential medical services and other necessities.
Army officer promoting a culture of education in the valley
The Army launched a medical camp in the memory of a martyr
Earlier this year, the army held a multi-speciality medical camp in memory of Naib Subedar Chinni Lal, an army soldier who laid down his life in the line of duty in J&K. Twenty doctors and six multi specialists for the Army Medical Corps (MC) and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Super Speciality Hospital, provided medical aid to 3,000 Kashmiri locals from the Doda district.
A doctor from the Army Medical Corps providing aid to an elderly Kashmiri man
“We are grateful to the Indian army for organising such a camp for us here, and we hope the force will continue the noble deed of helping the poor and needy is such far-flung districts such as Doda, where there is gross shortage of medical facilities,” says Mohammed Akbar Gujjar, a resident of the Dooru-Sartingal village.
Army distributed books and sports equipment to militancy affected orphans
Army fostering an environment of sports
The Indian army distributed books and sports equipment to the Amphalla orphanage. The children were orphaned as a result of militant violence in the valley.
Locals receiving cash prize for performance in army organised cross country race
Civic infrastructure and sanitation
Indian army’s commitment to women empowerment
Under operation Sadbhavna the army had recently conducted bricklaying around a local pond in the Rajpura Kaular village, they even constructed a community hall adjacent to the lake. The military has also built several bathrooms for women in remote areas keeping in mind female hygiene. In an effort to promote sports to channelise energy amongst the youth in the valley, the civic action projects have also aimed at creating world-class sporting facilities. Most recently the Indian army inaugurated a basketball court and the Government Highschool in Madana, located at the border area of the Poonch district.
The army organised the North Kashmir Kickboxing championship to help the youth channelise aggression constructively.Indian soldiers rescuing a young Kashmiri girl during the 2017 Kashmir floods
A helping hand
The Indian army, apart from its regular counter-insurgency functions, has strived to do their part in making a positive change in the lives of the people who are caught in between the crossfire. Today countless youngsters from the valley are eminent jurists, engineers, doctors, civil servants in part due to the educational and skill development programs organised by the fighting force. The army has always been there for the people of Kashmir, be it in a natural disaster and routine life.
As of 2018, over 1,200 cadets of the premier tri-services college, the National defence academy have quit, in the middle of their three-year training curriculum in the past ten years. The average washout rate of cadets is at an alarming 16 to 20 per cent of the overall course intake. Both former cadets and several alumni of the elite military institution have cited ragda (a concept which some of those interviewed for this article have constituted to ragging), corporal punishment and unsanctioned training practices. Other key reasons for such a staggering drop out rate have been a lack of physical fitness on the part of cadets, being boarded out on medical grounds, indiscipline, homesickness and, on certain instances realising that the reality of serving in the forces is not the same as they had envisioned.
Ragda, being a key factor for the staggeringly high dropout rate, has been hotly debated amongst Ex-NDA’s
NDA cadets after a ragda session in the middle of the night
The verdict on whether such use of punishment is justified has been hotly debated within military circles and among ex-NDA’s themselves. In a report by outlook magazine, retired Colonel PK Royal Mehrishi, an NDA alumnus, told the Asia Times that the fifth and sixth term cadets ordered the first and second term cadets to roll down the staircase of three-story buildings, vault over wooden horses, do backflips, handsprings among a host of other activities without the supervision of a qualified instructor. The report quoted the retired Colonel saying that “Senior cadets believe they’re toughening them for war or better performance in the hard-fought inter squadron competitions.”
This belief has been echoed by several service personnel who have reached great heights in their military careers. Distinguished officers with exceptional operational records have sworn by these methods, despite being on the receiving end of ragda themselves. Defence services officers have over the years have provided compelling arguments justifying the military necessity of such informal punishments. According to a retired army officer who does not wish to be identified, “The Army wants to make you tough, more mentally than physically. Ragda is there to make you know your physical and mental limits and then cross the same.” The operative phrase in training is “Jitna ragda utna tagda!” meaning “the harder the punishment the tougher you get!”
