Sex Trafficking : A shame

Author : Ms. Ratri ray sen
Senior Vice president, RPG
Head- Corporate communications and training
ASIA & Europe

Abstract:

Sex trafficking involves some form of forced or coerced sexual exploitation that is not limited to prostitution, and has become a significant and growing problem in both the United States and the larger global community. The costs to society include the degradation of human and women’s rights, poor public health, disrupted communities, and diminished social development. Victims of sex trafficking acquire adverse physical and psychological health conditions and social disadvantages. Thus, sex trafficking is a critical health issue with broader social implications that requires both medical and legal attention. Healthcare professionals can work to improve the screening, identification, and assistance of victims of sex trafficking in a clinical setting and help these women and girls access legal and social services.

Key Words :
Sex trafficking, Human rights, Women’s rights

Human trafficking is a modern-day form of slavery that involves the illegal trade of human beings for the purpose of some form of forced exploitation. The United Nations Office On Drugs and Crime (UNODC) defines human trafficking as any form of recruiting, transporting, transferring, harboring, or receiving a person by means of threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, abduction, fraud, or deception.1 There are approximately 800,000 people trafficked across international borders annually and, of these, 80% are women or girls and 50% are minors.2 Although the degree of trafficking among countries and continents is variable, it is clear that global trafficking has become a growing problem (Figure 1).

The two most common purposes for human trafficking are sexual exploitation and forced labor (Figures 2, ​,3).3). Victims of sex trafficking are forced into one or more forms of sexual exploitation. It is important to note that sex trafficking and prostitution are not synonymous and that prostitution is simply one type of work performed by victims of sex trafficking. Sex trafficking is an umbrella term that may include commercial sex work such as prostitution, but also pornography, exotic dancing, stripping, live sex shows, mail-order brides, military prostitution, and sexual tourism. Although victims of sex trafficking can be of any age and of either sex, the majority are women and adolescent girls. Although many nations have outlawed the trafficking of females, it is still widely prevalent on a global scale.

Methods of Coercion, Recruitment, and Enslavement

References
1. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, authors. Human trafficking and migrant smuggling. [Accessed March 6, 2013].
2. Dovydaitis T. Human trafficking: the role of the health care provider. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2010;55:462–467. [PMC free article] [PubMed]
3. Hodge DR. Sexual trafficking in the United States: a domestic problem with transnational dimensions. Soc Work. 2008;53:143–152. [PubMed]
4. McClain NM, Garrity SE. Sex trafficking and the exploitation of adolescents. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2011;40:243–252. [PubMed]
5. US Department of Health and Human Services, authors. Resources: Common Health Issues Seen in Victims of Human Trafficking. [Accessed March 6, 2013].
6. Estes RJ, Weiner NA. The Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania; 2001. [Accessed March 6, 2013].
7. Miller E, Decker MR, Silverman JG, Raj A. Migration, sexual exploitation, and women’s health: a case report from a community health center. Violence Against Women. 2007;13:486–497. [PubMed]
8. US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Refugee Resettlement,

Traffickers and/or pimps commonly recruit potential victims who are either economically or socially vulnerable.3 These include women and girls who are susceptible to poverty, societal isolation, drug addiction, violence in the family, a history of child sexual abuse, family dysfunction, school failure, or a history of criminal behavior.4 It may also include orphans, women with physical disabilities, and those who are innumerate and illiterate.2 Typically, victims are recruited through either finesse or guerrilla pimping. Finesse pimping involves using compassion, kindness, and psychological games such as luring victims through small gifts of cash, clothes, shelter, food, and drugs that make them feel obligated or indebted to the pimp. Guerrilla pimping involves using violence, threats, intimidation, or aggression in order to recruit and then enslave the victim.

Once women and girls become involved in the sex trafficking industry, it becomes very difficult for them to escape. Victims may face legal barriers, where the traffickers will confiscate or sequester all forms of immigration and citizenry documentation. Language barriers, fear, limited knowledge, and lack of money are other barriers that women and girls may face to prevent them from escaping the sex trafficking ring. In many parts of the world, legacy prostitution, or the involuntary enslavement of future generations of girls in the sex trafficking industry, becomes an expected societal norm.

Magnitude of the Problem

The global sex trade is the fastest growing form of commerce, worth $32 billion annually. In fact, human trafficking is the fastest growing area of organized crime and the third largest income revenue for organized crime after narcotics and arms sales. What makes this business unique is that women and girls sold into sex trafficking earn profits for their pimps and traffickers over a great number of years, unlike the profits earned from drugs and narcotics that are sold and used only once.

Trafficking in the United States
The US Department of State estimates that anywhere from 14,500 to 17,500 people are trafficked in the United States annually. Victims tend to be recruited mostly from Mexico and East Asia, followed by the former Soviet Union, Africa, Eastern Europe, and, finally, Latin America.3 Typically, the countries from which many of the victims originate have unstable political climates and are economically disadvantaged. This facilitates trafficking, as it is easier to recruit and transport women, bribe officials, and forge passports and other travel documents.2 The United States is one of the top destinations for sex trafficking, and many children from the United States are trafficked to other industrialized nations, including the Netherlands, Germany, and Japan.2

Health Implications
Victims of sex trafficking are likely exposed to adverse conditions that can negatively affect their physical, mental, and emotional health. Physicians, nurses, midwives, and other healthcare providers can play critical roles in helping to identify victims of sex trafficking as a first step in providing both assistance and advocacy for affected women and girls. As a provider, one can play an essential role in providing interventions to improve physical and psychological health among victims and advocating on behalf of victims to help improve their social circumstances.

Physical
Sex trafficking victims are particularly susceptible to sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea, syphilis, urinary tract infections, and pubic lice. Human immunodeficiency virus/ AIDS infection is known to be prevalent.5 They may experience pelvic pain, vaginal/anal tearing, rectal trauma, and/or urinary difficulties as a result of commercial sex work. Sex trafficking victims are often physically abused and tortured. Providers should screen women and girls for physical injuries such as broken bones, bruises, burns, scars, and broken teeth/ dental problems. A history of concussions and head trauma should also be taken to screen for traumatic brain injury, which may result in memory loss, dizziness, headaches, and numbness. Food deprivation represents an indirect form of physical harm that also should be considered by screening victims for malnutrition.

Providers should also screen for unwanted pregnancy resulting from rape and prostitution, sterility, miscarriage, menstrual problems, mutilations, and forced or coerced abortions. Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, hepatitis, malaria, and pneumonia may be more prevalent among sex trafficking victims as a result of unsanitary and dangerous housing conditions, use of needles, and inadequate access to health care.

