In transformative Reform, 'Agnipath' Scheme for Recruitment in Armed Forces introduced

Forty-six thousand Agniveers will be recruited this year.

NEW DELHI. In a transformative reform, the Union cabinet on June 14 cleared an “Agnipath” recruitment scheme for patriotic and motivated Indian youth to serve in the Armed Forces for a period of four years as “Agniveers” at the conclusion of which they will receive a Rs 11.71 lakh “Seva Nidhi” package in addition to their monthly emoluments beginning with Rs 30,000 in the first year and rising to Rs 40,000 in the fourth year.

At the end of the tenure, there is also the possibility of getting selected for induction as regular cadre, where they would have to serve for a minimum of 15 years.

Forty-six thousand Agniveers will be recruited this year.

 The entry age was initially announced as 17-and-a-half years to 21 but Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on June 17 that many youths did not get the opportunity to join the Armed Forces, as recruitment process could not take place for last two years. Keeping in mind the future of the youth, Rajnath Singh stated that the government, on the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has increased the age limit for the recruitment of Agniveers from 21 years to 23 years for the recruitment cycle of 2022.

 “The relaxation of age indicates that the Government cares for our youth. Department of Military Affairs, Ministry of Defence and the Services are committed to commence the recruitment process at the earliest. We invite the youth to join the Armed Forces and serve the Nation through AGNIPATH,” Rajnath Singh said during a two-day visit to Srinagar to review operational preparedness.