“Jitna ragda utna tagda” But what is ragda?
‘Ragda’ the according to a Quora post by Kiran Raul, who is a battle-hardened infantry officer, has described ragda with a pinch of crude humour, writing, “Ragda in a physical sense or practical sense means you are going to spend the next few hours, depending on the severity of your misdemeanour, or outrage felt by the executor of the ragda, is doing a lot of funny but painful or tiring actions, including but not limited to rolling with or without a shirt on your back, on surfaces ranging from a cement floor, gravel to hot tarmac.”
Pushups till fatigue
He goes on further describing ragda as “A lot of push-ups, carrying around your heaviest coursemate on your shoulders, running a lot under the hot sun, drinking a lot of water until you puke, if you don’t puke easily, a front roll and a back roll will help speed that up.”
front rolling is also known as Gulati in the academy
The retired infantry officer goes on to split the anatomy of the vaguely defined military training terminology, writing “crawling on gravel roads and any other hard surface that hurt, standing for a long time carrying weights, pouring buckets of water on your head on a cold winter night.” The aforementioned he explains is only the “tip of the iceberg,” Raul writes rather humorously.
Cadet channelising his aggression on the training dummy
“The procedures are only limited by the imagination.” From green chillies being fed to cadets found sleeping in class to backbreaking exercise after which you will be unable to sleep, everything that is not a part of the formal training curriculum is included in ragda. Raul further writes in his post that “Some innovative, enterprising and sincere candidates have honed ragda into an art form!”
creative punishments are designed by the senior term cadets
Many Ex-Servicemen have stood by the effectiveness of ragda, in forging a cadet into a warrior
The officer in question and a dozen other officers who were interviewed for the background of this article have staunchly advocated the effectiveness of ragda, and now fondly recollect their own experiences. These officers maintain that soldiering is not an ordinary job and there is no civilian equivalent. Soldiers are required to operate in some of the most barbaric, amoral and geographically austere environments in the country. These deployments often involve serving in sub-zero temperatures or in the scorching hot deserts of Rajasthan.
Soldiers serving in the freezing landscape of Siachen
Indian army sniper taking part in a desert exercise
The punishing geography coupled with the thought of ones own mortality is enough to break the will of even the most resilient men and women. Ragda ensures that only the toughest make through the ranks. If they cannot hack it, they certainly will not survive combat. Even many cadets share the same belief, with one cadet who does not wish to be identified saying “Ragda gives you spontaneous pain, but the ustaads are preparing you for a bright future, where you can face the enemy!”
However not all advocate it, the practice has faced stiff opposition
A still from general Panag’s interview with Newslaundry
Lieutenant General Harcharanjit Panag (PVSM, AVSM) who has served as the General officer commanding-in-Chief of both the Indian Army’s Northern Command and Central Command, has strongly opposed the practice in an opinion piece published for The Print. In the article, he wrote, “The defence academy is in desperate need for reforms. The issue is relative as in matters of leadership, good is not good enough!” The general in an explosive comment declared that “The executive, administration and instructional staff in the NDA are selected from the armed forces on the basis of a flawed and inflated approval system, instead of their aptitude. The first available and not the best.” General Panag highlights that “there is a tendency among the young officer instructors, themselves groomed by the flawed leadership development at the NDA, to replicate their own experience with respect to their cadets.” The flag officer elaborates that “This not only condones and encourages the unethical ragging and illegal punishments but also scuttles reforms attempted by the system.”
Maharaja position is used as a disciplinary measure during training
The general is of the opinion that there is a colonial mindset, not fit for 21st-century warfare. “The leadership development programme is inspired by the outdated traditional military culture of breaking the will through subjugation to ensure discipline, uniformity and adherence,” says General Panag The general further explains that “A large part of this is done in barracks by senior cadets who are products of the same flawed system.” The methods employed according to General Panag are unjust and illegal “Bullying and illegal ways of punishment and other forms of punishments amounting to physical abuse are rampant, junior officer instructors become complicit in upholding the flawed tradition.” He goes on to explain his understanding of the NDA culture saying the “ends justify the means” further stating “survival of the fittest” beg, borrow steal” “never volunteer” and “never snitch” is a deeply entrenched part of barrack culture. “Individual Creativity and initiative are considered taboo!”
