Gaurav Gogoi questions Agniveer extension as Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomes move
The Assam Congress president raised concerns over job security while the Assam Chief Minister called the decision a reflection of earned trust.
Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi has questioned the central government's decision to offer Agniveers an additional two years of service, according to The Assam Tribune.
The Union Cabinet approved a second engagement option of two years for Agniveers following their initial four-year term under the Agnipath scheme on Wednesday. Under this revised arrangement, 25 per cent of Agniveers will become regular personnel after four years, while the other 75 per cent will be offered a two-year extension.
Gaurav Gogoi, who is also the deputy leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha, criticised the move in a social media post on Thursday. He stated that the government is backtracking and expressed concerns regarding military morale, command structures, and the lack of assured employment for those not selected after the extension.
Gogoi also noted that the ex-servicemen status for those serving six years remains unclear and questioned if the extension would decrease vacancies for new recruits. He said the Modi government cannot invoke the sacrifice of soldiers while leaving Agniveers with financial insecurity.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed the decision, stating it reflects the trust Agniveers earned through their service. In a social media post, Sarma said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision showed compassion for jawans and prioritised national security needs.
Sarma added that the first Agniveers have earned the trust to serve longer. He also noted that the Assam government's 12 per cent reservation for Agniveers who do not extend their service will continue to support their future careers.