SOURCE: AFI
The central government is actively considering revisions to the Agnipath recruitment scheme, a controversial policy introduced in 2022 to streamline the armed forces. The proposed adjustments aim to address criticisms and protests from Army aspirants, refine the scheme’s overall framework, and improve the retention rate of Agniveers.
A key focus of the government’s review is to increase the retention rate of Agniveers beyond the current 25 percent. This figure has been deemed insufficient by military experts, who argue that a higher retention rate would ensure a more experienced and skilled workforce within the armed forces.
The Army has recommended that the percentage of Agniveers retained after their initial four-year service be increased to around 50 percent. This proposal is based on internal feedback and surveys conducted across various units. The recommendations have been forwarded to the government for consideration.
The Agnipath scheme, introduced in 2022, aims to modernize the armed forces and reduce the growing burden of defense pension expenses. Under the scheme, individuals, known as Agniveers, are recruited for a four-year short-term contract. At the end of the initial term, only a select 25 percent of Agniveers are eligible for a permanent commission.
The government’s review of the Agnipath scheme comes amid ongoing discussions and debates surrounding its implementation. While the scheme has its proponents, it has also faced significant opposition, particularly from youth seeking long-term careers in the armed forces. The proposed adjustments could be a step towards addressing these concerns and making the scheme more acceptable to potential recruits.