Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Career in ARMY an excellent option in one’s life

Career in ARMY an excellent option in one’s life. 

Excellent pay package, perks and privileges is not the only attraction. 
In a remote, forgotten corner of India in Kohima, Nagaland lies a war memorial for all those who laid down their lives fight Japanese in Burma during the Second World War. On a monument at the foot of cemetery is an inscription which reads”When you go home tell them of us and say for your tomorrow we gave our today". 


That in many ways represents the Indian Army. Things have changed pay packages and privileges have improved; but still there are men who keep vigil so that the rest of the country can sleep safe at night. 


Fighting for your country is the highest honour one can get. 




With my batch officers for Young Technical Officer's course
in EME (Electronics and Mechanical Engineers) School ,Vadodara 



There are various modes of entry in to Army. For officers after +2 ,NDA(National Defence Academy, Pune) then IMA(Indian Military Academy, Dehradun) or OTA(Officers Training Academy, Chennai) 
Graduates can appear for written test for NDA, IMA, OTA, then SSB(Service Selection Board) and Medical Test to enter Army. Engineering graduates go to Technical Corps) 
Women cadets are eligible to apply for SSC(Short Service Commission).It is for those who want to serve in Army for some time, get experience of Army life and then move on. A stint in the Army is great asset. The system is well organized and institutionalized. Corporate look for a lot of skills that are imparted in the defence services and those who go out get hired very soon. 
Army officers are well trained in man management because they constantly involved in leading jawans from different places and backgrounds under adverse conditions. 


To get there it requires a lot of hard work and training ,and it does not come easy. Read on....



Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Transformation Begins......


The life in the Academy was really tough and had tight schedules. Early morning start with Drill in OG dress. Within 10 minutes after completion of Drill, we have to change in PT dress and have to fall in the PT ground. After PT, take bath, change in to Mufti and rush to GC's mess for breakfast. Come back to barracks after breakfast to take the books and other material for next session. It may be in-door or out door classes and the class room for next period may be at some other corner of the campus. If its weapon training class we have to rush to “koth” to collect the weapon and then go to Weapon Training area. So we have to literally run to reach in the classes on time. After Lunch break there may have some rest, for those are prompt and if not caught for any wrong doing, otherwise we will be in the drill ground under sun doing punishment parade .Evening games parade, hobby club on selected days, study parade, dinner and night light off on fixed time. Sunday is engaged with weapon cleaning and compulsory movie(forbidden from sleeping in the hall !! We will get frequent wake up call through out the movie!!).We hardly get any time to think about the outer world. 


By the end of the first term all the cadets come to the same grid. Their response will be matching and every movement would have synchronized like in drill parade ground. In first term every cadets are made broken physically and mentally and a new solid man was moulded in that place. This transform every cadets to capable men having administrative, leadership and managerial capability to handle any kind of situations and problems arise in service. Now all mental blocks are vanished, man making start. In second term we get opportunity to improve more and implement what we learned on our juniors and open to outer world.




after a cycle parade 


during a sight seeing trip

Friday, July 31, 2009

Disciplined Prompt Action is A Soldier’s Virtue


with my Drill Ustad Kashmira Singh and Jessami Company in OTA,Madras 

Similar to every individual’s life, crisis is common and unavoidable in every mission. We are taught to prepare for any unexpected events in life. We have to work with the limited resources available in least time. Every crisis to be managed well. Our extempore nature is called in every minute. All our preparedness is to face the situation with lot of contingency plans. Decision making is the prime factor. First lesson in the academy is to keep ourselves lean and disciplined. Drill is the prime activity to develop promptness in action on each and every command. Integrity in thought and action achieved through it. It is the prime requirement of every soldier.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Sam Manekshaw, a soldier no soldier can forget



Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw died on this day(27th June) ,last year (2008).As a tribute, this posting is the reminiscence shared at that time by Major General Eustace D’Souza (retd) about him . 

As a young major in 1947, Eustace D’Souza first read about Major Sam Manekshaw when reading about the Burma campaign in World War II. Manekshaw was shot in the stomach when he and his company were holding the Sittang bridge. For that act of valour, he was given the Military Cross on the field of battle; his commanding British officer did not expert the flamboyant Parsi officer to survive. But survive Sam did, leading the Indian Army to an incredible military victory in the 1971 war. Commissioned in the Indian Army in 1943, Major General D’Souza (retd), now 87, has fought four wars and had several interactions with Field Marshal Manekshaw. He spoke about the man who was an outstanding leader of men. A first person account of a great soldier who passed into the ages shortly after midnight June 27:


Till yesterday Sam Manekshaw was the oldest living field marshal in the world.


I first met Sam Manekshaw when I was facing the Chinese in Nathu La, commanding a brigade. It was in 1964-1965. The Chinese were across a little strip and my brigade held them when they first moved up with 2,000 troops, we held fast, we didn’t panic like in ‘62.


Sam came to visit us as he was very pleased, and then he came again to request me to stay on as brigade commander. I told him, ‘Sir I have a family too, I have been away from my family for four years — three in high altitude.’ He recommended me to the National Defence College and I went there.


He was very perceptive. When he came to visit me at Nathu La at 13,600 ft, I was a brigadier then with 5,000 troops under me. He said, ‘Souzie — he used to call me that –what do you do for your young officers, they must be absolutely cheesed off here.’


He went back to Calcutta and sent back a packet of girly magazines. He said this is for your young officers. He had wanted to see how I lived and saw a portable record player with lots of LPs — and I am a Western classical music fan. He went back and sent a parcel with a LP record of the famous American singer Marian Anderson.


He was fearless. When he was a major with the Sikh company in Burma, they had a promotion meeting for the appointment of lance naik to naik.


