CURRENT AFFAIRS

Agniveer Scheme–Reception and Consequences

Introduction

The Agniveer Scheme, launched by the Government of India in June 2022, introduced a radical shift in the nation’s military recruitment policy. Under this scheme, young candidates aged 17.5 to 21 years are recruited into the Indian Armed Forces for a short-term period of four years. Known as “Agniveers,” these recruits undergo rigorous training and serve in key defense roles before being released—with an option for 25% of them to be absorbed into the regular force.

The initiative aims to build a leaner, more youthful, and tech-savvy military, while also addressing long-term pension liabilities. However, the scheme has sparked mixed reactions, ranging from nationalistic support to widespread protests.

Objectives of the Agnipath / Agniveer Scheme

Modernize the armed forces with youthful, fit, and flexible personnel.
Reduce the average age of soldiers in the Indian military.
Create a pool of skilled individuals who can contribute to the workforce after service.
Control defense pension expenditures, which form a major part of the defense budget.

Positive Reception

1. Youth Engagement

The scheme has created a structured path for lakhs of young aspirants to serve the country. It offers employment, discipline, and training—values that extend beyond military life.

2. Skilling the Workforce

Agniveers are trained in modern defense technologies, disaster response, cyber warfare, and leadership. These skills can enhance post-service career opportunities in public security, private defense, and entrepreneurship.

3. Financial Benefits

Each Agniveer receives a Seva Nidhi package of ₹11.71 lakh (tax-free) after four years, ensuring financial support for further education, business, or employment.

4. National Integration

The centralized, all-India recruitment structure helps foster unity, nationalism, and equal opportunity across regions.

Controversies and Consequences

1. Job Security Concerns

One of the most debated points is that only 25% of Agniveers are retained after four years. The rest return to civilian life with no guaranteed job, sparking fears of unemployment and insecurity.

2. Protests and Backlash

States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana witnessed intense protests post-announcement. Many youth felt their dream of a long-term defense career was snatched, especially those preparing under the earlier system.

3. Impact on Operational Readiness

Some veterans and defense experts argue that a short tenure may not allow Agniveers to gain sufficient battlefield experience, potentially affecting unit cohesion and operational efficiency.

4. Lack of Clarity on Post-Service Support

While the government has announced reservations in CAPF, Assam Rifles, and PSUs, many argue that implementation is unclear and might not match the number of Agniveers exiting the system.

Government Measures and Assurances

10% reservation in paramilitary forces and certain public sector jobs has been promised for Agniveers.
Ministries such as Home Affairs, Defense, and Railways have expressed commitment to absorbing Agniveer veterans.
Skilling programs and bridge courses are in the works to ease their transition into civilian roles.

Current Status and Future Outlook

Despite early resistance, the first batches of Agniveers have joined training camps and recruitment continues. Over 46,000 Agniveers were inducted in the first phase, and more are being trained in 2024–25.

The government is closely monitoring the scheme’s outcomes to make adaptive policy changes in the coming years. The long-term success of the Agnipath scheme depends on:

Meaningful career pathways post-service
Consistent policy implementation
Transparent communication with aspirants

Post Date: 10-10-2025