New comprehensive promotion policy for senior army officers to start from January 1
New comprehensive promotion policy for senior army officers to start from January 1 (representational Image)
By: Pune Pulse
December 7, 2023
Pune: A new promotion policy has been officially approved by the Army for its senior officers. This policy emphasizes meritocracy, physical fitness, and reducing disparity among different arms and services.
The aim is to ensure that the 1.2 million-strong force is well-prepared to effectively tackle both current and future operational challenges. The implementation of this ‘comprehensive’ promotion policy for the ranks of Colonel, Brigadier, Major General, and Lt-General will commence on January 1.
On Wednesday, a senior Army official stated that although the current promotion policy has proven its effectiveness over time, policies must be adaptable to meet the ever-changing operational requirements.
The implementation of the new policy will aid in aligning leadership needs with the current and emerging operational challenges, both internally and externally. The Army consists of various branches such as combat arms (infantry, armoured corps, and mechanized infantry), combat-support arms (artillery, air defense, aviation, engineers, and signals), and services (ASC, AOC, and EME), along with other divisions. Within the officer cadre of the force, there are approximately 80 Lt-Generals, 300 Major Generals, 1,200 Brigadiers, and 5,600 Colonels, totalling 43,000 officers.
The new policy aims to address long-standing grievances, such as infantry officers dominating promotions in the senior ranks. It seeks to fulfill the aspirations of all arms and services, ensuring a fair and equitable process on promotion boards and promoting meritocracy. Additionally, the policy will consider Major Generals from the ‘staff stream’ for promotion to Lt-Generals, specifically for staff positions. Currently, Major Generals from the ‘command and staff stream’ are typically promoted to the next rank.
Furthermore, officers who are physically fit to serve in all terrains will be appointed as Colonels and Brigadiers, while those who have suffered battle casualties or injuries during operations will still receive promotions as before. This new promotion policy follows the Army’s decision in August to adopt a common uniform for Brigadiers, Major Generals, Lt-Generals, and the Chief, disregarding their parent cadre and appointments. This uniform change involved discarding distinctive regimental hats, shoulder rank badges, gorget patches, belts, lanyards, and shoes.