BSF trainees holding the Maharaja position in the mud (Representational image)
The former Army Commander recommends that “The NDA should be producing creative leaders, driven by military ideals, but ends up producing ‘adherent under supervision leaders’ whose NDA traits remain latent and come to the fore when they get higher independent commands.”
Special Forces men post-operation
General Panag’s published remarks on the premier military institution were met with both support and harsh criticism from ex-NDAs, with retired Special Forces Major and Sena Medal awardee Siddarth Chatterjee supporting the general’s views saying, “My father is an ex-National Defence Academy, I am a proud alumnus of NDA and I entirely agree with General Panag’s views.” The special forces officer further states “outdated courses to rampant ragging, the NDA does need urgent help.” he adds to what General Panag said in great detail saying “I have experienced first hand the soul-destroying, humiliating and mental torture in the NDA.” he strongly maintains that “Nothing can justify this form of ragging and many carry life long mental trauma.” Like General Panag, the special forces major too highlights the institutionalised nature of the problem saying “Many squadron commanders and divisional officers encouraged this practice.” “The pass it on syndrome!” he calls it.
Cadets practising routine drills
Speaking on the foundation of faulty leadership the ex-commando says “The NDA robs an individual of initiatives and creativity. It epitomises the Armed Forces as it persists in the prevalence of authoritative type, fawning to superiors and often harsh and uncaring to juniors.” he concludes with the statement that “The NDA is no exception and out of touch with modern-day trends.”
Cadets starting with firearms training
However not all agree with the above viewpoints, and many servicemen have condemned General Panag’s remarks about the institution. Karamjeet (Name changed for an undisclosed reason) an ex-serviceman, countered the general’s remark about barrack culture saying, “If someone has been found to be doing something wrong, the system takes action. People are punished or counselled.” he adds that “The NDA teaches courage, some gems from my course and many other courses have been martyred doing their duty, the way various academy’s taught.” He asked the general to compare the members of the services taking part in such nefarious practices to the ratio of those doing an honest day’s work. Lieutenant Colonel Bharat Gupta says, “Only the brave, determined and war-hardened survive, as per the law of survival of the fittest.” The retired Lt.Col goes on to defend the academy saying, “The NDA is meant to produce such fauladi leaders and not sissies! People who will brave it out in any circumstance and yet lead men into the extremest dangers knowing fully about the consequences.”
Ex-NDA’s have fought gallantly in every major conflict fought by India
A lot of service members were critical of the General for not pushing reforms, during his 40 years in uniform and, have questioned why he is writing such articles once he is out of uniform.
A Cradle Of Military Leadership!
Future military leaders
Despite the increasing drop out rate of NDA cadets and long-standing debates of large-scale reforms in the tri-services institution, its training curriculum, civilian staff and unofficial practices. One thing beyond debate is the fact that the National Defence Academy has given the country some of its finest military leaders, living up to its reputation as a cradle of military leadership.
In image a uniformed guy in front whose face wasn’t
shown was carrying an AK-47 in his hand, there were 3 women in background who
were working in a field.
Wrote a story about young Lt carrying out ci/ct ops in
valley after getting inputs from local villagers. Total time was 5 min (1min to
write details+ 4min story)
Note-
Observe image clearly (head count,
sex, mood)
Listen to small details while briefing.
Make reasonable assumptions if
picture is too hazy.
Avoid using direct adjectives (brave, smart)
action part of story will cover that.
Practice writing at home for better
speed and accuracy.
Don’t force a positive story on a
obvious serious image.
No wishful thinking (became engineer,
got posted in his village and made bridge overnight.
