Attention / Stand at Ease / Stand Easy MCQs Quiz | Class 10

Understanding Drill Without Arms: Attention, Stand at Ease, Stand Easy

In NCC (National Cadet Corps) drill, precision, discipline, and correct posture are paramount. The ‘Without Arms’ drill forms the foundation of all movements, teaching cadets control and coordination. Mastering ‘Attention’, ‘Stand at Ease’, and ‘Stand Easy’ is crucial for maintaining uniformity and readiness during parades and formations.

1. The ‘Attention’ (Savdhan) Position

The ‘Attention’ position is the most basic and fundamental stance in drill. It signifies alertness, readiness, and discipline. Every part of the body must be held correctly to ensure uniformity.

• Heels: Joined together, forming a 30-degree angle.
• Feet: The feet are kept together, forming a 30-degree angle.
• Knees: Straight, but not stiff or locked.
• Body: Erect, but not rigid. The weight of the body should be equally distributed on both feet, slightly more on the balls of the feet.
• Chest: Pushed out naturally, but without exaggeration.
• Shoulders: Held back and square, at the same level.
• Arms: Hung straight down by the sides, without stiffness.
• Hands: Palms facing the body, fingers curled naturally but not clenched, thumbs pointing towards the ground, aligning with the seam of the trousers.
• Head: Held straight, chin slightly in, eyes looking directly to the front (about 100 yards).
• Eyes: Steady and fixed, without blinking unnecessarily.

2. The ‘Stand at Ease’ (Aram Se) Position

The ‘Stand at Ease’ position offers a slight relaxation from ‘Attention’ while still maintaining a formal stance and readiness. It is commanded from ‘Attention’.

• Transition: From ‘Attention’, on the command “Aram Se!”, the left foot is moved to the left, approximately 12 inches (or one foot distance), with the weight equally distributed on both feet.
• Arms and Hands: The arms are brought to the back, with the right hand clasping the wrist of the left hand. Fingers are curled naturally.
• Body: Remains erect, but the stiffness of ‘Attention’ is relaxed. No talking or fidgeting is allowed.
• Head and Eyes: Remain to the front.

3. The ‘Stand Easy’ Position

The ‘Stand Easy’ position offers more relaxation than ‘Stand at Ease’ but still requires maintaining the formation. It is typically commanded from ‘Stand at Ease’.

• Transition: From ‘Stand at Ease’, on the command “Stand Easy!”, the cadet may slightly move their body and shift weight, but talking, moving feet, or breaking formation is strictly prohibited.
• Arms and Hands: Remain clasped behind the back as in ‘Stand at Ease’.
• Restrictions: Talking, looking around, and substantial movement are not permitted. The primary purpose is to allow a temporary break without losing discipline or formation.
• Return to Attention: From ‘Stand Easy’, the preparatory command “Vishram!” is given, followed by “Savdhan!” to return to ‘Attention’.

Comparison of Drill Positions

Here’s a quick comparison of the key differences between these three fundamental positions:

Quick Revision Points

• ‘Attention’ is the most rigid and formal stance.
• ‘Aram Se’ (Stand at Ease) involves moving the left foot and clasping hands behind the back.
• ‘Stand Easy’ allows slight body movement but prohibits talking and breaking formation.
• All three positions demand discipline and a degree of stillness.
• Transitions are critical: ‘Attention’ to ‘Aram Se’ on “Aram Se!”, ‘Aram Se’ to ‘Stand Easy’ on “Stand Easy!”, and ‘Stand Easy’ to ‘Aram Se’ on “Vishram!” before “Savdhan!”.

Further Practice Questions

1. What is the command to move from ‘Attention’ to ‘Stand at Ease’?
   Answer: “Aram Se!”
2. In the ‘Attention’ position, what angle do the feet form?
   Answer: 30-degree angle.
3. Which hand clasps the other wrist in ‘Stand at Ease’?
   Answer: Right hand clasps the left wrist.
4. Is talking allowed in the ‘Stand Easy’ position?
   Answer: No.
5. Before returning to ‘Attention’ from ‘Stand Easy’, what is the preparatory command?
   Answer: “Vishram!”