Question : RECRUITMENT IN ARMY

(a) whether physically fit and bright young boys and girls prefer pursuing career in other fields than joining defence services (Army, Navy and Air Force) in officers rank and as a result of which post of officers in all the three wings of the armed forces remain vacant;

(b) if so, whether his Ministry has conducted any review/study to ascertain the reasons for this declining interest among the youths;

(c) if so, the outcome thereof;

(d) whether his Ministry has launched any new scheme and programmes to attract the youths to choose their career as an officer in the three wings of the armed forces; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI GEORGE FERNANDES)

(a) to (e): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 730 FOR 16.5.2002

Although with the opening up of the Economy the choice and job opportunities for the youth has increased, Armed Forces continue to remain an important option for physically fit bright young boys and girls. As a result of introduction of certain new Officer Entry Schemes and a continued media campaign targeting talented eligible youth, the response from the youth to join the armed forces has increased.

While no separate study in the matter has been undertaken, the trends are being constantly analyzed and monitored. Several steps have been initiated by the Government to improve the intake of officers in the armed forces. An Image Projection Campaign of the Army was launched in 1997-98 which made a positive impact on the availability and selection of candidates. Steps have been taken to continue the campaign and the IIIrd Phase of the campaign has been launched recently.

Indian Air Force has intensified publicity campaign to attract meritorious youth towards a career in the Air Force. Sustained publicity efforts are being undertaken by the IAF to attract talented youth into the officers cadre. Almost 3000 Schools and Colleges are on the mailing list for the publicity material in this regard. Campus interviews are undertaken by qualified assessors from Selection Boards so as to interact directly with potential candidates and answer their queries about the service. Schools and colleges are visited regularly for motivational talks.

Extensive publicity and recruitment drives have been carried out by the Navy. Teams of Naval Officers visit reputed colleges and institutions to motivate the youth to join the Indian Navy. Focussed publicity drives are also being carried out through recruitment advertisements in various newspapers, TV channels and hoardings to attract more candidates.