Psychological
Victims of sex trafficking may face moderate to severe psychological trauma from daily mental, emotional, and psychological abuse and torture. Post-traumatic stress disorder, acute anxiety, and depression are all common psychological issues among sex industry workers. Providers should screen for feelings of helplessness, shame, humiliation, distrust, self-hatred, disbelief, denial, suicidal thoughts, disorientation, confusion, and phobias among suspected victims.4 It is not uncommon to encounter sex trafficking victims in their early 30s who have become psychologically and emotionally disabled from working in prostitution.6 In one study, providers reported that sex-trafficked women were less stable, more isolated, had higher levels of fear, more severe trauma, and greater mental health needs than other victims of crime.2 Furthermore, victims may develop substance abuse problems or addictions from being coerced through drug use by their traffickers or by using substances to cope or escape their desperate situations.

Social
Although there are insufficient data that report the social effects of sex trafficking, anecdotal evidence suggests that victims have a greater prevalence of illiteracy, homelessness, poverty, and societal isolation. Trafficked women engaging in sex work tend to have fewer resources, limited options, and increased vulnerability to violence and abuse than women who are not trafficked.7

Screening Questions to Identify Victims of Sex Trafficking
In 2004, the US Department of Health and Human Services implemented a campaign to increase the awareness of human trafficking in healthcare workers who may unknowingly interact with victims in their day-to-day work.8 Healthcare providers represent one of a few groups of professionals who may come in contact with victims of sex trafficking. In fact, one study found that 28% of trafficked women saw a healthcare professional while still in captivity.1

The following is a series of questions adapted from the US Department of Health and Human Services that guide healthcare providers to screen an individual in order to determine whether she is a victim of sex trafficking. Enlisting the help of staff who have a good understanding of the patient’s specific language and cultural needs can enhance the patientprovider relationship when seeking answers to these questions.

       1. Where do you sleep and eat?
  Do you sleep in a bed, on a cot, or on the          floor?The global sex trade is the fastest growing form of commerce, worth $32 billion annually. In fact, human trafficking is the fastest growing area of organized crime and the third largest income revenue for organized crime after narcotics and arms sales. What makes this business unique is that women and girls sold into sex trafficking earn profits for their pimps and traffickers over a great number of years, unlike the profits earned from drugs and narcotics that are sold and used only once.

Trafficking in the United States
The US Department of State estimates that anywhere from 14,500 to 17,500 people are trafficked in the United States annually. Victims tend to be recruited mostly from Mexico and East Asia, followed by the former Soviet Union, Africa, Eastern Europe, and, finally, Latin America.3 Typically, the countries from which many of the victims originate have unstable political climates and are economically disadvantaged. This facilitates trafficking, as it is easier to recruit and transport women, bribe officials, and forge passports and other travel documents.2 The United States is one of the top destinations for sex trafficking, and many children from the United States are trafficked to other industrialized nations, including the Netherlands, Germany, and Japan.2

Health Implications
Victims of sex trafficking are likely exposed to adverse conditions that can negatively affect their physical, mental, and emotional health. Physicians, nurses, midwives, and other healthcare providers can play critical roles in helping to identify victims of sex trafficking as a first step in providing both assistance and advocacy for affected women and girls. As a provider, one can play an essential role in providing interventions to improve physical and psychological health among victims and advocating on behalf of victims to help improve their social circumstances.

Physical
Sex trafficking victims are particularly susceptible to sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea, syphilis, urinary tract infections, and pubic lice. Human immunodeficiency virus/ AIDS infection is known to be prevalent.5 They may experience pelvic pain, vaginal/anal tearing, rectal trauma, and/or urinary difficulties as a result of commercial sex work. Sex trafficking victims are often physically abused and tortured. Providers should screen women and girls for physical injuries such as broken bones, bruises, burns, scars, and broken teeth/ dental problems. A history of concussions and head trauma should also be taken to screen for traumatic brain injury, which may result in memory loss, dizziness, headaches, and numbness. Food deprivation represents an indirect form of physical harm that also should be considered by screening victims for malnutrition.

Providers should also screen for unwanted pregnancy resulting from rape and prostitution, sterility, miscarriage, menstrual problems, mutilations, and forced or coerced abortions. Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, hepatitis, malaria, and pneumonia may be more prevalent among sex trafficking victims as a result of unsanitary and dangerous housing conditions, use of needles, and inadequate access to health care.

Psychological
Victims of sex trafficking may face moderate to severe psychological trauma from daily mental, emotional, and psychological abuse and torture. Post-traumatic stress disorder, acute anxiety, and depression are all common psychological issues among sex industry workers. Providers should screen for feelings of helplessness, shame, humiliation, distrust, self-hatred, disbelief, denial, suicidal thoughts, disorientation, confusion, and phobias among suspected victims.4 It is not uncommon to encounter sex trafficking victims in their early 30s who have become psychologically and emotionally disabled from working in prostitution.6 In one study, providers reported that sex-trafficked women were less stable, more isolated, had higher levels of fear, more severe trauma, and greater mental health needs than other victims of crime.2 Furthermore, victims may develop substance abuse problems or addictions from being coerced through drug use by their traffickers or by using substances to cope or escape their desperate situations.

Social
Although there are insufficient data that report the social effects of sex trafficking, anecdotal evidence suggests that victims have a greater prevalence of illiteracy, homelessness, poverty, and societal isolation. Trafficked women engaging in sex work tend to have fewer resources, limited options, and increased vulnerability to violence and abuse than women who are not trafficked.7

Screening Questions to Identify Victims of Sex Trafficking
In 2004, the US Department of Health and Human Services implemented a campaign to increase the awareness of human trafficking in healthcare workers who may unknowingly interact with victims in their day-to-day work.8 Healthcare providers represent one of a few groups of professionals who may come in contact with victims of sex trafficking. In fact, one study found that 28% of trafficked women saw a healthcare professional while still in captivity.1

The following is a series of questions adapted from the US Department of Health and Human Services that guide healthcare providers to screen an individual in order to determine whether she is a victim of sex trafficking. Enlisting the help of staff who have a good understanding of the patient’s specific language and cultural needs can enhance the patientprovider relationship when seeking answers to these questions.

