Sincerity important for being in the Army

CHENNAI: “We do not require geniuses in the army. We are looking for sincere, keen, dedicated persons, and if you have these qualities in you, do join us.” These words of Col M Rajiv Menon, battalion commander, Shivaji Battalion, Officer Training Academy (OTA), sure struck a chord with the 450 odd students who had assembled from across the state to check for prospective career opportunities. He was speaking at the third national seminar on career opportunities for NCC cadets, held at Dwaraka Doss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College on Thursday. “We do not need a man who thinks of making a rocket. Instead, we often need someone who can just fire it at the right time,” said Col Menon. “The first few months are really hard. But if you cross them, you’re through,” Col Menon said. “Many people are confident that they can make it, and have applied to us. We were over-subscribed this year, and have 750 cadets now,” he said, adding that the new pay scales have brought in more cadets.“The national conference has been organised to inform NCC cadets about the different employment opportunities they have in the armed forces, banking services and so on. Those interested can join training academies, including reputed IAS academies in the city,” said Lt Dr S Santhosh Baboo, organising secretary and 1 (TN) Armd Sqn NCC, of the college.