(a) whether most of the Jawans of the Army are performing
their duties in depression and tense environment;
(b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and
(c) the corrective steps taken by the Government in this regard?
(a) whether most of the Jawans of the Army are performing
their duties in depression and tense environment;
(b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and
(c) the corrective steps taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
(a) to (c): The Army personnel are performing their duties in a
very congenial and tension free environment. However, the Government
has been continuously taking a number of measures/steps for reducing
stress amongst the soldiers. Some of the steps taken are:-
(i) Counselling on stress management by trained and qualified Psychiatrists
and Psychiatric Nursing Assistants.
(ii) Counselling of susceptible individuals by Religious Teachers,
Psychological Counsellors/Psychiatrists.
(iii) Projects, viz., MILAP and SAHYOG have been launched to reduce stress
amongst troops, which have yielded positive results.
(iv) Group activities like sports, games and recreational activities are
being encouraged at unit/formation level.
(v) The training capsules on relaxation techniques including Yoga and
Pranayam have been introduced.
(vi) All personnel returning to unit after leave are interviewed and
medically examined by the Regimental Medical Officer. Any stress marker
is looked for and motivational talk is rendered.
(vii) Stress related issues are addressed by Commanders through group
discussions/workshops/counseling sessions/stress management courses.
(viii) State Governments have been requested to make the civil administration
more responsive to the problem of serving soldiers and their families.
(ix) Leave policy has been liberalized.