1. Where do you sleep and eat?
Do you sleep in a bed, on a cot, or on the floor?
Have you ever been deprived of food, water, sleep, or medical care?
Are you required to ask permission for physical necessities?
2. What are your working and living conditions like?
Are you able to come and go as you please?
Can you leave your job or working situation if you want to?
Are there locks on your doors and windows so you cannot leave?
Are you allowed to talk to people outside your home or job?
3. Has anyone ever physically harmed you in any way?
Have you ever been threatened if you try to leave your home or work?
Has anyone ever threatened your family?
4. Has your identification or documentation been taken away from you?
Is anyone forcing you to do anything that you do not want to do?
Have you been or are you forced to have sex or perform sex acts?
Conclusions
Sex trafficking involves some form of forced or coerced sexual exploitation that is not limited to prostitution, and has become a significant and growing problem in both the United States and the larger global community. The costs to society include the degradation of human and women’s rights, poor public health, disrupted communities, and diminished social development. Victims of sex trafficking acquire adverse physical and psychological health conditions and social disadvantages. Thus, sex trafficking is a critical health issue with broader social implications that requires both medical and legal attention. Healthcare professionals can work to improve the screening, identification, and assistance of victims of sex trafficking in a clinical setting and help these women and girls access legal and social services.

       1. Have you ever been deprived of food,     water, sleep, or medical care?
       Are you required to ask permission for    physical necessities?

    2. What are your working and living conditions like?

Are you able to come and go as you please?
Can you leave your job or working situation if you want to?
Are there locks on your doors and windows so you cannot leave?
Are you allowed to talk to people outside your home or job?

     3. Has anyone ever physically harmed you in any way?
Have you ever been threatened if you try to leave your home or work?
Has anyone ever threatened your family?     

   4. Has your identification or documentation been taken away from you?
Is anyone forcing you to do anything that you do not want to do?
Have you been or are you forced to have sex or perform sex acts?

Conclusions

Sex trafficking involves some form of forced or coerced sexual exploitation that is notlimited to prostitution, and has become a significant and growing problem in both the United States and the larger global community. The costs to society include the degradation of human and women’s rights, poor public health, disrupted communities, and diminished social development. Victims of sex trafficking acquire adverse physical and psychological health conditions and social disadvantages. Thus, sex trafficking is a critical health issue with broader social implications that requires both medical and legal attention. Healthcare professionals can work to improve the screening, identification, and assistance of victims of sex trafficking in a clinical setting and help these women and girls access legal and social services.

Main Points

There are approximately 800,000 people trafficked across international borders annually and, of these, 80% are women or girls and 50% are minors.

The global sex trade is the fastest growing form of commerce, worth $32 billion annually.
Victims of sex trafficking acquire adverse physical and psychological health conditions and social disadvantages.

Victims may face legal barriers, where the traffickers will confiscate or sequester all forms of immigration and citizenry documentation.
Language barriers, fear, limited knowledge, and lack of money are other barriers that women and girls may face to prevent them from escaping the sex trafficking ring.

Health care professionals can work to improve the screening, identification, and assistance of victims of sex trafficking in a clinical setting and help these women and girls access legal and social services.

References
1. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, authors. Human trafficking and migrant smuggling. [Accessed March 6, 2013].

2. Dovydaitis T. Human trafficking: the role of the health care provider. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2010;55:462–467. [PMC free article] [PubMed]

3. Hodge DR. Sexual trafficking in the United States: a domestic problem with transnational dimensions. Soc Work. 2008;53:143–152. [PubMed]

4. McClain NM, Garrity SE. Sex trafficking and the exploitation of adolescents. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2011;40:243–252. [PubMed]

5. US Department of Health and Human Services, authors. Resources: Common Health Issues Seen in Victims of Human Trafficking. [Accessed March 6, 2013].

6. Estes RJ, Weiner NA. The Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania; 2001. [Accessed March 6, 2013].

7. Miller E, Decker MR, Silverman JG, Raj A. Migration, sexual exploitation, and women’s health: a case report from a community health center. Violence Against Women. 2007;13:486–497. [PubMed]
8. US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Refugee Resettlement.

*Share and be responsible *

Crushed..

Crushed

SUCH A PERFECT GIRL…
you told me a lie
tou said you loved me
I believed you but why?
AND SHES MINE…
I guess it was all just a game
maybe i thought you were different
that you wouldn’t be the same.
WITHOUT HER I DON’T THINK I’D SURVIVE
i was such a fool
to trust in everything you said
i thought i f*cking loved you!
SUCH A PERFECT GIRL…
your words cut my heart like a knife
when the truth came out
baby, i loved you, you were my life.
AND SHE LOVES ME…
you heard all of my fears
all my secrets all my dreams
you would listen untill i broke down in tears.
I LOVE HER SO MUCH I WISH SHE COULD SEE…
but none of that matters anymore
you obviously never cared
you had to go and shut that door.

Thinking Of You

Thinking Of You❤

I thought of you today, but that's nothing new
I thought about you yesterday and the day before that too
for every day, good or bad, you'll always be in my head
I hope you've understood everything I've said
this isn't just a joke or a silly lie
I'd never do anything to make you wanna cry
I'm sorry if I do something to make you really mad
it only comes back and makes me really sad
I really do love you and everything you are
I hope this relationship gets really far
I'll never get you out; I simply don't know how
in fact I'm thinking of you right about now
you're everything I need and everything to me
you know exactly who you are and what you want to be
you always make me smile just by being there
I hope you know how much I really do care
every time I think of you my stomach seems to twist
This is why I love you, I've made a huge list
the list goes on forever and never will it end
neither will our relationship; you'll always be my friend
not just a simple friend but a special friend, at that
I want to spend my whole life wid you.

Author;
Ratri ray sen

A Broken Heart

How do I mend a broken heart ?
My entire world has fallen apart.
How do I find hope in a brand new day,
when the one I love has gone away ?
My mind overflows with memories of you,
of all that we've shared, all that we knew.
I long for your touch and your warm embrace,
the look in your eyes, the smile on your face.
My dreams are filled with your soft gentle kiss,
I wake and cry for all that I miss.
How do I mend a broken heart,
when my one true love and I are apart ?
My heart knows to love only you, it won't let go, what do I do ?
Our moments together were precious and few,
but I cherished them all more than you knew.
I love you my angel and always will,
I loved you then and I love you still.

How do I mend a broken heart ?
My entire world has fallen apart.
How do I find hope in a brand new day,
when the one I love has gone away ?
My mind overflows with memories of you,
of all that we've shared, all that we knew.
I long for your touch and your warm embrace,
the look in your eyes, the smile on your face.
My dreams are filled with your soft gentle kiss,
I wake and cry for all that I miss.
How do I mend a broken heart,
when my one true love and I are apart ?
My heart knows to love only you, it won't let go, what do I do ?
Our moments together were precious and few,
but I cherished them all more than you knew.

I love you my soul and always will,
loved

Author

Ms. Ratri ray sen

INDIAN FOOTBALL'S one foot is in the grave.