He didn’t approve of one name because he said he was a rascal. That man sent word to Sam saying, ‘I would kill you.’ So Sam Manekshaw told his senior subedar — ‘Unko march karna hai’.


He was marched before Sam and he asked him — ‘You are going to kill me? Here’s my pistol, now come on shoot me.’ That man was so taken aback that he marched out meekly. Sam appointed him as batman. That was the sort of man he was.


Once in a riot he walked through the crowd with just his cane.


Once he visited our 4th battalion in the ‘65 war in the Barmer sector. There was a mike etc for him and he said, ‘Take this bloody thing off, I want to speak to my boys.’ He knew how to win people. In Nathu La, we got tea for him on a silver tray and he said, ‘I want it in a mug.’


Professionally he was good, there is no doubt about it. He was the first Indian to be appointed by the British after World War II to the military operations directorate.


Just before the war ended, he was sent on a three month deputation to Australia to tell them about the Indian Army. He did a good job. He came into focus then.


When he became chief it was a toss up between him and (Lieutenant) General Harbaksh Singh. His becoming chief was touch and go between him and General Harbaksh. Tactically and strategically, he was a very good soldier. He knew how to get around men. He commanded the Western and Eastern Commands — both hot seat commands.


He will always be remembered as the creator of Bangladesh and the man who split Pakistan. What was most outstanding was that he could get a team going because the Navy and Air Force, who were always at loggerheads, he got them around in Bangladesh.


If there was no Bangladesh, he would not be a field marshal. He was at the right place at the right time. He deserved to be field marshal because he carried the air force and navy with him in ‘71. Remember we were fighting on two fronts — east and west. He stood out.


He had a presence, was impeccable in dress and appearance. His shoes were polished, he had a good knowledge of the English language, sense of humour and was a good orator.


When (then prime minister) Mrs (Indira) Gandhi asked him if he was going to take over the country, he told her are you asking for my resignation on grounds of mental instability? Here’s my resignation.


His only fault if you can call it that is having an inner circle of friends but who doesn’t. All of them flourished. Once I was told that Sam Manekshaw doesn’t like anyone taller than him.


In the ‘71 war, I was commanding the division in Baramulah — responsible for 200 kms of the border between India and Pakistan, somebody carried tales to him that when I took over the division, my predecessor said — ‘I’m sorry Souzie there are no Gorkhas in this division’ and I said — ‘thank god’.


That was carried to Sam; after that he was after my blood (the field marshal was from the Gorkha regiment] Sam. During the war, my division captured 73 square kilometres of Pakistan territory, but he never visited my boys. I had 25,000 troops from 365 castes and communities.


I retired in 1978 and came to Bombay, I was on the management of Xavier Institute of Management and we did a series on leadership for which I asked for Sam — along with five other names.


I asked for an appointment, at that time he used to live at the Oberoi (hotel, now the Hilton in Mumbai). He was very surprised because he thought I hated his guts but there is no doubt that he had leadership qualities.


I asked him to come and speak on leadership for an hour. He said, ‘You really want me — and I said — yes sir, that’s why I’ve come here.’ He spoke brilliantly without notes, answered all the questions, held the audience in a packed hall. I had it recorded and have shown it all around the country.


He was called to speak on leadership many times in Bombay and he used to say, ‘Souzie, haven’t you heard enough of me?’


He was always prepared well in advance if he was making a talk, he never used notes and his turnout was impeccable. Even if he was to give a talk in the evening, he would shave again so that there was no shadow on his face. 


He had a sense of humour, sometimes it backfired. Once a remark in Patiala offended the royal family there. Wherever I took that CD of the leaders, and asked people of the 6 who impressed you most — 100% it was Sam Mankeshaw. He used to get a standing ovation. 


When the Parsis had a felicitation for him at the Tata Theatre (in Mumbai), I was asked to rally all the ex-service officers. I told them to come wearing their medals and when he saw all of us, he was really touched.


I called on him in Connoor when his wife was living, she was a very nice warm hearted person.


He was a great believer of Satya Sai Baba.


He liked good looking girls and was colour conscious. When he went as commadant of the Staff College in Wellington, he got into trouble in the mid 1950s because he put up photographs of the (British) queen. Somebody made a complaint and there was an inquiry held by the then vice chief (Lieutenant) General (P P ) Kumaramangalam and he was later exonerated.


Sam wanted to be a doctor. He wanted to go to England where his brothers were doctors but his father knew that Sam was a naughty chap, he said — ‘you stay right here in Amritsar.’


He read an ad in the paper asking for young Indian gentlemen to apply for the first course of the Indian Military Academy in 1930. He applied and got through.


He belonged to the 4/12 Frontier Force Regiment which went to Pakistan after Independence and commanded the Sikh Company. 


The Sam Bahadur myth is all because of his association with the Gorkhas. He was allotted to the Gorkhas after Independence. His father was a doctor in the old Indian medical services and fought with the Second Royal Ludhiana Sikhs in Mesopotamia. Sam was partial to Gorkhas and Sikhs.


When he was sick, it was the saddest thing for me to see him being led up the stairs at the Tata Theatre by his daughter some 8, 9 years ago. It was unthinkable because he was always so dashing.


In the last few years he was mainly in hospital in Delhi. He said he wanted to go back to his home in Connoor because he was very fond of rose gardening. When he had come to Baramullah, I took him to my rose garden and said, ‘Sir have a look at my roses,’ and he said, ‘What are you bloody well taking the credit for, it’s because of the climate here.’


I think the top leaders of the Indian Army are Field Marshal K M Cariappa, General K S Thimayya and Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. I rate General Thimayya number one. India hasn’t produced a better general than him.


