Punjab, a state known for its rich martial heritage and strong contribution to India’s armed forces, is set to open its third institute dedicated to preparing young people for careers in the military. The new institute will be located in Hoshiarpur and named after a revered freedom fighter from Punjab, Sardar Bahadur Amin Chand Soni. It will be called the Sardar Bahadur Amin Chand Soni Armed Forces Preparatory Institute . This initiative aims to inspire more youth from Punjab to pursue careers as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.
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The foundation stone for this institute was laid in February 2021 by Captain Amarinder Singh, who was the Chief Minister of Punjab at that time. The government has allocated 12.75 acres of land for the project, which is expected to cost around ₹30 crore. Unlike the other two institutes already operational in Punjab, this one will be co-educational, meaning both boys and girls can enroll. The institute will focus on short-term courses designed to help students prepare for written entrance exams and interviews required for joining various branches of the armed forces.
Existing Institutes: MRSAFPI and MBAFPI
Currently, Punjab has two institutes that cater to youth aspiring to join the armed forces. The first is the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (MRSAFPI) , established exclusively for boys, and the second is the Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (MBAFPI) , created specifically for girls. Both institutes are located in Mohali and have been instrumental in shaping the futures of many young Punjabis who dream of serving their country.
MRSAFPI: A Legacy of Excellence
The MRSAFPI was inaugurated in 2011 with the aim of reversing the declining trend of youth from Punjab opting for careers in the armed forces. Historically, Punjab has been one of the largest contributors of soldiers to the Indian Army, providing approximately 8% of the total manpower. However, the percentage of officers from Punjab had drastically reduced over the decades. In the past, nearly 30% of Army officers were from Punjab, but this figure dropped to just 2% by 2010.
To address this decline, the Punjab government launched the MRSAFPI. The institute offers a two-year residential program for students who have completed their 10th class. During these two years, students complete their 12th-grade education while simultaneously preparing for the National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance exam and the Service Selection Board (SSB) interview. The curriculum includes structured academic training, physical fitness programs, sports activities, and personality development workshops to ensure holistic growth.
Since its inception, the MRSAFPI has produced remarkable results. Its first batch graduated in 2013, and since then, 255 cadets from the institute have successfully joined various service training academies. Additionally, 170 alumni have been commissioned as officers in the armed forces. These achievements highlight the effectiveness of the institute in nurturing talent and guiding students toward fulfilling careers in defense.
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MBAFPI: Empowering Women in Defence
In 2015, the Punjab government took another significant step by establishing the Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (MBAFPI) . Named after the legendary warrior Mai Bhago, who fought alongside Guru Gobind Singh during the Battle of Muktsar, this institute focuses on empowering young women to pursue careers in the armed forces.
Initially, the MBAFPI offered a three-year program that combined graduation studies with preparation for Short-Service Commission entries in the armed forces. With the National Defence Academy (NDA) opening its doors to women in recent years, the institute introduced a two-year program similar to the one offered by the MRSAFPI. This change allows female students to prepare for the NDA entrance exam and subsequent SSB interviews, thereby broadening their opportunities within the armed forces.
The MBAFPI has played a crucial role in breaking gender barriers and encouraging more women from Punjab to consider careers in defense. By providing specialized coaching, mentorship, and resources, the institute ensures that young women are well-prepared to meet the rigorous demands of military life.
Why Another Institute?
Despite the success of the MRSAFPI and MBAFPI, the need for a third institute arose due to several factors:
- Increased Demand : Over the years, there has been a growing interest among Punjabi youth to join the armed forces. The existing institutes have limited capacity and cannot accommodate all eligible candidates.
- Geographical Accessibility : Both the MRSAFPI and MBAFPI are located in Mohali, which may not be easily accessible to students from remote areas like Hoshiarpur. Establishing an institute in Hoshiarpur ensures better reach and inclusivity.
- Co-Educational Environment : The new institute will be co-educational, promoting gender equality and fostering collaboration between male and female aspirants. This approach aligns with modern values and reflects the inclusive nature of today’s armed forces.
- Short-Term Courses : While the existing institutes focus on long-term residential programs, the new institute will offer short-duration courses tailored for specific entry schemes into the armed forces. This flexibility caters to students with varying needs and timelines.
Impact on Punjab’s Contribution to Defence Services
Punjab has always been a proud contributor to India’s armed forces. Known for its valiant warriors and courageous spirit, the state has sent countless soldiers to serve the nation. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of officers hailing from Punjab. This trend is concerning because officers play a vital leadership role in the armed forces, and their absence undermines the state’s historical legacy.
By establishing the third institute, the Punjab government hopes to reverse this trend. The institute will provide comprehensive training and guidance to students, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to clear competitive exams and interviews. Furthermore, it will instill a sense of patriotism and pride in the younger generation, motivating them to serve their country.
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Leadership and Governance in Punjab
The current leadership of Punjab is committed to supporting initiatives that benefit the youth and strengthen the state’s contributions to national security.
- Chief Minister : Bhagwant Singh Mann
Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Chief Minister of Punjab, has expressed his support for the establishment of the new institute. His administration is focused on creating opportunities for young people and ensuring that they have access to quality education and training. - Governor : Gulab Chand Kataria
Gulab Chand Kataria, the Governor of Punjab, has also emphasized the importance of institutions like the Sardar Bahadur Amin Chand Soni Armed Forces Preparatory Institute. He believes that such initiatives will not only enhance Punjab’s reputation as a martial state but also contribute to national security.
Static GK: Facts About Punjab
Here are some interesting facts about Punjab:
- Capital of Punjab : Chandigarh
Chandigarh serves as the capital of Punjab and is renowned for its planned architecture and green spaces. - State Tree : Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo)
The Shisham tree, commonly found across Punjab, is valued for its timber and ecological significance. - State Animal : Black Buck
The Black Buck, a graceful antelope species native to India, holds cultural and environmental importance in Punjab.
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The establishment of the third institute in Hoshiarpur marks a significant milestone in Punjab’s efforts to nurture future leaders for the armed forces. By offering co-educational programs and short-term courses, the institute will expand opportunities for young men and women from diverse backgrounds. Together with the MRSAFPI and MBAFPI, it will create a robust ecosystem that prepares Punjabi youth to excel in the challenging yet rewarding world of defense services.
With visionary leadership from Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Punjab continues to uphold its proud tradition of contributing brave hearts to the nation. Through initiatives like the Sardar Bahadur Amin Chand Soni Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, the state reaffirms its commitment to fostering patriotism, discipline, and excellence among its youth.