Centre Revises Agnipath Scheme for Agniveers
NEW DELHI | November 4:
The Union Cabinet has approved a major revision to the Agnipath recruitment scheme, creating a pathway for all Agniveers to join the regular armed forces as permanent soldiers, subject to prescribed selection criteria.
The decision was announced on Wednesday, November 4, following a review of the scheme's implementation and the performance of Agniveers.
Under the revised arrangement, the existing provision of retaining 25 per cent of Agniveers in regular service after completing their initial four-year tenure will continue on the basis of merit. However, the remaining 75 per cent will now be offered an additional two-year engagement period, subject to their willingness.
After completing the extended two-year tenure, these Agniveers will also be offered enrolment into the regular armed forces, provided they are willing to continue and meet the prescribed selection criteria.
The revised arrangement effectively provides all Agniveers with an opportunity to pursue permanent military service.
The additional two-year engagement period will come with higher remuneration, an enhanced Seva Nidhi package and seniority benefits.
The decision follows a detailed assessment by the Defence Forces, which reportedly found Agniveers' performance in physical fitness, motivation, skills and technological adaptability encouraging.
The Agnipath scheme, introduced in June 2022, initially provided for four years of military service, with only 25 per cent of recruits eligible for retention in the regular forces.
The latest Cabinet decision retains the scheme while introducing an additional opportunity for the remaining Agniveers to continue their military careers.