Major General Eustace D’Souza, PVSM, retired from the India Army in 1978. He served two years in Italy, two years in Japan during World War II and fought the Pakistani army in Baramullah in the 1971 war. Now, 87, he recently traveled to Baramullah and met soldiers in the area he once commanded in Kashmir. He spoke to Archana Masih

Thursday, June 25, 2009

The days in the Academy with lot of fun

While in Officers Training Academy Chennai , we had lot of fun. Lot of incidents that break our false ego and naturally we start taking care of other human beings with us in the same level what we considered ourselves. Most of the candidates enter in the academy with lot of head weight and loads of different kinds of feelings and habits attached with them. The Training and the life in the academy is set in such a way to remove such negative thoughts from cadets. Here every cadet is remolded not only physically but also mentally. Here all our soft skills, technical skills and operational skills are developed practically. Most of the theory classes are our place to fight with the sleep due tiredness after rigorous practical training. In academy cadets learn things subconsciously but do things very consciously and cautiously. 

After the fire fighting exercise we walked back to the barrack in two lines .As soon as we reached the barrack all dispersed. Suddenly few senior cadets appeared in front of me. They started asking me some questions. From my answers they could understand that I am not that fluent in English or Hindi. 

In 1993 Dec, I completed my Engineering graduation from Govt. Engineering College Trichur in Kerala. My exposure to the world was very limited. I will walk/bicycle for 2km from there 25 km bus and back. This was the daily routine during the engineering and for pre degree classes. My schooling from 1st to 10th was in Government High School, Elavally, my village. I passed SSLC in first class and as a topper in my school. I new the world though the teachers of this school ,my mother, local news paper, Radio, TV(very rarely) and when ever we go to my father’s work place in Thiruchirappilly (OFT, Trichy, TN) in our summer holidays. 

Immediately after my Engineering studies, I went to Bangalore in search of job. As I was not fluent in English, I found it difficult to get a job. I was staying with my uncle in Bangalore. I was feeling so desperate for a job. At the end a HR consultancy firm itself offered me a job where I was registered for a job. It has nothing to do with engineering, but I found a lot of scope to improve my soft skills. The job was to visit different companies and to take their manpower requirements and in office I have to assist in the Interview process. After six months I got in to engineering field. It was temporary vacancy in contract basis with Aeronautical Development Agency, every six month they renew the contract. My basic knowledge in AutoCAD helped me to clear the interview. But I was deputed to Hindustan Aeronautical Limited, Bangalore as a Design Engineer in the Under Carriage Design Group. I worked there around one year with the group in designing under carriage / landing gear components of Light Compact Aircraft (LCA), now Thejus. It was my ambition to be in Services. So I tried my best during this period to get in to Armed Forces and could succeed. 

When I entered the Academy, I was fresh and not knew much about the activities in the academy. I was little bit introvert, mainly due to my inability to speak well. So I was reluctant to speak and shy to express my thoughts. 

What ever may be my perception and language to myself, SSB found in me OLQ (Officer Like Qualities), selected me and sent me for the Training.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Entering into Officers Training Academy(OTA),Chennai


As I shared with you in some SSB procedures which I had gone through, getting in to Armed Forces was really challenging. But the actual challenge, the training, was in waiting, After crossing all the hurdles set by SSB, I reached the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai. One fine day in the month of May 1995, I entered in OTA compound. Officers were welcoming us near the Mess. They checked my name and other credentials and handed over me to another cadet just reached one day before me and he guided me to the barrack. 

I stepped in to the Jessami Company Block. Seniors were getting ready to go for some exercise. By buddy asked me to dump my luggage near a cot. Within minutes I heard an alarm and every one in the vicinity running in a particular direction shouting “Fire…Fire…Fire…….”.At the same time one senior cadet shouted at me” what are you looking at….. run….”I also start running with the crowd. The alarm was continuously blowing. I could see after a brief run every one stopped near a building and doing some activities. At the end all people assembled in order and head count was done. 

It was a fire fighting exercise. With that I began my days in the Academy. Read on........

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Situation Reaction Test (SRT)

Situation Reaction Test (SRT) :

In this test the candidates are issued with the booklet of containing around 60 situations to be answered in 30 minutes, which means one not to devote more than half a minute per one situation. The answer should be against the correct serial number. The space for each reaction is limited to three lines. Tips: 1.Be quick in reading the situation and writing your reaction. 2.Maintain a uniform speed right from the beginning, other wise your answering will be in complete. 3.think of the reaction before you write it. 4.Grasp the essential of the situation before you react. i.e., understand the situation. Even if there is some hidden meaning then alone your reaction will be correct. 5.You may use telegraphic language if the reaction is long. 6.It is not the length of the reaction but the substance conveyed that matters. 7.Do not challenge the situation but accept it and react. 8.Don’t be vague in your reaction. 9.Go through the tips of WAT also, which is applicable in this case. 10.Eye should be fast.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Shin Pain :Precautions & Remedies

Shin Splints are very common with sports person, athletes and combatants like police personals, soldiers and those who strain theirs legs a lot. Here is very useful article on it. 

Shin Splints by Rick Becker rpbeckers@fairpoint.net

One of the most common injuries that are experienced in Track and Cross-Country is know as shin splints. As a high school runner I constantly suffered from them. My races and workouts were always curtailed. I was only able to do half of the workouts and races. My junior year in cross-country was a difficult year. I suffered from shin splints the entire season. After the state meet, barely able to walk, I went to my family doctor. He told me that I would never be able to be a runner because of the difficulties that I experienced with shin splints. In my junior year of track I started the season suffering again from shin splints. After two weeks into the season my coach told me to turn in my uniform thinking there was no point in training. Unfortunately I had a coach that knew very little about shin splints. I missed a lot of running in high school that could have been avoided. Shin splints can be treated and better yet avoided. 

