Ex-SUO Nishkarsh's SSB journey

Jai Hind, I am Nishkarsh Malviya, Ex-SUO (2019-2020) of the NCC unit of Delhi College of Arts & Commerce. I recently got recommended and cleared the merit from 1 AFSB in my 2nd attempt (1st got not rec from NDA – 34 Allahabad) for Indian Air Force IAF flying branch.

Focus and my continuous efforts got me to the desired goal. I have always been an average student in both studies and sports, along with a dream to join the ’elite’. Everyone faces failures and everyone goes through times of high and low. However, ‘’failure is the RAGDA that gets the best out of you. Moreover, the self-belief is what “keeps you rolling”.

SSB is a journey of (getting the best out of yourself) and being the best version of yourself.

As per my experience –

1st attempt – the question is why I didn’t make it? Thankfully I know the reason.

(i) I was not prepared – before any test one should prepare themselves in all aspects. However, being prepared doesn’t mean that one should leave any occasion or practice and preparation to chance. Aspirants should constantly practice TAT, WAT etc. Simply put, being the best is not enough in SSB. You should know the correct way to project your skills and make the guy in front of you aware as to why you’re the best.

(ii) I over thought - Overthinking during SSB leads to nervousness and that subsequently leads to mistakes. This was the reason I could not perform one of the assigned tasks properly. Therefore “being present” is the formula. Also it is well said in NCC “body present mind absent”. Making it a habit will help in doing better and I am sure you will see a good result.

(iii) I forgot my good deeds – in this fast moving world we often forget our potential. We start underestimating ourselves. Therefore we lose confidence. Before my SSB, in the pressure of selection I forgot my past. Therefore, before SSB, consolidate yourself to finding ways to fuel your fire. Also start posing in front of the mirror the way you will click picture after getting Recommended. This’ll act as a confidence booster.

In the 2nd attempt-

(i) I knew my mistakes and worked on them.

(ii) Practiced each test of SSB

(iii) Made a timetable and followed it religiously

(iv) Kept myself aware and followed the ‘be present’ code at all times

(v) Kept pushing the limits

(vi) Practiced my pose of recommendation photo

I would like to express my gratitude to my parents, the entire NCC family, teachers and friends for always being there.

We cadets don’t realize our worth and training. The day we realize it and push our limits, we can do wonders. I owe a lot to NCC. I’d like assure everyone that if you need any help, feel free to message me.

#ProudNCCproduct

Jai Hind.