Good news for Agniveers: Government extends tenure by two years

NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a decision to offer Agniveers an additional engagement period of two years in the Army.

During a press conference, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani announced that the 75% of Agniveers who were earlier set to exit after four years will now be offered an option to apply for enrolment in the armed forces, subject to selection criteria.

"Today is a very significant day for the Indian Defence Forces and for our 'Agniveers'. The Cabinet has created a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the Indian Army. As you are aware, the 'Agnipath' scheme was introduced on June 14, 2022. At that time, it was stated that there would be continuous performance evaluation of the Agniveers and that the scheme would be reviewed periodically. The first batch of Agniveers is now nearing the completion of their four-year tenure. Based on the performance evaluations conducted over these four years, we have received very positive feedback regarding their performance. As you know, 25% of the Agniveers are to be enrolled into the regular forces based on merit," the CDS said.

"Previously, the provision was for 75% of the Agniveers to transition back into society as disciplined and motivated youth. However, under this updated scheme, the remaining 75% of Agniveers will now be offered an additional engagement period of two years. Upon completion of this two-year period, all those who are willing will be enrolled into the armed forces, subject to objective selection criteria. These are the four major aspects of this scheme. After the two years, they will be given an option to get absorbed, subject to their willingness and an objective selection process," he added.

Under the Agnipath scheme, soldiers were recruited for a four-year term, with a provision to retain only 25 per cent of them in regular services.