Joining the Air NCC was the beginning of a new chapter in my life—a challenge that promised discipline, growth, and the chance to prove myself on a national stage. I had always heard stories about the prestigious All India Vayu Sainik Camp (AIVSC), but back then, it felt like a distant dream. Little did I know, my own path would lead me right into the heart of it.
The first two years in NCC went by relatively smoothly. Those years weren’t just about drills and classes—they were about personal growth. I learnt the real essence of camaraderie, unity, and discipline. Waking up at 0430 hrs every Sunday, ensuring I was never late for NCC classes, pushing through tough physical training sessions (ragda as we fondly call it), and constantly shaping myself into a better version of me—these became a way of life.
By the second year (2024), things got serious. That’s when we were introduced to AIVSC, a national-level camp filled with opportunities for Air Wing cadets. But making it to Bangalore, where the camp was to be held, was no easy task. The selection process was rigorous, involving three rounds of local selection camps (PVSCs). To secure a place, we had to excel in every area—academics (Aircraft SOP and specialized subjects), firing, aeromodelling, tent pitching, line area, and much more.
I don’t want to dive into the nitty-gritty of each selection test—what matters is that I gave it my all. As the dates for the first camp approached, I was determined to prove, not to others, but to myself, that I had it in me. My confidence, however, wasn’t at its peak. After my setback at SSB Bhopal, I was still battling a sense of self-doubt.
And then came a twist of fate. Just two days before the camp, I decided to indulge in one last game of my favorite sport—basketball. In a friendly match with beginners, I ended up with a broken left wrist. The doctor said it was a muscle strain that could turn into a fracture and might even require surgery. But I was stubborn—I refused to back out. I went to the camp anyway.
That 10-day camp played a crucial role in shaping the course ahead. With my injured wrist, I was automatically excluded from firing, tent pitching, and drill. At first, it felt like a huge loss. But strangely, it turned into an advantage. I got extra time to study, I was excused from ragda and strenuous physical exercises, and I could focus on sharpening my theoretical knowledge. The camp ended on 31st August 2024, with me securing the 4th rank. It was far below my expectations, but my only target remained clear—to reach AIVSC and win the Best Pilot Trophy, a dream my seniors had pursued but never achieved.
The second camp, however, tested me differently. This time, I was shackled by high fever throughout. My days were mostly spent sleeping, waking up only to attend exams and eat meals. But it was in this camp that I truly experienced the bond of NCC. My seniors and super-seniors personally took me to medical supervisors and hospitals for tests and checkups. My fellow cadets made sure I had my meals, checked up on me regularly, and never let me feel alone. That care and camaraderie became one of the most valuable takeaways from the camp.
Despite being unwell, I still managed to perform well academically, and from this camp onward, I consistently held the position of the Directorate Topper—a source of pride and motivation that kept me going. The camp concluded on 12th September 2024, and I returned to my hostel, both exhausted and humbled.
By 15th September, the third camp had begun. This was the launching ground for AIVSC-24. During this camp, the top eight performers, including me, were often called into the Camp Commandant’s cabin. He would test our knowledge on SOPs and specialized subjects, share his invaluable insights as a pilot, and push us to think beyond books. Meanwhile, my college mid-semester exams collided with camp days. Balancing both was a struggle, as I had to travel back and forth, giving exams without any real preparation. But somehow, I managed.
Finally, the moment arrived. We made it to Jalahalli (Bangalore) for the All India Vayu Sainik Camp 2024. The atmosphere was electric—cadets from 15 different directorates had gathered, each determined to prove themselves in flying, academics, and various competitions.
The very first day, we faced the flying test. For me, it didn’t go very well, and that shook my confidence. As the days went by, cadets’ names kept appearing on the list for further flying tests (a crucial step towards the Best Pilot Trophy). My name was nowhere. The tension consumed me, and there were moments when I broke down, believing I had failed.
Then, on a completely random day, my name finally appeared. Heart racing, I went for the test. We were asked flying-related checks, quick decision-making questions, and had to think on our toes while in the air. I managed to answer everything correctly, and for a moment, hope surged again. But fate had other plans. Despite our efforts, we couldn’t secure the Best Pilot Trophy, and overall, our directorate ended up at the 10th position.
The 10 days at AIVSC were packed with challenges, competitions, and learning experiences. Though I won’t go into every detail (as it would make this blog very long), what I can say is this—those 10 days gave me memories I’ll cherish forever. I got to interact with officers up to the rank of Lieutenant General, exchanged knowledge and experiences with cadets from across the country, and most importantly, made friendships that will last a lifetime.
Now, here I am, entering my final year of college. The cycle of attempts begins again, and the journey is far from over. AIVSC was not just a camp—it was a milestone. It taught me resilience, perseverance, and the ability to rise after every fall.
But for now, I’ll pause here. The story doesn’t end—it only waits for the next chapter.
