Holidays and Vacation Benefits Post-Training Ends in the National Defense Academy (NDA)

The National Defense Academy (NDA) is a rigorous training institution for aspiring officers in the Indian armed forces, including the army, air force, and navy. After completing each term, cadets enjoy specific holidays and vacation benefits, which can vary based on their performance and subsequent appointments. This detailed guide outlines the holidays available and the scenarios that might affect their duration.

Holidays After Each Semester Ends

Upon the completion of each term (1 to 5), cadets of the NDA are entitled to a term break of 28 days. However, several factors can reduce this break. Cadets placed in the GCI (Given Chance of Improvement) category may face additional training and tests, impacting the duration of their term break.

GCI Category

Cadets under the GCI category will have their 28-day term break reduced by 7 days. This reduction is due to the need for additional training and reassessment to help them improve their performance and decide if they should move to the next term or repeat the current one.

Appointments and Early Recall

A few cadets may receive appointments early, such as academy and battalion positions like ACA (Adjutant Cadet Assistant), ACC (Adjutant Cadet Company), BCA (Base Cadet Company), BCC (Base Cadet Company Cadre), squadron positions like SCC (Squadron Cadre Course), CSM (Company Serjeant Major), and CQMS (CQMs), as well as some sergeant and corporal positions. These cadets may be recalled for duty early, which typically takes place about a week or a minimum of 4 days before the end of the term.

Term Break Cuts Due to Hikes and Trips

During the term break, many recreational and training trips are organized. These trips serve both as a break from academic activities and as opportunities for practical and psychological preparation for future deployments. Various types of trips are conducted, with durations ranging from 3 days to 15 days. These can include:

Recreational trips: Kerala backwaters, Rajasthan, etc. Adventure trips: skiing, rock climbing, and mountaineering Training and exposure trips: tours to border or forward areas like Arunachal Pradesh, horse riding trips around Pune

Each trip can significantly reduce the length of the term break. For example, a 3-day riding trip or a 15-day trip to Arunachal Pradesh and return home would cut the break accordingly.

On Passing Out of NDA

Once cadets pass out of the NDA, their next posting will determine the duration of their term break. This can range from 35 days for cadets joining the Indian Military Academy (IMA) or Air Force courses, which start one week after NDA, to 21-28 days for naval cadets.

It's important to note that my knowledge is more than 25 years old, and policies and practices might have changed since then. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's advisable to confirm the current policies directly from the NDA or the armed forces.

Conclusion

The holidays and vacation benefits for NDA cadets are a crucial aspect of their training. Understanding these benefits helps in better planning and managing personal and professional responsibilities during leaves.

Jai Hind.