Centre opens path to regular military service for Agniveers
New Delhi, November 4: In a significant decision on Wednesday, the Central Government approved a two-year extension for 75 percent of ‘Agniveers’ retiring after four years under the Agnipath scheme. This will then provide them with the opportunity to join regular military service.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today approved this proposal from the Ministry of Defense. Speaking at the National Media Center, Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General NS Raja Subramani stated that the government has approved the path for inducting ‘Agniveers’ into the Indian Armed Forces.
He explained that under the scheme, currently 25 percent of Agniveers are recruited into the regular forces based on merit, while the remaining 75 percent had to leave the army. The Cabinet has now decided to grant a two-year extension to the remaining 75 percent.
He stated that upon completion of this additional two-year term, Agniveers wishing to join the Army will be recruited into the armed forces under objective selection criteria.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Subramani stated that today is a significant day for the Indian Armed Forces and Agniveers, as the Cabinet has paved the way for all Agniveers to join the Indian Armed Forces. The ‘Agneepath’ scheme was launched on June 14, 2022. At that time, it was stated that Agniveers would undergo continuous performance evaluation and the scheme would be reviewed periodically.
He stated that the first batch of Agniveers is now about to complete their four-year term. “We have received very positive feedback on their performance during these four years,” he said. Based on this, Agniveers who have completed their four-year term have been granted a two-year extension.
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