In a significant move aimed at supporting the families of serving Army personnel, veterans, and martyrs, the Indian Army has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chandigarh Vidya Jyoti Eduversity (VJES). This partnership, formalized at the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi, seeks to enhance educational opportunities through a range of initiatives including scholarships, career-oriented programs, and leadership training.
The agreement illustrates the Army’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel beyond their active service years. By investing in the education of their children, the initiative fosters a brighter future for Armed Forces families. The collaboration aims to empower these families with access to industry-relevant education and professional development, which plays a crucial role in contributing to nation-building through knowledge and leadership.
As part of the MoU, Chandigarh Vidya Jyoti Eduversity has pledged to provide scholarships of up to 60 percent for the wards of current Armed Forces members, ex-servicemen, and martyrs. This scholarship program is designed to alleviate the financial challenges faced by defense families, enabling students to pursue higher education across a diverse set of disciplines.
Students benefiting from this initiative will gain entry to Government University degree programs, instruction from experienced faculty, modern hostel accommodations, career counseling, placement support, and mentorship from veterans of the Armed Forces. The goal is to equip these students with essential academic knowledge, leadership qualities, and practical skills necessary for building successful careers both in India and internationally.
VJES offers a variety of programs, including diplomas, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses in fields such as Hospitality and Tourism, Artificial Intelligence, Business Management, Health Sciences, Media, and Creative Arts. These courses are aligned with the latest industry trends, focusing on improving employability in sectors that are rapidly evolving.
During the signing ceremony, Brigadier Raj Kumar, Additional Director General of the Indian Army, emphasized that the welfare of soldiers transcends their service years and extends to the education and ambitions of their families. He expressed optimism that this partnership would open doors to quality higher education and professional development for the families of military personnel.
Dr. D. J. Singh, Director of Chandigarh Vidya Jyoti Eduversity, described the MoU as a dual privilege and responsibility. He indicated that the institution is committed to supporting the educational needs of Armed Forces families, providing not only quality education but also leadership training and career pathways that prepare them for future careers across various sectors.
In addition to academic programs, VJES places a strong emphasis on leadership development, discipline, and community service. Students will have opportunities for involvement in National Cadet Corps (NCC) and the National Service Scheme (NSS), along with structured coaching for competitive exams like the UPSC Civil Services Examination and others relevant to government recruitment.
The university will also facilitate preparation for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interviews, with offerings that include personality development programs and communication skills training, further encouraging youth from defense families to consider careers in the Armed Forces and public service.
Beyond immediate educational goals, this collaboration aligns with VJES’s vision of establishing India’s first Civil and Armed Forces Preparatory College—a place where educational excellence is combined with military values, leadership training, and commitment to national service. The college aims to nurture responsible citizens dedicated to contributing to the country’s progress.
With this initiative, the Indian Army and VJES are set to benefit hundreds of Armed Forces families, enhancing access to quality higher education while promoting core values such as leadership, integrity, and discipline. The Special Scholarship Scheme for Armed Forces Families is now accepting admissions for the 2026 academic session, representing an important step towards bolstering educational opportunities for the next generation of India’s military families.
