Agnipath scheme reforms include new two-year engagement period
Chief of Defence Staff Gen N S Raja Subramani announced changes to the Agnipath scheme regarding Seva Nidhi payments and seniority.
Chief of Defence Staff Gen N S Raja Subramani announced major reforms to the Agnipath scheme on Wednesday in New Delhi. According to The Times of India, the changes address questions regarding salaries, seniority, and Seva Nidhi payments for Agniveers.
Defence officials stated that 75 per cent of Agniveers will now have the option to serve an additional two years after their initial four-year term. Those exiting the forces after four years will receive a Seva Nidhi package of Rs 10.04 lakh, consisting of equal contributions from the individual and the government plus interest.
For those who complete the additional two-year engagement and leave after six years, the total payment will be Rs 15.94 lakh. This includes Rs 5.02 lakh for the first four years and Rs 10.92 lakh for the subsequent two years.
Regarding regularisation, officials said about 25 per cent of Agniveers who finish the four-year period will be absorbed as regular soldiers. These individuals will receive regular salaries, gratuity, and pension benefits.
The officials clarified that seniority for Agniveers will be protected. Upon becoming regular soldiers, they will be positioned immediately after their original batchmates who joined the regular cadre after four years.
Defence officials noted that the reforms do not constitute a rollback of the scheme. They explained that the new two-year period provides a way for Agniveers to transition into regular soldier roles after the extra engagement.