What Are They 

Shin splints is a common term used for a half a dozen lower leg problems ranging from nerve irritations to tendonitis to stress fractures. The most common type that is experienced involves the tearing away of the muscle tissue that attaches to the front of the lower leg. The beginner runner and the runner that resumes training after a long lay off are most susceptible to this injury. The connective sheath attached to the muscles and bone of the lower leg become irritated, resulting in a razor-sharp pain in the lower leg along the inside of the tibia or shin bone. Shin splints can be felt anywhere from just below the knee down to the ankle. The pain may diminish after warming up but then returns a few minutes after the completion of a workout. 

How Are They Caused 

There can be several causes for shin splints. Only when possible causes are identified can shin splints be eliminated. Possible causes include: · Tight Achilles and calf muscles. · An inexperienced runner just beginning to run. · Running on uneven terrain. · A sudden increase in faster running (speed work). · A sudden change from soft to hard running surfaces. · Running in worn down shoes. · Excessive uphill running. · Poor running mechanics which include excessive forward lean, excessive weight on the ball of the foot, running with toes pointed outward, landing too far back on the heels causing the foot to flap down, and overpronation. There is a drill that I do with my runners at Selah High School called silent running. I have them run on the track as quiet as possible. With the feet landing properly very little noise should be heard. Of all of the possible causes, pronation is the most likely to be overlooked, as it was for me in high school. 

Pronation 

It’s not what the foot does when it lands that causes difficulties; it’s what the foot does after it lands that causes problems. Excessive overpronation is a major cause for shin splints. Pronation is the motion of the foot once it lands. For most people the outside of the heel touches first and then the foot rolls inward. The amount of inward rotation should be between 4-6 %. Too flat of a foot or too high of an arch can bring on a number of leg and knee injuries. Once the foot lands it flattens out, and the ankle rolls inward or pronates. The tibia (shinbone) is forced to twist slightly in the opposite or outside direction, stretching on the calf muscles. Too much twisting can lead to a stress fracture of the tibia. In other words, too flat of a foot results in the foot rolling inward too much transferring much of the pounding into the inner portion of the lower leg resulting in shin splints. Research shows that females are more likely to suffer from shin splints than males because their hips, on the average, are wider than mens. Because of the wider hips, a women’s foot strike the ground at a greater angle resulting in overpronation. 

Overpronation and underpronation of the heels. 

As stated, 4-6 % pronation is ok. More or less will lead to problems. The flatter the arch the more support is needed. If the heel tilts inward during running or if shoes appear distorted after you take them off with the heels tilted inward, moderate pronation occurs. If the heel counters are broken down toward the inside, severe overpronation occurs. 

Underpronation is the action of the foot, once it lands, hardly rolls inward. This person usually has a very high arch. Again too high of an arch or too flat of a foot can lead to numerous problems such as shin, knee, hip and foot injuries. To check your arches, give yourself the wet test (see photo on next page). When you step dripping from the shower, stand normally, then step away and check your footprints. If you leave an impression of your whole foot, arch and all, you have flat feet. If what shows up is mostly ball and heel , your arches are high. If your footprint shows something in between the two extremes, with a moderate amount of arch, you’re blessed with a normal foot that shouldn’t cause you any problems.

Wet Test 

Treatment 

In many cases one is able to continue training with a mild case of shin splints. Time off from running may be required in severe cases. In such cases rest and ice would be needed to decrease inflammation. For the milder, yet painful cases, in which running can be maintained, certain treatment methods must be followed through. Anti-inflammatory medications such as I-B Propfin should be taken one hour before starting practice. Just before practice the affected area should be heated up. The use of hot towels, heat pack or whirlpool for 15-20 minutes should do the trick. This will help loosen up the area as well as providing comfort but will not solve the problem. Discovering the cause is the first step in treating an injury. Taping of the arch. 

The changing of shoe may be necessary as well. Stretching prior to running will be beneficial. Training on soft surfaces will help alleviate excessive pounding. Precaution should be made to running on uneven surfaces which could result in increased foot motion, a matter you are trying to correct. Once the workout is completed and after a good cool down, ice the affected area as soon as possible for 20 minutes. Plastic cups filled with water and placed in the freezer as well as baggies of ice work well. Normally, continued running, even if it is reduced, will help get rid of shin splints as running will help strengthen leg muscles. A friction massage using the thumbs may prove to be beneficial. Firmly rub the affected area from the bottom of the leg upward. Treatment in summary: · Anti-inflammatory medications. · Heat treatments prior to practice. · Tapping the arch. · Proper shoes. · Stretching · Running on soft even surfaces. · Ice treatments after practice. 

Prevention 

The best way to deal with shin splints is to do what it takes to prevent them in the first place. There are several preventative measures that should be practiced by every runner on every team. Purchasing the proper shoe for your foot is the first step in preventing shin splints. Knowing whether you are an overpronator or underpronator is very important. The wet test will determine this. 
Shoe Features 

Below are features of a shoe for an overpronator, the more common runner type for shin splints recipients. · Rigid plastic collar that wraps around the shoe heel for support and to control excess pronation. · A firm shoe with lots of supports. · A rear-heel area made of solid rubber. · Dual density midsole with the firmer material on the inside edge. This construction is easy to spot since the midsole will usually come in different colors. · A “board-lasted” shoe. To tell if a shoe is board-lasted, pull out the insole, the extra strip of material that is inside the shoe. If there is no stitching between the inside and bottom of the shoe it is board lasted. A firm shoe with lots of support preventing excessive motion is needed for those who overpronate. Something to keep in mind is that the more cushioned the shoe the less stability the shoe will have. For the underpronator motion of the foot is limited. The type of shoe needed would be one that is flexible. It should be a cushioned shoe with a soft midsole. Depending on the amount of pronation a runner may have will determine whether or not they would benefit from orthotics. Sometimes just a good pair of inserts found at a drug store to fit in the shoes, or a pair of anti-pronators in which you could receive through a podiatrist may do the trick, and are much more inexpensive than orthotics. In any case though a good arch support will be needed. 

