Values & Ethos in Indian Army
A lot many corporate lessons have emerged from experiments done during wars. While the scenario might differ from a battle to a boardroom, the character traits and strategies to achieve excellence and victory remain the same. In fact, if the successful battle tactics and plans are transferred to the corporates, we would have our sure shot winner policies.
Indian Army is one of the finest examples of Unity in Diversity. Men and women from diverse backgrounds, faiths and culture, train, fight and pray together. What binds them as one is a strong value system and the characteristic ethos of the Indian Army. Every soldier is infused with these values and ethos that make him willing to face the most difficult challenges in most uncertain situations and when the call may come, to give the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the Nation.
These values and ethos play a vital role in shaping the Indian Army during peace and in the times of war. How well the soldiers fight in war depends on how well they have been trained, motivated and led. Therefore, emphasis on good training, sound leadership, and high morale is the necessity based on which the values and ethos are shaped to form the bedrock of the Indian Army. Furthermore, the spirit of comradeship and brotherhood is imbibed deep into each heart regardless of caste, creed or religion.
Some of the unflinching values of the Indian Army infused in each soldier throughout the years of training are Espirit-de-Corps (one for all and all for one), Spirit of Selfless Sacrifice (to do or die for the three “Ns”; Naam, Namakand Nishan), Valour, Fairness, Honesty, Discipline, Integrity, Fidelity, Honour, Courage, and Forthrightness.
It goes without saying, that it is only in the Indian Army that the officers lead from the front. The famous credo of Chetwode Hall is deeply imbibed in the hearts and minds of the officers of Indian Army, who have the singular privilege to command troops in the Olive Green.
“The safety, honour and welfare of your country comes first always and every time.
The honour, welfare and comfort of the men you command come next.
Your own ease, comfort and safety come last always and every time.”
These values and ethos of the Indian Army have been established and successfully validated over years of successive trials by fire. They hold good as relevant management lessons in all walks of life, especially the corporate sector. Therefore, it is universally accepted that if followed in letter and spirit, these values and ethos of Indian Army can transform the work culture and environment of any organization and enhance their homogeneity and integrity for an assured success.