After 2005, the provision for extension of the scheme of Short Service Commission (SSC) Officer in the armed forces to 10 years (further extendable by 4 years) than the earlier tenure of SSC officers for 5-7 years has created multiple problems for the SSC officers. Earlier, the officers were released from service while still in their prime allowing them to adjust into a different life and a new job.

Most SSC officers now retire at the rank of a Lieutenant Colonel but do not receive pension or any other post-retirement benefits. On exiting the armed forces, many SSC officers are unable to get back into the general workforce for the lack of specialized degrees and training required for a job with a steady income.

The Government has not introduced any measures to rehabilitate and employ SSC officers into its other departments and services. Lack of rehabilitative measures and post-employment benefits have resulted in absolute exploitation of our young officers who dedicate their prime years to the service of our nation and are then left to fend for themselves.

I would thus urge the Government to restructure the Short Service Commission Scheme by providing for post-retirement benefits, compensatory employment, and rehabilitative measures. This would revive the Short Service Commission, making it an attractive service opportunity for our youth and also help meet the shortage of officers in defence services.