If you aspire to join the Officers Training Academy Chennai, you must have heard of the champion companies in it. All officer cadets are divided into several companies, which derive their name from famous battles of the Indian Army. Today, we tell you about all OTA companies.
OTA Chennai
The Officers Training Academy or OTA Chennai is a premier military training institute situated at St. Thomas Mount in Chennai. Young citizens aspiring to become commissioned officers in the Indian Army receive training here. Established in 1963, the academy continues to live up to its motto of serve with honour. The academy spans over 750 acres of land and houses several facilities that transform a civilian into an officer.
What Do OTA Companies Mean?
A company is a military unit, comprising about 120 soldiers and led by an officer of Captain or Major rank. On reaching OTA Chennai, officer cadets find their battalion and company. Significantly, each company is symbolic of the rich heritage of the armed forces, and serves the following purpose:
- Streamlining administration as in all other academies
- Instilling spirit of camaraderie in cadets
- Promoting healthy competition through inter-company events
- Building organization during training period in cadets
- Enhancing responsibility through appointments
What are The OTA Companies?
OTA Chennai has two battalions, namely the Ranjit Singh Battalion, and the Shivaji Battalion, each comprising three companies.
Ranjit Singh Battalion
This battalion gets its name after Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who was the founder of the Sikh Empire. This battalion consists of three OTA companies:
I. Jessami
The Jessami company is one of the six OTA companies. It is named after the Battle of Jessami, which was fought during the second world war between the Japanese and the British Indian Army. 1 Assam Regiment was the hero of this battle, which bought time for the Allied Powers to secure Kohima. Hence, cadets call themselves Jessami Jaguars and their battle cry is Sami Sami Jessami.
II. Kohima
This company gets its name from the Battle of Kohima during the second world war. It halted the Japanese invasion decisively and strengthened the position of the Allies. The Kohima Killers wear yellow jerseys and and shout their energetic Hima Hima Kohima battle cry proudly.
III. Phillora
This is the third of the six OTA companies and derives its name from the famous Battle of Phillora, 1965 Indo-Pak War. The 1 Armoured Division relentlessly attacked Phillora in Pakistan decimated the opponent. Phillora Fighters flaunt their bright orange jerseys during training and their battle cry is Fighter Fighter Phillora.
Shivaji Battalion
The Shivaji Battalion gets its name from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the greatest Maratha warrior. It comprises three OTA companies:
IV. Meiktila
The Battle of Meiktila was fought in central Burma during WWII and serves as the foundation of this company’s name. It is symbolic of the bravery of Indian troops against the Japanese till date. Hence, its cadets are called Mustangs and shout their battle cry Mighty Mighty Meiktila in their green-coloured jerseys.
V. Naushera
The Naushera company is christened after the furious Battle of Naushera, 1947-48 Indo-Pak war, which earned Brigadier Mohammad Usman the title of Naushera Ka Sher. Donning red jerseys, its cadets are called the Royal Sheras and their battle cry is Shera Shera Naushera.
VI. Zojila
Zojila is the last of the six OTA companies and gets its name from the Battle of Zojila (1948). The 7 Light Cavalry, under Major General K.S. Thimayya, dismantled Stuart Light Tanks and transported them at an altitude of over 11,500 feet. Therefore, its cadets wear sky blue jerseys and are called Zulus. Their battle cry is Joshila Joshila Zojila.
Each of the six OTA companies is symbolic of the rich military heritage of India, and officer cadets live up to the company traditions till date. These foster the spirit of Seva Parmo Dharma in each cadet and prepares them for their tenure as young officers of the Indian Army.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How many OTA companies are in OTA Chennai?
A. OTA Chennai comprises six companies, namely, Jessami, Kohima, Meiktila, Naushera, Phillora, and Zojila.
Q. How many battalions are there in OTA Chennai?
A. OTA Chennai has two battalions: Ranjit Singh and Shivaji.
Q. Can I join OTA companies based on my preference?
A. No, there is no such provision. Once you make it to OTA Chennai, the authorities will inform you about your company. This is irreversible.
