COMPENSATION DISPARITIES: AGNEEVEER VS. REGULAR SOLDIERS

Why in the news?

Rahul Gandhi alleged discrepancies in compensation received by Agniveer Ajay Kumar’s family compared to regular soldiers.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh countered with details of Agniveer compensation, sparking controversy.

Source: PSM

Key Differences in Compensation:

Financial Assistance:

Agniveers’ families receive Rs 1.65 crore, including insurance and ex gratia.
Regular soldiers’ compensation varies based on death category, ranging from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 45 lakh ex gratia.

Insurance and Ex Gratia:

Agniveers are insured for Rs 48 lakh without contribution, while regular soldiers contribute Rs 5,000 per month towards insurance, covered for Rs 50 lakh.

Seva Nidhi and Other Benefits:

Exclusive to Agniveers, includes accumulated contributions and government interest, up to four years’ pay.

Eligible for death gratuity, family pension up to 100% of last pay, and educational allowances for children.

About Agnipath Scheme:

Introduction:

The Agnipath scheme, initiated by the central government in 2022, aims to recruit non-officer personnel into the armed forces.
It focuses on deploying younger, physically fit troops on the front lines, with many serving on four-year contracts.

Retention and Deployment:

The scheme allows the armed forces the flexibility to retain exceptional individuals known as ‘Agniveers.’

Eligibility Criteria:

Candidates aged between 17.5 to 21 years are eligible to apply for the Agnipath scheme.
Female candidates within this age bracket can also apply without any specific quota, adhering to standard recruitment standards.
Recruitment occurs biannually through rallies.

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