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Powers Of Subedar Major:  The Subedar Major (SM) is also known as SM Sahab locally in India. It is a post of the senior-most Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) in an infantry regiment or battalion of the Indian Army. The position of Subedar Major holds great responsibility, honour, and dignity. This army rank also serves as an important connecting link between the officers and the jawans. To learn more, here’s a detailed look at the role and authority of the Subedar Major's position, as per the Indian Army's official website.

List Of Responsibilities And Powers Of Subedar Major

Subedar Major Roles And Responsibilities In The Army:

1. Senior Advisor to the Commanding Officer (CO)

The SM Sahab is the direct advisor to the CO regarding everything about the welfare, discipline, and morale of the soldiers. The CO trusts the experience and insight of the SM in keeping the men united and motivated.

2. Discipline and Conduct

The SM also makes sure of the discipline in the unit at all times, including monitoring behaviour, implementing rules, and following military standards at all times. The SM is a leader by example and should serve as a role model for lower ranks.

3. Administrative Duties

The SM assist the CO and Adjutant in several administrative functions, including handling personnel records, leave and postings, and ensuring documentation. The SM also oversees the enforcement of policy and directives from higher headquarters.

4. Training Oversight

The SM Sahab is the person responsible for the planning, supervision, and assessment of training activities. He/she makes sure that JCOs, NCOs, and jawans (other ranks) are properly trained for their duties and responsibilities.

5. Communication Bridge

The SM serves as the key channel of communication between soldiers and officers. Orders, instructions, and feedback pass through the SM to ensure clarity and unity within the unit. The SM also makes sure that the officers are aware of the troops' concerns and suggestions.

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6. Ceremonial Responsibilities

The SM is also responsible for the organisation of ceremonial events, like parades, regimental occasions, and guards of honour. The SM ensures proper following of military tradition and protocol.

7. Welfare Of Troops

The SM is also heavily involved with the welfare of the soldiers and their families. This includes the handling of grievances, the administration of welfare schemes, and ensuring a healthy environment within the unit.

8. Custodian Of Traditions

The SM Sahab is the custodian of the unit's history, customs, and traditions. They maintain the traditions and values of the regiment and pass them on to generations to come.

Powers Of Subedar Major In Disciplinary Matters

1. Jurisdiction Over JCOs, NCOs And Jawans:

The SM exercises control over all the JCOs, NCOs, and other ranks in the unit to maintain discipline and order.

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2. Mentorship:

The SM guides young JCOs and NCOs as a mentor for their professional growth.

3. Operational Role:

The SM does not lead troops in the field (which is the sole prerogative of commissioned officers). They can be given significant tasks and duties during operations, particularly in the matter of discipline and administration.

4. Respect and Precedence:

The SM receives the maximum respect among JCOs and is usually granted ceremonial precedence at regimental events.

Subedar Major (SM Sahab) is a key ranking of the regimental system of the Indian Army. Their role is to take care of the discipline, administration, training, welfare, and maintenance in their unit. They don't command in the manner of commissioned officers. However, their influence, authority, and respect in the unit are unmatched, which makes them an important part of the Indian Army.