Conscription is just another form of service to the state. If the state needs you, you have no place to abstain. If your country can get enough qualified people without it, then they don't need it. If they can't, like Indian Officer Corps, then it becomes necessary or your situation is weak. For those who dodge service, they are nothing but cowards and traitors of the state. Conscription teaches you that you are part of a whole, something greater than yourself. It turns boys into men, hardens them, teaches them to rely on others and to help those that rely on them. It perpetuates selflessness, patriotism, honour, and pride in oneself, their unit, and their nation. Every young man should go through basic training with a choice of military or government service afterwards. Some people were not made to fight, there are other things they can do. The experience will be good for them.