What Should an Army Personnel Opt for After Retirement from Short Service Commission?
The short service commission (SSC) system in the Indian armed forces is a complex and often controversial topic. Here, we examine the challenges faced by SSC personnel and explore viable career options after retirement.
The Challenges of SSC Commission
Firstly, it is often argued that the SSC system is a form of exploitation. Designed as a support cadre, its primary function is to assist regular permanent commission (permanent commission, or PC) officers in their careers by allowing them to be relieved for easier postings. However, SSC officers are often subjected to harsh duties, such as border postings or service in ships, without the same perks and benefits enjoyed by their PC counterparts. Moreover, there is a perpetual reminder of the temporary nature of their service, leading to discrimination throughout their careers.
Financial and Health Concerns
Among the key drawbacks of SSC service are the financial and health implications. Unlike regular PC officers, SSC personnel receive no National Pension Scheme (NPS) contributions from the employer and no Provident Fund (PF) benefits. This means that employees of other sectors, including contractual workers, often receive employers' contributions to their PF, putting SSC officers at a significant disadvantage. Additionally, they are not provided with medical facilities for ailments that may arise from their service, highlighting a significant gap in post-service care and support.
Excluded from Post-Services Benefits
Post-service benefits are another area where SSC officers face challenges. They are not allowed to be members of service clubs, and their families may not receive the same support or benefits as those of regular permanent commission officers. This lack of support extends to their financial needs, as SSC officers are required to contribute a significant amount (RS 10,000 per month) to a life fund, which is used to support their families if they pass away while serving. In stark contrast, civilians who die in riots or other emergencies are compensated, whereas this is not the case for SSC officers.
Development of Skills for Post-Service Opportunities
Despite the challenges, there are opportunities for SSC officers to transition into other sectors. If they improve their educational and professional qualifications and develop strong communication and networking skills, they have a reasonable chance of being picked up by the private sector. The armed forces provide a wealth of experience and skills that are highly valued by many companies.
Exploring Other Career Pathways
Alternatively, retirees can consider standing for state or central public service commissions (UPSC). These commissions offer competitive exams for various government positions, and age remains an advantageous factor in these exams. Experience from armed service is often beneficial for many government positions, although specific departmental policies may vary. For those with engineering backgrounds, the Indian Engineering Services or state government engineering departments are also viable options.
Conclusion
While the short service commission system presents numerous challenges, there are viable strategies for transitioning into a fulfilling post-service career. By leveraging their skills and experiences, SSC officers can explore a range of opportunities in both the private and public sectors. Regardless of the chosen path, the key is to make proactive and well-informed decisions to secure a stable and rewarding future.