BACK
| While the Kargil conflict has brought about
a renewed interest in the military, not many are aware of the crucial role
that the paramilitary forces play in defending and keeping the security
of the country. The paramilitary consists of the Central Reserve
Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), the Indo Tibetan Border
Police (ITBP), the Railway Protection Force (RPF), the Central Industrial
Security Force (CISF) and a few others. Each of these are uniformed
forces specializing in different areas of security. The first is
perhaps the largest force, which is deployed to help the state police at
times of calamity or riots, and even in
defending the country if needed. BSF and ITBP are the guardians of our borders during peace time, and assist the army at the time of war. They also come to the rescue for any type of calamity. RPF and CISF protect the properties of the railways and government industries, respectively. Good opportunities of employment are available in each of these forces
for young men who wish to be part of nation building and security.
All the services offer secure jobs, good service conditions, and reasonable
ENTRY: Entry in all paramilitary
forces is through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams for
the gazetted officers’ level, and by Staff Selection Board (SSB) for lower
ranks. The intake is at the rank of Assistant Commandant (which is
equivalent to Deputy Superintendent of Police, or Captain). Eligibility
is for graduates from any stream, who can pass the written test as well
as the physical fitness criteria. It is comparatively easier to get
into the paramilitary services as compared to IAS, IPS or the army. The
forces also take in candidates at the Sub-Inspector level, wherein the
academic eligibility is not very high, but the physical fitness is given
more emphasis. Similarly, there are vacancies for technical graduates,
education officers,
APTITUDE: Perfect health, good physical fitness, and a courageous temperament are the hallmarks of these forces. Good leadership qualities, ability to handle crises, love for travel, particularly to remote and inhospitable surroundings, are also a must. Candidates should have good eyesight, good communication skills, and stamina. They also need to have the patience to endure long periods of inactivity and the suspense of awaiting action. THE FUTURE: Promotions in these forces are generally fixed and ensured. A candidate joining in the rank of Assistant Commandant or Company Commander, gets promoted on time scale to Commandant, and then Deputy Inspector General ’s rank, and some even reach the position of Inspector General (equivalent to a Major General of the army). The topmost posts are generally reserved for the Indian Police Service (IPS) officers on deputation. Those joining as sub-inspectors will move on to inspectors or subedars, and then to Assistant commandant’s positions. Officers showing courage and bravery at times of need may get accelerated promotions, or other rewards.All officers are well looked after by the government, and though salaries may not be very high compared to the corporate world of today, the perks and benefits ensure a comfortable living for the family. The family is also well looked after in the case of injury or death of the officer. On retirement, officers are entitled to a life long pension. SOME ADDRESSES:
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