Statement: Should conscription (compulsory defence service) be introduced in India? Arguments: I. Yes. It is the only way to tackle serious manpower shortages in defence services. II. No. Improve compensation to attract volunteers comparable to other sectors. III. Yes. Many other countries have made this compulsory. Choose the option that best identifies the strong argument(s).

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: only II is strong

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Conscription impacts liberty, labor markets, and force quality. Strong arguments should consider effectiveness and alternatives.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Defence recruitment can be influenced by pay, benefits, prestige, and career paths.
  • Conscription is not the “only” solution; many professional forces are volunteer-based.


Concept / Approach:
Test necessity (“only way”) and relevance (“others do it”).



Step-by-Step Solution:
I: Overstates necessity; there are clear alternatives (better compensation, outreach, training). Weak.II: Offers a realistic lever—competitive compensation and benefits—to address manpower shortfalls while preserving choice. Strong.III: Appeal to practice elsewhere without context does not justify domestic policy. Weak.



Verification / Alternative check:
Volunteer professionalization is common; compensation and career incentives are primary tools.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
I and III lack necessity or mechanism; combinations including them misclassify.



Common Pitfalls:
Treating foreign practice as sufficient reason.



Final Answer:
only II is strong

More Questions from Statement and Argument

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