Hello to all readers! I’m Shaurya Bahuguna, and like many of you, I aspire to join the defence forces. I’ve undergone the SSB Interview three times, twice for NDA and once for the Navy 10+2 BTech entry. I was conference out in my initial attempt, but I was determined and subsequently recommended twice back-to-back.
Coming from a defence-oriented family, with my father serving as an army officer, I’ve closely observed the unique and intriguing lifestyle of the defence forces. This experience has inspired me to become an army officer and be part of this remarkable world.
My father has been a significant influence on my journey. Witnessing his work ethic, discipline, and camaraderie with fellow officers fueled my aspiration. He is both my role model and my biggest supporter.
During my 12th-grade year, I was determined to pass the NDA examination at any cost. I prioritized my studies above everything else and diligently prepared by studying relevant topics from books, YouTube videos, and online content. I focused on the previous year’s questions and time-based sample papers to identify and improve my weak areas.
The NDA written examination requires effective time management, especially in the math paper, which consists of 120 questions to be completed in 150 minutes. My strategy involved tackling the questions I could answer quickly, then those requiring more time, and finally, if time permitted, attempting the trickier ones. In the General Ability Test (GAT), despite the temptation to guess for extra marks, I was mindful of the negative marking and focused on questions I was sure about. This approach helped me to clear the written examination and prepared me for my SSB.
The SSB, a rigorous 5-day process involving psychology tests, GTO tasks, and interviews, thoroughly assesses candidates. I practised Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and created stories for Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PP&DT) images to prepare for the screening test on the first day. Joining SSB-oriented Telegram channels for regular PP&DT sessions improved my storytelling and discussion skills.
During the PP&DT, I concentrated on observing the picture during the 30-second viewing period without preconceiving a story. I then crafted my story around the picture’s details, rehearsing it for clear and concise narration during the discussion. My approach was to present my views non-aggressively and be open to others’ ideas.
The next stage involved psychological tests: Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), and Situation Reaction Test (SRT). In TAT, I crafted positive and relevant stories around 11 pictures, using my creativity freely for the blank 11th picture. In WAT, I wrote sentences for 60 words, each shown for 15 seconds. I addressed 60 situations in SRT in 30 minutes with concise, comma-separated solutions.
GTO day 1 included Group Discussions (GD), Group Planning Exercise (GPE), Progressive Group Task (PGT), Half Group Task (HGT), and a Lecturette. In GD, I focused on introducing new points, responding calmly to counterpoints, and keeping up with current affairs and discussion channels for preparation. In GPE, I prioritized problems, formulated group plans, and discussed solutions considering time and distance.
GTO day 2 comprised individual obstacles, command tasks, and the Final Group Task (FGT). I worked on my stamina to complete the challenges and approached command tasks with attention and efficiency.
The interview, scheduled on either GTO day, required confidence and honesty, with thorough preparation on current events and my Personal Information Questionnaire (PIQ).
Throughout my SSB journey, I learned the importance of enjoying the process and persevering through challenges. The setbacks in my initial attempts only motivated me to work harder. This experience has been enriching, teaching me the value of prioritizing goals and making sacrifices. I am immensely grateful to my parents and friends for their unwavering support.