Union Cabinet approves two-year extension for Agniveers to join regular forces
The decision allows 75 per cent of Agniveers to seek permanent military roles after an additional two-year engagement period.
The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a two-year extension for 75 per cent of Agniveers, providing them a pathway to become regular soldiers in the Armed Forces, according to reports by The Indian Express, News18 and WION.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General NS Raja Subramani announced the decision, stating that the government has created a distinct route for these personnel to be absorbed into regular service.
Under the original Agnipath scheme launched in 2022, only 25 per cent of Agniveers were retained in the three services after their four-year tenure, while the rest were to exit.
With this change, the remaining 75 per cent will be offered a second engagement period of two years. Following this, those who are willing and meet objective selection criteria can join the Armed Forces as regular soldiers.
General Subramani noted that the military has received highly positive feedback regarding the performance of the Agniveers during their service.
The CDS added that soldiers will receive higher remuneration and an increased Seva Nidhi package during the two additional years of service.
The first batch of Agniveers from the Indian Navy completes its four-year tenure this month, with the Indian Air Force and Indian Army following in December.