New Delhi, Nov 4 (NVI): The Union Cabinet has approved an additional two-year engagement period for 75 per cent of Agniveers completing their initial four-year tenure under the Agnipath scheme, paving the way for their eventual absorption as regular soldiers in the Defence Forces, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of selection criteria.
Based on merit and performance assessment, 25 per cent of Agniveers will continue to be offered regular employment in the Defence Forces, as envisaged under the scheme, while the remaining 75 per cent will have the option of another two-year engagement, according to the decision.
Following the completion of the extended engagement period, all Agniveers will be offered the opportunity to enrol as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and meeting the prescribed selection criteria.
The decision follows a comprehensive assessment of the performance of Agniveers over the past four years, which has yielded positive feedback from the Defence Forces in terms of skills, motivation, physical fitness, discipline and technological adaptability.
The additional engagement period has been approved on the recommendations of the Indian Defence Forces after a detailed evaluation aimed at balancing the aspirations of Agniveers with organisational requirements and operational efficiency.
The second engagement period will also entail higher remuneration, an enhanced Seva Nidhi package and seniority-related benefits, the decision said.
Highlighting the achievements of the Agnipath scheme over the past four years, the assessment noted an expansion in the recruitment footprint across districts of the country, a more standardised and transparent recruitment process, and high levels of physical fitness, morale, motivation, competitive spirit and discipline among Agniveers.
The scheme has also contributed to skill development, technological adaptability and educational advancement during service, besides opening up various branches of the Defence Forces for women.
In view of these achievements, the Agnipath scheme will continue, with the additional engagement period and subsequent regular enrolment aimed at providing a structured career progression for Agniveers.
The Cabinet’s decision is expected to provide a broader pathway for Agniveers to continue serving in the Defence Forces beyond their initial four-year tenure.—(NVI)
