NEW DELHI: In a significant development ahead of Diwali, the Centre has announced changes to the Agnipath recruitment scheme, offering Agniveers an opportunity for extended service and potential permanent absorption into the armed forces.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General NS Raja Subramani announced that 25% of Agniveers would be absorbed as regular soldiers, while the remaining 75% would be eligible for a two-year extension of service. The move would effectively increase their tenure from the existing four years to six years.
Agniveers receiving the extension would also be entitled to higher salaries and allowances, the CDS said. Their performance during the extended period would be assessed, and permanent positions could subsequently be offered based on their evaluations.
Addressing the media after a Union Cabinet meeting, General Raja Subramani described the decision as an important day for the Indian armed forces and Agniveers.
“The Cabinet has opened up a pathway for Agniveers to become part of the Indian armed forces,” he said, highlighting the significance of the latest decision.
The Agnipath scheme was launched on June 14, 2022, with a provision for recruiting personnel into the armed forces for a four-year tenure. At the time of its introduction, the government had indicated that the performance of Agniveers would be continuously monitored and the scheme reviewed periodically.
The first batch of Agniveers is now approaching the completion of its four-year tenure. According to the CDS, assessments conducted over the past four years have generated encouraging feedback about their performance and contribution to the armed forces.
The latest decision follows this assessment and is expected to provide greater continuity and career opportunities for Agniveers.
The proposed extension, along with enhanced financial benefits and the possibility of permanent positions based on performance, marks a significant development in the implementation of the Agnipath scheme.
