Defence Officer: Wahida – Class 4 EVS NCERT Solutions

Explore the solutions for Defence Officer: Wahida, Class 4 EVS NCERT. This inspiring chapter teaches us about breaking gender stereotypes, pursuing our dreams despite challenges, and the importance of determination. Through Lt. Commander Wahida Prism’s story, we learn how dedication and hard work can help us achieve even the most difficult goals. The chapter also introduces students to various career opportunities in the defence forces.

Chapter Summary (English)

The chapter “Defence Officer: Wahida” tells the inspiring story of Lieutenant Commander Wahida Prism, a doctor in the Indian Navy. Coming from a small village in Jammu and Kashmir, she broke traditional barriers to pursue her dreams. She completed her MBBS and joined the Indian Navy as a medical officer. She made history by becoming the first woman to lead a passing out parade, which is considered a great honor in the armed forces. The chapter highlights her journey, challenges, and achievements while serving on naval ships. Through her story, we learn about various aspects of life in the navy and the expanding role of women in India’s defence services.

अध्याय सार (Hindi)

अध्याय “रक्षा अधिकारी: वाहिदा” भारतीय नौसेना में डॉक्टर लेफ्टिनेंट कमांडर वाहिदा प्रिज्म की प्रेरणादायक कहानी बताता है। जम्मू-कश्मीर के एक छोटे से गाँव से आने वाली वाहिदा ने परंपरागत बाधाओं को तोड़कर अपने सपनों को पूरा किया। उन्होंने MBBS की पढ़ाई पूरी की और भारतीय नौसेना में मेडिकल ऑफिसर के रूप में शामिल हुईं। उन्होंने पासिंग आउट परेड का नेतृत्व करने वाली पहली महिला बनकर इतिहास रचा, जो सशस्त्र बलों में बहुत बड़े सम्मान की बात मानी जाती है। यह अध्याय नौसेना में जीवन के विभिन्न पहलुओं और भारत की रक्षा सेवाओं में महिलाओं की बढ़ती भूमिका के बारे में भी जानकारी देता है।

Word Meanings

Interview Questions and Answers

1. Tell us something about your childhood and school.

I come from a small village called Thannamandi in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. I completed my education at a government school where most village girls studied. However, I was different from others as I had clear goals about my future. While other girls didn’t think much about their careers after school, I was determined to pursue higher studies and complete at least class 10, which was uncommon in our area at that time. Due to this decision, my parents faced many challenges, and we had to move to my grandmother’s house in Rajouri, where I completed my class 12.

2. So you always thought differently right from the beginning?

Yes, since childhood, I wanted to do something unique and different. I had interests that were uncommon for girls at that time, like riding motorcycles. I come from a family of three sisters, and my father had specific aspirations for each of us – one to become a doctor, another a teacher, and the third to join either the police force or become a lawyer. Today, I am serving as a doctor in the Indian Navy while my sister is working in the Jammu Police Force, fulfilling our father’s dreams.

3. How did you become a doctor?

Becoming a doctor required immense dedication and hard work. I received tremendous support from my family and friends throughout my journey. I secured admission to Jammu Medical College, where I studied for five years to complete my M.B.B.S. degree. The journey was challenging but worth every effort as it helped me achieve my dream of serving in the medical field.

4. How did you get into the Defence Forces? Didn’t your family stop you?

Actually, my family was very supportive of my decision to join the Defence Forces. They believed it would be the best career choice for me. My interest in the armed forces developed early in life when I would see army officers in our village. During my school years, I actively participated in activities like camps and mountain climbing, and I was also a Girl Guide. After completing my medical degree, I appeared for the Armed Forces interview, got selected, and underwent six months of training.

5. Why did you join the Indian Navy? Do you not have to live on the naval ship?

I chose the Indian Navy because of my love for traveling and exploring different places. Despite being born in the hills, I was excited about working at sea. It’s interesting that very few women officers have worked on ships, and I am one of them. Initially, women were not allowed on Naval ships, but when the opportunity arose, I volunteered immediately. I even aspire to serve on submarines once women are permitted to do so. My goal is to break gender stereotypes and prove that women can excel in any role.

6. So what happened to your degree of M.B.B.S?

My M.B.B.S. degree is very much in use, but my role as a naval doctor is more comprehensive than a regular doctor. As a medical officer on a ship that stays at sea for 3-4 months, my responsibilities include ensuring the health and fitness of all officers and sailors. I conduct regular medical check-ups and maintain hygiene standards by preventing garbage accumulation and rat infestation. I also need to keep everyone prepared for medical emergencies and accidents like fires.

7. Is there a hospital on the ship?

While there isn’t a full-fledged hospital, every naval ship is equipped with first aid facilities. Each ship has one doctor and two or three assistants. We maintain a small medical room with necessary medicines and equipment to handle basic medical emergencies and provide immediate care when needed.

8. You are the first woman to lead a passing out parade. You must have worked very hard for this.

Yes, this opportunity came after my seniors observed my performance for three years. I felt honored that they chose me and showed faith in my abilities. Being selected for this prestigious role motivated me to practice with complete dedication and sincerity to ensure I lived up to their expectations.

