MINDEF should consider annual reviews of NS rank allowance

The move by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) to raise full-time national servicemen and NSmen rank allowances is positive and encouraging (“NS rank allowance to increase by S$80 for all servicemen”; Dec 1).

This is a step in the right direction, and more frequent, periodic reviews of the allowance should be the norm from now on.

MINDEF could consider reviewing the NS rank allowance yearly, so that it can take into account inflation and increases in the cost of living.

Although the allowance is considered a “token” sum for spending on things such as transport and recreation, some financially disadvantaged servicemen use the allowance to cover household expenses.

Servicemen who contribute a full two years of their economically active lives should not be caught in a financial quandary. Smaller increments that are made more regularly to keep pace with increases in the cost of living could go a long way.

NS is a rite of passage for all young Singaporean men, and the experience is usually rewarding. Monetary benefits may not be an entitlement as they dilute the spirit of service, but we should not fail to address the reality of economic sacrifice on the part of servicemen.