Warming up and cooling down. 


As mentioned earlier a good warm up is important to help prevent injuries. I have my athletes jog easy for a few minutes, spend a couple of minutes stretching, more running (up to a mile), return for more extensive stretching and drills followed by build-up sprints. When doing an interval workout, jogging between repetitions will help eliminate the tightening up of the leg muscles. 

Shortly after high school, looking for some answers to my shin splint problem, I wrote a personal letter to Jerry Lindgren, who currently holds the Washington State High School Records for the 1600 and 3200 meter runs and went on to break the world’s record in the 10,000 meters while at Washington State University. I had heard he suffered from shin splints on occasion (I later had the opportunity to train with him while he lived in Tacoma). He wrote back and told me that as soon as he finished a race his coach would make him run a lap cool down before he was allowed to stop. Actually I think his coach was teaching him to run a victory lap as he would run many in the years to follow. The point is that several minutes of easy running followed by more stretching should be performed after every workout. 

Special attention should be paid to proper mechanics including running with the toes straight ahead, landing slightly on the outside of the heels first, and then after flattening out the foot, roll off of the toes. 

Stretching Exercises 

· Kneeling position, the runner points his toes out behind and gently sits back on heels pressing the tops of the feet towards the ground. · Standing arm’s length from the wall, place hands on wall, keep feet and knees straight, lean forward as far as possible. · Standing with feet flat, bend knees forward as far as possible keeping heels on floor. Because research shows that your muscles are more elastic after they’ve been warmed up, stretching should take place after a good warm-up as well as at the end of the workout. 
Strengthening Exercises 

· With a partner hold down the others feet which are flat on the ground. With resistance on their toes, have them lift their toes up. · Sitting with left ankle on right knee, apply pressure to inside of foot (near large toe) with hand, and turn foot up and in, using leg muscles. · Same position as above, apply pressure to outside of foot (near small toe) with hand, and turn foot down and out using leg muscles. · Same position as above, apply pressure to top of foot (near toes) with hand, and lift foot using leg muscles. Repeat with right ankle on the left knee. · Sitting on a table or chair attach a weight (a bucket filled with rocks works well) around the foot. Without bending your knee move the foot up and down from the ankle. · Anchor one end of an elastic band to the leg of a table or sofa. Stretch the band, and then loop it around the end of the foot. Move the foot up and down and side to side against the bands resistance. · Draw each letter of the alphabet with the big toe of each foot in the air. · While standing erect raise up and down onto your toes several times. If that is too easy you can make it more challenging by performing the same exercise while standing on a step and allow your calves to stretch over the edge of the step. · In a sitting position lower and raise the feet with the heels on the ground as high and quickly as possible for 60 seconds. I have athletes do this exercise during the school day while sitting at their desk. · Walking down steep hills. · Walking on toes. · Walking on heels. · Walking with feet turned inward and outward. · With socks off, gather up a towel that is flat on the floor, using only the toes. · Pick up marbles using the toes. · Off-season training. One of the most effective ways to eliminate shin splints is to do some type of running in the off season. An increase in mileage should never exceed more than 10% per week. 
Prevention in summary: 

· Proper Shoes · Warming up and cooling down. · Stretching · Strengthening exercises · Proper running mechanics 

Summary 

Don’t let shin splints get the best of you. In almost all cases shin splints can be treated or better yet avoided through preventative measures. Much of the information in this report came from a great variety of sources, but I would like to especially acknowledge Runners World Publications for many articles in which I used as resources.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Word Association Test (WAT)

In this test candidates are required to write meaning full sentences making use of words exposed to them one at a time. Each word is exposed to you one at a time. Each word is exposed 15 sec, during which the candidate to observe a word and formulate a sentence and write it down. A set of WAT is normally 60 words. The space for each sentence in answer book is restricted to three lines. 

TIPS 

1.Carry at least three fast moving spare pens for psychology test. 
2.Your handwriting should be legible and readable. 
3.Be quick in observing the word and speed of writing. Then only you will be in a position to complete the sentence and not miss the words. 
4.Thus plan your sentence mentally before you writing down. At least try to attempt 55 words. 
5.It is through the sentence; convey the goodness and positive deeds. 
6.Sentence should reveal positive outlook or optimistic nature. 
7.It is not the length of the sentence but the substance convey in the subject that matters. 
8.Have a variety in the pattern construction rather than making it stereotype sentence. 
9.Preferably write in past tense so that you can convey the end results. 
10.you can change the tense form of word. If a word has more meaning, use it in any sense. 
11.You may prefix adjectives to certain quality-oriented words to rise the level of the quality. 
12.Avoid giving just statement of facts. 
13.Even negative words to be converted in to positive thoughts and action. 
14.Avoid proverb, quotations in framing your sentence. 
15.Use very small and simple names to the characters in your sentence and vary names in different sentences. 
16.your sentence should not be vague or unrealistic. 
17.You can bring in more interrelated quality by using the conjunction "and". 
18.Avoid I,my,we,they,try,should,could in your sentence. 
19.Don’t use two names together. 
20.Project yourself through male/female and not through animal and plants and lifeless objects.

