Page 17 - MILITARY-STUDIES-1

Module - I Concept and Evolution of Military Studies

Military Studies
day in the morning and start their training. Typically the training started with physical
training followed by use of individual weapons. Soldiers handling animals had to spent
time with their animals and train with them. The leaders would also train the soldiers to
fight as a team and follow the tactics.

2.2.3 Administration of the Army Units
Note
Apart from training the soldiers and the army units, there were departments looking
after administration of the army units. The officers, men and handlers were taught
subjects specific to their job. For example an elephant handler learnt about animal
behaviour, controlling the animal, what to feed and when to feed the animal, etc.

Officers such as the Senapathi were required to have knowledge about law and justice,
in order to keep the soldiers disciplined.
The curriculum for the princes was Dhanurveda, Nitishastra, Siksha (lore) of elephants
and chariots, Alekhya and Lekhya (Painting and Writing). Langhana (jumping) and
Tairana (swimming).
Military education is very different from other form of education. The training of leaders
and soldiers is as per their role & task in a battle.

Intext Questions 2.2

1. Name the department that taught military studies in ashrams/ Gurukuls.
2. Name any three subjects taught to the Princes in ancient India.

2.3 Evolution of Military Studies

From Vedic times to modern India, a number of changes happened as we have learnt

in history. With the Muslim invaders came the Islamic system of learning in Maktabs
and Madarsas. After the Muslims came the British. They brought the English method
of teaching and organising schools and colleges. While both, the Muslims and the
British encouraged higher education, the concept of educating soldiers and officers of
the military also changed with time.

The British set up specialised academies for training officers. Training centres for soldiers
were established at different places. Teaching in military studies became different for
soldiers and officers. It was no longer a common academy for both the soldier and the
officer. For officers Indian Military Academy was established and for soldiers Regimental

centres at various locations were opened.

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MILITARY STUDIES