9. Tell us something about that parade.

In the parade, four platoons march behind the leader. The parade leader must give thirty-six different commands throughout the event. These commands must be given in a very loud and clear voice so that they reach not only the rear of the formation but also the spectators sitting on the other side of the ground. It requires proper voice projection and precise timing.

10. Didn’t you feel nervous leading four platoons?

I wasn’t nervous, but I was very conscious of my responsibility. The challenge was to remember and deliver all thirty-six commands perfectly, as forgetting even one command could disrupt the entire parade. To ensure perfection, I practiced rigorously every morning and evening for a month. My previous experience of participating in parades since school days also helped me maintain my confidence.

11. What is the meaning of the word ‘Prism’ in your name?

The name ‘Prism’ was given to me by my father. A prism is a special piece of glass that can split light into seven different colors. My father chose this name hoping that I would be like a prism – capable of reflecting multiple qualities and bringing color to people’s lives. He started calling me by this name in my childhood, and it has been a part of my identity ever since.

Exercise Questions and Answers

12. Do you know anyone who is in defence services? Is the person in the Navy, Army or Air Force?

Yes, I know Major Sharma who lives in our neighborhood. He serves in the Indian Army and is currently posted in Jammu & Kashmir. He has been serving the nation for the past 15 years and has received several medals for his bravery and dedication. Through him, I have learned about the discipline, courage, and sacrifices that defence personnel make for our country.

13. What work do they do in the force?

Major Sharma is part of the infantry division. His work includes:

• Protecting our country’s borders and maintaining security in sensitive areas
• Leading and training a team of soldiers
• Participating in special operations and rescue missions during natural disasters
• Organizing and conducting training camps for new recruits
• Working with local authorities to maintain peace in sensitive areas

14. Would you like to join the defence services?

Yes, I would love to join the defence services. The idea of serving our nation, wearing the prestigious uniform, and being part of an organization that protects our country is very appealing to me. I admire the discipline, bravery, and dedication of our defence personnel. Moreover, the defence services offer excellent opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and the chance to make a real difference in society.

15. Which of the three would you like to join – the Army, the Navy or the Air Force?

I would like to join the Indian Air Force because I am fascinated by aircraft and aviation technology. The thought of flying sophisticated aircraft and defending our airspace excites me. The Air Force also offers opportunities to work with advanced technology and be part of specialized missions. Additionally, the Air Force’s motto “Touch the Sky with Glory” really inspires me to aim high and achieve my dreams.

16. In which other jobs do people wear uniforms as in defence services?

People wear uniforms in various professions, including:

• Police officers and security personnel
• Doctors, nurses, and hospital staff
• Airline pilots and crew members
• Fire fighters and emergency response teams
• School teachers and students
• Hotel staff and hospitality workers
• Postal service workers
• Railway employees

17. Wahida works as a doctor in the Indian Navy. Can you name five other occupations in the Navy?

Yes, here are five important occupations in the Indian Navy:

• Naval Officers – who command ships and lead operations
• Marine Engineers – who maintain and repair ship engines and equipment
• Navigation Specialists – who guide ships through various water routes
• Communication Officers – who handle all communication systems
• Weapon Systems Operators – who manage various defence systems on ships

18. Have you ever seen a parade? Hold a parade in your own school and try giving thirty-six-commands.

Yes, I have seen the Republic Day parade on television and once in person at our district headquarters. Here are some additional parade commands we can use in our school parade:

• “Attention” – Stand straight with heels together
• “Stand at ease” – Relax but stay alert
• “Squad, march forward” – Start marching
• “Mark time” – March in place
• “Left turn” – Turn 90 degrees to the left
• “Right turn” – Turn 90 degrees to the right
• “About turn” – Turn 180 degrees
• “Quick march” – March at a faster pace

19. Talk to a doctor and find out about her/his work.

I spoke to Dr. Mehra at our local clinic about her work. Here’s what I learned:

• She works 8-10 hours daily, seeing around 30-40 patients
• She specializes in pediatrics (children’s health)
• Besides treating patients, she maintains detailed medical records
• She regularly attends medical conferences to stay updated
• During emergencies, she is available 24/7
• She also conducts health awareness camps in nearby schools
• Part of her work involves counseling parents about child healthcare

20. Do you know any woman who has done something unusual? Talk to her and find out about her work and challenges.

Yes, I interviewed Ms. Ritu Sharma, who is the first woman bus driver in our city. Here’s what I learned about her journey:

• Her Choice of Career: She chose this profession because she wanted to break gender stereotypes and prove that women can excel in any field traditionally dominated by men.
• Challenges Faced: – Initial resistance from family and society – Difficulty in getting training and license – Skepticism from passengers – Managing work-life balance – Physical demands of the job
• How She Overcame: – Showed determination and practiced extensively – Proved her skills through safe driving record – Won support through professional behavior – Inspired other women to join the profession – Received recognition from transport department
• Her Message: She believes that no profession should be restricted by gender, and with dedication and hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams.

Note to students: This chapter teaches us important lessons about breaking stereotypes, pursuing our dreams despite challenges, and the significance of determination and hard work. It also shows how women are making remarkable progress in various fields, including defence services, and contributing to our nation’s development.