Youth in military: Three proposals target improved participation

National Cadet Corps (NCC) laid the foundation for service to the nation through youth in military. Recruitment of volunteers from schools, colleges, and universities combined with government initiatives such as the National Service Scheme (NSS) have been instrumental in producing countless brave sons of India.

While their legacy continues to live, it is saddening to see the reduced participation of youth in military during the last decade. Taking cognizance of the matter, here are the three proposals under government consideration that could solve the issue:

Tour of Duty (ToD)

Under this proposal, the candidates who meet the selection criteria can pursue a one-year training followed by an internship for three years in the assigned division of the armed forces. This is based on a survey that indicates the preference of military-trained candidates by corporates over other college graduates. The exposure through ToD is expected to generate candidates who are disciplined, responsible and have good national knowledge. It is recommended that selected people would receive a tax-free stipend along with special priority in job interviews after the course.

Inverse induction model

Candidates who clear the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) examination could be recruited into any of the three-armed forces for seven years followed by recruitment in other departments or organizations. After receiving battle and combat training for the mentioned tenure, other departments short of staff across the military can handpick candidates for various job vacancies. Simultaneously, it would help to save the pension expenses of defence by over Rs 6,000 crore in 15 years of implementation.

National Youth Empowerment Scheme (N-YES)

Proposed in 2018, N-YES focuses on early age training and recruitment for the military. Young candidates who have cleared their 10^thor 12^th along with college students can apply for the scheme to work for one year at a fixed stipend. The qualified personnel will be trained in military combat, vocational IT skills, philosophy, disaster management, and ancient Indian practices. If approved, N-YES would have the authority to use the NCC budget and MNREGA funds for improved results.