New Delhi: In a first of its kind proposal, the Army is considering to induct civilians on a 3-year 'Tour of Duty' (ToD) or 'three-year short service' on a trial basis to serve in it as both officers and other ranks.Initially, they will be taken for a limited number of vacancies and then expanded later.
''The proposal is under consideration. If approved, it will be voluntary and there will be no dilution of criteria in selection,'' Army Spokesperson Col Aman Anand said here on Wednesday.
It is for both boys and girls and is expected to attract the best talent.The proposed model is seen as a shift from the concept of permanent service/job in the Armed Forces towards internship/temporary experience for three years.
The proposal is seen as a solution to unemployment and tapping into the resurgence of 'nationalism and patriotism'.
The introduction of the proposal reads, "The model is a solution proposed to be implemented on a trial basis for both officers and other ranks in the Indian armed forces, initially for limited number of vacancies and then expanded later, if found successful."
This engagement based on the pattern adopted by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), excluding the conscription clause, is considered to accrue benefits to Army as well as the individual.(UNI)