The number of youths from south Karnataka regions seeking enrolment in the army has declined over the years compared to northern parts of the State.

This was attributed to access to other avenues of employment in the southern region, besides greater awareness about job opportunities in private and corporate sectors.

Col. Jaideep Sharma of the Army Recruitment Office, Bengaluru, told media persons on Tuesday that even in the southern districts, there was a relatively higher enrolment from Hassan and Mandya, while among Kodavas, for whom joining the forces was a tradition, has steadily fallen over the years.

“There was a time when every household in Kodagu district had representatives in the defence and it produced the country’s first Field Marshall K.M. Cariappa and Army Chief Gen. K.S. Thimayya, among others. But sadly, enrolment among youngsters from Kodagu has declined as they are drifting to other jobs,” Col. Sharma said. “When compared to corporate companies and other jobs, the CTC in army was higher, and even an 8 standard-pass soldier earned a decent sum ranging from Rs. 21,000 plus free ration, canteen facilities, medical benefits, besides pension,” Col. Sharma said.

He said a separate branch dealt with rehabilitation of retired soldiers.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> National> Karnataka / by R. Krishna Kumar / Mysuru – March 23rd, 2016