In the backdrop of the armed forces imbibing information technology in a big way, the Army will shortly begin holding certain promotion examinations as well as entrance tests for prestigious courses on-line.
This is part of a policy on e-learning being implemented in the Army in a networked environment. The e-learning policy is an off-shoot of the force's recently adopted network centric warfare concept, which interlinks headquarters and field formations on a data network for real time flow of information during operations, training and war games.
Citing policy letters circulated by Army Headquarters to various formations, sources said in about two years, promotion examinations like Part-B and Part-D for officers and entrance tests for institutions like the Defence Services Staff College would be held online. He said modalities as to how the tests would be conducted were being worked out.
In fact, the recently issued Doctrine of the Indian Army also stresses on the use of IT and e-learning process for training personnel. Efforts should continue to ensure increased use of simulators, computer-based training packages and promotion of self-education and interactive e-learning, the doctrine states.
These packages would then be hosted on network servers of all command headquarters from where formations and units down the line can access them. Directives have been issued for creation of requisite infrastructure at formation headquarters for optimum utilisation of these packages.
The e-learning project has been divided into three phases, with the first phase already under execution. The endeavour of the project is to have completely interactive virtual classrooms.
The Army has already introduced interactive multi-media based training courses in some institutions. This also includes courses in tactics, military history and map reading as well as technical subjects associated with the Corps of Electronic and Mechanical Engineers and the Signals.
As the Army introduces a non-contact, distance learning process through a networked environment to train troops spread over a vast area, it has established a network-based command and control post. Information to the post will flow in real time through observation posts, surveillance equipment unmanned aerial vehicles and satellites.
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