New Delhi, November 4: The Union Cabinet has approved an additional two-year engagement period for 75 percent of Agniveers who are not initially selected for regular service, paving the way for their eventual absorption into the Defence Forces, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of selection criteria.
According to an official statement issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on Wednesday, the decision follows a comprehensive assessment of the Agnipath Scheme after four years of implementation, during which Agniveers demonstrated strong performance in skills, physical fitness, motivation, discipline and technological adaptability.
Under the revised arrangement, 25 per cent of Agniveers will continue to be offered regular employment in the Defence Forces based on merit, as originally envisaged under the Agnipath Scheme. For the remaining 75 per cent, the Cabinet has approved an additional engagement period of two years, based on recommendations from the Indian Defence Forces.
Following completion of the extended engagement period, all willing Agniveers will be offered enrolment as regular soldiers, provided they meet the prescribed selection criteria. The government said the decision was taken following a detailed evaluation of organisational requirements, operational efficiency and feedback from the Defence Forces.
The assessment highlighted the outstanding performance of Agniveers in terms of professional skills, motivation, physical fitness and technological capabilities. The government stated that the additional two-year engagement period is intended to align the career aspirations of Agniveers with the operational requirements of the Defence Forces.
The statement also highlighted several achievements of the Agnipath Scheme since its introduction four years ago. These include the expansion of recruitment across districts throughout the country, a more standardised and transparent recruitment process, and improvements in the physical fitness, morale, motivation, competitive spirit and discipline of recruits.
The scheme has also contributed to the development of technical skills, greater adaptability to modern technology and improved educational opportunities during service. Another significant achievement highlighted by the government is the opening of various branches of the Defence Forces to women.
Based on the positive assessment, the government confirmed that the Agnipath Scheme will continue, incorporating the newly approved provisions. The additional two-year engagement period will offer higher remuneration, an enhanced Seva Nidhi package and seniority benefits to eligible Agniveers.
The government maintained that the revised arrangement would provide a structured pathway towards permanent employment while ensuring that the Defence Forces continue to meet their organisational and operational requirements. With the introduction of the extended engagement period and the provision for subsequent regular enrolment, the Cabinet said it has created a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the Defence Forces, subject to their willingness and meeting the required selection standards.