 Indian football’s one foot is in the grave.

On the one hand, you have the national football team hunting for a decent training centre, on another the ISL clubs jetset to far corners of the world to train.

earby Mumbai to sell high-end scooters. On the one hand, you have the national football team hunting for a decent training centre, on another the Indian Super League clubs jetset to far corners of the world to train at the best of borrowed facilities.
Players, who can’t conjure up one meaningful move in India colours, will be made to look like superstars when they rub shoulders with yesteryear international heroes in the ISL later this year. As India take on Iran on September 8 in what will be the most difficult outing of their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, fans are dreading a drubbing at the hands of the Asian giants. The glitzy ISL though is just round the corner. Indian football inhabits these two parallel worlds.

And caught in a warp is the Indian national team, which has been in freefall for some time now. Here’s looking at the contradicting points that highlight the chasm between these two contrasting worlds, from where the national team that faces Iran has been drawn. Mihir Vasavda and Shamik Chakrabarty connect the depressing dots while looking back at where India faltered in football after a promising start to the decade.

* In April 2007, Fifa president Sepp Blatter visits Kolkata and drops in at the Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Mohammedan Sporting tents. Later at a press conference, an over-enthusiastic hack pipes up asking him if the Kolkata giants should follow the Manchester United or Real Madrid model for youth development (La Masia is mercifully left out). Blatter booms, looking mighty agitated when answering the question: “You don’t have any idea how big they are. Don’t even think about them. The infrastructure I saw at the clubs here is from the past, past century. Build the infrastructure first and then try to follow China,” Eight years down the line, Bagan still can’t play their Calcutta League matches on home turf because the pitch is poor and dressing-room is archaic.
After two goalless draws in the first two matches of the Calcutta Football League this season, Mohun Bagan panic and feel compelled to buy a foreigner. East Bengal discard Dudu Omagbemi is the only option available. The Nigerian centre forward hasn’t played competitive football since May but is included in the first team without a medical. Dudu scores a hat-trick in a 5-2 win against Southern Samity while Japanese midfielder Katsumi Yusa nets the other two. The local strikers don’t make the score sheet, even after 270 minutes of football.
*Trevor Morgan during his 2010-13 tenure managing East Bengal, has been trying to explain how footballers should change their game if the approach becomes narrow with a lone striker up front. “Absolute rubbish,” a club official roars. “Football is all about getting the ball into the area and nicking it in with your foot or head,” the official revels in the simplicity of his solution.
* Back when Bob Houghton is India coach, wants an audience with all I-League club bosses. Bagan legend Subrata Bhattacharya, coaching Chirag United then, refuses to turn up. “I don’t have anything to learn from (Sir Alex) Ferguson, let alone Houghton. I’ve won the National League and Federation Cup as a coach. The basic fact is that the football we played in the 1970s was world class.”

* In 2009-10, the Bayern Munich U-19 team comes to Kolkata for a few warm-up fixtures and also to play the IFA Shield. The team boasts of a certain Thomas Muller, a callow teenager back then, but highly rated. “He’s the man for the future. Keep an eye on him,” the legendary Gerd Muller, the team’s assistant manager declares. After a friendly against East Bengal’s first team, the young Muller is asked about the quality of Indian football on display. “They (East Bengal) would qualify for the Bundesliga Fifth Division,” the German prodigy assesses.
* In 2012 December, a gang of English cricket correspondents visit Salt Lake Stadium for I-League’s high profile derby — Bagan vs East Bengal. England have wrapped up the Test match taking a 2-1 lead allowing the visiting pack to turn their attention to football. Funny man Andy Zaltzman with all his sunny disposition decides to watch from the terraces, mingling with the local fans. Towards the end of the first half, Okolie Odafa is red-carded for dissent. Bagan refuse to play the second half and the match gets called off. Zaltzman is flabbergasted. He’s never seen anything like that before. “That’s Indian football for you,” his terrace say.
* APRIL 2011. Barely 24 hours have passed since India’s most successful coach Bob Houghton parted ways following a bitter spat with the federation. But Football House exudes calm. Tiki-taka is in vogue these days and the All India Football Federation want a coach who will make India play ‘eye-pleasing, possession-based’ football like Spain and Barcelona. Whether Indian players possess the necessary nous is irrelevant to the bosses. All’s hunky dory at Phase 1 Dwarka when the national team’s performance from its first appearance in the Asian Cup in nearly 30 years – despite four-goal margin defeats – is labelled, “promising.” The AIFF has been handed a massive grant by FIFA to launch academies across India and in IMG-Reliance, they’ve found a commercial partner willing to gamble hundreds of crores on Indian football (Rs 700 crore over 15 years, to be precise). The bubble is complete: the national team will play ‘tiki-taka’, and AIFF will sit on a cash mountain. By 2015, the AIFF’s coffers are virtually empty. Academies launched with much fanfare have faded away.
* In August 2013, when Indian players line up inside the tunnel of the Independence Stadium in Khujand, the friendly against Tajikistan isn’t the only thing on their minds. Players are discussing their I-League contracts, gossiping about who is getting what. India lose 3-0. But the players go on to sign contracts upwards of Rs 70 lakh a few weeks later. For a team ranked 155th in the world that has achieved precious little, they look an over-pampered, over-paid lot. Most command a crore-plus salary with Rs 50 lakh package now a norm. And then some more in the ISL.
n Indian players, despite talking big about European ambitions, haven’t really made a serious effort to try their luck abroad. A trial here, a training stint there and that’s that. Currently, only goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh is playing abroad — in Norway for Stabaek, the rest unwilling to venture out of their comfort zones. Afghanistan have one of the highest quotas of overseas-based players in the national team. As many as 18 from their current squad are plying their trade in lower divisions of European leagues, with eight based in Germany alone. Sacrificing big bucks they can otherwise demand in Asia —like their former captain Zohib Amiri did by choosing India, the Afghans play in Europe gaining exposure and experience that reflects in the recent surge of their national team.

* In 2009-10, the Bayern Munich U-19 team comes to Kolkata for a few warm-up fixtures and also to play the IFA Shield. The team boasts of a certain Thomas Muller, a callow teenager back then, but highly rated. “He’s the man for the future. Keep an eye on him,” the legendary Gerd Muller, the team’s assistant manager declares. After a friendly against East Bengal’s first team, the young Muller is asked about the quality of Indian football on display. “They (East Bengal) would qualify for the Bundesliga Fifth Division,” the German prodigy assesses.