Friday, February 20, 2009

Thematic Apperception Test ( TAT )

It is one of the test in psychology where candidates are required to write story related to to the pictures exposed at on them one at a time.Normally at a set of TAT contain 11 + 1 picture slides, the last one being a blank slide. 
Each picture is exposed a half minute and the writing time is four .While showing the picture you can not commence writing.While writing time start the pictures will be removed from your observation. 
The space for each story is restricted to half of full scape page.There is no requirement for giving title or mentioning any morals from the story. Some pictures or some portion of picture may haissy or vague which you may take it what it is appears to you. 
TIPS 1.Be quick in viewing the picture and formulating the story and we should be quick in writing also,otherwise the story will in complete. 

2.the outline of your story should be ready when viewing the picture itself,otherwise your story will be incomplete again. 

3.The story should have a central characteraround which the story should revolve and through the story bring out his/her goodness. 
4.Have a variety of themes in each of your story and make it interesting. 
5.You can imagine things taking place outside the frame of your picture as so that as long as you link the story to your picture it is good enough. 
6.Let the story end in a happy or positive note.No tragedy please. 
7.Let not the central character receive some awards or rewards at the end. 

8.There is no requirements to give to many discriptive details of the picture.So also a brief introduction is sufficient for central character.Let the story speak of its goodness. 

9.Do not come with unrealistic or fantasy stories. 
10.Avoid to many service oriented story. 
11.Have different names in the characters of your stories. 
12.Prepare some intresting themes(around 20 ) in advance then alone you will find it easy to frame the stories. 
13.The last blank you can write any social theme preferably related directly to you. 
14.Let the story have definite ending.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Intelligence Test

Intelligence Test This is the first test conducted in SSB, in order to determine the basic intelligence of a candidate. For certain entry passing written exams not a criteria then it is termed as screening test also. The test consists of two tests of papers, which the candidates have to tackle. Each test may contain maximum of 60 questions in such case the time allotted is maximum of 40 minutes. In case the questions are less the time should be correspondingly reduce. The questions are of two types Non verbal (Fig or Diagrammatic) and verbal. There for the first test may be exclusively non verbal or second test verbal vice versa or both the test may be mix of both. 

Tips 

1.Be quick in tackling the question other wise you will not be able to complete the test on time. 
2.In the first round attempt the question that strike you straight away and than go for second and third round etc.. 
3.Establish the logic of question before you look for answer at times the answer may appear similar in that case get back to the question and establish the second point of logic so that you can able to hit the correct answer. 
4.Be very careful that the answer serial no. correspond to the correct question no. 
5.At time when you find the forward calculation or approach is difficult for you then you may from the answer backwards and trail and error method get correct answer. This method is time consuming and there for do so in last round. 
6.You may practice intelligence from any book of intelligence because more you practice more you will familiar with the variety of problem and you would score better. 
7.Remain cool and do not be tensed up while undergoing test.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Individual Obstacle

Individual Obstacle

In this task you have to cross over around 10 obstacles placed in series within 2 minutes or so. If you complete the entire obstacle once, you can repeat till the time is over. Here GTO will watch how you attempt all obstacles and complete. The obstacles are not that risky in nature but will be challenging one. Some of them are walking over a belly, jump to a ditch from a risen platform, jump over some vertical barrier, climb over a wall, walk over a nylon net, cross through a horizontal rope hanging on it, walk on a narrow bridge over a pond, monkey rope, climbing on a vertical rope, coming down on a vertical rope etc. 

Tips
1.In this task GTO gets an opportunity to check your physical and mental strength,when you have to do it alone, so be bold .
2.Attempt each obstacle without hesitation.
3.Do attempt all the obstacles irrespective you succeed or not.
4.If you have time after completing one round with all the obstacles, go for a second round.
5.Concetrate on your task, look only at the obstacle and do your best.

Command Task & Tips

Command Task (CT)

In this task each member of the group turn wise gets an opportunity to be nominated as a commander and is to required to tackle one out door obstacle of moderate difficulty independently.
The entire responsibility of the decision-making and completion is that of commander, who ever to assist the commander. He can choose any 2 to 3 subordinates as specify by the GTO to assist you in completing the task. In case that you happened to to subordinate of a commander just do what commander tells you as a true subordinate.
The rules are generally same as that of PGT. Each commander gets 10 minutes for the task.

Tips
1.Accept the responsibility willingly. i.e., without any hesitation.
2.Make judicious choice of your subordinates. Select those you feel are the best.
3.Your outline plan should be ready even before the arrival of your subordinates.
4.Commense your task after a short briefing to your subordinates, which should include your plan in outline.
5.take pride in your task as a commander by displaying interest and enthusiasm and urgency.
6.Have a total control over team.
7.Give orders like orders. i.e., be firm and clear in your instruction.
8.Though you are the commander be polite in your dealings at no stage loose temper and display aggressive tendencies.
9.Don’t give vague instructions.
10.No stage you should take suggestion from your subordinates in this task.
11.As a commander you should physically work along with your subordinates.
12.Take quick and correct decision particularly when you face difficulties.
13.As a commander do take initiative when you get an opportunity.
14.remain cool and composed when in difficult situation. 
15.remember there are many a solution in the task, there fore when you get stuck think of alternative solution opened to you.
16.When the task is completed thank your subordinates before you sending them.
17.At the end of the task when the GTO calls for other solution offer as many solution as possible.
18.Ensure you follow the rules and your subordinates also follow it. In case any rule is broken do the remedial action without delay.
19.Also read tips for PGT.

Half & Final Group Task

Half Group Task (HGT) 

In this task the group is divided in to two equal halves and each half group is required to tackle one out door obstacle of moderate difficulty since the task is same for both. When one group is doing it the other group will not permit to watch. Each group will get 10 minutes. The rest of the conduct and rules are same as that of PGT. 

