Rise in Suicides Among Paramilitary Forces: MHA Highlights 100-Day Leave Policy as Relief Measure
The Ministry of Home Affairs reports a rise in suicides among paramilitary forces, with 730 jawans lost to suicide. A 100-day leave policy and stress management measures aim to reduce incidents.
New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has revealed alarming statistics about rising suicide rates and voluntary retirements among Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel. Data presented in the Rajya Sabha highlights that 730 jawans have died by suicide in recent years, and over 55,000 personnel have either resigned or opted for voluntary retirement.
Main Causes of Suicides Among CAPF Personnel
A task force investigating the rise in suicides found that more than 80% of the incidents occurred after jawans returned home from leave. Personal issues such as the death of a spouse or family member, marital discord, financial stress, and inadequate educational opportunities for children were identified as the primary triggers.
While professional challenges like long duty hours and sleep deprivation contribute to stress, the report noted that personal problems are the dominant factor behind these suicides. The study also observed that male personnel often hesitate to share their problems for fear of ridicule, whereas female personnel reported fewer incidents of suicide attempts.
MHA Initiatives to Address the Issue
In response to the findings, the MHA emphasized the importance of enabling personnel to spend quality time with their families. The 100-day leave policy has been introduced as a significant relief measure.
- In 2024 (up to October), 6,302 personnel availed the 100-day leave policy.
- In 2023, 8,636 personnel benefited from the policy, while in 2021, the figure stood at 7,864.
Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai stated that the government is committed to addressing the mental health challenges faced by CAPF personnel.
Recommendations for Stress Management
The MHA task force has suggested several measures to reduce stress and improve the well-being of jawans:
- Transparent Leave Management: Reserve leave at each rank to allow liberal leave approvals.
- Promotion Policy Review: Address the lack of promotional opportunities to boost morale.
- Improved Living Conditions: Enhance living quarters and provide recreational facilities.
- Regular Grievance Redressal: Encourage officers to interact with personnel to address grievances promptly.
- Duty Hour Regulation: Ensure adequate rest and relief by moderating duty hours.
- Transparent Transfer Policy: Simplify transfer procedures to reduce unnecessary stress.
The report also flagged that efforts to manage stress across different forces are currently inconsistent and need to be carried to their logical conclusions.
Way Forward
The MHA has tasked the CAPFs and the Assam Rifles with implementing these recommendations to curb suicide and fratricide rates. A robust, transparent system for leave, promotions, and transfers is expected to play a pivotal role in improving the mental health and morale of jawans.
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