* In 2012 December, a gang of English cricket correspondents visit Salt Lake Stadium for I-League’s high profile derby — Bagan vs East Bengal. England have wrapped up the Test match taking a 2-1 lead allowing the visiting pack to turn their attention to football. Funny man Andy Zaltzman with all his sunny disposition decides to watch from the terraces, mingling with the local fans. Towards the end of the first half, Okolie Odafa is red-carded for dissent. Bagan refuse to play the second half and the match gets called off. Zaltzman is flabbergasted. He’s never seen anything like that before. “That’s Indian football for you,” his terrace say.

* APRIL 2011. Barely 24 hours have passed since India’s most successful coach Bob Houghton parted ways following a bitter spat with the federation. But Football House exudes calm. Tiki-taka is in vogue these days and the All India Football Federation want a coach who will make India play ‘eye-pleasing, possession-based’ football like Spain and Barcelona. Whether Indian players possess the necessary nous is irrelevant to the bosses. All’s hunky dory at Phase 1 Dwarka when the national team’s performance from its first appearance in the Asian Cup in nearly 30 years – despite four-goal margin defeats – is labelled, “promising.” The AIFF has been handed a massive grant by FIFA to launch academies across India and in IMG-Reliance, they’ve found a commercial partner willing to gamble hundreds of crores on Indian football (Rs 700 crore over 15 years, to be precise). The bubble is complete: the national team will play ‘tiki-taka’, and AIFF will sit on a cash mountain. By 2015, the AIFF’s coffers are virtually empty. Academies launched with much fanfare have faded away.
* In August 2013, when Indian players line up inside the tunnel of the Independence Stadium in Khujand, the friendly against Tajikistan isn’t the only thing on their minds. Players are discussing their I-League contracts, gossiping about who is getting what. India lose 3-0. But the players go on to sign contracts upwards of Rs 70 lakh a few weeks later. For a team ranked 155th in the world that has achieved precious little, they look an over-pampered, over-paid lot. Most command a crore-plus salary with Rs 50 lakh package now a norm. And then some more in the ISL.
n Indian players, despite talking big about European ambitions, haven’t really made a serious effort to try their luck abroad. A trial here, a training stint there and that’s that. Currently, only goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh is playing abroad — in Norway for Stabaek, the rest unwilling to venture out of their comfort zones. Afghanistan have one of the highest quotas of overseas-based players in the national team. As many as 18 from their current squad are plying their trade in lower divisions of European leagues, with eight based in Germany alone. Sacrificing big bucks they can otherwise demand in Asia —like their former captain Zohib Amiri did by choosing India, the Afghans play in Europe gaining exposure and experience that reflects in the recent surge of their national team.
* Freddie Ljungberg must have played less than 60 minutes in the whole of ISL last year. But it is still enough for him to claim that Indian players lack footballing IQ. He says Indians are at least ‘three-to-four’ moves behind their foreign counterparts in reading the game. “You need to be aware of players around you if you move to a league where the quality is not the same,” he attempts politely. “Here, I can’t demand the same thing from my teammates like I could have in the Premier League. When I am used to getting the ball ‘now’ and instead it comes to me two seconds later because they haven’t seen me, I might be offside. Or if I play a ball that I think is good… they’re not moving because they are not used to anyone seeing such a move.”
* Against Nepal and earlier in Guam, Sunil Chhetri cuts a sorry figure. The 30-year-old collects a pass, a look-up, spots a player and releases the ball in not more than five to eight seconds. But the intended recipient remains static, not able to read the move resulting in wasted possession. This deficiency is glossed over in the ISL. Foreign players, though over the hill, make Indians look good in ISL, and in some cases in the I-League. But when they have to play alongside each other for India, the reality hits hard.
* The world is coming to India. But the world does not want to play India. At least that’s what the AIFF claims is one of the reasons why they haven’t been able to arrange friendly games for the national team more frequently. Since 2011, India have played 32 international friendlies, which also includes games played in tournaments like the Nehru Cup which FIFA does not consider as an official tournament. The world governing body reserves dates for friendlies, which have ranking points, to ensure leagues across the globe can schedule their matches accordingly. The AIFF have not been able to keep the ‘FIFA days’ free. The calendar though is made malleable, when I League matches are cancelled for Durga Puja after cops can’t guarantee security for matches mostly played in front of empty stands. The spillover games are then fitted into “FIFA days”, sending the international schedule for a toss. In the same period, India’s competitors have been more active. Malaysia have played 40 games since 2011 while Singapore have competed in 45. Even strife-torn Palestine, who play most of their ‘home’ matches abroad due to security concerns, have played more friendly games than India in the last four years.
* Even if they wished, the marketing minds at IMG-R and promo producers at Star Sports could not have scripted such a fairytale finish. Mohammad Rafique came off the bench in the dying minutes of the final and with virtually the last play, scored the goal that won Atletico Kolkata the inaugural ISL title. Spanish World Cupper Luis Garcia was quick to tell us how players like Rafique are the real deal; the future of Indian football; the fearless strikers. Rafique’s goal – like every other that was scored by an Indian foot – was hyped to dizzying heights. Then, reality strikes. Rafique spends I-League with East Bengal on the bench, just like every other Indian striker. Careers of promising strikers like Jeje Lalpekhlua have been hampered because they spend more time warming the bench. To protect their careers, no Indian player is willing to play as a striker anymore for their club – at least that’s what India coach Stephen Constantine believes. When overseeing India, Constantine hardly has any strikers to choose from. And in the last four matches, no player except Chhetri has been on target.
* FIFA president Sepp Blatter doled out millions of dollars to the AIFF under the flagship ‘Goal’ project. You can see it as FIFA’s drive to develop the sport in the subcontinent or a wily Blatter’s trick to ensure a vote. But that money gets used to launch academies across the country and the AIFF ropes in Dutchman Rob Baan as technical director in October 2011. Baan is credited with turning around the fortunes of Australian football during his time there. He puts together a 10-year plan, titled ‘Lakshya 2022’ for Indian football, with emphasis on the grassroots. Across academies, a similar playing system (4-3-3) is introduced to ensure uniformity and smooth transition from one age-group to the higher. Certified coaches – Indian and international – are roped in. Now, AIFF’s four regional academies and one elite one are active only on its website. Severe paucity of funds and coaches has forced shut the academies, with the federation deciding the centre in Goa alone is sufficient.
* He maybe a namesake of Chinese martial arts hero Jackie Chan but, as has been apparent in the three internationals he has played, Jackichand Singh doesn’t possess the same physical prowess. Like is the case with most Indian players, his initiation to international football has been tough, being easily out-muscled by stronger Omani and Guam players. But the Nepalese show in Pune that it can’t be that big a disadvantage. Standing just 5’5”, Nepal striker Ju Manu Rai makes quite a few in the stands take notice. As had been the trend for most of the match, an Indian defender thumps the ball forward towards Robin Singh. Standing 6’1”, Robin is expected to collect the ball without much trouble. But Rai charges towards the ball, leaps, beats Robin in the air and wins the header. Indian players’ slight physique is often cited as a disadvantage. But Rai shows it’s not impossible to win duels. All you need is a big heart.
* Unlike hockey players, Indian footballers don’t concede last minute goals. But they do not have the legs to last entire 90 minutes, with the same intensity. Constantine has introduced the GPS system to monitor player fitness levels but that can’t be the solution to solve the problem.
* Two years under Dutchman Wim Koevermans, from 2012 to 2014 seem like blackholes into which India’s best talent disappeared. Koevermans, who had overseen the growth of Dutch stars Robin van Persie and Wesley Sneijder among others, is tasked with the duty of ensuring a smooth transition for India’s talented teens. However the likes of Jeje, Lalrindika Ralte, Raju Gaikwad, Alwyn George and Joaquim Abranches never flourish and instead drift into oblivion. That India are practically inactive internationally for one whole year does not help either. When Constantine takes charge of the team, he has to virtually restart from where Houghton left in 2011, instead of taking over the reins from Koevermans. In the five matches he’s been in charge, Constantine has handed India debuts to 14 players. The players, all stars in their respective I-League teams, have found the intensity of international football too much to handle.
* While IMG-R have repeatedly stressed they have no influence over decisions taken by the AIFF, the federation’s perceived submission to its commercial partners is seen as a concern. Indian football is currently running on IMG-R’s monies. The management firm hands out Rs 31 crore a year (which will be in the range of Rs 50 crore from 2016 as per the agreement) to the AIFF. With no other sources of revenue, the federation takes care of the national team, I-League, junior teams and youth programmes from the funds released by IMG-R. Understandably, the AIFF does not want to bite the hands that feed them. But their passiveness has led to situation spiral out of control, especially in issues related to the future of domestic tournaments, including I-League.
* With the U-17 World Cup as its target, the AIFF choose players from an under-13 festival in 2013, train them and field them in the Subroto Cup that year. It’s dubbed one of the most ‘talented bunches’ by AIFF. That team exits in the first round itself and the following year, doesn’t play at all. Unhappy with what he sees, newly-appointed U-17 coach Nicolai Adam has to go scavenging for more players across the country. The disorganized – and in some cases non-existent – youth programmes means Adam’s hunt has hardly been satisfactory. The under-19s, who too showed early promise, are without a coach for more than a year until Lee Johnson arrives in May. It’s a worrying scenario. But then, Amitabh Bachchan rolls out ISL’s grassroots programme and suddenly everything looks rosy again.
Indian football seems to be hiding behind the boom and bluste

