Statement–Argument — Should conscription (compulsory service) for defence be made mandatory in India? Arguments: I. Yes. It is the only way to address manpower shortages in defence services. II. No. Instead, improve the compensation and career package to attract volunteers competitively. III. Yes. Many other countries have compulsory service.

Introduction / Context:
Defence recruitment policy can use voluntary enlistment, incentives, and modernisation to meet force needs. Conscription, a coercive tool, must clear high bars of necessity and proportionality.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• India operates a large voluntary force; challenges include attraction, retention, and skill mix.
• Compensation and career pathways influence supply of qualified candidates.
• Comparative practices vary widely with geopolitical context and institutional capacity.

Concept / Approach:
A strong argument should present an effective, proportionate means to meet manpower targets without avoidable social costs. Claims of “only way” need compelling evidence; appeals to other countries do not automatically fit India’s context.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) I asserts necessity (“only way”), which is overstated. Alternatives—better pay, education benefits, lateral entry, technology upgrades—exist. Weak.2) II proposes a targeted market solution: improve compensation/benefits to attract talent voluntarily, aligning cost with capability. Strong.3) III relies on precedent elsewhere; without contextual justification (threat level, demographics, institutions), this is a weak policy basis. Weak.

Verification / Alternative check:
Volunteer systems commonly use compensation, scholarships, and post-service opportunities to meet targets—supporting II.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Only I/I and II/Only III” misjudge necessity or rely on inapt comparisons; “None” ignores II’s strength.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming uniform cross-country applicability; equating headcount with readiness without considering training and retention.

Final Answer:
Only II is strong.