Agniveer Scheme India

Syllabus: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation

Context: Uttar Pradesh CM announced Agniveers retiring from 2026 onwards will receive three-year age relaxation and 20% horizontal reservation (currently for ex-servicemen) in direct recruitment to constables, mounted constables, firemen posts in State police.

Agniveer Scheme

• Initiative by Indian government to recruit youth into Armed Forces.
• Introduced June 2022 after two-year pause due to Covid-19 pandemic.
• “Agniveer” means “Fire-Warriors” — new military rank for soldiers, airmen, sailors.
• Objectives
  • Enhance operational efficiency of armed forces.
  • Provide youth opportunity to serve nation.
  • Instill discipline and patriotism among youth.
  • Equip youth with valuable skills for civilian life.
  • Modernize armed forces, make them dynamic and youthful.
• Key Features
  • Service Period & Package
    • Four-year service period.
    • Seva Nidhi Package: ₹11.71 lakh (one-time, with interest) upon completion.
    • Monthly salary: ₹30,000 (Year 1) to ₹40,000 (Year 4).
    • Risk and hardship allowances, uniform allowance, travel concessions.
  • Post-Service Opportunities
    • Class 12 equivalent certificate and Bridging Course for further studies.
    • Priority in bank loan schemes for entrepreneurship.
    • Priority in CAPF, Assam Rifles, police and allied forces if not selected for further military service.
    • Industries declared preference for hiring competent Agniveers.
    • Tangible skills in law and order, engineering, mechanics.
• Eligibility Criteria
  • Age & Education
    • Age: 17.5 to 21 years.
    • Education: Class 10th or 12th pass.
  • Medical and physical fitness as per existing norms.
  • Open to boys and girls; no special reservation for women.
• Challenges and Criticisms
  • Veterans’ Concerns
    • Limited permanent absorption: Only 25% retained.
    • Unemployment concerns among youth.
    • Scheme rushed without adequate planning/consultation.
  • Public Perception
    • Mixed feelings; some see as good opportunity, others worry about long-term impact.
    • Fears of political motives rather than genuine national interest.
    • Led to protests and debates.
  • Government Response
    • Emphasized skill development and financial packages.
    • Engaging stakeholders for adjustments and improvements.
• Impact on Armed Forces
  • Operational Efficiency
    • High turnover requires increased training capacities/infrastructure.
    • Concerns about degraded operational capability, combat effectiveness.
  • Unit Cohesion
    • Short-term service may hinder psychological assimilation into units.
    • Could affect quality, efficiency, commitment of soldiers.
  • Long-Term Implications
    • Inadequate post-service support may make military career less appealing.
    • Could lower quality of recruits.
    • Trained soldiers discharged without employment may lead to increased militarization of society.
• Similar Schemes Worldwide
  • Russia, Israel, France have short-term military service programs.
  • Aim: Reduce military expenditure while maintaining a trained personnel pool.