Govt backs military training for youth in India

India could start some elementary military training for its youth, especially in border areas, but compulsory training on the lines of Russia and other countries is ruled out.

India could start some elementary military training for its youth, especially in border areas, but compulsory training on the lines of Russia and other countries is ruled out.

Under the programme, which could be launched on trial basis in border areas, military training could be imparted for an hour or as a separate course as part of school and college curriculum, defence minister Manohar Parrikar told the Rajya Sabha on Friday.

"It can be introduced for an hour in a course or as a separate course. We can work out something like that. We can start on a trial basis. Let us do it in some districts in borders where there is more enthusiasm," he said while replying to a debate on private member's bill.

"After consulting members, something will be worked out, may be in few months' time," Parrikar said.

The Compulsory Military Training Bill 2012 was moved by Avinash Rai Khanna of the BJP. The bill, moved during last session of Parliament, proposed one-year compulsory military training in the age group of 14-15. It was defeated by a voice vote.

Supporting the intent of the proposal in the bill, Parrikar, however, said compulsory military training was not possible in view of the huge costs of the tune of Rs 60,000 crore each year.