Shobhit Institute of Engineering and Technology (Deemed to be University), Meerut, UP, India.
Abstract
Human Resource Management (HRM) in the Indian Armed Forces plays a key role in maintaining the morale of soldiers and operational preparedness of the forces. The Armed Forces are known for their hierarchical structure and disciplined ethos. However, the evolving socio-political dynamics in the country have impacted on the motivation of personnel and the institutional efficiency of the Armed Forces. External environmental factors such as perceptions of society, government policies, and civil-military relations have a lasting impact on soldiers’ self-esteem. At the same time, the internal organisational climate within the Armed Forces, including leadership styles, regimental traditions, and welfare mechanisms, also plays an important role in influencing soldiers’ self-esteem. This research paper examines the impact of the both external environmental factors and internal organisational climate of the Armed Forces on soldiers’ self-esteem. The study examines how inadequate appreciation of military service in society, differences in civil-military equivalence, and bureaucratic insensitivity contribute to diminishing self-esteem among soldiers. It also analyses organisational factors such as leadership, training efficiency, administrative problems, and family welfare systems that influence dignity and job satisfaction. Primary findings suggest that while regimental pride remains strong, systemic issues such as outdated HR practices, inefficient manpower utilisation, and inadequate family support, undermine soldiers’ self-esteem. The study underscores the necessity of implementing flexible HR strategies to enhance soldiers’ self-esteem in a rapidly changing environment. The paper proposes actionable HRM reforms that balance tradition with present-day requirements.
Keywords: Indian Armed Forces, HRM; Soldier Morale, Self-Esteem, Leadership, Civil-Military Relations, Welfare Systems
View PDF