Dates: 18–19 February 2026
Organised by: National Cadet Corps (NCC)
Resource Person: Jacob Lalchhanhima (UPSC CDS AIR 205)
A two-day workshop on the UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination and the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview process was organised by the National Cadet Corps (NCC) on 18 and 19 February 2026. The workshop was conducted by Jacob Lalchhanhima, who successfully cleared the CDS examination and secured All India Rank 205.
Day 1: Understanding CDS and SSB Process
The first day focused on comprehensive lecture sessions covering the CDS examination pattern and various entry routes into the Armed Forces, including AFCAT, CGCAT, and UPSC CAPF (Assistant Commandant). The resource person highlighted effective preparation strategies and emphasized the importance of discipline, leadership, determination, and consistency in achieving success.
Detailed explanations were provided on the various stages of the SSB process. Screening tests such as the Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT) and the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test were discussed thoroughly. The cadets were also introduced to the psychological assessment tests conducted during the SSB, including:
Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
Word Association Test (WAT)
Situation Reaction Test (SRT)
Self-Description Test (SDT)
Practice sessions were conducted to help the cadets gain practical understanding and confidence in attempting these tests.
Day 2: Practical Exposure and Group Activities
The second day began with the Group Planning Exercise (GPE) and focused on hands-on learning experiences. Emphasis was placed on Group Discussion (GD) practice sessions and interactive lectures, where participants learned effective communication skills, teamwork, clarity of thought, and confidence-building techniques.
Jacob Lalchhanhima was assisted during the GD sessions by his friends:
Lalrinkima (SSC–NCC Special Entry, AIR 21)
V. L. Hruaizela (Former SUO, GHBC, 21 Enrollment)
K. Lalchhanhima (Alumnus, Olive Greens Institute, Chandigarh)
Their insights and guidance added practical value to the sessions and motivated the cadets further.
The workshop proved to be highly informative, interactive, and motivating. It provided the NCC cadets with practical insights into the CDS examination and SSB selection process, encouraging them to pursue a career in the Armed Forces with clarity and confidence.