Discussion-
Stared with individual narration, finished within
40sec. It was one of the worst fish markets I have seen and that too in April’s
Allahabad heat, everyone was drenched. Group of 22 were made. The group was
divided into half, while one discussed other was quite. Spoke 3-4 times in
discussion was able to help group decide theme and no. of characters after a
minute discussion was called off and we were told to wait for results.
28 got screened in.
Note-
Stay calm during discussion.
Be precise in your argument and
avoid cliché statements.
We were given 11 set of images, made story within time
limit (4min/each), each image was shown for 30sec. 12 was blank wrote that.
Rules for writing were same as that of ppdt except mentioning no. of
characters, sex etc.
60 set of situations were given and time given was
30min. Did 36/60
Note-
Don’t write mugged up responses.
Write exact response which u would
have done in that situation.
Practice is required for attempting
more.
Don’t write anything for sake of
achieving 60/60.
Self Description-
There were 5 sections to be written what parents,
teachers/employer (for working candidate), friends think about u and what kind of person u wanna be. Total time
was 15 min.
Note-
Take honest opinion of parents,
teacher, friends etc.
Be specific and don’t write in
points and listing all adjectives.
Prepare in advance, practice if
writing speed is slow.
After that our documents were verified. We were told
about interviews schedules, I was allotted day 3(next day).
Interview
People who didn’t had interviews went out, I was
sleeping in barracks at 5pm duty NCO came and told me to get ready for
interview as there was still time for one more candidate( I thought I should
have gone out too 😉 ). President Sir was going to take my interview(
nervousness shot up) with still half slept mind. After 15min I was called in.
Entered the room, to my surprise sir were really cool.
I/o- “So Ashish, guess u r not so lucky today.”
Me- “Why sir ?”
I/o- “I woke u up from sweet dream”.
Me- “Not a problem sir, I’ll sleep early today”.
*both smiling*
After 15 min of informal chit chat interview
‘started’.
I/o- “So u do cycling good, what is angle of attack?”
I was taken back for a moment, as I was in Air Ncc
this was expected I gave all the answer regarding aircraft and fathers unit.
Then interview was shifted to personal life questions
took a lot of time there were multiple rapid fires with 8-9 question that too
numeral times. Then came time when we shifted to high gear for last 15min.
I/o- “why monkey doesn’t gets shock while walking on
wire?”
Me- told
I/o- what is earthing? (my branch is electronics so
expected).
Me- told
Then a series of questions I couldn’t answer- Asian
games and other sports related questions. Then I gave my reason for same. Then
he asked me to give topics.
I/o- ok what all u have prepared.
Me- international affairs
i/o asked about following Iran nuclear deal, Israel
issue, Russia Ukraine crisis, Kashmir problem solutions, Venezuela.
Me- Answered all in details, i/o was little satisfied.
I/o-Explain Bernoulli’s theorem.
Me- Told
I/o- are u sure?
Me- yes sir
i/o- You are wrong.
Then our conversation went for 5min and got heated up so was I, at 6:30pm in a ac room I was sweating. I never had such interview in past I was sure I’m not gonna make it this time too and I tried to respond in calm manner (which actually helped). After it was over I came out disappointed and actually checked for ticket back home 😉
Notes-
Prepare current affairs and other
topic mentioned in PIQ.
Stay calm even if it is not going
well(remember they don’t hate u 😉
Be honest about your details such
as exams and attempts.
Never lie, it’s never smooth down
that road.
Don’t mug up just before interview
just relax in waiting area.
I tried to forget about interview and carried out gto
without any hesitation or nervousness. After briefing we started.
Group Discussion
Group of 9 were made, my group was really calm as
compared to others and we heard more noise from other groups. Both topic were
general and everyone spoke well I was surprised with level of coordination that
to in a group of repeaters. My confidence shot up thinking I can cover up with
gto. Topic was reason for poor education system in India and 3 sub points. We
voted for topic in 1st gd and everyone agreed. I spoke abt 4-5 times
each and gave reasonable points and examples with statistics and group agreed.
Notes-
Read current affairs issue, editorials to
widen horizon.
