The Indian Army is the pride of our nation, guarding our borders and ensuring our safety. While soldiers are often celebrated for their bravery, the immense stress faced by army officers is rarely discussed. They carry the weight of leadership, make tough decisions, and sometimes face conflicts with civilians or officials, like the recent incident in Poonch where a colonel was assaulted over a fencing project. This article explores the hidden pressures on army officers, how they balance their duties with disputes, and why their mental and emotional struggles deserve more attention.
The Heavy Burden of Being an Army Officer
Army officers are not just soldiers; they are leaders responsible for their teams, missions, and the nation’s security. Whether stationed at the Line of Control (LoC) or in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir, officers face unique challenges. They plan operations, ensure their soldiers’ safety, and make quick decisions in life-or-death situations. A 2020 study by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) found that officers experience higher stress levels than junior commissioned officers (JCOs) or jawans because of their greater responsibilities.
Beyond combat, officers deal with non-operational stress. Frequent postings keep them away from family, sometimes for years. They often can’t help with family issues like property disputes or financial problems back home. A 2021 study noted that these personal challenges add to their stress, affecting their health and focus. Add to this the pressure of managing soldiers’ morale and handling bureaucratic hurdles, and it’s clear why officers feel stretched thin.
When Duty Meets Disputes
The recent incident in Poonch, where Colonel Ankush Chaudhary was allegedly assaulted by an Assistant Defence Estates Officer (ADEO) over a fencing project near the LoC, highlights another layer of stress: disputes with civilians or officials. Fencing along the LoC is critical for stopping infiltration, but such projects often face resistance from local authorities or communities. When disagreements turn physical or hostile, as in Poonch, officers are caught in a tough spot. They must stay professional, uphold their duty, and avoid escalating tensions, all while feeling disrespected.
Such disputes are not rare. Officers often deal with “indifferent attitudes” from civilian officials, as noted in a 2021 study. These conflicts arise over issues like land use, resources, or project delays. For example, in border areas, officers may need cooperation from local officials for infrastructure projects, but red tape or misunderstandings can lead to arguments. These situations test an officer’s patience, as they must balance their mission with maintaining civil-military relations.
The Emotional and Mental Toll
The stress of disputes and duties takes a heavy toll on officers’ mental health. A 2011 study found that prolonged exposure to high-pressure environments, like counter-insurgency operations, increases fatigue, anxiety, and even depression among soldiers. For officers, the pressure is even higher because they are responsible for their team’s well-being. If a soldier under their command is injured or stressed, the officer feels it personally.
Moreover, officers often feel isolated. They can’t always share their struggles with subordinates to maintain authority, nor can they burden their families. The same DRDO study revealed that officers report lower levels of psychological well-being compared to JCOs, who benefit from longer service and camaraderie. This isolation can make disputes, like the one in Poonch, feel even more personal, as officers may feel unsupported or disrespected.
How Officers Cope
Despite these challenges, army officers show remarkable resilience. Many rely on training, discipline, and camaraderie to push through. The Army has introduced measures to help, such as counseling services and stress management programs. A 2011 report noted that welfare measures, like better leave policies and family support systems, have helped reduce stress levels. Some officers also turn to meditation or yoga, with techniques like Sahaja Yoga recommended to manage stress.
However, these measures aren’t always enough. Officers need more than just personal coping strategies; they need systemic support. For instance, clearer communication channels with civilian authorities could prevent disputes like the one in Poonch. The 2021 study suggested that “inadequate resources” and “lack of fairness in postings” add to officers’ stress, pointing to the need for better organizational support.
Why This Matters to Us
The struggles of army officers affect more than just the individuals. When officers are stressed, it can impact their units’ efficiency and morale, which are vital for national security. The Poonch incident sparked outrage because it showed a lack of respect for an officer serving the nation. It also reminded us that officers are human, facing pressures we rarely see. Supporting them means ensuring they can focus on their duties without unnecessary conflicts.
As a society, we can play a role. Respecting the Army’s work, supporting policies that improve their working conditions, and fostering better civil-military cooperation can make a difference. Social media, which amplified the Poonch incident, can also be a tool to raise awareness about officers’ challenges and push for change.
Looking Ahead
The Indian Army is taking steps to address stress, but more can be done. Creating field psychiatric units, as suggested in a 2011 study, could help officers manage stress in operational areas. Training civilian officials to work smoothly with the military could reduce disputes. Most importantly, recognizing the unseen burdens of officers—whether it’s leading troops, handling disputes, or missing family—can help us value their sacrifices more.
Raja Saab may entertain us on the big screen, but the real heroes are officers like Colonel Chaudhary, who face stress and disputes daily to keep us safe. By understanding their challenges, we can ensure they get the respect and support they deserve. Let’s honor their duty by easing their burdens, so they can continue protecting our nation with strength and pride.
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Last Updated on: Monday, June 16, 2025 10:21 am by Deepak Goud Kondakal | Published by: Deepak Goud Kondakal on Monday, June 16, 2025 10:21 am | News Categories: India
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