Army aspirants get a helping hand

His love for the uniform that called for discipline, strive for a well-rounded personality and aim for high standards of professionalism did not wane despite hanging up the military boots. Colonel (retd) Jayant Chitale, who resides on Bhandarkar Road, has been devoting his time to guide youngsters who aspire to join the armed forces. The 72-year-old has helped more than 1,500 students become military personnel through his training institute ‘Maharashtra Military Foundation’.

Every Sunday, he and his team provides free training, including physical, mental and social aspects of the profession, to youngsters. Apart from this, Col Chitale also addresses students and youngsters and provide details about choosing the armed forces as a career option. The passion to serve the nation inspired Chitale to joined the military force in 1968 as a Second Lieutenant despite being a mechanical engineer. He fought the 1971 battle with Pakistan, Operation Blue Star, and Air Observation Post and before he retired voluntarily after 20 years of service.

Post-retirement, with the aim to guide students from the state to join the armed forces, he started supporting Raigad Millitary School and Maharashtra Military School in Mahad and Thana. He also suggested the government ‘one school, one district’. Later, with the help of Jayant Nadkarni, Brigadiyar Avinash Wagh and Colonel Shamarao Chavan, he started ‘Maharashtra Military Foundation’ in Pune in 1999. In 2001, he set up an institute ‘Commandant Academy’ in Badalapur and raised the commando squad.

The increasing number of students attending the military school is a notable reference to Col Chitale dedication to serve the nation, without wearing the combat uniform.

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Originally published on The Golden Sparrow