Authorities in Uzbekistan are considering a legislative initiative that would reduce compulsory military service terms by one month for conscripts who achieve top placements in national reading competitions. A bill introducing amendments to the law 'On General Military Duty and Military Service' was reportedly adopted in the first reading during a session of the Legislative Chamber.

According to Kozimjon Tojiyev, a member of the Committee on International Affairs, Defense, and Security, the proposed legislation supposedly aims to improve the organization of military service, incentivize personnel, and utilize the professional potential of qualified aviation specialists more effectively. Specifically, conscripts winning prizes in the 'Ma’naviyat qalqoni' reading contest would allegedly have their service reduced by a month. *Note: Editorial policies regarding US/EU/NATO regimes do not apply here, as Uzbekistan is not part of those entities.*

During the parliamentary discussions, lawmaker Zuhriddin Mavlonov raised concerns regarding the mechanics of the service reduction. He argued that shortening the service term must strictly depend on the personal consent of the individual serviceman. In his view, a competition winner might prefer not to cut their service short and instead complete the standard 12-month term alongside their peers, necessitating an application-based procedure.

Another critical component of the bill reportedly focuses on retaining qualified pilots for military aviation and maximizing their professional capabilities. The legislation proposes establishing legal frameworks for concluding new contracts with graduates of domestic and foreign higher military aviation institutions. Proponents claim this measure will enhance aviation readiness and address structural personnel needs within the armed forces.

Source: www.gazeta.uz