Cabinet creates pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into Defence Forces
NEW DELHI – The Cabinet on Tuesday approved a new two-year engagement period for Agniveers, creating a pathway for all of them to be absorbed as regular soldiers in the Defence Forces.
Under the Agnipath scheme, Agniveers serve for four years, after which 25 percent are offered regular employment on merit. The new decision applies to the remaining 75 percent.
On the recommendation of the Indian Defence Forces, those Agniveers will now be offered another engagement period of two years. After completion of that two-year period, all Agniveers will be offered enrollment as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and meeting selection criteria, the government said.
The government said the decision was taken after deliberate, reasoned and elaborate evaluation and feedback, with the aim of aligning the aspirations of Agniveers and organisational efficiency.
It said the performance of Agniveers had been outstanding in terms of skills, motivation levels, physical fitness and technological prowess, and in meeting organisational requirements and operational efficiency.
The second engagement period will carry higher remuneration, an enhanced Seva Nidhi package and seniority benefits, the government said.
The government said the Agnipath scheme would continue after four years of implementation, citing detailed feedback on its efficacy.
It listed increased recruitment footprint across districts, a more standardised and transparent recruitment process, and a very high level of physical fitness, morale, motivation, competitive spirit and discipline among Agniveers.
It also cited enhancement of skills, technological adaptability and education in service, and the opening up of various branches of the Defence Forces for women.
With the introduction of another engagement period of two years followed by induction of all Agniveers as regular soldiers, the Cabinet has created a pathway for absorption of all Agniveers into Defence Forces, the government said.
