Ranchi, Sept. 27: The recent terror attack in Kashmir's Uri army camp that claimed 18 lives seems to have failed to diminish the spirit and courage of youths, who are still eager, probably more than ever, to serve the armed forces and fight for the country.

Around 80,700 youths from Jharkhand alone have applied for jobs in the Indian Army, said deputy DG (recruitment) Brigadier S.K. Dutta.

Dutta, who looks after the recruitment of army personnel in Jharkhand and Bihar, was addressing the media at Birsa Munda Football Stadium on Tuesday, a day before the 10-day recruitment rally kicks off here. "This year, as many as 80,699 have applied online for jobs in the armed force as against 67,000 last year. Jharkhand youths have always proved their mettle wherever they have been posted from time to time," he said.

According to him, approximately 8,000 youths will be tested every day. "After physical, medical and written tests, only 900-950 suitable candidates will be selected," he said.

Dutta, who is monitoring job rallies for the third consecutive time in the state, said though a large number of youths from Jharkhand applied for jobs in the army, most of them wanted to join as soldier (general duty), for which minimum qualification required was matriculation. But few seem to be interest in soldier (technical), for which one has to pass Intermediate science.

"This suggests that those who have Intermediate science degree have better job opportunities or they are not aware of jobs in the army. If they are ignorant, they should be made aware of technical jobs in the army, which also needs good technical hands to tackle various type of equipment. Soldier (technical) too get opportunity to grow properly in his/ her career," he said.

Dutta asked aspirants to not adopt any unfair mean to get the job.