NEW DELHI: The Government is contemplating introduction of recruitment of the soldiers in the Armed Forces for a fixed period of only three years, removing the prime attraction of the permanent recruitment for varying lengths of service, with pension on retirement.
The idea put forward by Army Chief General M M Naravane in 2020 is understood to have been cleared at the top levels of the government and its implementation is most likely to begin soon. It will ensure major savings to the exchequer as the long-term salary and pensions will not have to be paid.
The Army chief has also mooted that the 3-year short-term contracts will not be limited to the soldiers but also to the students having specialised technical background as they would be encouraged to serve for a short tenure and then pursue careers in the private sector.
The concept is altogether different from encouraging youth to the short service commission.
The official figures show 1,25,364 vacancies in the Army, Air Force and Navy. At the end of three years, most of the soldiers would be relieved from duty and they would get help from the armed forces for further employment avenues in the private sector. The corporate India has shown interest in reserving jobs for the trained and disciplined youth recruited for the fixed period. The best among the recruits may get an opportunity to continue their services in the Armed Forces in case vacancies are available.
Besides lowering costs and making thousands of youths available for employment every year, the concept will also encourage specialised entry into the Armed Forces.
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