Dream. Believe. Build. Expand. And don't let someone get you down. And they are proving single time. Proud is a small word to describe their passion. Kudos!!
Mr. Sunil chhetri , Steven, Rino anto, C.k vineeth  ,Debjit , Pratik chaudhari, Sandesh, Rafi , Arnab, Jeje , Eugeneson , Sanju pradhan , Soubhik , Mehatab Hussain and so on ! Apologies for not able to mention other heroes names.

Make us proud today tomorrow!!

Best regards,
Research & Published
Ms. Ratri ray sen

A soldier's army life - A Farewell Letter

A soldier's army life - A Farewell Letter:

Country men,
Here is an article written from the heart of a soldier. I wish that each of our citizens and more so men in positions of power - whether politicians, bureaucrats , media mughals and other opinion leaders ( hell of a phrase ! ) - get to read this. And, more importantly, act proactively for the sake of our nation.

How is life in the Indian Army?
How is life in the Indian Defense forces? Also, please elaborate on whether wife swapping is common,as has come to light, when ...

Indian Army does not promise you a bed of roses, nor does it assure you of materialistic luxuries, yet the life it offers is unmatched. Having been closely associated with the Indian Army, and having a first-hand experience of the lifestyle, I can vouch that the experiences Indian Army, or for that matter, the Indian Defence Forces, offers are extraordinary. The honour and respect the job offers, coupled with the privilege of serving your country provides a feeling that no other seven-figure-pay-package job can. I'll try and give you an insight into what the life actually comprises of. As a young officer, you get commissioned after long months of gruelling training, eager to take up challenges, and serve in some of the most remote areas of the country, places whose names the common man hasn't even heard of. Life there is hard, and you learn to live life carefree, knowing the uncertainties tomorrow offers.

While your civilian mates will be working out in air-conditioned gyms, you'd be patrolling for long hours in the scorching sun, incessant rain or freezing cold - depending on which part of the country you are posted to. The camaraderie that you develop with your fellow officers and troops, in such conditions, is unlike any bond that you may develop over your lifetime. While there are tenures of hardships, there are more "relaxed" postings as well. Relaxed as per army standards would mean spending long hours in the offices chalking out strategies instead. These are referred to as "peace" stations and consist of lush green cantonments that the public generally associates the Indian Army with. Here lie the true perks and privileges - clean and peaceful environs, sports complexes, golf courses, auditoriums and the officers' institutes. Life inside these cantonments is a different world altogether. The army takes good enough care of its personnel's families as well, with Ladies Club, and social gatherings being a regular affair. The upbringing that kids in the Army are exposed to is unparalleled and you only need to have a look at the number of successful people who are "military brats" to find out for yourself(List of military brats). Over and above all this are the opportunities the Indian Armed Forces offer. The Indian Army funds your course if you are willing to pursue a higher degree, it provides you with the equipment and infrastructure if you are willing to take up a sport. The list is endless.

Now, to the specific topic you wanted to know more about- wife swapping. I don't believe it exists - haven't seen or heard it for myself but I can assure that the Army values its ethos well enough not to indulge in such practices. At the same time, it will not be wise to dismiss the allegations outright as well. The Indian Armed Forces are voluntary organisations, inducting its personnel from the society itself. They are not God-sent soldiers and though their morals are expected to be a grade higher than the rest - they are not alien species. The only fact I can assure you is that wife-swapping is clearly not.
A soldier's army life - A Farewell Letter:

MY countrymen,

Here is an article written from the heart of a soldier. I wish that each of our citizens and more so men in positions of power - whether politicians, bureaucrats , media mughals and other opinion leaders ( hell of a phrase ! ) - get to read this. And, more importantly, act proactively for the sake of our nation.

