Indian Army to slash manpower by 1.5 lakh

In a major restructuring move, Indian Army is planning to reduce 1.5 lakh manpower from the present 1.2 million force over the next five years.

The Indian Army, General Bipin Rawat has asked for studies to prepare the force for 21st-century conflict.

Rawat wants a leaner, meaner and more technology driven army with fewer troops, envisaging a cut of 150,000-200,000 troops from the current 1.2 million plus force .Most of the troop reduction will be carried out in army HQ, logistics, communications and logistics units, repair facilities and other administrative and support areas.

Carrying out a review 11-member panel headed by military secretary Lt Gen JS Sandhu, will present a preliminary report to the Army Chief General Bipin Rawat by September end while the final report will be submitted in November.

Despite the infusion of technology, which needs less manpower to operate it, the army has expanded over the years and this has necessitated the cadre review.

The order which initiated the cadre review notes that the lines between the verticals got blurred and this resulted in duplication of duties and unnecessary allocation of manpower doing virtually the same thing

The review will also cover the needs of the army in the future, improving the efficiency and morale of officers, their career progression, shortage of officers, career management and guidelines related to leaving service.