Mr. Bruhaspati Samal article "Sacrifices Beyond the Battlefield" has been published today (26.01.2025) in #KalingaChronicle. On this 76th Republic Day, the article is dedicated to the proud soldiers of our country who are safeguarding us at the cost of their lives. Thanks a lot to the Editor of Kalinga Chronicle and his team.
#Sacrifices_Beyond_the_Battlefield
The rising wave of suicides and resignations among Jawans in India’s armed and paramilitary forces paints a grim picture of the immense mental and emotional toll borne by those entrusted with safeguarding the nation. Replying to Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1036 on 4th December 2024, the Union Home Minister (State) has admitted that 730 Jawans have tragically taken their own lives over the past five years. Alongside this, a staggering 55,555 personnel have resigned or opted for voluntary retirement during the same period. These figures are more than statistics; they are a testament to the immense pressures faced by those tasked with safeguarding our nation.
The crisis of suicides and resignations permeates across various branches of India’s paramilitary and armed forces. Report says that over the past five years approximately 350 suicides have been recorded within its ranks in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), one of the largest components and over 20,000 personnel have resigned or taken voluntary retirement. In the elite National Security Guard (NSG), the numbers are lower but equally alarming when considered in proportion to its size. Around 30 personnel have committed suicide, while approximately 1,000 have stepped down voluntarily. Similarly, the Assam Rifles, known for operating in some of the most challenging terrains, has reported around 120 suicides and over 5,500 resignations. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force (ITBP), deployed in extreme climatic conditions, has seen around 100 suicides and 7,000 resignations. Other paramilitary forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), account for an additional 130 suicides and over 22,000 resignations.
The reasons behind this grim reality are as complex as they are manifold. Chronic stress and overwhelming workloads are primary culprits. Jawans often endure extended working hours and continuous deployments in conflict zones without adequate breaks. This relentless cycle leaves little room for rest or recovery, leading to burnout. Another significant factor is the poor work-life balance inherent in their roles. Prolonged separations from family and limited opportunities for personal interactions strain their emotional and mental well-being. The stigma surrounding mental health further exacerbates the situation. Despite the high-stress environment, seeking psychological help is often viewed as a sign of weakness, deterring many from accessing the support they need. Moreover, inadequate facilities at many postings contribute to dissatisfaction. Jawans stationed in remote or hostile areas frequently encounter substandard living conditions, limited recreational avenues, and insufficient medical care. Financial concerns add to their woes. Many personnel feel underpaid relative to the risks they face, and delayed promotions or unclear career progression paths only heighten their frustrations. For those stationed in extreme environments, such as the high-altitude posts manned by the ITBP, the combination of harsh climates and geographical isolation takes a heavy toll on both their physical and mental health.
The repercussions of these suicides and resignations are far-reaching. For the armed forces, operational readiness is significantly compromised. High attrition rates create gaps in the workforce, requiring time and resources to recruit and train replacements. The morale of serving personnel also suffers, as frequent incidents of suicides and mass resignations foster a sense of instability and unease. On a broader scale, these issues impact national security. A diminished and demoralized workforce poses a risk to the efficacy of border security and internal law enforcement. Public confidence in the nation’s defense capabilities may also waver when such incidents make headlines. The effects extend beyond the institutions to the families of the deceased or resigned Jawans. For those who lose a loved one to suicide, the emotional trauma is profound and often compounded by societal stigma. Families dependent on a Jawan’s income may face financial hardships, particularly if the resignation or retirement was abrupt.
Addressing this crisis requires concerted efforts from multiple stakeholders. The government must lead by implementing comprehensive policy reforms. This includes enhancing pay scales to reflect the risks involved, ensuring timely promotions, and streamlining pension schemes to provide financial security. Investment in infrastructure is equally vital. Modern, well-equipped facilities at remote postings can significantly improve the quality of life for personnel. The armed forces’ headquarters also have a critical role to play. Regular mental health assessments and counselling sessions should become a standard practice across all units. Stress management workshops can provide personnel with tools to cope with the pressures of their roles. Efforts should also be made to improve workplace conditions, including reasonable duty hours and periodic rotations to less demanding assignments. Establishing robust feedback mechanisms where personnel can voice grievances without fear of reprisal is another essential step.
The families of Jawans, too, can be instrumental in mitigating this crisis. Encouraging open dialogues about mental health and fostering a supportive environment can help Jawans feel less isolated. Awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of mental health within the armed forces community could further break down existing stigmas. In addition to these measures, several targeted solutions can be introduced. Mandatory mental health assessments at regular intervals would help identify at-risk personnel before issues escalate. Policies that facilitate better work-life balance, such as periodic home visits or family accommodations at postings, could alleviate some of the emotional strain. Offering career counselling and skill development programs would provide personnel with a sense of direction and options for post-retirement life. Recreational activities, including sports and cultural events, could serve as effective stress relievers and promote camaraderie within units. Recognizing and rewarding exceptional service can also boost morale and foster a sense of purpose.
As the nation honours the sacrifices of its security forces, the time has come to critically examine the conditions under which they serve and to remember that their sacrifices extend beyond the battlefield. The stress and challenges they endure often go unnoticed, yet they form the backbone of our nation’s security. Addressing their well-being is not just a policy requirement but a moral obligation and a strategic necessity to ensure that those who stand as the first line of defense for the country receive the care, respect, and support they rightfully deserve which will strengthen the resilience of our armed forces and, by extension, the nation itself. Let’s pledge to move beyond ceremonial tributes and take concrete actions to address the issues facing our Jawans. By tackling the root causes of suicides and resignations, we can create an environment where our protectors feel valued, supported, and empowered to serve with pride. Their resilience safeguards our future; it is our collective responsibility to safeguard theirs.
(The author is a Service Union Representative and a Columnist. Mobile: 9437022669, eMail: samalbruhaspati@gmail.com)
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