Tips 1.All tips applicable to PGT are applicable in this task also. 2.Since the task of moderate difficulty and members are few all of them are watched closely so that your performance should be better. 
Final Group Task (FGT) In this category this is the final task where in the group together to tackle one major task in about 15 minutes. Rest of the conduct and rules are same as that of PGT. 

Tips 1. All tips applicable to PGT are applicable in this task also. 2. Don’t being relaxed during the last task.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Progressive Group Task (PGT)

Let us now discuss PGT, an outdoor task. The group as a whole required to tackle four obstacles. These are arranged in such a manner than the first obstacle is simple and each successive obstacle becomes progressively difficult. 
Each obstacle is bounded by a set of parallel lines called the start line and finish line and the ground between the two is declared out of bounds. It is a leader less task. That is there is no specific authority and individual. However to tackle this ground certain permanent wooden structures are there and at the start line of first obstacle certain helping materials (planks, bellies and ropes) provided which could be made use of to help you to crossing over. 
In addition a common group load is provided of the start line of the first obstacle, which become the group responsibility to take it alone as the final responsibility. Total time is 15 minutes. While negotiating this obstacles certain rules are to be observed which the GTO will explain to you and this rules are the same for other outdoor as well. 
Rules 
1.Out of bound rule: The ground between the start and final line is out of bound for both man and material. 
2.Group Rule: Unless all the members of the group reach the finish line of previous obstacle you can’t proceed to the start line of the next successive obstacle, which means at one time the whole group tackling one obstacle. 
3.Distance Rule: You can’t jump across between two points having a distance of more than four feet.Either you bridge the gap or reduce the gap to make it less than four feet with the help of helping material so that you can jump. This distance restriction is applicable both in horizontal and vertical plane. How ever in case you decided to swing any distance with the help of a rope you may do so because swinging in any case is not jumping. 
4.Color Rule: a. White: Any thing painted white can be used by both men and material. b. Red: Nothing can touch what is painted red. c. Black: It has no significance there for consider black as the color which is immediately above it. d. Forth Color: GTO will specify it.It may be yellow, green, blue or brown. Only human beings can touch it, not helping material. 
5.Rules for helping material a. Two rigid helping material can’t tied to each other with the help of a rope, but it can be placed one at the top of other as long as its not tied. b. Any number of helping material can tied separately to any number of structures. c. Any number of ropes can be joined to each other. 
Penalty: In case you break any of the above rule even unintentionally get back to the previous point to the breaking of the rule and there after repeat it or change your idea so that you will not break the point again and again. This remedial action , you do it on your own without pointing out to you by GTO. 
TIPS: 
1.Be an active participant through out the outdoor task, which means you must make both mental and physical contribution towards achieving the progress for the group. 
2.Give as many ideas as possible even it is minor in nature. 
3.In case your idea is superior to those of other try to convince them to accept yours. But in case some one else idea better than yours accept it. But there after don’t withdraw but physically involve yourselves in the completion of that idea. 
4.Always be there in the active orbit of activity. 
5.Display interest, enthusiasm, zeal, buoyancy, and urgency in the task. Your own body language should be smart and energetic. 
6.Take initiative to step in first and when ever you get an opportunity. 
7.Show concern for the weaker member of the group. 
8.No stage show, aggressive words or action. 
9.Display a cooperative attitude in the task otherwise the group would not progress. 
10.Be conscious on observing the rules and take remedial action whenever you break it. 

11.Show interest in the common group load. 
12.Last person at each stage is going to pose problems and there fore have to plan something to take him along. 
13.every obstacle is at least three solutions therefore when you get stuck at any stage think of alternative solution open to you (left, right, centre). 
14.To get the ideas frequently look at the structure as well as helping material then alone you will be able to establish the link between two which come to you in the form of an idea.(use the plank as cantilever beam,both end supporting beam etc..) 
15.when the task is terminated GTO call for ideas of our as many as possible.Talk loudly, clearly and convincingly. Otherwise member wouldn’t pay attention what you say.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Planning Exercise (PE)

In Planning Exercise, GTO will explain a situation of events having different problems to be reacted by the group. Each one in the group has to study the situation and to prepare his/her action plan for the group, as he/she is the leader of the group. Then the group has to discuss individual plans and arrive at a final plan of the group. 

Now let us see how we should approach the situation to derive our own solutions. It can be done in the following steps: 
1.Identify the problem in the situation. 
2.Identify the priorities of the problem. 
3.Identify the given resources. 
4.Identify the hidden resources. 
5.study the following: a. Location of problem areas b. Type of routes and distance to them. c. Type of transport available to you. d. The suitability of particular transport in a particular route and their speed on such routes. e. Various timing f. Allocate the resources g. Write your solution 

Tips for writing solution :
1.Be very attentive when GTO explains the model. Because, that will help you to identify the hidden resources. 
2.Properly understand the situation, aim to the change you want to bring in the situation at the end and prepare the action plan/solutions according to priority. 
3.Approach the situation step by step as explained before. 
4.Be fast in writing the solution, so that you can complete on time. 
5.While discussing for a common solution from the group,the tips given for Group Discussion is also applicable here. 
6.Be active and convince your points with supporting reasons. 
7.However, when your point being opposed by valid reasons, except it and continue to be involved in the discussion. 
8.Don’t get in to heated arguments and loose temper. 
9.Do give weaker member a chance. 
10.after half way through the discussion take on the role of a moderator to help the group to reach to a common agreed solution. 
11.Back the leader when he gives out solution. But minor points/changes can point out.
12.In case you have to be give group solution do give that group have arrived not own.

Serving with Honour

Officers Training Academy (OTA) is the prestigious training establishment of the Indian Army that takes in men and lady cadets to be commissioned as Short Service Commissioned Officers. 

