Centre offers two-year extension to Agniveers under Agnipath scheme
The Union Cabinet has approved a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the armed forces following a review of the scheme.
The Union Cabinet has approved a two-year extension for the 75 per cent of Agniveers who were previously set to exit the military after their initial four-year tenure, according to reports by Business Today and ThePrint.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General NS Raja Subramani announced the decision on Wednesday, stating that the move creates a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the Indian Army.
Under the previous provisions of the Agnipath scheme, 25 per cent of Agniveers were enrolled into regular forces based on merit, while the remaining 75 per cent transitioned back into society.
Under the updated scheme, the 75 per cent will be offered an additional two-year engagement period. Upon completion of this period, those willing can be enrolled into the Armed Forces subject to objective selection criteria and evaluation.
General Subramani said the second engagement period will include an enhanced pay package, higher remuneration, an enhanced Seva Nidhi package, and seniority benefits. However, he noted that the 25 per cent recruited after the initial four years will remain ahead in seniority.
The Agnipath scheme was introduced on June 14, 2022. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the move is part of long-term structural reforms aimed at creating a younger and technologically equipped military.