The Agnipath Defence Policy Reform is a government initiative aimed at recruiting young men and women into the Indian Armed Forces. Announced by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on June 14, 2022, this scheme introduces a new model of military recruitment.
Overview of Agnipath Defence Policy Reform
Agnipath allows "patriotic and motivated" youth to serve in the armed forces for a period of four years. The recruitment process will commence within 90 days, aiming to enlist around 45,000-50,000 personnel annually, below officer rank, through a biannual exercise. In 2022, the planned intake is approximately 46,000.
Recruits under this scheme are known as ‘Agniveers,’ and it will serve as the sole method for recruitment into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Enrollment will occur through a centralized online system, supported by special recruitment rallies and campus interviews at recognized technical institutes such as the Industrial Training Institutes and the National Skills Qualifications Framework. Selection will be based on an all-India merit system.
Need for the Agnipath Scheme
The Agnipath scheme addresses a critical shortage of junior commissioned officers and other ranks in the Army, with over 100,000 vacancies. Recruitment drives have drastically reduced during the pandemic, with only four recruitment rallies held between 2021 and 2022.
Significance for Agniveers
Agniveers will serve for four years, with six months of training followed by active service. They will receive a starting salary of Rs 30,000, increasing to Rs 40,000 by the end of their service. Upon completion of their term, they will receive a tax-exempt "Seva Nidhi" package amounting to approximately Rs 11-12 lakh, including contributions and interest.
Twenty-five percent of Agniveers will be offered an opportunity to continue their service for an additional 15 years. While there are no pension or gratuity benefits, recruits will receive life insurance coverage of ₹48 lakh. In the event of death or disability during service, compensation includes over ₹1 crore for death and ₹44 lakh for disability, along with the Seva Nidhi package and full pay for the unserved period.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates aged between 17.5 to 21 years, with a minimum education qualification of Class 10th or 12th, are eligible to apply. Recruitment will follow the ‘All India All Class’ basis, adhering to the existing medical and physical fitness standards.
Objectives of Agnipath Scheme
The primary goal is to create a future-ready fighting force for the Indian Armed Forces, addressing challenges across the full spectrum of conflict. Additionally, the scheme aims to:
- Enhance national security.
- Offer youth an opportunity to serve in the military.
- Reduce the growing salary and pension costs.
- Modernize the armed forces with a tech-savvy and youthful workforce.
- Support the rehabilitation of soldiers after four years of service with skill certifications and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Criticism of the Agnipath Scheme
Some critics argue that Agniveers may be risk-averse due to their short tenure. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the "All India All Class" intake method, which may affect India-Nepal relations by reducing the intake of Nepali recruits. Retired Army officers also suggest that the four-year service term is too short for recruits to acquire meaningful skills. The increase in annual recruitment, potentially rising to 1-1.5 lakh per year, could disrupt the existing recruitment model.
Way Forward
The Agnipath scheme is expected to lower the average age of armed forces personnel from 32 to around 24-26 years. It will also reduce the annual salary and pension bills, which account for half of the defence budget. By reintegrating skilled, disciplined Agniveers into society, the scheme aims to create new employment opportunities and benefit the nation. It is also likely to have a positive impact on the human resources management of the armed forces.
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