Going for post retirement academics is entirely the officers choice and most opt for HR and land up in the XRLI. It seems to be a popular choice.negi wrote:^ These are select few from thousands that sign up for the SSC ,services definitely encourage officers to pursue MBA or even masters in relevant fields in top institutes (IIMs and IITs) but only a select few are offered courses in top institutes subject to merit and vacancies. Point being majority of the folks who sign up for SSC usually end up being absorbed as permanent commissioned officers subject to their performance appraisals and vacancies , only a select few who find better career opportunities outside and do not necessarily get a high with fauji lifestyle opt to leave for greener pastures.
Imho 10 year tenure for SSC entrants is a welcome step as it gives IA ample time and a seasoned officer who can contribute to the organization and at the same time does not affect the individual's aspirations of pursuing a career in the civilian sector.In this day and age of competition 5yrs of experience and a MBA degree might not guarantee a huge paycheck (if this is indeed the reason for not continuing with the IA) unless of course one is amongst the few bright one's who end up with IIMs .
I personally favour a 5 year tenure for a variety of reasons.
1. The officers are still young and can adjust to the new situation.
2. All said and done, the Army regimen does make one a trifle rigid and that cannot work smoothly in a civil setup and more so when you work with labour and the political parties backing them.
3. I am not sure, but a longer tenure till retirement age in civil organisations, would allow the ex officer a better prospect in pension, promotions, PF and gratuity etc!