Compulsory Military Service

By Arvind Mohan

COMPULSORY MILITARY SERVICE FOR GOVERNMENT JOBS

This is one of the most atrocious and stupid proposals I have come across. This is based on the presumption that anyone and everyone is suitable to serve as a soldier. The first and foremost is the physical fitness and stamina. It is foolish to think that everyone can match up to the standards. In case those joining Government services are given relaxations in various standards while serving in military then the list of such relaxations is going to be very long and the main purpose of this whole exercise is defeated. For officers' cadre it is even tougher as in military there are leaders and not administrators, and these leaders lead by personal example. How many potential Government officers will fit the bill?

In case these persons are going to be there in military just to be eligible for Government job their priority will never be military and they won't contribute anything towards it. They will be simply a burden on defence forces and a big liability. In any case they can't be used in active operations or anything military. They will only spoil the military culture and bring down the standards as well as create confusion and chaos in rank and file.

However if the nation is serious about good governance and effective administration the politicians aspiring to become MPs, MLAs MLCs, Corporaters etc should be made to serve in military for at least 3 years. Naturally, as mentioned above, all of them will not be able to meet the standards and therefore can be screened out at this early stage itself. The country will be highly benefited by getting right kind of leaders to lead the nation and getting riddance of nincompoops.

The compulsory military service for aspiring politicians will not only be a crucible for finding out the potential leaders but will also provide an excellent training platform for imbibing personal and social values and unadulterated patriotism which will enable them to grow into right kind of nationalist leaders. These leaders will always have nation first and will most likely be incorruptible and honest. Through military training they may develop a good habit of remaining physically fit and mentally alert which will be a great asset for improved efficiency. It is high time that a serious thought is given to this proposal and implement it earliest even if amendment in constitution is needed.