Since last few years, it has been noticed that barring a few, most youngsters are not willing to join defence forces. There was a time when people joined the forces with a passion, with a zeal, with a strong will to do something for the nation. But that keenness to join armed forces is vanishing. What are the reasons for youngsters not joining the forces and what can be done to attract young brigade towards this noble profession? With these questions, ‘The Hitavada’ approached Flight Lieutenant Shiwalee Deshpande (retired) to know the answers to these questions. She feels fear component is playing vital role in preventing youngsters from joining defence forces.

 

“Youngsters are not interested to join the armed forces is a myth. They are very keen to join the forces. Many of them, after completing their graduation come to me to take guidance. But I would say unfortunately the quality chunk doesn’t come. There are several things they need to improve upon. Their language, their quest to acquire knowledge, their zeal to do something great for the nation is totally absent. Actually, they too can’t be blamed. They don’t have any role model who would motivate them to join forces,” said Flt Lt Shiwalee Deshpande (retd). According to Shiwalee Deshpande, the mindset of society should be changed. In most homes the parents or other members a fear is created in the minds of their wards, pointed out Shiwalee Deshpande. Shiwalee Deshpande explained, “Most parents think if their wards join armed forces they have to go through hardships.

 

They would not have their own life. They cannot have family life. I agree life is different in armed forces but it teaches you discipline, it teaches you how to live in a graceful manner. It teaches you to live in an organised manner.” Flt Lt Shiwalee Deshpande (retired) pointed out, “Most families want their children to live a comfortable life. They try to force their thoughts upon their wards. In most homes, the families want the younger members to get jobs with handsome salaries like a software engineer or a doctor, or a Chartered Accountant. Nobody thinks out of the box. Youngsters mostly want to do something adventurous, which is a temporary enthusiasm. There is a need of temperament for joining defence forces to be developed in them. The fear of death if one joins forces should be removed. Death is inevitable. In fact, the death a soldier gets has dignity. It has the aspect of patriotism. He or she dies for the nation. Of course we don’t want to discuss that issue. I only want to say, society, particularly parents should change their mindset and encourage youngsters to join armed forces.”