Centre introduces second engagement option for Agniveers after four years

New Delhi: The Centre has introduced a major change to the ‘Agnipath’ scheme by announcing an option for Agniveers to serve a second two-year term after completing their initial four years of service.

The Union Cabinet decision was announced by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General N.S. Raja Subramani during a press conference on Wednesday.

He said that while 25 per cent of Agniveers would be inducted into the Indian Armed Forces as regular soldiers, the remaining 75 per cent would be given the opportunity to serve for an additional two years. After completing this period, they would be given an opportunity to join the regular forces, provided they were willing and met the prescribed criteria.

“75 per cent of Agniveers will be offered a second engagement period of two years. After completing those two years, all Agniveers will be given an opportunity to become regular soldiers in the Indian Armed Forces. There are two conditions: they must be willing to join, and they must meet the prescribed selection criteria,” the CDS said.

The decision will allow Agniveers who are not selected for regular service after completing four years to continue serving in the armed forces. After the additional two-year period, there will also be a provision for their regularisation in the military.

Notably, the first batch of Agniveers is completing its service this month.

General Subramani stated that under the existing system, up to 25 per cent of Agniveers completing four years of service are to be inducted as regular soldiers. The remaining 75 per cent will now have the option of a second two-year service term, enabling them to continue serving for an additional period.

After completing the second service term, their performance will be reviewed. Their efficiency, achievements during service and organisational requirements will be assessed. Agniveers who demonstrate positive performance and meet the prescribed standards may be considered for regular service.

The CDS clarified that, along with the willingness of the Agniveers, the operational and organisational requirements of the armed forces would also be taken into account. Objective criteria would be followed for selection. Agniveers’ performance is evaluated periodically during their service, he added.

This evaluation includes factors such as physical fitness, motivation, morale, discipline and technical proficiency. The purpose of the second service term is to provide Agniveers with more opportunities to enhance their skills and experience. It will also help the armed forces retain trained and experienced manpower. During the second service period, Agniveers will receive higher pay and increased service fund benefits, giving them better financial returns for the additional two years of service.

General Subramani further said that the second service term would allow the armed forces to benefit from the experience of Agniveers for a longer period. During their initial four years, Agniveers gain military training, discipline and experience in handling various responsibilities. The additional two years will help further strengthen this experience.

The new arrangement aims to strike a balance between organisational requirements, operational effectiveness and the performance of Agniveers. The government’s decision is being viewed as a significant step towards providing Agniveers with an additional opportunity for longer service in the armed forces.