RUKSIN, 22 Dec: Rear Admiral Rahul Shankar, NM, Flag Officer Offshore Defence Advisory Group and Advisor Offshore Security and Defence to the Government of India, visited Sainik School East Siang and Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Ruksin, Arunachal Pradesh, to encourage students to choose a career in the Indian Armed Forces and raise awareness about the Indian Navy.
The Admiral delivered motivational talks to 75 cadets of Classes XI and XII at Sainik School East Siang and 250 students of Classes IX, X, XI, and XII at GHSS, Ruksin, on 20 December 2024, in the presence of the respective Principals and staff. The talk at GHSS, Ruksin, was also attended by Commander Praveen Kumar Pola, Principal of Sainik School East Siang; Shri Tajom Padung, Principal of GHSS, Ruksin; and Shri Odhuk Tabing, Deputy Director of School Education (DDSE) of East Siang District.
During these interactions, held at the NDA Motivational Hall of Sainik School East Siang and the GHSS Auditorium, the Admiral provided a detailed overview of the structure, hierarchy, and roles of the Indian Armed Forces during times of war and peace. He informed the students about various commissioned ranks, recruitment avenues for officers, and schemes like the Permanent Commission and Short Service Commission. He emphasized that the Indian Navy was an “Ocean of Opportunities.”
The Admiral highlighted that Classes X to XII are the ideal time to choose a career and start working towards fulfilling one’s aspirations. Responding to students’ queries, he briefly outlined the recruitment procedure, including the written examination, Services Selection Board (SSB), and medical examination. For detailed and updated information, he advised students to visit the official websites of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force.
He stressed that the selection procedure for becoming an officer in the Armed Forces is rigorous and multi-tiered, requiring students to work hard to achieve their goal. The Admiral explained that a career in the Armed Forces offers a unique and extraordinary lifestyle, opportunities for higher education and specialization in various fields, and the chance to engage in research, design, and operation of cutting-edge technology. Additionally, the Indian Navy provides international exposure, enriching one’s life experiences.
The talk was interspersed with inspiring examples of gallantry award winners and renowned sports personalities from the Armed Forces, illustrating that this career allows individuals to pursue their passions and vocations.
At GHSS, Mrs. Junty Saroh, PGT (Biology), delivered the welcome address, and Mrs. Aman Lego, TGT (English), presented the vote of thanks. The Principals and the DDSE expressed their gratitude to the Flag Officer for his valuable and inspiring motivational talk and his cordial interaction with the students. They also requested him to conduct similar interactions in other educational institutions in Arunachal Pradesh, noting that the youth in the state have limited awareness about the Indian Navy.
Report by Litem Eshi Ori