The IGNOU will register Regimental Training Centres, Human Resource Development Centres of the Indian Army and Army Schools of Instructions as 'community colleges'. The Army-IGNOU Community Colleges will continue functioning as autonomous bodies conducting examinations and their courses as hitherto fore.

The soldiers will need 92 credits for getting a graduation degree.

The first 64 credits will be given to the soldier for his work within the army. He will also need to do some courses for which he will be awarded certificates.

Thereafter he will go to the IGNOU programme to earn the remaining credits.

For those soldiers who join after Class 10, the army will be organising bridge courses to bring them at par with those who have completed Class 12.

'It will provide a lot of benefit to the soldiers. They will become graduates for less money and will get a degree from an internationally recognised university. Most jawans who look for second employment in the open market post retirement will get better options. These benefits will be besides the value addition to the quality of life of the jawan and his family,' another official added.

'The programme will have international ramifications, as after their graduation the soldiers may go abroad for higher studies or for work and will form a viable work force globally,' said the official.