THE FIRE IN US

[A memoir of a cadet]

Our joy knew no limits when we heard that we were among the 9 short-listed cadets of this Vidyalaya to take part in the Combined Annual Training Camp [CATC] from 6 to 15 June 2008 at Brahmanapalli, Kuderu, Ananthpur Dist. We packed our luggage much before the day of journey and started to daydream about the ensuing camp.
The pictures of men in uniform took a march in our minds as we boarded the train on 5th June 2008 at Mahaboob Nagar. We had to change 4 trains to reach the venue. Nevertheless, the journey was fantastic.

Reaching the venue, all the 532 cadets from different corners of the state were instructed to erect their own tents and clean the surroundings.

The activities of the camp started regularly at 5 AM and ended at 10 PM. The entire training was on the lines of NDA and IMA set up. Under the able guidance of Company Commandant Lieutenant. Colonel. Thakur, the camp turned out to be a memorable time of our lives.

Meticulous care was taken in planning the daily activities of the camp that included – three spells of drill and roll call, training in Taekwondo, training in loading and using of Self Loading Rifle [SLR]. The best part of the camp was the delicious food served at regular intervals. The theory classes threw light on life skills, personality development, patrolling, discipline, tips to live in the contemporary world etc. The highlights of the theory classes were a) A story of a soldier- the real life story of Major. Chiranjeevi Reddy narrated by himself, b) An interactive session on the topic “Who is great – mother, father or teacher?”

Apart from this schedule we were taken on trekking that included – a walk into the forest and rock climbing.

We are proud to share with you all the spirit that we exhibited in the competitions conducted during the camp. For proving his prowess in playing tabla, Mas. Srinivas of class X was selected to take part in the prestigious Republic Day parade on 26th January 2009 in New Delhi. Mas. D. Yeshwant Reddy of the same class was adjudged the “Rising Star” of the entire camp for his active participation in all the theory and practical classes. He also won cash prizes each in story telling and for perfecting the art of using Self Loading Rifle. Mas. Shiva Shankar got prize in Debate competition. All the cadets of this Vidyalaya were awarded special prizes in Taekwondo.

Through our dignified behaviour, all of us brought laurels to this Vidyalaya. We thank our Principal and Sri. V. Bhaskara Achary, Associate NCC Officer for their constant guidance and motivation. We are equally thankful to all the trainers at the camp for making our stay comfortable and cherishable.

- Reported by M.Srinivas & D. Yeshwanth. X Std