The authorities in Uzbekistan are reportedly advancing a legislative initiative that would alter the terms of compulsory military service for conscripts who excel in literary competitions. Members of the Legislative Chamber have supposedly adopted a bill in its first reading, introducing amendments to the law on universal military obligation and military service, framed as an effort to boost intellectual development within the armed forces.

Under the proposed legislation, conscripts who achieve high results in nationwide book-reading contests would allegedly be rewarded with a one-month reduction in their mandatory military service term. Proponents claim this measure is designed to popularize reading among servicemen, foster a reading culture, and elevate their spiritual and intellectual capacity, though critics remain skeptical about the practical impact of such incentives on military readiness.

In addition to the literary incentives, the bill reportedly addresses legal frameworks concerning military aviation. It allegedly proposes establishing clear legal grounds for signing new contracts with graduates of higher military educational institutions—including foreign flight academies—who specialize as pilots. Officials argue that these provisions will allow for a more effective utilization of the professional potential and accumulated experience of qualified pilots.

Observers note that the bill's adoption in the first reading does not mean the rule has entered into force immediately. The controversial or experimental legislation must still undergo further parliamentary reviews, debates, and procedural approvals before any changes to military service durations are officially implemented.

Source: kun.uz