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Life of overstudy and understudy
Many aspirants preparing for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Military Academy (IMA) are unaware of an essential tradition called Overstudy and Understudy. This unique system plays a significant role in shaping a cadet’s journey within the academy.
Who is an Understudy?
A first-termer in the academy is known as an Understudy. Being an understudy comes with a special privilege – they are new to the system and are given some leniency in their initial days. Mistakes are expected, and in many cases, they can simply claim their “first-termer” status to avoid harsh consequences. However, they are still expected to learn the rules and discipline of the academy quickly.
Who is an Overstudy?
Every first-termer (understudy) is assigned a third-termer, who is known as their Overstudy. This senior cadet takes on the role of a mentor, often referred to as the academy “Dad.” The overstudy is responsible for guiding the first-termer through the rigorous academy life, ensuring they adapt to the discipline, customs, and routines efficiently.
The Role of an Overstudy
Mentorship & Guidance – The overstudy acts as an elder brother, teaching the understudy everything about academy life, from routines to survival tricks.
Discipline & Training – They ensure the understudy follows all rules, corrects their mistakes, and sometimes even punishes them when necessary.
Accountability – One of the most interesting aspects of this system is that if an understudy makes a mistake, it is the overstudy who receives the punishment. This ensures that overstudy cadets take their mentorship role seriously and train their juniors well
The Bond Between Overstudy and Understudy
The overstudy-understudy relationship is more than just mentorship; it builds strong camaraderie and mutual respect. The understudy learns valuable lessons from someone who has already experienced the struggles of military training. Over time, as the first-termer progresses through their training, they also get a chance to become an overstudy to a new first-termer, continuing the cycle of leadership and responsibility.
Why is this System Important?
Helps new cadets adapt quickly to academy life.
Encourages leadership and responsibility among senior cadets.
Creates a strong support system, ensuring every cadet has someone to rely on.
Makes the transition easier and more structured for first-termers.
Conclusion
The overstudy-understudy system is a time-honored tradition in military academies, fostering mentorship, leadership, and discipline among cadets. It ensures that every new cadet is guided by someone who has already been through the challenges they are about to face. This unique “Dad-Son” bond plays a crucial role in shaping future officers of the Indian Armed Forces.
So, if you are preparing for NDA or IMA, be ready to embrace this mentorship system, as one day, you will transition from an understudy to an overstudy, continuing the cycle of leadership and tradition!
