Is the government deliberately seeking to humble the armed forces? (English Version) Rakshak News 21 Mar 18
In a recent reply to a question raised by Mr Chandrashekar, a Rajya Sabha MP, on whether the government was considering grant of Non-Functional Upgradation (NFU) for the armed forces, the MoS Defence replied in the negative, stating that the case was sub judice. In the meanwhile, there has been no action on the part of the MoD to even consider raising the issue of a separate NFU to meet the aspirations of the armed forces.
Near simultaneous was the release of the report by the parliamentary committee of defence, which quoted the army Vice Chief, General Sarath Chand, stating that the budget allocation was insufficient even for payment of pending liabilities and maintaining the force in being. This was a cry of anguish as the army desperately needs modernization but is prevented by lack of funds. Further default in payments for contracted liabilities implies embarrassment and legal issues, harming its and the nation’s image.
For the first time, even the army chief spoke on the impact of lack of funds impacting readiness and modernization of the army. He painstakingly sought to inform the nation that upto 35% of the defence budget is used for national development and providing amenities in remote areas, where even state governments fail to reach. He even reassured the nation that the army is trained to fight with whatever weapons it has.
Around the same time, the government issued a letter stating that armed forces officers are to be paid Rs 97 as ration allowance, in lieu of rations. This would also be taxable. Many pointed out that this sum is even lower than that entitled to a prisoner in jail, who is authorised Rs 135, thus degrading the army officer’s status. The OROP agitation has crossed the thousand-day mark, with no progress from the government in accepting their just demands.
The above actions appear to be a part of the government’s overall initiative to lower the standing and capability of the armed forces. It cannot be accidental as the finance minister who approves all financial expenditure has been the defence minister twice in this government itself and is aware of the problems and grievances of the military.
These simultaneous decisions could have multiple impacts. Firstly, it could leave the armed forces with lower than desired capabilities in the face of mounting threats from both adversaries thus, opening doors for adventurism. Nuclear weapons may remain a deterrent against an all-out war but would no way guarantee security from an adversary attempting localized actions, as is happening at present.
Secondly, it could impact the international standing of the armed forces. The world seeks India as a counter-balance to China. International armed forces are rushing in to enhance security cooperation with India while seeking joint exercises. This is under the assumption that India has the capability to counter China. Shortage of funds would soon erode this myth and nations would fade away from seeking Indian support.
Thirdly, the non-grant of NFU to the officers of the armed forces has been the single largest morale impacting factor. It remains the only central government service to be denied this privilege. The defence minister should have bypassed her bureaucratic advisors and considered forwarding a separate case demanding the same for the military. Alternatively, they have even failed to issue a notification stating that NFU does not impact status of an individual, thereby offsetting the impact which it has created within the bureaucratic fold.
The announcement of Rs 97 as ration allowance is considered a direct insult. This was the figure allocated by the government when all items for ration for the military was procured centrally, contracted at the national level. When considered individually, it is even below that entitled to a prisoner who has committed a crime against society. Thus, the amount sanctioned is an insult rather than a grant made by the government. It conveys the impression that the government considers an armed forces officer’s requirement for meals to be even below that of a convict.
It is surprising that the MoD, which is supposed to highlight problems facing the armed forces to other ministries and seek to grant them their rightful due has decided to maintain silence on the subject. It has not even commented that it would address the issue by approaching the concerned ministry. Nirmala needs to understand that her actions determine how capable the armed forces remain and how high is their morale. Both capability and morale impact the fighting power of the military, neither of which can be ignored.
About the Author
Maj Gen Harsha Kakkar
Retired Major General Indian Army