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Russia drafting 135,850 young men for military service

A total of 398 conscripts were granted the right to civil service this fall

MOSCOW, September 30 (Itar-Tass) —— A total of 135,850 young men will be drafted for military service in Russia this fall, General Staff Deputy Chief Col. Gen. Vasily Smirnov said on Friday.

In his words, 218,700 young men were drafted in spring and summer 2011.

“The period for drafting the eligible men aged from 18 through 27 is set from October 1 through December 31,” he said. “The number of fresh conscripts will be sufficient for the Armed Forces.”

A total of 398 conscripts were granted the right to civil service this fall, he said.

“The same as before, commissions led by chiefs of regional and municipal authorities and involving doctors, police and public organizations will ensure the draft,” Smirnov said.

He said he was concerned about the deteriorating health of young people in Russia. More than 35% of prospective conscripts are rejected for health reasons, he said.