Centre to revise Agnipath scheme, increase retention of Agniveers: Sources
PTC News Desk: The Centre is planning adjustments to the Agnipath recruitment scheme, with potential increases in the retention percentage of Agniveers in the armed forces, along with changes to their pay and entitlements, according to Defence sources speaking to media. These proposed modifications aim to improve the scheme’s structure and benefits, addressing criticism and protests from Army aspirants.
Proposed Changes to Retention Rates
Senior Defence Ministry officials revealed ongoing discussions about increasing the number of Agniveers retained for full-time service beyond their initial four-year term. Currently, only 25% of Agniveers are retained after their short-term service, a figure military experts have deemed insufficient for maintaining optimal combat strength.
“A quarter of the recruits being retained is too low to maintain the desired ground combat strength,” said a top Defence source. “The Army has recommended raising this retention rate to about 50% at the end of the four-year term,” the source added.
The Army has submitted these recommendations to the government based on internal feedback and surveys conducted across various units and formations.
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Process and Future Steps
Top Defence officials noted that while implementing these changes may take time, revisions to the Agnipath scheme are considered essential. The adjustments will likely focus on improving the career prospects and financial benefits for Agniveers to make the scheme more appealing and sustainable.
Overview of the Agnipath Scheme
Launched by the Centre in 2022, the Agnipath scheme aims to streamline the armed forces and reduce the defence pension burden. Under the scheme, personnel known as Agniveers are recruited for a short-term contract of four years to serve in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. At the end of this period, only 25% of recruits are offered a permanent commission.
The scheme has faced significant opposition, with protests erupting across the country. Many Army aspirants have expressed concerns about their uncertain future after completing their four-year tenure. The opposition, led by the Congress, has called for the scheme to be rolled back, while NDA allies have pushed for a review.
Additionally, internal BJP reports suggest the party suffered setbacks in recent Lok Sabha elections in regions that traditionally contribute large numbers of defence personnel. This has added pressure to revise the Agnipath scheme to address the concerns of potential recruits and their communities.