Cabinet approves two-year extension for Agniveers, raises pay to Rs 43,500 in first year
New Delhi: The Union Cabinet has approved a two-year service extension for Agniveers after their initial four-year term, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani announced on Wednesday.
Under the existing arrangement, the armed forces retain 25 per cent of Agniveers as regular soldiers. The latest decision grants the remaining 75 per cent an additional two-year engagement. The announcement comes before over 18,300 personnel from the first batch were due to leave the services by December 31.
Review leads to extension
The CDS said the government approved the extension after the armed forces assessed the recruits’ performance. “We found that agniveers have displayed efficiency and moral… we provided skill enhancement to them within these 4 years.. after all this review.. we have come to a conclusion that they be provided 2 years and enhanced remuneration…”
He said the scheme allowed changes based on experience. “ The scheme is not set in stone.”
“We had said even them that we will review… we have analyzed their achievements and we have given 2 years engagement period to them.. we were discussing this for last 3-4 months.”
“Now the govt has approved our recommendation.”
Path to regular service
The CDS said all willing personnel would get an opportunity for regular service after the extension.
“After completion of this period… everyone will be given opportunity to be absorbed as regular soldiers if they are willing and if they fit in our selection criterion.”
He added: “Sabko mauka milega regular hone ka…unhe criteria pe khara utarna hoga.”
Monthly remuneration will rise to Rs 43,500 in the first additional year and Rs 47,500 in the second. He also referred to an attractive Seva Nidhi package for those who choose to exit.
Recruitment and military needs
The CDS said recruitment had expanded across states.
“Recruitment footprint has increased in every state… we have streamlined selection process. We are able to do it efficiently.”
He confirmed: “Agnipath scheme will continue..”
“Character of war has changed … this scheme meets requirement of armed forces as youthful and mature tech enabled force”
On personnel strength and funding, he said: “ There are three lakh Agniveers in defence forces. There has been no shortage of budget”