Stay calm all the time let other
speak too.
Don’t start unnecessary arguments.
Avoid repeating what somebody else
told.
We get limited chances so don’t
waste with “gto sir has given very good topic”.
A sheet was given with details of various tasks to be
executed simultaneously. We wrote the plan individually in 10min and then
discussed the solution. There were multiple ideas and corrections in plan then
I was nominated to give group solution.
Notes-
Stay calm during discussion and
listen to others point.
Give logical and doable plan.
Don’t give personal story in conclusion.
Group Obstacle Race (GOR)-
All 3 groups were briefed about various obstacles,
each team was told to decide a war cry. After successfully doing all obstacles
we were able to solve all the obstacles with few penalties, but our team won
and made sure other teams know that.
Progressive Group Task (PGT)-
Our team was briefed about the entire obstacle we have
to solve and told about various rules while going through obstacles like rules
of color, rigidity and physical force. We were stuck at few places but with
help of others we got through. We completed 3/4 set of obstacles. There was
confusion at last obstacle as people ran out of ideas and got impatient.
Notes-
Stay calm all the time don’t argue.
First think then give ideas and
help others.
Avoid breaking rules and keep
others in check too, do
Whatever penalties are instructed
if rule is broken.
Each candidate was to speak on any 1 of 4 given topics
of varying difficulties. Time for preparation was 3 min and we have to speak
for 3 min. There was a warning bell at 2:30 and again 3:00. Everyone spoke
well. My topic was Middle East Crisis.
Notes-
Organize your thoughts properly before starting intro, body and conclusion.
Maintain a good body posture, be loud and clear.
Try to finish within time limit.
Topics are general in nature and list is available at ssbcrack.com prepare in advance.
Practice public speaking at school/college if u feel the need.
Half group Task (HGT)-
We were divided in two teams and were told to solve
similar set of obstacle as that in PGT. Group did well and we were able to
solve it quickly.
Day 3 ended and we went out to explore the city.
Day 4 (GTO-2)
Individual Obstacle-
A set of 10 obstacles were there which to be done
within 3 min and you can repeat if all are covered. We were given about 30 sec
to observe obstacles. I did 12, as it was NCC batch so everyone managed to do 9
or more.
Notes-
Make a clear plan on how u will
execute it.
If u get stuck for long time move
to other and come back later.
Avoid red color on obstacle and
running on commando walk.
Command Task-
We all were briefed, GTO would call us one by one and
we will call 2 subordinates of our choice. I was called 6 times as subordinate.
During my time I was given task of moderate difficulty and was able solve all,
the GTO increased difficulty by reducing helping material.
Notes-
Don’t give hints as subordinate
until asked.
Make full use of resources, avoid
manual force.
Stay calm during entire process.
Final Group Task-
Instructions were same as that of PGT but only few
obstacles were there. We were able to solve all of them quickly, after the task
we were debriefed.
// End of day 4, went out that day //
DAY 5 (D-Day)
The atmosphere was tense but we were happy and made a lot of new friends. We were lined up for conference; I waited a bit longer about 5 min. As soon as I entered I greeted the President.
President – “ So, ashish u are smiling u think u did
good this time ?”
Me- “Yes Sir” //nervous tone due to flashbacks of PI//
President- “Tell me 4 diff things u learned from here
?”
Me- Did // was told to leave//
After waiting Pysc came for results with no folder of
paper //suspected washout//. He gave valuable advise then gave results my CH no
was called and then another we both shook hands and then everyone came to
congratulate then I felt light headed as I realized I finally got recommended.
I cleared my medicals and got AIR-40 in NCC (army) and
AIR-1 in SSCT53.
I’m joining OTA in October.
Keep going, u never know when will
be your lucky day, even if u didn’t u wont regret that u missed your chance.
Go prepared every time learn from
previous mistakes; try learning something new every day. Don’t increase your
attempts unnecessarily.
For first timers this is your best
shot, don’t go casually.
For all hardcore repeaters just
remember why you started.