My Army Life 1977-2006

I lateLove the Indian Army – but I must leave Now!
I stumbled into the Indian Army in the seventies. The School which admitted us mid-session, when we returned from Singapore, where my father had a brief teaching stint at the Singapore University, was The Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan. With teenage sons of Army officers as friends, it was natural to apply to join the National Defence Academy. A friend filled my form and even paid the application fee. I wasn’t serious at all of pursuing a career in the military – much like Hrithik Roshan in Lakshya. I saw a movie with my friends, after each of the four NDA entrance papers, and argued with my father when he questioned me on my lack of commitment to the exam.
Surprisingly, I qualified on the Service Selection Board standing 19th in the Army all India merit list. I then chose to join the National Defence Academy, as a career was assured at such an early age.
Astonishingly, within a few days of joining the NDA, at pristine Khadakwasala, I began my life long affection and admiration for the Indian Army. The NDA was awesome and I took to it as if the place was always meant for me. It was, and probably still is, a remarkable institution where everything works like clockwork, and boys transform into enthusiastic, self confident young men with fire in their belly and an idealistic vision to contribute meaningfully to the security challenges that India would face in the future.
Three years later at the Indian Military Academy in Dehra Dun, I learnt that toughness and fitness was not just about well developed physical abilities, but also as much about mental strength, and that the IMA motto of ‘Service before Self’ was not some Gandhian mumbo-jumbo, but the very edifice of life in uniform as an officer

The many years in my Infantry battalion were even more memorable. Not a day was spent as “work”. Every day was enjoyable with a huge family of 800 men; the love, respect and camaraderie was astonishing especially in this day and age. A life of great honesty of purpose; lived simply and with great pride, respect and honour.
I had a tour of duty in Kashmir in every rank I have held. As a Lieutenant in Baramulla before the militancy, as a Captain in the Siachen Glacier at 20,000 feet, as a Major and company commander in Kupwara fighting terrorists, and as Lt Col as second-in-command of my unit in Badgam in a counter insurgency deployment on the outskirts of the Srinagar airport. Finally as a Colonel and Battalion commander, I had three different innings in the Kashmir Valley, first as part of the offensive plans during OP PARAKRAM in 2001, then fighting militants in Anantnag during the 2002 Amarnath Yatra and during the state elections, and finally on the Line of Control in high altitude in the majestic Gurez Valley.

Interspersed between these challenging times was an opportunity to serve with the United Nations in Iraq-Kuwait as a Military Observer where I saw closely officers from 34 different nations from around the globe and learnt from them about their militaries and the relationship between the State and the soldier in other countries.
I also had instructional assignments at the Indian Military Academy, Dehra Dun and at the Infantry School teaching young infantry officers. I then had an enriching year at the Army War College at Mhow during the Higher Command course in 2004-5, learning the art of higher command in the military and traveling to every corner of the country, expanding knowledge, visiting not just our various military headquarters, but also the citadels of economic power of our nation.
After the one year sabbatical at Mhow, I moved, in Apr 2005 to a dream job, to the seat of power of the Army in Delhi – the Army Headquarters with an office in South Block and an appointment in the personnel Branch of the Army dealing with postings and promotions of officers of our Army.
After three years at Delhi, a Brigadiers rank was round the corner in mid 2008. The sixth Pay commission too was promising salaries to meet with the aspirations of soldiers and government officials who had been made to feel like poor cousins to their corporate friends in the galloping India of the 21st century.
Inspite of such a bright future, I felt I must I leave the Indian Army.
The three years in the nation’s capital left me with a strange emptiness which refused to go away. All the years, I felt that the many years I spent away from my immediate family, in remote corners of India, were for a cause which was noble and worthwhile. I always felt huge pride for my soldiers and brother officers. I felt there is a grateful nation behind all of us stationed so far away, battling the vagaries of weather and the uncertainty of life.
I remember in SIACHEN, in 1988, just before we started our deployment on the main Glacier, the shy 17 year old soldier, no more than a kid, who met me, then the Adjutant, and requested me to be posted to the transport platoon after this tenure, as he was very fond of motor vehicles. Four days later, he was violently taken ill at KUMAR our Headquarters at 16000 feet. We tended to him the whole night, as the helicopter could come to rescue him away only in the morning. Sadly, the High Altitude Pulmonary Odema which afflicted him was faster. He was dead before the copter arrived at the crack of dawn. It was a sad loss so soon after our induction on to the Glacier, but we took it on our chin as the accepted dangers of a soldier’s life. We shed not a tear, and proceeded to do our duty for the next six months, battling the odds and the enemy, in incredibly difficult conditions.

I recall when a soldier, who had slipped and fallen towards the enemy side was rescued at Bana top, at 20,000 feet by a brave and courageous officer who went across single handedly at grave risk to his life, to get him back. The soldier spent four hours exposed to temperatures of below minus 40 degrees C, (later both his arms were amputated). When I met him in the hospital a month later he said he knew that his company commander would come to rescue him. It taught me a lesson in trust, faith, camaraderie and leadership which I shall never forget for the rest of my life.
I also recall the young soldier who bravely jumped into a building, unrelentingly chasing three dreaded terrorists who had hidden there. We were on the outskirts of Srinagar airfield and fighting a fierce gun battle through the cold winter night in Dec 2000. He killed two of them but in the process was hit by a bullet through the head. He died in my arms. What was even more poignant was the gesture by his father when we honoured him on our battalions Raising day, the following year. In an age where money means everything, the old man broken by his young son’s loss, refused the money we as a unit of 800 had collected as a gesture of our sympathy and concern. He said he had no need for the money and the unit could put it to better use by honouring his brave son in any appropriate way.
What I observed over these three years at Delhi, unfortunately have been a sad revelation of the nature of the relationship between the Indian soldier, the State and the people of India. Like RK Laxmans common man, I have observed silently the ignorance and apathy of the establishment towards all issues military.
As our expectations from our cricket team, we expect the very best from our military in critical moments of our history, like the 71 War or the Kargil conflict.
If we were to build our home, we shall obviously get the best builders and architects we can afford, if our mother was taken ill, we would look for the very best hospital and doctor that we can afford. The critical question is; do we do enough as a nation to ensure that we have the best military India can afford?
Are we as a nation doing enough to ensure that we have the best men and systems in place to guard our sovereignty and security interests? Do we do enough to recruit and retain the brightest men and do we have the structures in place to meet the security challenges within and across our borders in the coming years?
For a start, the inability to put in place an integrated Chief of Defence Staff is the foremost of our weaknesses and is symptomatic of the apathy and ignorance of military matters in modern India. It is often dismissed as a peripheral issue, one that can wait till the services themselves resolve it. The hard truth is that without true integration of the Army, the Air Force and the Navy, a modern military will be grossly inept and incapable of prosecuting a modern day war. To use the cricketing analogy a bit further, the Kargil war was T 20 cricket and can hide a few fatal flaws, but a full scale war will be like a Test match, only synergy; balance, close integration and team spirit will ensure success.
You cannot blame the Defence Secretary or the civilian staff in the Ministry of Defence for the lack of awareness of these issues – very often the Defence Secretary would not have a days experience in the ministry till he joins as the head of the Ministry of Defence. He may have arrived from the commerce, railways or whichever ministry, the senior most bureaucrat is available at that time. The Defence Minister too often has no experience on defence matters till he becomes the Defence Minister. It is like appointing a CEO in a telecom company who had spent all his life in the cement industry!

