The Indian army is planning to recruit civilians on a three year short service or ‘Tour of Duty’ on trial basis. Anand Mahindra, the Chairman of Mahindra Group has welcomed the proposal and has written a letter to the Army stating that the young, fit citizens of India will get an opportunity to gain operational experience in the Army both as soldiers and Officers through this voluntary three year programme.
As per sources, the recruitment of personnel from the paramilitary and central armed police forces for up to seven years is also being considered by the army. This will allow the personnel to be able to return to their parent organisations.
Anand Mahindra in his letter said, "I definitely think military training will be an added advantage for Tour of Duty Graduates as they enter the workplace. In fact, considering the rigid standards of selection and training in the Indian Army, the Mahindra Group will be happy to consider their candidature.”
The top commanders are keenly analyzing the proposal for allowing civilians to work for the Army, examining all the pros and cons of the proposal. In case it gets approval, the candidates will engage with the army on a voluntary basis, and no dilution will be there in the selection criteria. According to an official, 100 officers and 1,000 men are being considered for recruitment at an initial level.
The details of the proposal are yet to be decided. The key criteria for the recruitment will be age and fitness under the ‘Tour of Duty’ Scheme. The proposal under consideration of top commanders of the Army, and will be able to save cost for the Army.
According to the sources, the scheme will save a huge amount of money for the army as it will save the costs of gratuity, training costs, severance packages, leave encashment and pension.