Speaking about the friendly fire incident which resulted in the accidental downing of an Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter, resulting in the loss of lives of six IAF personnel and one civilian. The newly appointed Air force Chief Air Marshall RKS Bhadauria has said it was a “Big mistake on our part. We accept it.” The airforce’s top officer has stated that a court of inquiry had completed its sitting last week. “Our missile had hit the helicopter, this has been established. Administrative action and disciplinary action is being taken.”
IAF Chief RKS Bhadauria speaking to ANI about the Mi-17 helicopter crash
The friendly fire incident took place at around the same time Indian and Pakistani fighter jets were engaged in aerial combat along the Line of Control, following the events of Operation Bandar ie The Balakot Airstrikes.
The Government of India has made a landmark proposal, to allow civilians to visit the Highly strategic Siachen Glacier. The Glacier at 22,000 feet is the worlds highest battlefield and is manned by highly motivated soldiers and officers of the Indian Army. These soldiers serve in some of the most austere conditions known to man, at a great personal cost. With citizens likely to be allowed to visit the icy frontiers, here are five things about the Inhospitable Siachen Glacier you probably did not know about.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/BycSRQVAJ1o/
1.) Only Thing Preventing A Joint Pakistani-Chinese Military Offensive
Pakistani flag patch on a soldiers arm.
The barren icy landscape of the Siachen Glacier serves as one of the countries most geostrategic locations. The 22,000 feet high geographical monstrosity is the only thing keeping the Pakistani Army from linking up with the Chinese military to launch a combined offensive.
2.) Siachen is Guarded Daily On An Astronomical Cost!
Logistics is a risky and very costly affair at Siachen
The cost to secure the Siachen Glacier is monumental! An estimated five to seven crore rupees goes to sustain the daily operations and logistics at Siachen. The significance of maintaining the supremacy over Siachen justifies the significant financial toll it takes.
3.) Hellish Serving Conditions
Every day is a personal war (Picture Courtesy Praveen Khanna)
Soldiers deployed at the Glacier serve on a three-month rotation, meaning after the completion of 90 days a new unit takes over. Before a solider or young officer is deployed the icy frontier, they are made to undergo rigorous training at the famed High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) in Jammu and Kashmir. However, no amount of training can prepare a soldier for the brutal condition in which the men and officers have to serve. Soldiers are often required to march a distance of 128 kilometres in around 28 days to reach some of the most remote military outposts of the Indian Army. Covering such punishing distances in an environment where oxygen is scarce and risk to the cardiovascular and respiratory system is high makes the job a nightmare.
4.) Mother Nature Is The Most Ruthless Killer
The mortal remains of soldiers who lost their lives at the Siachen Glacier
For the soldiers manning the countries icy frontiers, survival is a daily battle. More than 1,000 Indian soldiers have breathed their last on the remote glacier, out of whom only 200 soldiers lost their lives in a military engagement. A bulk of the casualties on both the Indian and Pakistani side were the result of harsh weather conditions, sometimes the circumstances of the deaths, mean that the mortal remains of the soldiers are not found or are not recoverable. Such a situation takes a massive psychological toll on the soldiers deployed there. Pulmonary oedema, acute mountain sickness, suicide in rare cases is also a result of loneliness and the barren landscape. Death, however, is not the only challenge the environment poses; soldiers are known to suffer from frostbite, which often turns into gangrene and requires immediate amputation. According to a retired army major who served in Siachen, soldiers at times have torn layers of their own skin while taking off their boots, at times stripping flesh to the point of exposing bone!
Cheetah Helicopter pilot making an emergency landing for casualty evacuation
5.) India Currently Maintains The Military Initiative
Practising Rappeling at HAWS for operations in Siachen
India maintains the strategic initiative, with Indian Army having entrenched itself in superior positions. The Pakistani Army positions in the Siachen Glacier remains around 2,000 feet below the Indian army’s posts.
