Indian Army as a career choice

Ranjan K Baruah *

One ofthe strongest forces in the world is none other than the Indian Army.

We must be aware that the Army Day is celebrated on 15 January every year in India, in recognition of Field Marshal Kodandera M. Cariappa's (then a Lieutenant General)taking over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from General Francis Roy Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief oflndia, on 15 January 1949.

Indian Army brings opportunity for young men and women to join the Army and serve the nation and also the society. There are many ways of joining the Indian Awry. An officer in the Indian Amiy inherits glorious heritage and timeless traditions, blended perfectly with the latest technology in the fields of management, engineering and medical sciences.

It offers a golden opportunity to be a part of the world's finest Army and get trained not only to be an Officer but also a Gentleman for life. One may become an officer through different entries or clearing different exams and interviews.

Apart from officers, individuals may also join the Indian Army in many other ways. Some of these include: 0 Soldier General Duty—SSLC/Matric with 45% marks in aggregate. No percentage required if higher qualification.

0 Soldier Technical-101-2/Intermediate exam passed in Science with Physics, Chemistry, Maths and English.

0 Soldier Clerk / Store Keeper Technical-- 10+2/ Intermediate exam passed in any stream (Arts, Commerce, Science) with 50% marks in aggregate and min40% in each subject

0 Soldier Nursing Assistant-- 10H-2/Intermediate exam passed in Science with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English with min 50% mark in aggregate and min 40% in each subject

0 The Agnipath Scheme for recruiting soldiers — under the new Agnipath scheme, around 45,000 to 50,000 soldiers will be recruited annually, and most will leave the service in just four years.

Of the total annual recruits, only 25 per cent will be allowed to continue for another 15 years under permanent commission. This brings opportunities for young people in India. Aspirants must be aware that they must be physically fit, mentally alert, socially active, emotionally stable and spiritually God fearing if they want to join Indian Army and serve the nation.

There are different age limits for different entries and one may check out the official website of the Indian Amiy for updates and firrther details.

There are many individuals from the North Eastern region who have served the nation in different capacities including Lieutenant General. Young girls fiom our region may try to join the National Defence Academy as girls have started joining prestigious NDA.