The proposal to open up the Army to young professionals has been welcomed by Anand Mahindra, the Chairman of the Mahindra Group. The ‘Tour of Duty’ scheme for the Army is meant to allow civilians, including young working professionals, to join the force for three years as officers and in other ranks in areas like logistics and front-line formations.
In a letter to the Army, Mr Mahindra said, “I recently learnt that the Indian Army is considering a novel proposal, the ‘Tour of Duty’. 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.”
“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,” he added.
The Army is also considering recruiting personnel from the paramilitary and central armed police forces for up to seven years, after which they would be allowed to return to their parent organisations, military sources have said.
The “game-changing” proposal to allow civilians to work for three years in the Army is being examined by top commanders. “If approved, it will be a voluntary engagement and there will be no dilution in selection criteria. Initially, 100 officers and 1,000 men are being considered for recruitment,” Army spokesperson Colonel Aman Anand said.
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