20-February -2025-Special-Article

STRESS AMONG DEFENCE PERSONNEL

Recent incidents, such as a CRPF soldier killing two colleagues in Manipur, have highlighted the growing stress among security forces. Rising suicides and resignations among defense personnel indicate the urgent need for better mental health support and grievance redressal mechanisms.

Causes of Stress Among Defence Personnel

Operational Stress Factors

• Prolonged Counter-Insurgency & Counter-Terrorism (CI/CT) Deployments: Continuous exposure to high-risk environments (extreme weather, rough terrain, and lack of basic facilities). A study by the United Service Institution of India (USI) found that over 50% of Indian Army personnel experience severe stress.
• Frequent and Long Separations from Family: Extended field postings limit communication with family, affecting emotional well-being.
• Unpredictable Work Hours & High Operational Pressure: Irregular shifts require constant vigilance and rapid decision-making, leading to exhaustion.
• Short-Term Employment & Uncertain Career Prospects: Policies like Agnipath Scheme cause uncertainty among non-officer ranks.
• Casualties & Combat Trauma: Witnessing the death or injury of fellow soldiers leads to psychological distress.

Non-Operational Stress Factors

• Leadership and Administrative Challenges: Perceived unfair promotions, lack of recognition, and leadership gaps contribute to dissatisfaction.
• Conflicts with Seniors & Subordinates: Interpersonal tensions and instances of humiliation impact morale.
• Frequent Transfers & Short Command Tenures: Cause career instability and disrupt family life.
• Pay and Status Concerns: Financial dissatisfaction and downgradation in rank equivalence reduce motivation.
• Leave Denial & Excessive Workload: Soldiers often face rejection of leave requests, even in emergencies.
• Restrictions on Personal Freedom: Limited use of mobile phones and strict discipline rules affect mental well-being.
• Inadequate Infrastructure & Support: Poor-quality rations, lack of recreational facilities, and weak administrative support worsen stress levels.
• Family Harassment & Security Concerns: Threats to families back home increase anxiety among soldiers.
• Mental Health Stigma: Fear of being labeled “weak” discourages personnel from seeking help.
• Substance Abuse: Many resort to alcohol as a coping mechanism, leading to health and social issues.

Impact of Stress on Defence Personnel

• Increased Suicides & Fratricides: Rising stress triggers extreme actions, endangering individual soldiers and their units. From 2020 to 2024, over 55,555 CAPF personnel resigned or took voluntary retirement, and 730 soldiers died by suicide.
• Decline in Mental & Physical Health: Cases of hypertension, anxiety, depression, and stress-related illnesses are increasing.
• Lower Morale & Motivation: Emotional and mental exhaustion reduces commitment to duty.
• Reduced Combat Readiness: Stress impacts alertness, decision-making, and performance, compromising national security.
• High Attrition Rates: More personnel opt for voluntary retirement or early exits, reducing force strength.
• Family & Social Struggles: Work-related stress leads to domestic conflicts and strained relationships.
• Reduced Trust in Leadership: Poor grievance redressal creates dissatisfaction with policies and decision-making.

Government Initiatives for Mental Well-being

Advisory & Guidelines

• In August 2023, the Indian Army issued directives deploying officers, religious teachers, and trained personnel to address mental health concerns.

Training & Counseling Programs

• Officers receive training at the Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR).
• Religious teachers (Pandits, Maulvis, Granthis, Pastors) offer spiritual and emotional support.
• 12-week Unit Psychological Counsellor Courses train junior and non-commissioned officers.

Counseling Support & Helplines

• Civilian counselors are deployed at major military stations.
• Helplines set up at all Command Headquarters for immediate assistance.

Psychiatry Centres

• Established under the Directorate General of Medical Services at key military locations.

Holistic Well-being Programs

• Yoga, meditation, sports, recreation, and improved facilities enhance overall well-being.
• Buddy System fosters peer support among soldiers.

Way Forward:

Regular Stress Assessments

• Conduct periodic psychological evaluations and expand ongoing studies like DIPR research.

Leveraging Technology for Mental Health

• Implement AI-based chatbots and telemedicine services for remote mental health support.
• National Tele Mental Health Programme and Kiran Helpline should be actively promoted.

Strengthening Family Support

• Provide counseling and financial planning workshops for families.
• Conduct well-being programs for military families to reduce domestic stress.

Career Stability for Retiring Soldiers

• Facilitate lateral entry into paramilitary forces, police, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
• Expand Self-Employment Schemes for ex-servicemen and widows.

Better Grievance Redressal Mechanisms

• Introduce a time-bound system similar to the Right to Information Act (2005) for resolving soldiers’ grievances efficiently.

Conclusion

Addressing stress among defense personnel is critical for their mental well-being, operational effectiveness, and national security. While the government has taken several initiatives, more systematic support, career stability, and mental health awareness programs are needed. A comprehensive approach combining technology, training, and leadership support can ensure a healthier and more resilient armed force for India.

Mains Question:

1. Examine the causes of rising stress among defense personnel in India. Suggest measures to improve their mental well-being and operational efficiency. (150 WORDS)