Soldiers patrolling the barren glacier
Siachen is an unforgiving glacier, that is manned tirelessly by soldiers of the Indian Army, at great personal cost. The weight of the geostrategic location is also felt by the honest taxpayer whose hard-earned money goes into the smooth operation of life at those heights. The natural boundary serves as a testament to a soldiers commitment to duty and superhuman resolve.
It has been widely reported that the Indian Airforce is facing a massive shortage of squadrons. With the IAF operating a squadron strength of only 32 over its sanctioned size of 44 squadrons. Many have raised concerns over such criminal neglect. However, for most of those who are not attuned to military issues and terminology, the question has been, what is a squadron? This article will answer just that! A squadron is a military unit, which in the case of a flying squadron, comprises of a fixed number of aircraft, pilots, ground staff, maintenance specialists. A squadron has often been designated a type of aircraft. So, for instance, a MiG-21 squadron will comprise only of MiG’s and pilots along with support staff who have been specially trained on that particular platform. Squadrons are not limited to flying units, but also includes air defence and engineering units.
Jets flying in formation
The IAF fighter squadrons typically have 18 operationally deployed aircraft, with three crafts kept as a reserve.
IAF transport aircraft Golden Arrows Squadron Who Will Fly The Rafales Fighters
Facts: No. 1 Squadron (The Tigers), the oldest squadron of the Indian Air Force operates as a multirole (air superiority and electronic warfare) unit. Part of 40 Wing of the Indian Air Force under Central Air Command, it is based at Maharajpur in Gwalior.
Captain Akhilesh Saxena is not one to be chained to his desk. Now, Vice President of Tata Communications and founder of the motivational speaking platform ‘Inspiring Mantra’s’ had two decades ago, led a team of Rajputana Rifles to capture the ‘Three Pimple’ peak, in one of the Indian Army’s most pivotal missions during the Kargil operations. The capture of Tololing, led by Captain Saxena and other military legends, such as Captain Vikram Batra and Captain Vijayant Thapar. (Both of whom he has served with) The actions of these young officers, who are now household names, changed the face of the Kargil war. Severely wounded in Kargil, Captain Saxena started his second inning corporate, after being awarded a Gold medal from FMA.
Captain Saxena and Mrs Shikha Saxena paying their respects to the martyrs of Operation VijayBeing awarded at the Aegis Graham Bell AwardsCaptain Saxena being awarded for excellence in Corporate
Despite being a senior corporate professional, Captain Saxena has always gone out his way, to motivate the youth. Imparting some of the most critical leadership lessons he learned from the battlefield. To do so, he along with his wife Mrs Sikha Saxena started a popular Motivational Talks forum for youngsters named ‘Inspiring Mantras’. The Saxena’s have been invited as chief guests at the Kargil celebrations, National Cadet Corps programs and have been called in as keynote speakers, during many educational, management and media events. It is through these events that they have strived to inspire the youth to keep national interests in mind.
Two decades after Kargil the Army officer has still ready to lock and loadMrs Saxena firing an INSAS rifle during Kargil celebrationsThe military couple inspiring young NCC cadets to be patriotic citizensThe hardcore military man still kills the miles!
Two Decades Since Kargil, The Adventure is Still On!
Before the dangerous extreme sporting event
Recently the inspiring ‘Fauji’ couple embarked on a risky adventure! They successfully attempted the dangerous ‘couple jump’ at Victoria Falls. This extreme sporting activity, notorious for its grave risk, takes place at the scenic Victoria Falls, located between the Zimbabwe and Zambia border. These falls are home to several adrenaline-pumping adventure activities, most notably, the couples bungee jump. The Couples Jump attempted by Captain Saxena and his wife, is said to be one of the most challenging bungee events in the world.
Glimpses From The Jump Of A Lifetime!
Four seconds of high risk and adrenaline!The jump requires pinpoint coordination between the two jumpersTrust is crucial!
Captain Saxena has once again gone on to show that you can’t take the soldier out of an ex-serviceman, no matter their occupational profile.
Revisiting the battlegrounds in which he fiercely fought two decades ago
