Defence courses see rise in applications

Figures show steady increase in number of people opting for subjects related to defence and strategic sciences

Figures show steady increase in number of people opting for subjects related to defence and strategic sciences

As globalisation has spread its wings in all spheres, students in the city seem to be showing keen interest in graduating in courses allied to international relations and military policies. The Department of Defence and Strategic Studies (DDSC) at the University of Pune (UoP) has witnessed a steady increase in the number of applications for courses related to international studies, subjects that were not always sought after.u00a0

Professor Arun Dalvi, who heads the department, informed that they have received 125 applications for its post-graduate and M Phil courses this year. This is a steady increase since last year they received around 100 applications. "More students are interested in studying subjects such as international relations, military diplomacy". This year, 35 students will be selected on the basis of an entrance exam and an interview with the faculty thereafter.u00a0u00a0

While social sciences like sociology, political science and economics are commonly preferred; specialised subjects like defence and its non-military aspects are rarely pursued. But Dalvi said that several students have been showing interests in subjects like defence economy, military history, defence organisation, defence geography, internal security management policy and foreign policy with regards to military relations.

"Out of this list -- internal security is the subject most commonly researched by both civilians and retired and serving army officers who study here. The reason might be the current internal security threat in Kashmir, Naxalism, and insurgency in the north-east", explained Dalvi.u00a0

The department currently has 40 students pursuing their PhD in subjects allied to internal security. Dalvi pointed out that the department has an Army Residents Scholars (ARS) programme, which is run in collaboration with the Indian Army who aims to provide scope for development to their officers. He explains that eight army officers of Colonel and above ranks are given an opportunity to research on topics, while on deputation from the Army.u00a0 Out of these eight, four were also admitted for the M Phil course.

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