allabh Government College Hosts Seminar on “Career in Armed Forces” with Key Insights from NCC Alumni and Officers.
Shimla:
A one-day seminar on the topic “Career in Armed Forces” was organized by the National Cadet Corps (NCC) at Vallabh Government College, Mandi. The seminar was presided over by the college principal, Professor Surina Sharma.
In her address, Professor Surina Sharma stated that the National Cadet Corps provides golden opportunities for entry into the Indian Armed Forces. She emphasized that NCC cadets can achieve their dreams through unity and discipline.
She further mentioned that under the able guidance of Flight Commander and Associate NCC Officer, Flying Officer Dr. Chaman, the NCC cadets of Vallabh Government College have brought laurels to the institution at both national and international levels. Between 2010 and 2024, several cadets from the college have been commissioned as officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Additionally, the NCC cadets have represented India in youth exchange programs in Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Russia. From 2018 to January 2025, several cadets have participated in the prestigious Republic Day Camp in Delhi. The achievements of the college’s NCC unit are a matter of pride for the state.
Flying Officer Dr. Chaman, while addressing the cadets, said that choosing a career in the armed forces is not just a profession but a life filled with patriotism, honor, and adventure. He emphasized that discipline, dedication, and leadership qualities open doors to remarkable opportunities in life.
“A soldier standing at the border is not just a warrior but a wall of defense for the nation” he added.
He encouraged cadets aspiring for a career in the armed forces to start their preparation early and turn their dreams into reality. A career in the armed forces not only offers an opportunity to serve the nation but also ensures financial stability, social security, personal development, a unique lifestyle, higher education, technical training, and overseas study opportunities.
On this occasion, Lieutenant Vinay Thakur and Lieutenant Pankaj Kumar, both alumni and former NCC cadets of the college, attended the seminar as guest speakers. They shared their experiences and provided detailed insights into the preparations required for the Service Selection Board (SSB) examinations.
Notably, both Lieutenant Vinay Thakur and Lieutenant Pankaj Kumar recently passed out as commissioned officers from the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai. In a joint statement, they acknowledged the significant role played by Flying Officer Dr. Chaman in shaping their personalities and guiding them toward success.
Lieutenant Vinay Thakur elaborated on various career paths available in the Indian Armed Forces, such as:
NCC Special Entry
National Defence Academy (NDA)
Combined Defence Services (CDS)
Technical Entry Scheme (TES)
Judge Advocate General (JAG) Branch
Army Education Corps
Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT)
These avenues offer cadets opportunities to build a successful career in the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.
Lieutenant Pankaj Kumar provided insights into the various stages of the Service Selection Board (SSB) process. He also shared his experience as a student of Journalism and Mass Communication at Vallabh Government College, emphasizing that communication skills and personality development play a crucial role in SSB selection. He acknowledged the contribution of Flying Officer Dr. Chaman in developing leadership qualities through NCC training and refining communication skills through journalism studies.
On this occasion, Professor Surina Sharma honored the young military officers by presenting them with copies of the college’s prestigious magazine, “Bipasha”.
Flying Officer Dr. Chaman highlighted the remarkable achievements of Lieutenant Vinay Thakur and Lieutenant Pankaj Kumar, stating that their commissioning as officers in the Indian Army under the Presidential Commission has brought pride to Vallabh Government College, NCC Air Wing Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Air Squadron NCC Kullu, and the entire state. Their accomplishments serve as an inspiration for the youth of the nation.
Both officers had also represented Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh Directorate in the prestigious Republic Day Camp in Delhi during their NCC training.
Recognizing their hard work, discipline, and unwavering dedication, the NCC Air Wing Mandi honored Lieutenant Vinay Thakur and Lieutenant Pankaj Kumar with the “Pride Honors” award.
In a simple yet dignified ceremony, Professor Surina Sharma and Flying Officer Dr. Chaman felicitated the young military officers with the NCC Air Wing “Pride Honors” award. A documentary film showcasing their NCC training, OTA training, and student life was also screened.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of NCC cadets from both the Air Wing and Army Wing, along with faculty members, including Dr. Hemraj Rana, Madam Desh Kumari, and Army Wing Caretaker Officer Kavita Kumari.