The entry into the OTA is through Combined Defence Service(CDS) examinations conducted by the UPSC followed by an SSB interview(for non-technical cadets). 

Technical cadets (those with an engineering degree in the notified discipline), NCC special entry scheme cadets and Women cadets will have to clear the SSB interview only. 

The OTA offers short service commission to its cadets who pass out, which means that at the end of year five, an officer has three options: leaving the force ;opting for permanent commission or opting for an extension of another five years. 

Till recently there was no provision for extension of period of service for women officers beyond 10years.Now they can serve up to 14years. 

But men only have the option of seeking permanent commission. Women Officers however, enjoy the same perks and privileges as male officers. 

The job involves much more than handling a battlefield situation or a low intensity conflict. 

It is as much about intellect, quick thinking and judgment as it is about courage. And of course, you should have it in you to make it to the course. 

Having read all this, you feel like to know more……………… http://indianarmy.nic.in/

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Group Discussion & Tips

Group Discussion

It is one of the task in the group testing technique .In this task group seated in full circle and required to discuss the topic allotted by G.T.O. The discussion is of informal nature where in the members are free to express their opinion on the topic of discussion .Any speaker can speak any direction in any number of times the member desires. There is no conclusion required to arrive by the group. We may preferably speak in English,Hindi or mix of both. It is conducted in two parts as given below. 1.the GTO offers two subjects the group and give half a minute to decide the topic. He repeats the selected topic once again to allow 20 minutes of discussion time and abruptly stop the discussion. 2.GTO offers only one subject and allows 20 minutes of discussion time and end of which he terminate the task. 

TIPS 
1.Take initiative even in the selection of topic in case you want the topic of your choice. 
2.Initiate discussion if possible in both the parts. ie, you should be first to speak if not possible at least be second or third to speak. 
3.Be active participants through out the discussion. ie, speak as many number as possible. 
4.Convey depth in what you speak. Do not come out only with shallow level views. 5.Each time you enter the discussion do not repeat what you already said and what others are already added. Therefore come out with fresh views and new arguments. 
6.Give as many examples as possible, quotation, proverbs and factual data related to the topic because such details are more convincing to others. 
7.Be brief and to the points. ie, don’t drag your views because others would get irritated and cut it short that will interrupt you. 
8.In case some one is dragging you may interrupt otherwise don’t interrupt some one is just giving the point. 
9.At no stage you should display quarrelsome or aggressive attitude or show annoyance through words or via, expressions 
10.Don’t be conscious of the presence of the GTO. 
11.Give weaker numbers a chance to speak by encouraging them. 
12.Once in a way do appreciate the good points of others 
13.even when opposes other views be polite. 
14.Do not intent to talking only to those sitting on your adjacent sides. 
15.Talk loudly and clearly otherwise your views will go unheard in the group.

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

What is Lecturatte?and the Points to follow

As I told ,Lecturatte is one of the test by GTO.The task is to give a short talk in front of the audience.Some of your qualities are assessed from this test. In your team, each one turn wise will get an oppurtunity to give a short talk in front of the rest of the team.Regarding the lecturate topics, you will get three/four topics to select one topic to talk.The topics written on paper slips will be handed over to you just three minutes before your turn to talk.That means your preparation time will be three minutes.The time for speaking is also for three minutes. when you complete two and half minutes you will get a reminder that you left with half a minute to conclude.You may talk in English/Hindi. 

Some tips for the test: 1. Select a topic on which you are confident and feel easy,but not by looking at the importance of the topic. 2.Take some breathing time to decide and once you select the topic don't change it. 3.Be systematic in preparing and remembering the points on the topic.Group the points coming to your mind one bye one under Introduction,Body and Conclusion as headings.Then again those points can be divided under subheadings to remember the points well and to recollect while speaking. 4.Stand straight in front of the audience and face them squarely.Keep eye contact with the audience all the time.Turn your face to all the sides to see everyone in rotation. 5.Give an interesting introduction to your topic after addressing the audience. 6.Do not give gaps while speaking .Maintain an average and uniform speed.In case you forgot any point ,coolly get to next point. 7.Avoid peculiar mannerisems and gestures while speaking,because that will distract the listners. 8.Speak on more number of points briefly rather than dwelling only on a couple of points. 9.Have a hidden smile while speaking and if possible include some humour if your topic wants. 10.Speak loudly and clearly. 11.To make your lecture interesting add as many examples,proverbs,quotes and factual data related to the topic. 12.Vary your pitch while speaking. 13.Speak on topic for two and half minutes and give a conclusion on topic in half a minute. 14.Give some critical and personal views on topic during conclusion. 15.Stop on time with the same tempo as you started and walk back gracefully. 16.Practice the above points many times to be perfect during the test.

Sunday, January 4, 2009

SSB Testing Procedure


Hai ,Happy New Year to all of you. 
My hearty wishes for Prosperous, Healthy, Meaningful, Successful and ever happiest days .

I was talking about the efforts taken by me to pass through one of the milestones ,I had set in my life, that is to serve in Indian Armed Forces.Now I want to share with you what I learned while achieving it. As you know the entry in to the Armed Forces as an Officer is restricted with a unique testing procedure by a board of officers called Service Selection Board (SSB).We have to clear various tests conducted by SSB. Before that we have to qualify in the Intelligence/screening test to appear in all the tests conducted by this board. These test are mainly grouped as Phychological,Group Testing Officer's(GTO),Interview and concluded with Board Conference. Psychological Tests include
Self Description. 
Group Testing Officer's(GTO): 
Group Obstacle Race(GOR), 
Half Group Task(HGT) ,

Personal Interview and Board Conference. I will be discussing these tests one by one.