We cannot quite expect them to understand the vital need for integration of the Services. As a comparison to our system, the United States has a long tradition of appointing secretaries of Defence and Presidents who have spent years soldiering or they choose from retired Generals with vision and an impeccable record of service for these assignments. In fact, even in India it would be inconceivable for the Foreign Secretary to be appointed from amongst the bureaucrats in say the coal ministry, so this assumption that the defence ministry can be managed by amateurs is an insult and an affront to the security needs of India.
To cite another example, we have no clearly enunciated and documented national counter-terrorism policy. In a nation where the threat of terrorism looms larger with every passing day, it is a matter of shame that we haven’t formulated one yet. With the best minds in the Army, with years of experience in counter terrorism retiring every year, it is a pity we have failed to capitalize on their experience and set out a clearly laid out document. The alarming growth of the Maoists in the Red Corridor, will test the ability of the Indian state to respond to this challenge in the coming years. Policing being a State subject and internal threats being the concerns of the Home Ministry, there is an urgent need to look at counter terrorism holistically outside the confines of individual perceptions of States and various ministries. We must radically alter the narrow confines of each ministry when we define the policy for internal threats. There is apparently a visible lack of statesmanship and professionalism on any macro issue concerning national security.
An oblique pointer to India’s concerns on national security and how embedded the military leader is in the psyche of the educated Indian is the representation at various Leadership summits and Conclaves. The ‘who is who’ of India and other countries are invariable present. There will be national political figures, corporate leaders, media barons, and of course movie moughals. So while we have the likes of Aiswarya Rai and Sharukh Khan telling us their take on leadership – the practicing military leader, whether a senior General or the young Major who is an Ashok Chakra winner – shining examples of leadership in its many hues – are conspicuous by their absence.
From our fiercely independent and vibrant media, one would have expected greater maturity in their coverage of security affairs. It is revealing that a study in the USA suggests that the gradual erosion of coverage of international issues by their media networks was possibly a reason for their flawed international security interventions as the American public was not capable or knowledgeable enough to question their leadership. The Indian media must ask itself – do they exhibit enough concern on the larger dimensions of national security and do they have enough knowledge of military affairs to fulfill their role as the watchdogs of the nation? Will the increasing trivialization and localization of news affect our security?

There are many such concerns that we must address as a military, as a society and as a nation. There are individual and collective responsibilities that we must fulfill. Will India and Indians meet the challenge of the future? Time, and the collective will of the nation, will tell.

Author: Ratri Ray sen

How is life in the Indian Army?

How is life in the Indian Army?
How is life in the Indian Defense forces? Also, please elaborate on whether wife swapping is common,as has come to light,

Author- Ms. Ratri ray sen

Indian Army does not promise you a bed of roses, nor does it assure you of materialistic luxuries, yet the life it offers is unmatched. Having been closely associated with the Indian Army, and having a first-hand experience of the lifestyle, I can vouch that the experiences Indian Army, or for that matter, the Indian Defence Forces, offers are extraordinary. The honour and respect the job offers, coupled with the privilege of serving your country provides a feeling that no other seven-figure-pay-package job can. I'll try and give you an insight into what the life actually comprises of. As a young officer, you get commissioned after long months of gruelling training, eager to take up challenges, and serve in some of the most remote areas of the country, places whose names the common man hasn't even heard of. Life there is hard, and you learn to live life carefree, knowing the uncertainties tomorrow offers.

How is life in the Indian Army?
How is life in the Indian Defense forces? Also, please elaborate on whether wife swapping is common,as has come to light, when ...

Indian Army does not promise you a bed of roses, nor does it assure you of materialistic luxuries, yet the life it offers is unmatched. Having been closely associated with the Indian Army, and having a first-hand experience of the lifestyle, I can vouch that the experiences Indian Army, or for that matter, the Indian Defence Forces, offers are extraordinary. The honour and respect the job offers, coupled with the privilege of serving your country provides a feeling that no other seven-figure-pay-package job can. I'll try and give you an insight into what the life actually comprises of. As a young officer, you get commissioned after long months of gruelling training, eager to take up challenges, and serve in some of the most remote areas of the country, places whose names the common man hasn't even heard of. Life there is hard, and you learn to live life carefree, knowing the uncertainties tomorrow offers.

While your civilian mates will be working out in air-conditioned gyms, you'd be patrolling for long hours in the scorching sun, incessant rain or freezing cold - depending on which part of the country you are posted to. The camaraderie that you develop with your fellow officers and troops, in such conditions, is unlike any bond that you may develop over your lifetime. While there are tenures of hardships, there are more "relaxed" postings as well. Relaxed as per army standards would mean spending long hours in the offices chalking out strategies instead. These are referred to as "peace" stations and consist of lush green cantonments that the public generally associates the Indian Army with. Here lie the true perks and privileges - clean and peaceful environs, sports complexes, golf courses, auditoriums and the officers' institutes. Life inside these cantonments is a different world altogether. The army takes good enough care of its personnel's families as well, with Ladies Club, and social gatherings being a regular affair. The upbringing that kids in the Army are exposed to is unparalleled and you only need to have a look at the number of successful people who are "military brats" to find out for yourself(List of military brats). Over and above all this are the opportunities the Indian Armed Forces offer. The Indian Army funds your course if you are willing to pursue a higher degree, it provides you with the equipment and infrastructure if you are willing to take up a sport. The list is endless.

Now, to the specific topic you wanted to know more about- wife swapping. I don't believe it exists - haven't seen or heard it for myself but I can assure that the Army values its ethos well enough not to indulge in such practices. At the same time, it will not be wise to dismiss the allegations outright as well. The Indian Armed Forces are voluntary organisations, inducting its personnel from the society itself. They are not God-sent soldiers and though their morals are expected to be a grade higher than the rest - they are not alien species. The only fact I can assure you is that wife-swapping is clearly not a policy or a way of life - as the "victim" in the case involving the Indian Navy is suggesting.