Recent data has revealed a concerning trend of increasing suicide rates among Indian military personnel, with 787 cases reported across various branches in 2024. The Army recorded 591 cases, while the Air Force and Navy reported 160 and 36 cases respectively, according to international monitoring reports.
The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have also witnessed similar patterns. Between 2011 and 2023, 1,532 CAPF personnel died by suicide, with 57 cases recorded in 2023 alone. The first half of 2024 has already seen 24 reported cases.
A recent incident in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir adds to these statistics, where a serviceman identified as Krishna died by suicide using his service weapon. This followed another incident last month involving a CRPF 178 Battalion personnel in Shopian district.
The Confederation of Ex-Paramilitary Forces Welfare Associations provided additional context, noting that the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) recorded approximately 430 suicides between 2014 and 2023. The organization's president, Ranbir Singh, expressed concern that the number of suicides in recent years has exceeded combat casualties.
The Indian military currently maintains a significant presence in various regions, with over 800,000 military personnel and 300,000 Central Reserve Police Force members deployed. Mental health experts emphasize the importance of addressing psychological welfare among service members.
Historical data shows fluctuating patterns, with 2016 recording the lowest number of cases at 29, while 2021 saw a peak of 57 cases. The year 2023 documented 120 suicides across all military branches, including approximately 100 army personnel and 20 combined cases from the air force and navy.
